28/1 Elysian Flame Leads the Sunday Value Charge
If you're hunting for value in today's horse racing action, Thirsk might just be the place to look. Elysian Flame, trading at a massive 28/1 in the 18:15 race, headlines our list of big-priced fancies. Despite being one of the outsiders in a competitive 13-runner handicap over a mile, there's enough in his profile to make him worth a second glance.
Trained by Mick Easterby and set to be piloted by the capable Joanna Mason, Elysian Flame thrives on quicker ground and boasts a previous victory at Thirsk over today's distance, albeit in a slightly lower grade. Yes, he's inconsistent, but his best form—such as a front-running effort at Pontefract last summer—gives him a squeak here. If he can rediscover that level, this 28/1 shot offers juicy each-way potential. For a full breakdown of today's runners at Thirsk, be sure to check the racecard here.
Fleetfootsoldier Can March Into the Frame at 25/1
Over at Listowel, the 16:20 seven-furlong handicap has caught our attention not just for its big field of 15 but for offering potential value in Fleetfootsoldier at 25/1. James Ryan takes the ride for emerging Irish handler Adrian Brendan, and the 5-year-old's form is better than his price suggests. A solid third at Limerick three starts back over similar ground shows he can handle today's conditions, and his record in large fields (placed in 3 of 6 starts) adds to the appeal.
The main concern lies in his wide draw, but if he can secure a reasonable early position, Fleetfootsoldier looks overpriced at 25/1. To compare him with the more fancied market leaders, head to our horse comparison tool for detailed stats.
Dragon Of Malta a Dangerous Outsider in Listowel's 15:15
Listowel's 15:15 handicap also presents an intriguing outsider in Dragon Of Malta at 22/1. This experienced campaigner knows his way around a competitive field and comes here off the back of a respectable fourth at Cork earlier this month. He’s won over this seven-furlong trip previously and appears well-suited to the forecast good-to-yielding ground.
Jockey Sylvia O'Donnell will need to deliver a well-judged ride in a race that promises no shortage of early pace, but if that scenario unfolds, Dragon Of Malta could easily exceed expectations. Make sure to view the full racecard for this contest before placing your bets.
Kalsman at 16/1 a Tempting Each-Way Play at Kilbeggan
The racing at Kilbeggan features a pair of 14-runner handicaps, and in the 15:26 contest, Kalsman is an appealing each-way prospect at 16/1. Trained by the ever-shrewd Declan Queally and ridden by up-and-coming jockey Josh Williamson, this 6-year-old gelding has been working his way back to form after a long layoff.
His third on good ground at Tramore two runs back caught the eye, showing notable tenacity in the closing stages. With the going forecast as good-to-yielding and a stiff 2m 3f 20y trip, this test looks tailor-made for him. At a double-figure price, Kalsman might be worth including in your bets—compare him head-to-head with other runners in our data section.
Annaf Looks a Live Wire in Thirsk’s 17:45 at 20/1
Annaf, priced at 20/1 for the 17:45 contest at Thirsk, could deliver for those chasing value. This sprinter is dropping back to 6 furlongs, a trip at which he’s twice been a winner. After a lukewarm spell on synthetic tracks, the return to turf may spark a revival. Trainer Michael Appleby has a remarkable 18% strike rate at Thirsk in sprint races, and the booking of the experienced Daniel Muscutt adds further intrigue.
The race itself is wide open, with 14 runners competing on good-to-firm going. If you're looking for more each-way possibilities from this wide-open race, check out our latest each-way tips for today.
Best Bets Summary
- Elysian Flame - Thirsk 18:15 - 28/1 (Each-Way)
- Fleetfootsoldier - Listowel 16:20 - 25/1 (Each-Way)
- Dragon Of Malta - Listowel 15:15 - 22/1 (Each-Way)
- Kalsman - Kilbeggan 15:26 - 16/1 (Each-Way)
- Annaf - Thirsk 17:45 - 20/1 (Each-Way)
How to Maximise Value in Big Fields
When tackling big-field races like those on offer today, don't just focus on the headline odds. Look for horses with conditions that play to their strengths—like proven course specialists or those suited to the ground. Use tools like our betting calculator to plan your stakes and ensure you maximise returns on each-way wagers. And don't forget to check for late non-runners, as revised fields can dramatically affect the market.
For those chasing multiples, why not combine these value plays into a long-odds accumulator? Build your bet using our accumulator tips section to uncover lucrative multiple bets.
Final Word
Today's action at Thirsk, Listowel, and Kilbeggan serves up a feast of betting opportunities for those willing to take a chance on the underdogs. With long-priced selections like Elysian Flame (28/1) and Fleetfootsoldier (25/1), there’s no shortage of value around. Remember to check today's full AI tips for more insights, and don't forget—fortune favours the brave!
