Saturday Racing Tips – Dan James Racing

Damysus arrives at Newmarket in superb form and looks primed to deliver another polished performance in the Darley Stakes. This horse has shown progressive improvement throughout the season, particularly over this intermediate trip where his turn of foot is most effective. He handles good-to-soft ground beautifully, which is likely to be the going tomorrow, and his proven ability to settle early before unleashing late speed makes him ideally suited to this tactical Group 3 contest.

The likely pace scenario plays into his strengths — several rivals prefer to force the issue, giving Damysus a perfect setup to track the leaders and strike inside the final furlong. His sectionals in recent starts suggest he’s capable of running faster than his current mark implies, and the Newmarket straight course is a track where balance and timing matter most — two attributes Damysus possesses in abundance. Everything points to another victory.

Dawn Rising’s stamina and class make him a major contender. He stays extreme distances better than almost any rival in the field, having already proven himself over two miles and beyond in tough, high-class company. The long Newmarket straight and steady early fractions will play perfectly to his strengths, allowing him to settle before grinding his way through the pack when others tire. His trainer has targeted this race with precision, keeping him fresh and race-fit with a measured campaign.

Importantly, Dawn Rising thrives on slightly softer ground and forecast conditions should bring out his best form. His ability to travel comfortably off a strong pace and maintain relentless gallop late on is exactly what wins this gruelling handicap. With balance, patience, and power on his side, Dawn Rising looks poised to outstay and outclass his rivals in this stamina test.

Straight Up looks a colt on the rise, and the Autumn Stakes offers the perfect stage for him to confirm his growing reputation. His most recent performance highlighted an impressive blend of speed and determination, quickening smartly when challenged and maintaining focus all the way to the line. The step up in distance to a mile should bring further improvement, as his pedigree suggests he’ll relish the extra furlong. He’s drawn well, ensuring a handy position from which his jockey can control the race tempo.

Newmarket’s undulating terrain suits strong, balanced movers — qualities Straight Up has displayed consistently. His fitness level and mental maturity continue to improve with each start, suggesting he hasn’t reached his ceiling yet. Against a field containing several still learning their trade, Straight Up’s professionalism, proven race craft, and strong finishing power make him the one to beat in tomorrow’s contest.