Northumberland Plate: A Prestigious Handicap Race at Newcastle

The Northumberland Plate is a highly anticipated handicap race held at Newcastle racecourse in the United Kingdom. This prestigious event is open to horses aged three years or older and takes place in late June or early July. Betting enthusiasts particularly enjoy the Plate, as it offers a highly competitive atmosphere.

Overview of the Northumberland Plate

• Date: The Northumberland Plate is scheduled for Saturday, 1st July 2023.
• Location: The race takes place at Newcastle racecourse, held on the all-weather track.
• Race Type: It is a flat handicap horse event that showcases some of the finest stayers in the industry.
• Participant Criteria: Horses aged three and above are eligible to compete in the Northumberland Plate.
• Distance: The race covers a distance of 2 miles and 56 yards.

The “Pitmen’s Derby” and Noteworthy Winners

The Northumberland Plate is often referred to as the “Pitmen’s Derby.” Throughout its history, this iconic race has seen famous stayers claim victory and achieve remarkable success in subsequent events. Notable winners include:

• Celeric (1996): Winner of the Ascot Gold Cup in the following season.
• Sergeant Cecil (2005), Overturn (2010), and Quest For More (2015): All went on to win major races.

2023 Northumberland Plate Trends

Analysing historical trends can provide valuable insights for those interested in placing bets on the Plate. Consider the following trends from the previous 16 renewals of the race:

• 15 out of the last 16 winners had participated in at least one race during the current season.
• 15 out of the last 16 winners either won or placed in their most recent race.
• 14 out of the last 16 winners had either previously won at Newcastle or were making their debut at the track.
• The majority of winners were aged 4, 5, or 6 years old, with only a few exceptions.
• 12 out of the last 16 winners returned starting prices of 14/1 or less.
• Successful horses had previously won races at Class 2 level or above.
• The majority of winners had previously won over a distance of 2 miles or further, with a few exceptions.
• In recent years, 10 out of the last 11 winners were rated 95 or higher.

Trainer and Jockey Statistics

Trainer Statistics

Alan King stands out as the leading trainer over the last 20 renewals. He has claimed victory twice, with his winners being Who Dares Wins in 2019 and Trushan in 2022. On the other hand, Ian Williams has sent a total of 10 runners to the race without recording any wins.

Jockey Statistics

Top jockeys in recent years include

• Luke Morris: 9-1-4 (1 win, 4 places)
• Graham Lee: 8-1-2 (1 win, 2 places)
• Tom Marquand: 2-1-1 (1 win, 1 place)

Leading Contenders for the 2023 Northumberland Plate

Rajinsky With 1 win from 3 runs this year, Rajinsky showcased a good fifth-place finish in the Chester Cup, should go well but vulnerable off this type of mark to anything progressive.

Rainbow Dreamer Another experienced runner has achieved eleven wins from 39 Flat runs. Winning a minor event at the same C&D 85 days ago, Rainbow Dreamer cannot be discounted.

Calling The Wind  Despite not securing a win since 2021, Calling The Wind delivered an impressive second-place finish in the Ascot Stakes at Royal Ascot just 11 days ago should go well but couple might be better treated.

Post Impressionist  Coming off a career-best win at York, Post Impressionist is an intriguing contender, especially with the step up to 2 miles likely to suit.  Give the impression plenty more to come and is expected to go very close.

Adjuvant  After a recent career-best win at Newmarket, Adjuvant enters the Northumberland Plate with good form, looks progresive and should go well for a yard who have tasted success previously.

Nathanael Greene: Showing progress last season with two wins, Nathanael Greene has performed solidly in races at Ascot and Goodwood, should appreciate this stiffer test and has more to offer

Golden Rules: Winning his first run this year after leaving John & Thady Gosden, Golden Rules faces a tougher challenge in the Northumberland Plate but cannot be entirely dismissed and connections extremely positive.

Selection Post Impressionist