One runner at Newcastle today -

We send out just the one runner today, with Royal Blaze taking his chance in the 5.25 at Newcastle, where PJ McDonald takes the ride.

Royal Blaze comes here in great heart after winning impressively last time out, showing a real turn of foot to put the race to bed in style. Unfortunately, David is unable to make the weight on this occasion, but the horse remains in excellent form at home and continues to please everyone in his work.

He’s a course and distance winner, which is always a positive around here, and while today’s race looks a little more competitive than his last assignment, he does have the benefit of carrying a lighter weight this time.

With PJ taking over in the saddle, he’s in very capable hands. The plan will be to ride him much the same way as last time — to let him find his rhythm and get into a good position before hopefully finishing off strongly.

All being well, we’re hopeful he can reproduce that recent effort and deliver another big run for the team.