Pick Pony’s Morning Gallop Digest – Thoroughbred Horse Racing News – February 13, 2026 7:02 AM

Friday the 13th brings a mix of intrigue and excitement to the thoroughbred racing world, with standout challenges brewing for upcoming Grade 1 action at Ascot and a flat race showdown at Southwell, alongside expert picks dominating Wolverhampton and Oaklawn Park cards. Veteran stars like Jonbon, Pic D'Orhy, and Edwardstone gear up for a unique clash, while trainer Nicky Henderson issues a bold invitation to Willie Mullins amid rising stakes.

Ascot’s Veteran Showdown Looms Large

Tomorrow's highlight at Ascot promises a generational twist on Grade 1 racing as ten-year-old Jonbon faces off against eleven-year-old Pic D'Orhy and twelve-year-old Edwardstone in what could be billed as the Veterans' Chase. Far from the typical fresh-faced contenders, this matchup of seasoned campaigners adds layers of unpredictability and allure, captivating fans eager for a battle of experience over raw youth. Trainers and punters alike anticipate a tactical masterclass on the famed course.

Henderson Challenges Mullins to Southwell Clash

Nicky Henderson has thrown down the gauntlet to Willie Mullins with a cheeky “bring it on” amid plans for Constitution Hill's flat outing at Southwell, boosted by enhanced novice race purses. Mullins' musings about dispatching jumps stars have Henderson in high spirits, jokingly suggesting a post-race dinner if his Irish rival makes the trip. This transatlantic banter underscores the growing allure of cross-discipline showdowns in British racing.

Wolverhampton NAPs Dominate Tipsters’ Leaderboard

The NAPs table shakes up on this unlucky day with Wolverhampton all-weather action claiming the top two spots: Andrew Mount's Sam's Xpress in the 19:45 sprint handicap at 7/2 odds leads, followed by Rory Paddock's bold 11/1 South Coast Star at 19:15. Melissa Jones rounds out the podium with Liberty Coach at Kelso's 14:30 hurdle for 15/2. Newspaper tipsters like Templegate (Milcree, Kelso 15:35), Robin Goodfellow (Age Of Time, Wolverhampton 17:15), and Newsboy (Delta Blues Belle, Chepstow 16:55) offer diverse angles for bettors.

Oaklawn Park Picks Highlight Like a Diamond

Daily Racing Form's Mary Rampellini spotlights Like a Diamond as the best bet in Oaklawn Park's tenth race, boasting the field's top Beyer Speed Figure and consistent form. Redriver Storm's speed and Tallahassee's distance affinity complete the trifecta projection. Rampellini's card analysis favors Irish Whiskey (Race 2), Dozen Diamonds (Race 3), Henro (Race 4), War Of Destiny (Race 5 dirt debut), Ravin's Town (Race 6), Summer Of Mischief (Race 7), Majestic Oops (Race 8), and The Girl In Red (Race 9) across a competitive Friday slate.

Aqueduct Entries Spark Expert Talking Horses Debate

Aqueduct's Race 7 entries draw sharp divides among pundits, with Paul Verderosa eyeing 1-2-8-7, Andy Serling backing 3-2-9-1, and TimeformUS' David Aragona selecting 9-3-2-8. Contenders like Beary Funny (6/G, 123lbs) and Sheriff Bianco (8/G, 121lbs) headline a field blending morning-line favorites at 9/2 and 5/2, setting the stage for lively wagering on the New York circuit.

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