Insights from those involved in the November Handicap
Charlie Appleby’s Local Dynasty Tops the Market in Virgin Bet November Handicap
In a surprising turn of events, the Virgin Bet November Handicap will no longer take place at Doncaster due to excessive rainfall. Instead, Newcastle has stepped in as the host venue, shifting the race from turf to all-weather track. This unexpected change has altered the dynamics of the competition and caught many entrants off guard.
Leading the betting is Godolphin’s Local Dynasty, trained by Charlie Appleby. This son of Dubawi enjoyed success as a Listed winner last season but has yet to secure a victory this campaign despite competing against tough opponents. However, he enters this race with newfound confidence after being gelded and making his first appearance away from turf.
“Local Dynasty is a dependable horse,” says Appleby. “We believe that conditions at Newcastle are favorable for him. He performed well in two prestigious handicaps earlier this season at Royal Ascot and Newmarket, so we expect him to be competitive over this distance.”
Another intriguing contender is Julie Camacho’s Beraz who also finds himself on unfamiliar territory on Tapeta surface. Since leaving behind his brief hurdles career under Dan Skelton’s tutelage, Beraz has made an impression with solid performances in four starts for Camacho’s stable. His participation in this race was made possible only because of the venue change.
“We wouldn’t have risked running Beraz on heavy ground,” explains Steve Brown, assistant to Julie Camacho. “But once we learned about the switch to all-weather track at Newcastle, we were eager to give it a try. We’re happy with his progress so far; he has shown improvement throughout the year and proven himself as a talented horse.”
The field also includes Edward Bethell’s Chillingham, who finished fourth in the Silver Bell at Hamilton and was the runner-up in the Ripon Bell-Ringer. Andrew Balding’s Teumessias Fox carries top weight and has collected prize money at Group level. George Boughey’s Mr Alan, William Haggas’ Laafi, Harry Eustace’s Mustazeed, Richard Fahey’s Furzig, and Jim Goldie’s veteran Euchen Glen complete the lineup.
This relocated Virgin Bet November Handicap promises to be a highly competitive race with horses adapting to new conditions on Newcastle’s all-weather track. With Local Dynasty leading the way and contenders like Beraz seeking to make their mark, fans can expect an exciting battle for victory.