Trainer James Owen looks set to continue his strong recent run with several promising contenders across races at Sandown, Brighton, and Newmarket on Friday.

At Sandown, Owen’s GREAT BLASKET is favored in the Community Fund For Elmbridge Handicap (7:58 p.m.). The 10-time winner made an immediate impact after joining Owen’s Newmarket stable last month, delivering a commanding victory on his stable debut. After dropping significantly in the weights, the horse now carries a 5-pound penalty but remains well positioned, rated 3 pounds well-in and 7 pounds below his previous winning mark. Jockey Oisin Murphy, who has a successful record and is riding a hot streak, will take the reins.

Murphy is also expected to have a strong chance aboard DESERT SHADOW in the BetMGM Handicap (7:23 p.m.). Trained by Godolphin’s Saeed Bin Suroor, Desert Shadow broke his maiden last time at the 11th attempt, showing notable improvement after dropping back to shorter distances. This form suggests the horse could replicate that success and secure a back-to-back win under Murphy.

Meanwhile, at Brighton, Owen’s NIBRAS GOLD is tipped to perform well in the JenningsBet Brighton Challenge Cup (4:25 p.m.). The eight-year-old recently returned to the Flat racing scene from jumps and secured a win at Chester. Known for his toughness and consistency, Nibras Gold steps into this race carrying a 1-pound higher rating, but remains a strong contender.

At Newmarket, the focus shifts to the Knight Frank East Anglia Apprentice Handicap (2:20 p.m.), where Andrew Balding’s filly STORMY MUSIC is expected to build on her recent promise. After finishing third on her handicap debut last month, Stormy Music appears to be progressing well and taken to have more to offer as she tackles a step up in distance to a mile.

These selections underscore the promising form of several horses and talented trainers ahead of Friday’s fixtures at three prominent UK racecourses.