Our Kempton racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Wednesday 19th August 2026. The action gets underway at 17:25 and runs through to 21:00, with going reported as Standard to slow (Polytrack).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Percy’s Lad boasts a 33.33% strike rate from 3 runs at the track, Billy Loughnane has been in fine form here with 65 wins from 411 rides, John & Thady Gosden’s yard sends out runners with a 21.15% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Kempton
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Kempton over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bettinggods.com | bettinggods.com | 19 | 10 | 52.63% | 73.68% |
| Glendale | The Scotsman | 32 | 15 | 46.88% | 62.5% |
| picksfromthepaddock.co.uk | picksfromthepaddock.co.uk | 13 | 6 | 46.15% | 76.92% |
| Computeform | The Racing App | 33 | 15 | 45.45% | 69.7% |
| Lee Sobot | Yorkshire Evening Post | 36 | 16 | 44.44% | 77.78% |
17:25 – Unibet Interactive Maiden Stakes (GBB Race)
Race Details: 7f | Class 4 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a fair maiden rather than a deep one, and the market has latched on to the right horse in Withtearsinmyeyes. Jack Channon’s filly brings the most solid profile to the table, with figures of 223 and a clear edge on official ratings. Merry is the other one with properly established form and arrives after a near miss, while Graniteville has the ability to get involved if reproducing his better efforts. After that, it gets more speculative: River Nile is entitled to improve from a single start, and the unraced trio could easily know more than the betting suggests, especially in a race lacking depth. Still, on what we know, this should revolve around proven maiden form and who handles Kempton’s 7f best.
Top Selections
1. Withtearsinmyeyes – 11/8 with Bet365
Jockey: Billy Loughnane | Trainer: Jack Channon | Form: 223 | Rating: 94 | Topspeed: 54
She sets the standard and, frankly, it is not hard to see why she heads the market. Three runs in the book, three solid efforts, and that 94 rating is comfortably the best on offer here. The profile is straightforward: reliable, consistent and running to a level that should be good enough to win an ordinary Kempton maiden if she handles the surface. Billy Loughnane is a positive booking around here and stall 1 should help if she can secure a handy position. At 11/8 she is not a giveaway, but she is the one with the least guesswork attached and looks hard to oppose. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Merry – 9/2 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Daniel Muscutt | Trainer: James Horton | Form: 3-452 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 71
Merry appeals as the sensible each-way play because she has been knocking on the door and does not need to improve dramatically to hit the frame again. The recent form reads well enough for this level, and that second last time suggests she is holding her form rather than treading water. Daniel Muscutt is an eye-catching jockey booking at Kempton and James Horton’s runners on the all-weather are usually well prepared. She does have to concede a little class to the favourite on ratings, but available at 9/2 she looks the value alternative if Withtearsinmyeyes underperforms or finds one too good late on. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple. Withtearsinmyeyes is the win bet because she brings the strongest and most dependable form into a race that lacks depth. Merry is the each-way option at a fairer price, with her consistency making her a solid place candidate. Graniteville is the obvious danger if bouncing back, while River Nile is the one who could take a step forward from limited evidence.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dream Of Albion | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Mile End Road | 13/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Palliser | 9/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Vincenzo Bellini | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Graniteville | 9/2 | 11/4 | 5/2 | 3/1 | 7/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Merry | 7/2 | 7/2 | 9/2 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 9/2 (Paddy Power) |
| River Nile | 15/2 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Betfair) |
| Spareapenny | 66/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
| Withtearsinmyeyes | 11/8 | 6/5 | 6/5 | 6/5 | 5/4 | 11/8 (Bet365) |
17:58 – Unibet 3 Uniboosts A Day Nursery Handicap
Race Details: 7f | Class 6 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a very ordinary nursery on paper, but that does not make it easy. With 13 two-year-olds lining up, there are plenty here with low-mileage profiles and several who could step forward now entering handicap company over 7f. Sakowin and Printing Money head the market for good reason despite fairly uninspiring bare form, while Kochella at least brings a solid recent third and the best published Topspeed figure in the field. Beach Ahead has a wide draw to overcome but is another with a feasible opening mark, and a few of the less obvious ones such as Perfect Hope could improve now dropped into this grade. In truth, this is more about who is best treated than who has achieved the most so far, and that makes it a tricky little puzzle rather than a strong race.
Top Selections
1. Kochella – 9/2 with Betfair
Jockey: Harry Davies | Trainer: Henry Dwyer | Form: 3063 | Rating: 70 | Topspeed: 66
Kochella is the one with the most convincing recent piece of form and, in a race where plenty are guessing games, that counts for plenty. The latest third suggested this filly is getting the hang of things, and a mark of 70 does not look beyond her judged on that run. She also has the best Topspeed number on offer here, which gives that form a bit more substance than some of these. Harry Davies is a positive booking and stall 7 is perfectly workable. At 9/2 she is not exactly hidden from the market, but she still makes the most appeal as the runner with solid handicap credentials rather than just potential excuses. Bet: WIN
2. Perfect Hope – 11/1 with Betfair
Jockey: Sean Levey | Trainer: Tom Ward | Form: 698 | Rating: 65 | Topspeed:
Perfect Hope is not an obvious one at first glance, but this is exactly the sort of nursery where a lightly raced filly can suddenly take a step forward. She has shown little in three starts, yet an opening mark of 65 is not harsh and the move into a Class 6 for the first time could easily bring her into the argument. Sean Levey catches the eye in the saddle, and the low draw in stall 2 should help if she can hold a decent position early. At 11/1, she looks the sort of each-way punt worth taking in a race full of exposed or underwhelming maiden form. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Kochella is the win play because she brings the strongest recent form and looks the safest option in a flimsy contest. Perfect Hope is the each-way alternative at a bigger price, with the class drop and opening mark offering room for improvement. Sakowin and Printing Money are obvious dangers if their handicap debuts unlock progress, while Beach Ahead is not dismissed despite a tough draw.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sakowin | 10/3 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| No More Pino | 14/1 | 14/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Kochella | 7/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Betfair) |
| Beach Ahead | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Havana Court | 11/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Dream On Kent | 16/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Chilli | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Perfect Hope | 9/1 | 11/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 (Betfair) |
| Ten Year Stretch | 22/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Printing Money | 4/1 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 10/3 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Aminaty | 14/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Paddy Power) |
| The Kalonji Man | 28/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Farringdon | Beach Ahead |
| sportinglife.com | Sakowin |
18:30 – Unibet/British Stallion Studs EBF Novice Stakes (GBB Race)
Race Details: 7f | Class 3 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a useful enough Kempton novice for the grade, even if the market may end up making it seem simpler than it really is. Algaihabane has the powerful Gosden yard behind him and it’s no surprise he heads the betting on debut, but there is already a solid piece of form on the table from Sonic Angel, who scored first time up and now gives weight away from stall 13. Thunder Home brings the best exposed all-weather profile after three runs and sets a fair standard on ratings, while Shaddock is the type Ralph Beckett often gets ready to go well in races like this. With plenty of once-raced or unraced juveniles involved, raw talent matters, but experience around Kempton’s 7f can be a real asset. Tricky enough, and not a race to take the short one on trust.
Top Selections
1. Thunder Home – 9/2 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Billy Loughnane | Trainer: James Horton | Form: 752 | Rating: 68 | Topspeed: 53
He’s the one with the most persuasive body of work and that counts for plenty in a novice full of guesswork. Thunder Home has improved with racing, and that latest second suggests he’s getting the hang of things now. A mark of 68 and Topspeed figure of 53 set a fair benchmark here, and Billy Loughnane is exactly the sort you want aboard in these tactical Kempton contests. He’s drawn a little wider than ideal in 11, but he should have the pace to get involved and 9/2 looks a perfectly workable price against a short-priced debutant. He brings substance to the race and appeals as the percentage call. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Shaddock – 11/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Rhys Clutterbuck | Trainer: Ralph Beckett | Form: | Rating: | Topspeed:
If you want one at a price against the obvious contenders, Shaddock makes plenty of appeal. Beckett is more than capable of readying a 2yo to strike in a race of this nature, and while the draw in 12 is not ideal, this colt is interesting enough to forgive it at double-figure odds. He’s shorter than the ragged outsiders but not so short that the each-way value has gone, and 11/1 feels fair in a field where several are completely unproven. I’d still expect the market principals to dominate, but Shaddock has the profile of one who could easily be better than the opening price implies. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Thunder Home is the sensible win play because he’s already shown a level of form that should make him very competitive here. Shaddock is the each-way punt at 11/1 in a 13-runner field, with the promise of more to come on debut. The obvious dangers are Algaihabane, who could simply be smart, and Sonic Angel, whose winning debut gives him strong claims despite the wide draw.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonic Angel | 7/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Algaihabane | 1/1 | 4/5 | 5/6 | 5/6 | 10/11 | 1/1 (Bet365) |
| Carrow Road | 150/1 | 200/1 | 200/1 | 200/1 | 150/1 | 200/1 (Betfair) |
| Give Hand | 40/1 | 35/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Hoshi | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Perfect Heir | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Shaddock | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Stytch | 33/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Thunder Home | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Time To Climb | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Uncle Zello | 28/1 | 35/1 | 35/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 35/1 (Betfair) |
| Lady Nenaz | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
19:00 – Unibet More Extra Place Races Restricted Novice Stakes (For Horses In Bands B, C And D) (GBB Race)
Race Details: 1m 3f | Class 4 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a fair novice rather than a deep one, but it is competitive enough with a few lightly-raced types open to a chunk of improvement over this longer trip. Liberate brings the most solid recent form after a string of placed efforts and is the obvious starting point, while Lucy The Wire and St Hilda have also shown enough to suggest they belong in the argument. Feelin’ Free is interesting after finishing second on debut and gets plenty of weight, and Bankatary is not dismissed for the James Owen yard despite having to concede lumps all round. The difficulty is judging who improves most for 1m3f on Kempton’s Polytrack, but the race does seem set up for a progressive 3yo rather than an exposed older novice.
Top Selections
1. Liberate – 11/4 with Bet365
Jockey: Pierre-Louis Jamin | Trainer: Harry Eustace | Form: 432 | Rating: 79 | Topspeed:
Liberate is the one with the clearest, most reliable profile in the field. Those last three runs reading 4-3-2 suggest a colt learning his job and edging towards a deserved breakthrough, and an opening mark of 79 looks workable in this company. He gets weight from the older horses and already sets the standard on recent evidence among the 3yos with established form. Harry Eustace does well with this type and, in a race where several rivals are still more promise than substance, Liberate is hard to oppose. At 11/4 he is no giveaway, but he still makes plenty of appeal as the percentage call. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Feelin’ Free
Jockey: Toby Moore | Trainer: Jack Jones | Form: 2 | Rating: 80 | Topspeed:
Feelin’ Free is the interesting each-way angle because a debut second in this sort of race often proves a very strong platform, especially for a 3yo getting in here on just 8st 9lb. An opening mark of 80 says the run was no fluke and, unlike some of the shorter-priced rivals, there may still be a fair bit of untapped improvement now stepping into this 1m3f test. Jack Jones is more than capable of readying one for a follow-up effort, and the weight concession could be a real asset late on if this turns into a proper stamina examination. She looks the value against some better-known names.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Liberate is the solid win play given his consistent placed form and the likelihood that this race won’t take a huge amount of winning. Feelin’ Free is the each-way punt in a 12-runner field, with her debut second and low weight making her appealing if she steps forward as expected. St Hilda and Lucy The Wire are the main dangers, while Bankatary is not without a squeak if improving again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bankatary | 13/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Gold Hill | 50/1 | 70/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Tide Lines | 28/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Lucy The Wire | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Westender | 40/1 | 70/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Wreck It Ronnie | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Arklan | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 (Betfair) |
| Liberate | 11/4 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 9/4 | 11/4 (Bet365) |
| Eshowe | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Quiet Summer | 16/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 25/1 | 33/1 (Paddy Power) |
| St Hilda | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Betfair) |
19:30 – Unibet 40,000+ Live Streamed Events Handicap (London Mile Series Qualifier) (Div I)
Race Details: 1m | Class 4 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This is a proper London Mile qualifier rather than a weak midweek handicap, with several unexposed 3yos taking on battle-hardened older milers. Lake Como sets the standard on the figures and looks the obvious one after holding his own in stronger company, while Victory Ace arrives thriving after back-to-back wins and still looks on the upgrade. Chapter is another 3yo with a progressive profile, though the market seems to have latched onto him, and Lucky Camino also enters calculations after getting off the mark last time. The older brigade, headed by Percy’s Lad and Mr Professor, have enough class to be competitive but don’t look especially well treated. It’s a deep enough race for the grade, but the younger legs may well decide it.
Top Selections
1. Lake Como – 2/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Billy Loughnane | Trainer: George Boughey | Form: 1-3476 | Rating: 94 | Topspeed: 89
Lake Como looks the class act in the line-up and, for all his last two runs don’t leap off the page, this is a clear easing in grade. An opening mark of 94 for a 3yo in a race like this makes plenty of appeal, especially when he owns the best topspeed figure in the field. Drawn in 3, he should get a handy stalking trip around Kempton’s mile, and Billy Loughnane is exactly the sort you want delivering one late off the bend. At 2/1 he isn’t a giveaway, but he is the one with the strongest overall claims and looks hard to oppose if back on song. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Victory Ace – 6/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Sean Levey | Trainer: John Butler | Form: 126511 | Rating: 90 | Topspeed: 80
Victory Ace is the each-way angle because he comes here in rude health and may not be done improving just yet. Two wins on the spin tell their own story, and while this is a better race, he’s climbed the ranks the right way and still gets in with just 130. Sean Levey is a notable booking for a horse who should be able to travel strongly from stall 6 before producing his run late. He doesn’t have Lake Como’s raw class on paper, but at 6/1 he looks the value alternative if the favourite underperforms or gets shuffled back in a tactical race. Solid form, low weight, upward curve. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Lake Como is the win play, simply because he has the strongest handicap form and looks better than this Class 4 level. Victory Ace is the each-way punt at 6/1, arriving here with momentum and the right racing weight. The obvious dangers are Chapter, who is progressive, and Lucky Camino, while Mr Professor could outrun his price if bouncing back.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mr Professor | 15/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Breakdancer | 9/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Lake Como | 2/1 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 8/5 | 2/1 (Bet365) |
| Darn Hot Gallop | 12/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Lucky Camino | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Night Wolf | 22/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Chapter | 11/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 13/2 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Victory Ace | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Lili Marleen | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| RP Ratings | Lake Como |
20:00 – Unibet 40,000+ Live Streamed Events Handicap (London Mile Series Qualifier) (Div II)
Race Details: 1m | Class 4 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a properly competitive London Mile qualifier rather than a weak division, with several arriving in form and a few unexposed 3yos getting handy weights from their older rivals. Racingbreaks Ryder has done little wrong lately and comes here on the back of back-to-back wins, while Exposure has the classiest mark in the field and should appreciate returning to this sort of test. Luzon Heights is another with obvious claims if bouncing back from a lesser run, and Fight Your Corner is not one to dismiss from a good low draw. With Distinct Spirit a non-runner, the pace and position around Kempton’s mile become even more important. I’d want something drawn to get involved early enough, but still finishing off strongly, and that points me towards one of the younger legs.
Top Selections
1. Luzon Heights – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Cieren Fallon | Trainer: William Knight | Form: -52429 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed:
There’s a fair bit to like about Luzon Heights in a race where several are tightly matched. He had been knocking on the door prior to that latest ninth, and I’m inclined to forgive one below-par effort rather than overreact to it. His earlier sequence suggests he’s well capable of making his presence felt in this grade, and as a 3yo he still has a bit more scope than some of these battle-hardened handicappers. Stall 5 looks perfectly workable, Cieren Fallon is a positive booking, and 4/1 feels honest rather than cramped in a race of this nature. He looks the one with the right blend of handicapping potential and race fitness. Bet: WIN
2. Starlight Time – 6/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Robbie Downey | Trainer: Roger Varian | Form: 81-885 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed:
Starlight Time is the each-way angle at the prices because he’s better than his last three figures make him look. He won as a 2yo, has been contesting stronger races than this at times, and now drops into a handicap where the assessor has at least given him a chance. Roger Varian’s runners at Kempton always command respect, and this looks the sort of race where a lightly raced 3yo can easily step forward on the all-weather. From stall 4 he should get a neat trip, and 6/1 offers enough juice for an each-way punt in a 10-runner field. He doesn’t need to improve bundles to hit the frame and could easily do better than that. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Luzon Heights is the main play at 4/1, with his earlier consistency making him the likeliest winner if back on song. Starlight Time appeals as the each-way option at 6/1, especially with his profile suggesting there’s more to come in this company. The obvious dangers are Racingbreaks Ryder, who is thriving, and Exposure, who has the raw ability to take this if everything falls right.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Racingbreaks Ryder | 7/2 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Exposure | 3/1 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Fight Your Corner | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Herculeus | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Starlight Time | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Luzon Heights | 4/1 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Captain Fox | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Double Eagle | 33/1 | 35/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Paddy Power) |
20:30 – Unibet 40,000+ Live Streamed Events Handicap (London Mile Series Qualifier) (Div III)
Race Details: 1m | Class 4 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a fairly tight little mile handicap rather than a deep one, with the market understandably centring on the progressive 3yos and the recent winner Cavolo Nero. Harry Eustace’s colt arrives off the back of a deserved success and sets the standard on recent consistency, but he is up against a couple of less exposed types in Malachy’s Wish and Rogue Defence, both of whom still look capable of better. Talis Evolvere has the class to get involved if reviving, though his recent profile is not exactly screaming trust, while old-timer Helm Rock is reliable enough to run his race without looking especially well treated. In a field of nine, this is the sort of race where tactical position and who gets the clearest run around Kempton’s bends may decide it.
Top Selections
1. Rogue Defence – 3/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Billy Loughnane | Trainer: Jack Jones | Form: 151 | Rating: 90 | Topspeed: 55
Rogue Defence is the one I want to side with because he still has the look of a progressive 3yo who hasn’t reached his ceiling yet. That form figures line of 151 is appealing in a race where several have shown their hand, and a mark of 90 may not have him pinned down just yet. Billy Loughnane is an eye-catching booking in this sort of Kempton mile handicap, where sharp positioning matters, and stall 6 gives him options. Cavolo Nero is solid, no question, but at around 3/1 Rogue Defence makes slightly more appeal as the runner with scope to take another step forward. Bet: WIN
2. Helm Rock – 10/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Ebrahim Nader | Trainer: Daniel & Claire Kubler | Form: 132674 | Rating: 90 | Topspeed: 73
Helm Rock is not the sexy pick, but he is the each-way angle in a race where the obvious ones dominate the betting. He’s an 8yo now and fully exposed, yet that Topspeed figure of 73 stands out well in this field and his overall profile suggests he can still be competitive from a mark of 90 when things fall right. Drawn in 2, he should be able to hold a handy enough position, and in these Kempton qualifiers that can count for plenty. He doesn’t need to improve to hit the frame, only to bounce back from a merely respectable recent effort, and 10/1 looks fair for that scenario. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Rogue Defence is the win play, as he looks the likeliest improver in a race where marginal upside could be the difference. Helm Rock is the each-way punt at double-figure odds, with his draw and proven speed figures giving him a solid place chance. Cavolo Nero is the obvious danger after his latest win, while Malachy’s Wish is another 3yo with the right shape to his profile.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavolo Nero | 2/1 | 13/8 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 2/1 | 2/1 (Bet365) |
| Helm Rock | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Talis Evolvere | 4/1 | 11/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 11/2 (Betfair) |
| Rogue Defence | 3/1 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Port Road | 25/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Royale Goodnight | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| White Crown Star | 50/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Port Erin | 22/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
21:00 – Try Unibet’s New Smartview Racecards Handicap
Race Details: 7f | Class 5 | Going: Standard to slow (Polytrack) | | flat
This looks a proper three-year-old handicap puzzle rather than a race packed with rock-solid certainty, and the market has it about right with several holding plausible claims. Santiago Boy arrives on the back of a solid second and has the best Topspeed figure in the field, while Piazza and Viviana both bring recent placed form that suggests another bold show is likely. Obsidian Verse is not easy to dismiss for a yard that does well with this type, and Eduardo Calderon has been knocking on the door without quite landing the blow. In a race where the margins may be fine, draw, track position and who settles best over this 7f on Kempton’s standard-to-slow surface could easily decide it. Tricky, but not impossible.
Top Selections
1. Santiago Boy – 4/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Jason Watson | Trainer: Charles Hills | Form: 75482 | Rating: 78 | Topspeed: 73
He looks the most solid option in a race where plenty have bits and pieces of form but not many arrive with a really convincing recent effort. That latest second reads well in the context of this grade, and the 73 Topspeed figure is the standout number on offer here. From stall 5, Jason Watson should have options rather than excuses, and Santiago Boy shapes like one who can make another step forward now that he is finding his level in handicaps. At 4/1 with Bet365, he is hardly hiding, but he still makes plenty of appeal as the runner with the fewest questions attached. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Viviana – 13/2 with Betfair
Jockey: Billy Loughnane | Trainer: Charlie Johnston | Form: 336542 | Rating: 80 | Topspeed:
Viviana is the each-way angle because she is running with enough consistency to think she will give you a proper run for your money in a race lacking depth. Her recent 542 figures show she has been holding form, and that latest second suggests she is ready to strike if things fall right. Billy Loughnane is an eye-catching booking around Kempton, and although stall 11 is not ideal, she does at least race off a workable 80 and carries just 127. At 13/2, she looks fair value for an each-way punt, especially with a few of these still proving how reliable they really are. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Santiago Boy is the win play after a strong latest second and with the best Topspeed in the line-up. Viviana makes more appeal as the each-way alternative, with her recent consistency giving her solid place claims despite a wide draw. Piazza and Obsidian Verse are the obvious dangers, while Eduardo Calderon is another who would not be a surprise if getting involved late.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slack Bob | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Santiago Boy | 4/1 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 3/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Unionville | 20/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Obsidian Verse | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Eduardo Calderon | 17/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Generous Rascal | 17/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Station Bar | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Strong Voice | 6/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Piazza | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Viviana | 11/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Betfair) |
Kempton Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Percy’s Lad | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Generous Rascal | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 100% |
| Port Erin | 8 | 2 | 25% | 37.5% |
| Talis Evolvere | 5 | 1 | 20% | 40% |
| Racingbreaks Ryder | 5 | 1 | 20% | 40% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billy Loughnane | 411 | 65 | 15.82% | 38.93% |
| Lewis Edmunds | 268 | 40 | 14.93% | 34.33% |
| Kaiya Fraser | 67 | 9 | 13.43% | 34.33% |
| Toby Moore | 15 | 2 | 13.33% | 33.33% |
| Jack Mitchell | 897 | 112 | 12.49% | 34.23% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Kempton:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John & Thady Gosden | 364 | 77 | 21.15% | 50% |
| Roger Varian | 746 | 154 | 20.64% | 46.38% |
| Adam Kirby | 5 | 1 | 20% | 40% |
| Simon & Ed Crisford | 246 | 47 | 19.11% | 41.46% |
| Ralph Beckett | 368 | 65 | 17.66% | 41.85% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Kempton racing tips for Wednesday 19th August 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Kempton today?
The first race at Kempton on Wednesday 19th August 2026 goes off at 17:25, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Kempton today?
The going at Kempton is reported as Standard to slow (Polytrack).
How many races are at Kempton today?
There are 8 races on the card at Kempton today, running from 17:25 through to 21:00.
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