We can probably all think of a few people we wouldn’t mind fitting with a tongue tie, in racing it is used to trap the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. The theory is that this prevents the tongue from obstructing the intake of air, and hence increases the horse’s otherwise restricted aerobic capacity. It is the equine version of the old Robbie Fowler nasal strip.
We can use this as a useful betting angle when it is being applied for the first time, as this is when a horse can potentially find that extra edge needed to win. There are two such examples at Wetherby this afternoon.
This time last year, Our Thomas (15:25), was competing at the Cheltenham festival. He has dropped a stone in the ratings since, but he was a decent 5th last time in a race that is working out well. Back at a course he likes, with improved ground, and a first time tongue tie and first time cheek-pieces (artificial side-burns), he looks set to make a move back towards his best form.
Powerful Symbol (16:00) looked set to make all in impressive fashion at Catterick until unseating 3 from home. Last time he was a decent 2nd at Leicester when looking likely to be better suited by a left hand track like this one. A first time tongue tie and aggressive front running tactics could prove far too progressive for a field of exposed opponents.
Recommendations: Our Thomas (15:25 Wetherby), 6/1 in places & Powerful Symbol (16:00 Wetherby) 7/1 in places
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