Jakajaro to have day in the Sun at Haydock

The horse racing schedule at Haydock for May 23, 2026, is highlighted by two Group Two sprint events: the William Hill Temple Stakes at 3:30 p.m. And the William Hill Sandy Lane Stakes at 2:58 p.m.

Market analysts are closely monitoring ground conditions in the north west, where unsettled weather and rain are expected to leave the turf no better than good-to-soft for the Saturday fixtures.

Analysis of the William Hill Temple Stakes

In the 3:30 p.m. William Hill Temple Stakes, attention is focused on Jakajaro, a sprinter who has demonstrated a rapid ascent since returning to action in April 2026. Jakajaro has secured two handicap victories since his return, including a performance at a competitive York sprint where he won with ease, pulling clear of 20 other competitors.

Following the York victory, the handicapper increased Jakajaro’s mark by eight pounds, placing him at 108. This adjustment positions the horse competitively within the Group race field. With versatility regarding ground conditions, Jakajaro is currently viewed as an each-way prospect with odds around 14/1.

While the Clive Cox-trained Shagraan is expected to benefit from softer conditions, City AM reports that Shagraan’s price has already declined significantly, reducing the value for bettors.

The William Hill Sandy Lane Stakes Market

The 2:58 p.m. William Hill Sandy Lane Stakes, restricted to three-year-olds, often serves as a precursor to the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot. The market is currently split between two primary contenders: Coppull and Venetian Sun.

Coppull enters the race following a victory over six furlongs at Ascot in May 2026. However, Venetian Sun, trained by Karl Burke, presents a strong challenge based on historical performance. Venetian Sun holds a record of four wins from four starts over distances of five and six furlongs.

This record includes a victory in the Group One Prix Morny, where Venetian Sun defeated Coppull by more than seven lengths. More recently, Venetian Sun competed in the 1000 Guineas on the Rowley Mile. Although the filly was beaten by six lengths and appeared to struggle with the mile distance toward the finish, the performance is viewed as a strong reappearance.

Returning to a sprint distance, Venetian Sun is currently available at odds of 5/2, though these are expected to shorten before the race.

Handicap Prospects: The Best Odds Guaranteed

In the two-mile William Hill Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap scheduled for 4:05 p.m., the focus is on Humble Spark, trained by Jim Goldie.

Humble Spark previously finished second in this same race in May 2025, at which time the horse was six pounds higher in the handicap. The race was won by Caballo De Mar, who has since secured a Group One victory.

Since early April 2026, Humble Spark has competed four times. While recent starts at Hamilton over shorter distances resulted in runner-up finishes, the return to a two-mile trip at Haydock is seen as a favorable move. The horse will be ridden by Lauren Young, whose five-pound claim provides a weight advantage.

Humble Spark is currently listed at odds of 8/1 for an each-way bet.