State of Play Profile

State of Play is an Evan Williams horse that will be one of the oldest runners in the Grand National at the ripe old age of 11-years-old. The Bay Gelding has superb experience in jump racing and a number of strengths which mean this horse is under rated.

State of Play has always been relatively consistent throughout the career of the horse despite having only seven wins, two seconds and a third from 24 races. State of Play has only finished lower than sixth on three occasions; a 7th, 8th and 11th place.

First Race in the Career of State of Play

The first race in the career of State of Play came over 16 furlongs at Newbury in February 2004. State of Play finished eighth in a field of 26 runners which was a solid debut considering that all of the horses finishing above State of Play had shorter prices.

The first race in the career of State of Play was followed up by a win at Ludlow at the end of March 2004. State of Play led a field of 11 over 16 furlongs for virtually the whole race and managed to stay on and win by four lengths.

State of Play in Class 1 Races

State of Play in Class 1 races has been a story that has developed over the last five years. Since November 2006, State of Play has only raced in Class 1 races apart from one occasion, which was a Class 2 contest.

State of Play in Class 1 races has only produced two wins but it has allowed Evan Williams to start developing the strength, technique and stamina of the horse in high quality fields of opponents.

Evan Williams

Evan Williams has a number of high quality horses currently under his training. He has built his reputation on the National Hunt scene as being a consistent trainer who likes to stay away from the attention.

Evan Williams took control of State of Play on October 8 2005. Ever since Williams has seen something in the Bay Gelding because he has never shown any indication that he wants to get rid of the animal.

Regular Jockey for State of Play

The regular jockey for State of Play is Paul Moloney who has ridden the horse in ever race since Williams took over as trainer, apart from two occasions. This means the regular jockey for State of Play and the horse would have developed a brilliant relationship. 

The chances of State of Play in the Grand National will be substantially improved by having a regular jockey who knows how the horse likes to be ridden and when the horse responds.

State of Play in the Grand National

State of Play in the Grand National could be one of the best each way Sports Betting options for the race. The horse has run consistently well over long distances at some of the best racecourses in the United Kingdom. If State of Play in the Grand National can run well and make no errors then the horse could be in the running at the end.