Viva Diva is by far the most interesting runner of the day for me in the 5.30 Wolverhampton and is of major interest at 8/1.
David Lanigan’s shaped with plenty of promise in three maiden runs, most notably on her debut when staying on under hands and heels to finish a close up sixth of 11 to Jiwen on her debut at Nottingham.
The winner has developed into a useful sort, winning twice again since and is now rated 88 having landed a decent handicap at Newbury last time out.
Viva Diva has since gone on to finish a good second to Cape Rising at Ripon, and her first two starts in handicaps have certainly not been devoid of promise.
She finished a never nearer third to |Battery Power at Kempton when ridden from way off the pace, and then had her stamina stretched her last time out over 1m 6f when leading two from home before being headed and weakening late on.
Although she was eventually beaten over four lengths into sixth by Jasmeno she ran far better than the finishing position suggests and was not knocked about.
The drop back two furlongs to 1m 4f today will suit her far better, and I think that her shrewd handler has got her well handicapped on a mark of 70.
She looks the type who will easily pick up a race of this nature, and could be one to keep on the right side once she gets her head in front.
This contest looks a glorious opportunity for her to do just that, and the 8/1 on offer with Ladbrokes looks cracking value.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 3pts each-way Viva Diva (8/1 Ladbrokes – BOG)