Trojan Soldier (15:35 Pontefract — Moor Top Farm Shop Hemsworth Pontefract Cup Handicap, 2m 2f)
A four-year-old gelding trained by the red-hot Jedd O’Keeffe, who has been firing on all cylinders lately with a 75% strike rate over the last 14 days, Trojan Soldier has undergone a remarkable transformation this season. He has won three times in 2026, each success building on the last and painting the picture of a horse finding his true calling over staying trips.
Most recently he won here at Pontefract on 22 May over 2m 1f on good to soft ground, beating Sea Of Kings by 4¼ lengths as the 7/4 favourite — a thoroughly convincing display. Crucially, he returns today off the same mark, having won on his only previous course appearance, and boasts a 100% record when wearing cheek pieces, which he carries again today.
Good ground suits him well, today’s conditions are ideal, and stepping up further to 2m 2f looks like it will play right into his hands. A progressive stayer with plenty more to give.
Verdict: Back to win — progressive stayer, in-form yard, course winner, ideal conditions. Should take plenty of beating.
