If heredity were a performance review, Brilliant Star just handed in a report that essentially says, “I’m overqualified for this position.”
Racing at Yarmouth today, the Anthony Oppenheimer-bred filly didn’t just win; she essentially took the rest of the field for a guided tour of the seaside. Coming from a family tree that looks more like a royal lineage, by the legendary Cracksman out of the triple Group 1 winner Star Catcher, Brilliant Star was always going to have the eyes of the racing world on her. After a promising second at Newcastle last year, she returned today for the 11-furlong novice stakes and proved that she doesn’t just run; she glides.
The Yarmouth Masterclass
Sent off as the heavy 2/9 favorite, she hit the front early under Robert Havlin and stayed there, eventually crossing the line a staggering 10 lengths clear of Fanciulla Del West.
The post-race consensus? “She’s a solid mile-and-a-half filly,” according to Havlin. She looked like she was barely breaking a sweat while everyone else was in a full-blown crisis. If she continues to improve from two to three as expected, we aren’t just looking at a “useful recruit” for the Gosden yard, we’re looking at a potential classic contender.
Victory in the Valley: Crystal Island
Meanwhile, over at Ffos Las, the Nicky Henderson-trained Crystal Island decided to live up to the hype in the 16:38 Novices’ Hurdle.
Despite a slight mistake at the last that gave the fans a brief heart-flutter, Nico de Boinville kept her straight and true to win by 1 ¼ lengths.
As a 1/1 favorite, she did exactly what she was supposed to do, winning with plenty in hand and proving she’s far more than just a pretty name.
Tomorrow’s Ones to Watch (April 22) Perth
If you’re looking to carry today’s momentum into tomorrow, Timeform’s ratings suggest some heavy hitters are stepping out, particularly at the Perth festival as it starts tomorrow.
13:40 – Maiden Hurdle, Gee Force Flyer is the one to beat according to Timeform. The Danger: Gordon Elliott’s Newbrook Diamond is the early market favorite and should be monitored closely for late betting moves.
14:10 – Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase, Barlovento (Olly Murphy) and King Roly are the primary focuses here. King Roly is a “Course & Distance” specialist who rarely misses the frame at this track.
14:40 – Gold Castle National Hunt Novices’ Hurdle, Kazansky brings high-class Irish form into the race. Despite a “PU” at the Festival, his Grade 2 win at Limerick makes him the class act if returning to form. No Drama This End (Paul Nicholls/Harry Cobden) provides a stiff challenge from the top British yard.
16:10 – Scone Palace Mares’ Handicap Hurdle, Fresh As A Daisy is highly regarded by Timeform, though she needs to bounce back from a “P” last time out. The soft ground should play to her strengths.
17:12- Kells Priory is the standout. Watch Rio Du Roume for EW money and Ebselysees.
16:40 – Rioja Alta and Follow Charlie (C&D winner) are the ones carrying the strongest ratings. Watch Suspected 9/1 currently 13/2
Don’t forget to subscribe
Will add flat fancies in the morning 🌅
Good morning 🌅
For today’s meeting at Catterick Bridge (Wednesday, April 22, 2026), Timeform has identified several high-rated contenders and strong selections.
Best Rated Horses: Catterick
The following horses head Timeform’s weight-adjusted ratings or hold key performance “Flags”:
15:52 – Vince Le Prince (TFR: Top Rated) He narrowly heads the weight-adjusted ratings for this 7f handicap. He is a course specialist with three wins from his first four starts here and was a close runner-up over course and distance just two weeks ago. He is 4 lb better off with his previous conqueror today.
14:22 – Rotokura Belle. Highly rated after resuming winning ways over this course and distance a fortnight ago. She has been raised 3 lb for that win, but the form has already been boosted by the runner-up winning since.
14:52 – Cranachan, A strong rating for this novice event following a narrow defeat at Kempton. Timeform notes he has improved significantly since a gelding operation.
16:25 – Rosenpur. A 5-time winner last year who performs well at this track, though Timeform notes he may need this seasonal reappearance.
Ground conditions at Catterick are currently Good (Good to Firm in places), which heavily favors the “Horses for Courses” picks like Vince Le Prince. Watch out for, Nacho Nacho Nacho a few market nibbles and Fortunate Star 13:52.
18+ only. Betting involves risk and losses are inevitable. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose and do not view betting as a way to make money. If gambling stops being enjoyable or becomes a concern, seek help
Silks and Shenanigans 