Ofelia looks a potential improver now stepped up in trip on her handicap debut in the 5.00 at Newcastle today and is of major interest at 5/1.
Brian Ellison’s filly didn’t show much in two runs as a juvenile, but caught the eye on her seasonal reapperance when finishing sixth of 9 to Jacbequick over 7f at Beverley on heavy ground.
After being steadied at the start and quickly being well-behind, the daughter of Teofilo kept on inside the final furlong to be beaten just over 9 lengths without ever being out into the race at any stage.
She finished just over 6 lengths behind the fourth home and 70-rated Handwoven, and it was an effort which suggested that she was being brought along clearly with handicaps in mind.
Ofelia has been allotted an opening mark of just 50 on the back of her latest effort, and that should be more than exploitable given her shrewd connections.
The step up to a mile also looks sure to suit, and she showed last time out that testing conditions aren’t a problem.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 3pts win Ofelia (5/1 generally available – use BOG firms)