Maid to measure at Nottingham

MAID TO REMEMBER can exploit what appears to be an easier Listed opportunity than usual in the British Stallion Studs EBF Nottinghamshire Oaks Stakes at Nottingham.

This would certainly not be the best race run at this level on the face of it, but should give William Haggas’ runner a chance to step forward on her seasonal bow.

Trained by Ralph Beckett last year, Maid To Remember won a Nottingham maiden last May but then disappointed on her handicap bow at Windsor the following month.

An uneven pace that day did not play to her strengths and she was subsequently moved to Haggas’ care, although she did not manage to make it to the track.

That connections have persisted with Maid To Remember suggests they think she could yet make her presence felt, and victory here would enhance her paddock potential.

Whitehall paid for being up in the firing line when only third over 10 furlongs at Newmarket last month, so perhaps switching back to an extended mile in the Merlin Inflatables UK Handicap should be more up his street.

He could not find any extra on the dash to the line, but a shorter trip should certainly help in that respect.

Elysian Flyer hit the bar at Ripon on his return but can make amends in the Download The App At 188Bet Handicap

Wind surgery over the winter certainly seems to have helped his cause and while a 3lb hike for that runner-up spot is harsh, Elysian Flyer was rated as high as 105 a couple of years ago.