Big-Price Value Bets Headline Sunday's Action at Navan and Perth
If you're on the hunt for juicy outsiders with real chances at inflated odds, Sunday's cards at Navan and Perth might have just what you're looking for. With horses like Arrowstock (Navan, 13:07) priced at 40/1 and Kinbara Firstdraft (Perth, 15:17) at 33/1, there’s plenty of value to be had for the astute punter. Here’s a detailed look at the standout longshots and why they’re worth your attention.
Arrowstock at 40/1 Holds Each-Way Appeal in Navan's Opener
The opening race at Navan (13:07) may look like a straightforward six-furlong sprint on paper, but digging into the field uncovers some fascinating angles. Standing out for value is Arrowstock at a massive 40/1. Trained by the under-the-radar handler Martin Kavanagh and ridden by Nathan Crosse, this seasoned seven-year-old gelding has shown flashes of form in similar conditions. A return to a straight-track sprint suits Arrowstock, who has previously run creditable races on good ground.
While his recent form figures (8909-) suggest he’s out of sorts, those runs came over inadequate trips and softer ground, where he failed to utilise his sprinting speed. With a competitive field of 14 and a pace setup likely to favour hold-up horses, Arrowstock could be perfectly positioned if Crosse delivers a patient ride. A speculative each-way bet here could prove profitable, with bookies likely to offer enhanced place terms given the field size. Check out all today's each-way selections for more runners offering value like Arrowstock.
Kinbara Firstdraft a Live 33/1 Outsider in Perth's Stayers' Chase
Over at Perth, the 15:17 sees Kinbara Firstdraft line up in a three-mile chase under seasoned conditional jockey D R Fox. Priced up at 33/1, this 10-year-old might not appear on many radars, but closer inspection reveals he merits serious consideration. Trained by Ewan Wharton, Kinbara Firstdraft has a commendable record in small, competitive handicap chases, notching two wins over similar trips on good ground.
His last outing at Kelso (soft ground) can easily be forgiven, as he’s a confirmed sound surface performer. With conditions at Perth described as good, he’ll relish the quicker surface and benefits from Fox’s valuable 3lb claim. Kinbara Firstdraft has also dropped to a career-low mark of 96, which puts him dangerously well-handicapped if returning to anything close to his old form. At 33/1, he’s crying out to be included in today’s big-price accumulator bets.
Struth Could Make Noise at 20/1 in the Perth 14:42 Novices' Handicap Chase
Sticking with Perth, the 14:42 Novices' Handicap Chase features another live outsider in the form of Struth, again ridden by D R Fox and priced at a tempting 20/1. This six-year-old gelding, trained by Lucinda Russell, is lightly raced over fences and looks capable of springing a surprise here. A step up to 2m 7f is expected to unlock improvement, as his staying-on fourth at Hexham last time over an inadequate 2m 4f hinted at untapped stamina reserves.
Struth's pedigree suggests he’ll thrive over longer distances, with his dam producing several staying chasers. Russell’s runners always command respect at Perth, where she enjoys an excellent strike rate of 21% with chasers in similar races. With the yard in fine form and Fox’s tactical nous an invaluable asset, Struth is another who could reward each-way backers handsomely.
Icare Desbois a Forgotten Horse at 18/1 in Punchestown's 15:07 Handicap
Switching gears to Ireland, Punchestown’s 15:07 two-and-a-half-mile handicap hurdle features a compelling outsider in Icare Desbois. Priced at 18/1, this veteran campaigner boasts strong course form, having hit the frame twice at Punchestown in the last 12 months. Trained by John Dempsey and ridden by up-and-coming conditional Anna McGuinness, Icare Desbois is another who is well-treated at the weights.
His mark of 112 is 4lb lower than his last winning effort, and a return to good ground is a major positive, as his best performances have all come on a sound surface. The booking of McGuinness, who claims a valuable 7lb, means he’ll carry just 10st 2lb. With a likely strong pace to aim at and proven staying power, Icare Desbois looks poised to outrun his odds. Compare his form head-to-head with other contenders in today’s field.
Gerrit’s Gem Another Big-Field Specialist at Navan (14:52)
Back at Navan in the 14:52, Gerrit’s Gem represents an intriguing each-way proposition at 18/1. Terry Casey takes the ride on this five-year-old gelding, who has developed into something of a big-field specialist. With career-best efforts in 12+ runner handicaps, he appears tailor-made for today’s conditions. His recent efforts over a mile were full of promise, but the return to 1m 2f—a trip he won over last season—could see him to best effect.
The key to Gerrit’s Gem’s chances will be how he handles the early pace, as he tends to do his best work late on. In a field of 16, strong fractions appear likely, playing to his strengths. At 18/1, he’s another to consider for those seeking value in the place markets.
Best Bets Summary for Sunday 7th June
Here’s a quick recap of today’s top value selections:
- Arrowstock (Navan 13:07) - 40/1 each-way
- Kinbara Firstdraft (Perth 15:17) - 33/1 each-way
- Struth (Perth 14:42) - 20/1 each-way
- Icare Desbois (Punchestown 15:07) - 18/1 each-way
- Gerrit’s Gem (Navan 14:52) - 18/1 each-way
With these big-priced contenders offering excellent value in competitive races, Sunday promises plenty of excitement for punters. Visit our complete racecards for in-depth analysis on every runner, or check latest results as the action unfolds. For even more insight, see today’s full tips lineup.
