AI’s High-Confidence Selections Led by Burnham Square and Creative Catch
It’s a quieter day of racing on Sunday, 17th May 2026, with no graded or listed action to chew over, but the AI’s expert algorithms have still sifted through 60 races across eight tracks to uncover standout bets for those looking to capitalise. Top of the list is Burnham Square (2/5), running in the 1m4f Turf event at Churchill Downs (08:39), and Creative Catch (2/5) in the 7f Dirt contest at Charles Town (05:00). Both horses carry a staggering 95% confidence rating and are worth noting for those seeking a solid foundation for their Sunday bets.
If you’re looking for value further afield, the 17-runner sprints at Thirsk offer potential each-way angles, particularly in the 17:57, while the 1m straight handicap at Newbury (17:00) could throw up some surprises.
Let’s break down the day’s standout runners and explore where the smart money might go.
Burnham Square (2/5) – Churchill Downs 08:39
Jockey: B J Hernandez, Jr.
Trainer: I R Wilkes
Distance: 1m4f
Going: Turf
Burnham Square brings impeccable form into this 1m4f turf affair and offers punters one of the safest bets today. Trained by Ian Wilkes and ridden by Brian Hernandez Jr., the four-year-old has a 95% AI confidence rating based on his consistency over this trip and surface. His last two runs at Churchill Downs resulted in back-to-back victories, with margins of 3 lengths and 5 lengths, confirming his dominance over comparable fields.
The going (Turf) is ideal for Burnham Square, who has a 3-4-0 record from seven starts on similar surfaces. At 2/5, he’s short, but he looks every inch better than his rivals in this relatively weak field of seven runners. An anchor for your Sunday accas? Absolutely. Check the full racecard.
Creative Catch (2/5) – Charles Town 05:00
Jockey: A Bocachica
Trainer: J C Runco
Distance: 7f
Going: Dirt
Another high-confidence pick from our AI comes in the early hours, with Creative Catch set to dominate the 7f contest at Charles Town. Trained by the prolific J C Runco and partnered with leading jockey Arnaldo Bocachica, the combination is formidable in these lower-grade sprint events. Creative Catch has shown an affinity for the Dirt surface, having won three of his previous four starts at Charles Town over similar distances.
The small six-runner field plays further into his hands, as he’s shown an ability to lead from the front or sit just off the pace. With a sharp break and his proven turn of foot, 2/5 might even look generous by post time. Another rock-solid win prospect to consider for your multiples. View this race in full.
Queen Maxima (4/5) – Santa Anita 09:20
Jockey: J J Hernandez
Trainer: J Mullins
Distance: 6 1/2f
Going: Downhill turf
Over at Santa Anita, John Sadler’s Queen Maxima is a fascinating proposition in the 6½f Downhill Turf Sprint (09:20). The downhill configuration is notoriously tricky, but this four-year-old filly looks tailor-made for the challenge. She’s been knocking on the door with consistent efforts over 6-7f, including a second-place effort in a stronger field at this track last month.
Regular jockey J J Hernandez retains the ride, and his knowledge of the circuit is a huge plus. Our AI rates her with 88% confidence, and at 4/5, she’s another who should be on your shortlist. See full race breakdown.
Thirsk 17:57 – Each-Way Value in Big-Field Sprint
For punters seeking bigger prices, focus shifts to the 17-runner sprint handicap over 6f at Thirsk (17:57). With Good to Soft underfoot, we’re looking for a horse that handles cut in the ground and thrives in cavalry charges.
One to note is Top Challenger, priced at 16/1, who was a solid third over a slightly longer 7f trip at Doncaster last time. Dropping back in distance should suit, as he has bags of tactical speed and won’t mind the softer conditions. Consider him for an each-way play, with bookmakers likely paying up to four or five places. You can find more each-way fancies here.
Newbury 17:00 – Competitive Straight Mile Handicap
Newbury’s straight mile handicap (17:00) features a 15-runner field and looks highly competitive. The AI has highlighted Storm Flash at 8/1 as an intriguing contender. He’s a course winner and showed signs of a return to form when fifth of 12 here last month.
The quicker sections of the track (Good to Firm in places) should play into his strengths as a prominent racer who avoids traffic issues. A strong each-way play in this tricky puzzle. Dive into this race here.
Best Bets Summary
- Creative Catch (2/5) – Charles Town 05:00 – NAP
- Burnham Square (2/5) – Churchill Downs 08:39
- Queen Maxima (4/5) – Santa Anita 09:20
- Top Challenger (16/1) – Thirsk 17:57 – Each-Way Value
- Storm Flash (8/1) – Newbury 17:00 – Each-Way
Whether you’re seeking high-confidence bankers or speculative each-way value, today’s card offers plenty of avenues for shrewd punters. Be sure to check today’s full racecards and latest results to stay ahead. Don’t forget to use our betting calculator to lock in stakes and returns. Happy punting!
