Stamina test should suit Donny Marlow

DONNY MARLOW can come out on top in the Ladbrokes Watch Racing Online For Free Handicap at Wolverhampton.

Adrian Keatley’s threeyear-old is bidding to double his career tally on just his fourth start and second attempt in handicaps.

He also moves up to seven furlongs for the first time, and that has to be a sensible decision after his strong finish over six at Kempton.

Previously, Donny Marlow had produced a late rattle from off the pace to get up on the line for a debut five-furlong victory at this course last month, and then looked short of the necessary toe over the minimum trip here when attempting to give weight all round.

After managing only fifth that day – albeit beaten under three lengths – he then ran with promise at Kempton in third behind a slightly unexpected winner who has nonetheless gone in again.

The dam’s side of Donny

Marlow’s pedigree, especially, suggests he should improve for this extra test of stamina and evidence on the track so far corroborates that view.

Keatley has booked Cieren Fallon, a regular ally for the Malton trainer, to take the ride this time and plenty points to a successful association here for all concerned.

SELECTIONS: WOLVERHAMPTON:

3.10 At Your Service, 3.40 Jeans Maite, 4.10 My Girl Maggie, 4.40 New Exceed, 5.10 Gavi Di Gavi, 5.40 Noble Queen, 6.10 Turn Of Phrase, 6.40 DONNY MARLOW (NAP), 7.10 Orphiuchus. SOUTHWELL: 1.25 Thegreatestshowman, 1.55 Qaaraat, 2.25 Daafr, 2.55 Maykir, 3.25 Straight Ash, 3.55 Aradous.

DOUBLE: Donny Marlow and Gavi Di Gavi.

● Today’s Kelso meeting has been abandoned due to a frozen track.

The Borders venue called an inspection for noon yesterday after a succession of cold nights.

Frost covers were laid over the vulnerable areas, but they were not enough to save the meeting when temperatures dipped to -3C.