Arena Racing Company Northern Puppy Derby ante-post tips

Northern Puppy Derby ante-post tips

The Arena Racing Company Northern Puppy Derby has plenty of quality through the field once more for the 2026 renewal. We put up the ante-post prices yesterday, so it's not time to go look for a couple of selections against the field.

An outright pick to win

The three at the top of the market are all exceptional pups. Two of them were in our five to follow for 2026, so it would be lovely for that to get off to a strong start for the year!

Soapy Suds is the one that already has the Category One final under her belt. She was unlucky in the bet365 Puppy Oaks at Oxford in a messy race but is much better suited to a galloping track. She has been improving with each start at Doncaster and has trialled impressively at Newcastle.

Ballymac Buddy and Goldcash Warrior will take one another on in the opening round which is going to be a clash to enjoy. That does give them a tougher than ideal start to the competition. The first named has the race experience here but there is nothing between them on their recent sectionals. For the good of the competition, hopefully they both make it safely through.

Soapy Suds @ 7/2 with bet365

An each-way angle

There are any number in here who are in the 'could be anything' bracket which always makes these events a tough one to pick up an each-way angle on. 

Maxine Locke had three make the final last year and it would be no surprise to see one of her challengers going all the way once more. Although Newinn Aero is giving up plenty in terms of experience, he produced a smart trial over 480m off a 4.51 split. Although he only has an A4 win to his credit at Romford, he is clearly capable of stepping up on that considerably. He also has a first round heat which looks a very qualifiable one for him. 

Newinn Aero @ 33/1 with Coral/Ladbrokes