Chelmsford free racing tip: Outsider looking to defy odds on return to preferred surface

19:30 Chelmsford: Betfair Exchange Handicap (7 furlongs)

While the recent form of unfancied Roman Emperor might be off-putting, it could also be somewhat misleading for a horse likely to relish his return to a synthetic surface.

Analysing his form more closely,  it quickly becomes apparent that his three summer outings on Newmarket’s July course did not suit his strengths, as he is the type of horse that needs everything to drop right, and that includes his apparent preference for all-weather tracks.

It’s worth remembering that John Ryan’s three-year-old hit the artificial ground running at the beginning of this year, producing figures of 2122 at Southwell, Lingfield and here at Chelmsford.

While those promising performances were over a shorter six-furlong trip, he should now be stronger and fitter for his summer excursions, while also nicely rested after a six-week lay-off.

Roman Emperor is not priced up as the rank outsider for nothing, of course, and he might need one or two of the market principals to falter, but with Christian Howarth’s three-pound claim enhancing an already dropping mark, they might just finish closer to the leaders than the bookies are predicting.

Suggested Bet: Roman Emperor each-way in the 19:30 at Chelmsford

 

 

• Tip advised by David Xristo on Tipstrr

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