Author: John Burke

Hi all,

A frustrating Sunday with all four selections running well well to place in their respective races.  There are a couple of interesting Class 3 handicaps at Redcar and Windsor this afternoon.

Redcar

3:15 – Broken Spear was a 2 ½ lengths 5^th of 22 to Johan in Lincoln 9-days ago. He’s entitled to go close if in the same form but today’s softer ground will put a premium on the 6-year-old’s stamina. Boardman was in excellent form early last season, winning three times in May. He’s down to his last winning mark but maybe better for the run, Bowland Park won twice last summer on an easy surface. A mile is his distance and the 4-year-old is just 3lb above his last winning mark and if he’s ready to roll he’s handicapped to be competitive.

David O’Meara saddles a couple of well handicapped horses in Hortzadar & Orbaan. The first named, a previous C&D winner was 6-length 13 of 22 in the Lincoln. He had finished third in the previous year’s race but he may have needed the run this time. Orbaan is effective in the mud and more than capable of winning a race like this if all the cards fall right. That said he’s only 1-19 since joining the O’Meara yard. His style of running means he needs a strong pace to chase which is forecast today. It’s hard to split the pair but Hortzadar’s low draw in three means he just shades it for me.

1pt win – Hortzadar – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Windsor

2:50 – Zim Baby heads the market. The filly was an unlucky 5^th of 14 on her final start of 2021 at Nottingham (5f). She’s returned to action in good form finishing a ¾-length 3rd of 18 to Seven at Doncaster 8-days ago. Showing plenty of early speed that day she found the 7f just stretching her stamina in the final stages. The return to 6f is a plus and she’s on a winnable mark. Trainer Mick Appleby saddled last year’s winner Edraak.

Inver Park has been gelded over the winter and is having his first start for trainer George Boughey. The 4-year-old looks on a competitive mark and did win first time up at Ascot (good to soft) last season.

Trainer Mick Channon has won two of the last three running’s of the race. He saddled two here in Indian Creak & Smeaton’s Light. Both won first time up last season so fitness shouldn’t be an issue but should the ground ease I prefer the former. Indian Creak is 0-16 in Class 3 or higher company but his form figures over C&D are 211 an he’s racing off his last winning mark. Tom Marquand has been booked for the ride and he’s 4 wins from 12 rides 33% +17.75 when teaming up with the trainer at Windsor.

1pt win – Indian Creak – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Homeless Songs saved the day and to think I almost left the Leopardstown horses out of my final Saturday selections. The jumps selections were a bit hit and miss but Malystic and Major Dundee both ran well in their respective races.

Well on Thursday it’s the start of the three-day Randox Grand National Festival at Aintree and it will be a busy three days on the betting front. There probably won’t be many selections between now and then but watch your inbox for any updates.

Today’s racing is low key both sides of the Irish Sea with the best of the action looking to be at Cork and Fairyhouse.  I have selections from both Irish meetings for you.

Cork

3:12 – Cork Stakes (Listed Race) – 6f

Cases can be made for Twilight Spinner, Measure Of Magic and Teresa Mendoza. The latter has each way claims on the best of last season’s form. On her seasonal return here but she did win first time up as 2-year-old and there could be a bit better to come from her as a 4-year-old. However, a chance is taken with Mooneista who won the Group 2 Paddy Power Sapphire Stakes (5f) at the Curragh last July. A sharp 6f on good ground should be ideal for the speedy filly who won’t be far away if ready to roll from a 203-day layoff.

1pt win – Mooneista – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:22 – It’ll Do My Day won a maiden over C&D last April. The 3-year-old didn’t really build on that success last season but was a decent 1 ¼ length 5^th of 13 at Navan 7-days ago. Was backed into 9/2 joint favourite last time so it will be interesting to see if her backers come in again for her today.

1pt win – – It’ll Do My Day – 15/2 @ Bet365

Fairyhouse

2:55 – Where’s Frankie bids for a Fairyhouse four timer after two wins here over hurdles and one over fences. Back over the larger obstacles today and the handicapper may not have caught up with the unexposed 6-year-old just yet. Bold Emperor was in the lead when falling two out at Galway on his penultimate start. Before likely paying for helping to set a strong pace on very testing ground when finishing a 2-length 3^rd of 11 at Wexford when last seen in action last October. The 9-year-old can win races off his present mark.

1pt win – Bold Emperor – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:40 – Getaway Queen proved to be a consistent handicapper on the flat and over hurdles on a sound surface last year, winning twice at Dundalk and over hurdles at Wexford. Shane Fitzgerald takes off a handy 5lb today and if the mare is fully primed, after 155-day absence, looks set for a big run here.

1pt win – Getaway Queen – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A poor start to the month on Friday but today gives us a good chance of compensation.  

The Coral Scottish Grand National (3.35) is the clear highlight of the day from a betting perspective. Trainer Christian Williams has a strong hand for the £150,000 Grade 3 race with Kitty’s Light and recent Eider Chase winner Win My Wings heading the ante post betting.

The Ayr supporting card also includes two Grade 2 races the Scottish Champion Hurdle (2.25) and the Future Champion Novices’ Chase (3.00).

Newbury a second day of jump racing with the feature race being the Grade 2 British EBF BetVictor “NH” Novices’ Mares’ Hurdle (Series Final) (2:45). The race which has £40,000 in guaranteed prize money has attracted a good field of seventeen mares.

Across the Irish Sea its flat racing that takes centre stage with Leopardstown hosting a seven-race card with two Guineas Trials and the Group 3 Ballysax Stakes (3.45) sure to provide to some interesting pointers for the coming months of the new season.

ITV are covering the best of the action from Ayr & Newbury as part of an eight-race programme.

I begin today’s preview at Ayr and my betting advice can be found at the end of the main piece.

Ayr

I have had a look four of the five races being covered live by ITV.

1:15 – Scotty Brand Handicap Chase (Listed Race) – 2m ½ f

Sebastopol seemed to be well suited by the fitting of the visor when winning by 6 ½ lengths at Kempton (good) last month. Up 8lb here but if the visor continues to have the desired effect, he will be tough to beat on ground that suits.

Dubai Days was a decisive winner over C&D yesterday and would have to be respected under his 5lb penalty if turning out quickly.

Malystic an improving novice chaser last season was jumping well and just in the lead when unseating his rider five out at Doncaster last month. That was the 8-year-old’s first start for 11 months. If his confidence hasn’t been dented by his last time out mishap, he would be a big contender here.

1:50 – CPMS Novices’ Champion Handicap Chase (Class 2) – 3m

Dusart will find this much more to his liking than when 14 ¼ lengths 5th of 9 to L’homme Presse in Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham Festival. On a workable mark, despite top-weight, for his handicap debut and will like this ground better than at Cheltenham.

Sounds Russian completed a hat trick over fences when beating two rivals at Kelso in February. Up 13lb for his latest win demands more improvement from the 7-year-old but he’s on an upward curve and this race has been the target since Kelso.

The Golden Rebel a winner at Doncaster two starts back, from a subsequent winner, was in front when falling at the 9th back at that venue 81-days ago. Has been given plenty of time to recover from what looked a heavy fall. The step up to 3m should suit and could bring out for the further improvement in the 8-year-old.

Lord Accord needs good to soft or good ground to be at his best. The 7-year-old made it 2 from 4 over fences when beating three rivals at Taunton two starts back. Last of three at Doncaster last time but the ground would have been plenty soft enough for him that day and better can be expected

2:25 – Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle (A Limited Handicap) (Grade 2) – 2m

Milkwood won this race last year before going on to finish a 2-length 2^nd of 20 in the Galway Hurdle last summer. Didn’t seem to take fences when beaten on his sole start this season. The 8-year-old is 8lb higher than 12 months ago and connections will be hoping the track doesn’t get to much overnight rain.

West Cork won the valuable Greatwood Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham on his seasonal reappearance in November and ran just as well when a 5 ¼ length 4^th of 26 in the County Hurdle last month. He can make up into good 2m novice chaser next season but looks like he has another nice pot in him over hurdles.

Alqamar completed a four timer over hurdles between May & August last year. The 8-year-old was still travelling well when unseating his rider four out at Wetherby 171-days ago. A previous C&D winner, this is a much deeper race but the drier the ground the better for his chance.

3:35 – Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – 4m

Christian Williams has strong hand with the front two in the ante post betting in Kitty’s Light & Win My Wings.

Kitty’s Light is well suited to a sound surface and a return to a marathon trip is a positive after his 2 ¾ length 2^nd of 14 at Kempton (3m) last time. Win My Wings bids for the Eider/Scottish Grand National Double after her success at Newcastle. She’s 8lb higher now but the step up to 4m drew plenty of improvement out of the mare and if in the same mood won’t be far away.

The Ferry Master finished a 7 ½ length 4^th of 22 in last year’s race. He was travelling like the most likely coming to the home turn 12 months ago. However, he didn’t see out the race as strongly as the three who finished in front of him. No problem with his mark though as he’s 5lb lower this time around.

Major Dundee lacks the experience of most of his rivals. Having had just three starts over the larger obstacles. He’s going the right way though and the 7-year-old looks worth a try over long distances for a yard that won this in 2013.

Jersey Bean looked an improving staying handicap chaser when rallying on the run in to win at Haydock over 3m 4f last time. Decent ground really suits the 9-year-old.

Another suited by good ground is One More Fleurie. The 8-year-old was a big improver last spring and won the valuable 3m novices handicap chase at this meeting 12 months ago. Looks nicely treated on the best of last season’s form but not in any sort of form on three starts this season.

The Irish landed the Midland Grand National and would have several live chances here.

Mister Fogpatches finished third in last year’s race and instead of running that consistent staying handicap chaser trainer Pat Fahy relies on Stormy Judge & History Of Fashion. The former is the one I like of the pair. He shaped better than his 22-length 5th of 12 in Leinster National Handicap Chase last time suggests. Yet to run on ground as quick as is likely on Saturday but he does look progressive and could be on a good mark.

Verdict: I’m loathe to leave Kitty’s Light out of final selections, as I think the step up to 4m and likely strong pace will really suit the 6-year-old. In the end I have gone with Stormy Judge and Major Dundee and big odds One More Fleurie.

Newbury

1:35 – Play Pick 6 At BetVictor Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 2m

Punctuation is sure to be popular in his hat trick bid after wins at Warwick and here over 2m ½ f last time. He’s 8lb higher than last time and both wins have come on soft ground but he’s progressing well and today’s extra 3f should suit the progressive 5-year-old.

Royaume Uni took advantage of a drop-in class and the step up to 2m 3f when a 7-length winner at Fontwell 24-days ago. Both his hurdle wins have come on good ground so connections will be hoping the ground doesn’t deteriorate before post time. He’s up 6lb for his Fontwell win but if the favourite fails to handles the better ground, he could be the one to take advantage.

2:10 – Download The BetVictor App Cond’ Jockeys’ Veterans’ Handicap Chase (Veterans’ Chase Series Final) (Class 2) – 2m 7 ½ f

La Cavsa Nostra made it 3-6 over fences when winning a qualifier for this at Hereford 34-days ago. Lightly raced for his age he clearly hasn’t been the easiest to keep sound and this will be only the 10-year old’s third start since November 2019. Up 3lb for his latest win demands a bit more from him but the first time cheekpieces could eek out more improvement.

Bermeo must be respected on his first start for the inform Harry Fry (6-15 in the past 14-days). The 11-year-old. Not in much form on his three starts for his previous trainer earlier in the season. Looks well treated on his best form and has won five times on good ground in the past. If the stable switch has had the desired effect he won’t be far away.

2:45 – British EBF BetVictor racingtohelpukraine.uk “NH” Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Limited Handicap) (Grade 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

A good-sized field for the Newbury feature with hopefully sixteen mares set to meet the starter.

Early bird favourite Speech Bubble has top-weight to carry here but looks to have excellent claims on her handicap debut. The 7-year-old finished a 2 ¼ length 2^nd of 6 to Love Envoi in a Grade 2 mares’ novices’ hurdle at Sandown last time. The winner has since gone onto boast that form when winning the Dawn Run Mares’ Novices Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.  The forecast strong pace will suit here but the ground will be totally different to at Sandown.

Holly Hartingo won her first two starts over hurdles at Ludlow (2m 5 ½ f) and Huntingdon (2m 3 ½  f). Not suited by the drop back to 2m at Hereford three weeks ago so a line can be drawn through that run. Had looked an improver when winning at Huntingdon and the return to this sort of trip will suit the 6-year-old.

Good Luck Charm made it 2-3 since going hurdling when winning on her handicap hurdle debut (2m ½ f) at Exeter 36-days ago. She showed a good attitude to win last time and given she stays 2m 5f it was a good effort. Up 4lb for that success good ground is a bit of an unknown, won on good to soft at Hereford in January, but if she handles it, she’s only 4lb higher than for her win at Exeter and has each way claims.

Leopardstown

It’s Trials Day at Leopardstown this afternoon and I have a couple of fancies on the card.

3:10 – Ballylinch Stud “Priory Belle” 1,000 Guineas Trial Stakes (Group 3) – 7f

Sacred Bridge brings the best juvenile form to the race and if she’s trained on will take some beating here. I’m expecting a better performance from the Dermot Weld trained Homeless Songs. The daughter of Frankel looked a smart juvenile prospect when beating Agartha on her racecourse debut over C&D last July. Didn’t really improve on two subsequent starts last season but is highly regarded by her trainer and she should go well here.

3:45 – P.W. McGrath Memorial Ballysax Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 2f

The Ballysax Is a race trainer Dermot Weld won with Fascinating Rock (2014) and Harzand (2016). He saddles Duke De Sessa in this year’s renewal. The colt has a 3lb penalty to carry for his Group 3 success here over 1m 1f on his final juvenile start but he will be suited by the step up to 1m 2f and the trainer mentioned last year that the son of Lope De Vega could be Derby contender.

Betting Advice:

Ayr

1:15 – 1pt win – Malystic – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1:50 – 1pt win – The Golden Rebel – 13/2 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Lord Accord – 15/2 @ Bet365

3:35 – 1pt win – Major Dundee – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes, 1pt win – Stormy Judge – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 1pt win – One More Fleurie – 18/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Newbury

2:10 – 1pt win – La Cavsa Nostra – 5/1 @ Bet365

2:45 – 1pt win – Holly Hartingo – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Leopardstown

3:10 – 1pt win – Homeless Songs – 15/2 @ Bet365

3:45 – 1pt win – Duke De Sessa – 5/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Ayr’s two-day Scottish National meeting gets underway with a a seven-race card. The feature race is the Listed Hillhouse Quarry Handicap Chase (3.30). Last year’s winner Nietzsche faces six rivals in hisbid for back-to-back wins in the race.  There’s also a decent seven-race card at Newbury.  I have had a look at four races at Ayr and three at Newbury. Selections and betting advice can be found at the end of the main piece.

Ayr

2:55 – Remus Uomo Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 2m

Thereisnodoubt wasn’t disgraced when n 8 ¼ lengths 6th of 11 to Cormier in Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso last time. Back down in calmer waters and isn’t on a bad mark. 

Since Day One made all to make it 4-4 at Newcastle last time. Up 5lb he had one of today’s rivals Soft Risk 3 ½ lengths back in second. The runner-up is 4lb better off today so there shouldn’t be much between the pair and he did win over C&D back in November. That said preference is for Since Day One to confirm form with Brian Hughes back in the saddle.

3:30 – Hillhouse Quarry Handicap Chase (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 2m 4 ½ f

A small field for the Ayr future. Last year’s winner Nietzsche hasn’t been in winning form so far this season but the handicapper has given him a chance as he’s now 12lb lower than when successful in this race 12 months ago and must be respected.

Flic Ou Voyou beat one rival at Doncaster in November when getting off the mark over fences. The 8-year-old ran well after 3 months layoff when putting in a career best over fences when a 1 ¼ lengths 2nd of 6 to Killer Kane in listed novice handicap at Sandown last time. Just 2lb higher here and set for another big run.

Beakstown didn’t stay 3m when a 20 ¾ length 6^th of 14 to Cap du Nord in Grade 3 handicap chase at Kempton last time. The return to 2m 4f ½ will suit as does decent ground and a flat track. On a winnable mark although the 9-year-old is on a losing run that goes back to January 2019. Trainer Dan Skelton saddled the winner of this race three times between 2017 & 2019.

Coach Carter, trained by Gordon Elliott, isn’t discounted. Looked a promising novice chaser when   winner on chase debut at Listowel in September. Hasn’t built on that promise on three subsequent starts but the return to a sounder surface looks a plus for the 6-year-old.

4:05 – Coral Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 3m ½ f

Glimpse Of Gold and Timeless Beauty both come into the race on the back of recent wins. Meanwhile Get A Tonic would probably have won but for hanging to her left on the run in when a ½-length 2nd of 9 to Fonzerelli in listed mares novice hurdle at Doncaster last time.

Wynn House won a good ground mares’ only 2m 5 ½ f handicap hurdle at Wincanton, off today’s mark, in November. Not quite at that level of form on two starts since and finished 10¼ lengths third of 6 to Glimpse of Gala at Ludlow last time. Get’s 8lb from that mare here and today’s better ground will suit her better than the testing ground she faced at Ludlow.

5:15 – Thistle Cabs Group Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 3m ½ f

Your Own Story, twice a winner in Irish points last autumn, got off the mark over hurdles at the second attempt when beating five rivals at Carlisle (good to soft) 22-days ago. The 6-year-old was well suited by the step up to 3m 1f last time. A good stamina really suits and he’s open to further improvement on his handicap debut. The Lucinda Russell Yard is 0-23 in the past 14-days but stable form apart he’s got a good chance in an open looking contest.

Newbury

3:05 – BetVictor Gamble Responsibly Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 2m ½ f

Irish Hill was back to form when a 1 ¼ length 2nd of 9 to the progressive Punctuation in a C&D novice handicap hurdle last month. Useful on the level when trained in Germany and shouldn’t be far away back on a sound surface.

Black Poppy beat Straw Fan Jack by a short head over C&D last month. The winner is seeking the hat trick here. However, the runner-up bounced back to the form of his seasonal reappearance effort at Cheltenham and in receipt of a 1lb is entitled to reverse placings today.

3:40 – Watch Last Fan Standing Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 3m

Copper Coin could be a value pick here. The 9-year-old returns from 119-day absence but he’s got a good record fresh, having had 2 wins from 6 starts 4 placed when returning from 90+ day absence. Tom Scudamore who has ridden him to all three-career success’s is back in the saddle and I think he can go close here.

4:15 – Get A Run For Your Money At BetVictor Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 2m 6 ½ f

The likely prominently ridden Your Darling will be suited the likely even pace here.  The top weight, a winner on his chase debut at Huntingdon (good to soft) in October bounced back to form with a solid enough effort when a 2 ¾ length 3^rd of 8 to Jacamar at Kempton over Christmas. Had looked the most likely winner when jumping the last but faded badly on the run in. Poor run when pulled up at Cheltenham in January but the first time cheekpieces are applied and if they have the desired effect, can be a weak finisher, he’s handicapped to go close.

Betting Advice:

Ayr

2:55 – 1pt win – Since Day One – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:05 – 1pt win – Wynn House – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

5:15 – 1pt win – Your Own Story – 13/2 @ Bet365

Newbury

3:05 – 1pt win – Straw Fan Jack – 9/2 @ Bet365

3:40 – Copper Coin – 8/1 – Gen

4:35 – Your Darling – 9/2 – Gen

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The end of the month and although it’s not been as profitable as the previous two, we are still going to finish slightly ahead, especially if I can find a winner today.

I have three fancies from Warwick, Chelmsford, and Naas.

Warwick

3:15 – Casa Tall has a decent record over fences in Britain – 3 wins from 10 runs 30% +6.25 5 placed 50%. Twice a winner earlier in the season. The 8-year-old was well supported (3/1) but fell at the 9^th at Newbury 27-days ago. Capable of a bold show here and he shouldn’t be inconvenienced by the ground, twice a winner on good ground. Hopefully he can enhance jockey Johnny Burke’s good recent record at Warwick – 12 winners from 41 bets +44.88 18 placed 44% with his rides at Warwick in the past two years.

1pt win – Casa Tall – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Chelmsford

6:45 – Mr Professor a three-time juvenile winner last season, including a soft ground Listed race at Pontefract on his final start. Not disgraced on three starts at Meydan earlier in the year. Best effort when finishing runner-up in a Listed race on his final start out there. Wasn’t disgraced when a 2½ length 8^th of 9 in a Listed race at Saint-Cloud 12-days ago. Yard had a winner at Lingfield yesterday and Silvestre De Sousa who won on the gelding at Pontefract is back in the saddle today.

1pt win – Mr Professor – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Naas

4:50 – I have been following Kashi over a bit of a cliff since the start of the year. The top-weights last four form figures are 2F22. He’s gone up 8lb in the weights in that period without winning and was raised 3lb after his 2 ¼ length 2nd of 25 to the improving and well handicapped Better Times Ahead here (2m) 18-days ago. The first two pulled nicely clear of the third that day and the 5-year-old can hopefully gain a well-deserved success here. That said he’s vulnerable to anything progressive in the field. On such horse could be Champ Royal. The 6-year-old has just had the four starts over hurdles and improved for the step into handicap company when a 7 ¾ length 3rd of 20 at Navan last time. If his jockey can produce him later than he did last time then he looks a big threat to Kashi. That said I’m still going in with the latter for what maybe the last time.  

1pt win – Kashi – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Until the beginning of April the number of selections outside the weekend are few and far between. That is all about change as we come to very period between now and mid-May.  To get us all in the mood I have a selection from this afternoon’s flat card Navan.

Navan

4:00 – Jake Coen is one of the most promising 7lb apprentices in Ireland and he’s been booked by trainer Dermot Weld to ride Port Sunlight.  A winner at two, Port Sunlight couldn’t add to that success last season but did run well when a ¾ length 2^nd of 13 at Galway last July and when a 2 -length 3^rd of 14 at Listowel, under today’s jockey, in September. The 4-year-old shapes like the step up to 1m 5f will suit and if she’s ready to toll after 187-day layoff won’t be far away.

1pt win – Port Sunlight – 6/1 @ Bet365 or 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Doncaster returns with a second day of flat action on Sunday with an eight-race card. The Racing Post ‘Go North’ Weekend concludes at Carlisle with three series finals, while more jump racing comes from Ascot, which hosts the fifth leg of the Veterans’ Chase Series (3.55) and a normally competitive juvenile handicap hurdle (2:45).

Across the Irish Sea there is an eight-race jumps card at Limerick. Naas starts its Flat season off with the Listed Plusvital Devoy Stakes (4:25) and the Madrid Handicap (3:50) the feature races on an eight-race card.

Arguably the most interesting runner on the Naas card runs in the maiden fillies’ maiden (5:00) and it’s the once raced Aidan O’Brien trained filly Tuesday. The 3-year-old finished runner-up to subsequent Group 1 Moyglare Stakes Winner Discoveries on her racecourse debut last June.  A general 8/1 for the English 1,000 Guineas and a decisive success here is likely to see those odds tumble more.

Naas

3:50 – Madrid Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 7f

Aidan O’Brien could have another smart filly on his hands in the shape of West Coast here. The daughter of Dark Angel produced a nice turn of foot to win a Leopardstown maiden on her third and final start last season. Well suited to good ground the drying conditions will help her chance.

4:25 – Plusvital Devoy Stakes (Listed Race) – 1m 2f

Patrick Sarsfield looks the solid choice here. The 6-year-old makes his seasonal reappearance, has gone well fresh in the past, and is proven in Listed company. However, does come up against up against a couple of potentially useful and unexposed colts in License and Cleveland.  License was an impressive winner on his racecourse debut last June. Capable of more improvement and holds a Group 1 entry. The same applies to Cleveland who holds a Group 1 entry. The 4-year-old ended his juvenile campaign with a maiden success at the Curragh (heavy). The son of Camelot was being talked about as Derby contender last spring but had to miss his 3-year-old campaign. Capable of more progress and O’Brien won this last year with Broome.

Doncaster

Some big fields for some competitive handicaps on Town Moor this afternoon.

2:00 – Seven Brothers won on his juvenile racecourse debut and won first time up last season so fitness shouldn’t be an issue for the 4-year-old on his first start since October. The 4-year-old ended last season with two disappoint efforts but is respected on the best of last year’s form, including when a length 2^nd of 9 at Goodwood last July. He finished a length in front of one of today’s rivals Shark One Two in the Goodwood race and that one is now 3lb better off. Shark One Two largely disappointing last season has been gelded over the winter and his trainer Richard Fahey has saddled the winner of this 7f handicap three times since 2014.

4:20 – Mick Channon landed yesterday’s Lincoln and he has a good chance of another success here with Chairmanoftheboard who ended last season in good form. A winner at Haydock last October, off 4lb lower. He had Woven ½ length back in second that day. The runner-up get’s a 2lb pull in the weights here. Woven was beaten a neck on last season’s seasonal return so he can go well fresh and if trainer Michael Dods has him ready to roll again first time up, he won’t be far away. Bergerac shaped like the run was needed and further was required when 3^rd of 8 over 5f at Southwell 17-days ago. The 4-year-old is just 1lb higher than when winning a 6f handicap at York last September and can win more handicaps this year. Ghathanfar proved a consistent sprint handicapper last year winning at Redcar last April and was a 1 length 5^th of 22 in last season’s Bronze Cup at Ayr, off 6lb higher. Gradually coming down the weights and is respected returned to turf after two recent runs on the all-weather.

Ascot

2:45 – Colts & Fillies Club Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 1m 7 ½ f

Gavin Cromwell brings over handicap debutant Vera Verto who got off the mark at the fourth attempt over hurdles when winning a Navan maiden last time. The best of the home team looks likely to be Dr T J Eckleburg who made it 2-3 over hurdles when making a winning handicap hurdle debut at Taunton last month. He failed to get into the Boodles Juvenile Hurdle at Cheltenham. He’s 6lb higher than last time but is going the right way and must have a good chance of completing the hat trick.  Today’s better ground should suit Rewired who got off the mark over hurdles at Fakenham last time and is interesting on his handicap hurdle debut for the inform Dr Richard Newland yard.

3:55 – The Kings Writ is interesting in this Veterans Chase Series Qualifier. The 11-year-old would probably prefer more juice in the ground. He has failed to complete on his last two starts but there is no doubting his dropped to down to a winnable mark on the best of last seasons form. The first time cheekpieces are applied and he could surprise some better fancied rivals here.

Betting Advice:

Naas

4:25 – 1pt win – Cleveland – 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Doncaster

2:00 – 0.5pts win – Seven Brother – 14/1 @ Bet365 and 0.5pts win – Shark One Two – 14/1 @ Bet365

4:20 – 1pt win – Bergerac – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 1pt win – Woven – 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Ascot

2:45 – 1pt win –  Dr T J Eckleburg – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:55 – 1pt win – The Kings Writ – 12/1 @ Bet365 & Sky Bet

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Just one week on from the end of the Cheltenham Festival and behold it’s the start of the new flat season in both Britain & Ireland. Spring looks to have sprung too. Temperatures could get to as high as 20C in the England over the next couple of days and the dry settled weather looks set to continue into the weekend.

SBK Lincoln Handicap (3.35) is the first big handicap of the new season. The ante post betting is headed by the William Haggas trained 4-year-old Mujtaba.

Across the Irish Sea the Curragh hosts the Paddy Power Irish Lincolnshire (4.16). That race and the Group 3 Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes (3.41) are the highlights of an eight-race card.

The most valuable meeting of the weekend is being held in Dubai where it’s World Cup Night. There are five Grade 1’s on an eight-race card with the highlight being the Dubai World Cup (4:30) with over £5 million on offer to the winner.

ITV will be covering a mix of flat, all-weather and jumps action from Doncaster, Kempton, and Kelso on Saturday afternoon.

I have selections from Doncaster, Kempton, the Curragh and Meydan today and my betting advice can be found at the end of today’s preview.

Doncaster

2:25 – BK Spring Mile Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

Empirestateofmind improved for the fitting of the blinkers last summer with form figures of 3211212 for the fitting of the headgear, ending last season finishing a 2 ¼ length 2^nd of 8 to Lincoln favourite Mujtaba.

Mostawaa was in good form early last season, including when finishing a ¾ length 3^rd of 20 in this race 12 months ago. Form since has been disappointing but he’s now 5lb below the mark he was in this last year and must be respected if bouncing back to form here.

3:35 – Lincoln (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) – 1m

The first big handicap of the new flat season.

Mujtaba comes into the race a perfect three from three. He could be a Group horse this year and will probably need to be what looks like could be competitive renewal of this annual curtain raiser to the new turf season. His trainer William Haggas is 2 winners from 5 runners +5 3 placed with his runners in the race since 2008 and will be bidding for his fourth win in the race since 2007.

Trainer Charlie Appleby is 2-3 with his runners the race although he did have the well beaten 5/2 favourite last year. He has one entry this year in Modern News who will be ridden by a useful 7lb apprentice in Harry Davies. Modern News improved to win all three of his starts last year. He’s another who could improve again as 4-year-old and has the benefit of a recent run when 3rd of 16 at Meydan last month.

It’s always worth keeping a close eye on David O’Meara’s runners in the race. He’s got two entries in Hortzadar and Darkness appeal. The former finished a 2-length 3rd of 18 in last year’s race and races off a 7lb lower now. Darkness a useful juvenile when trained by Jean-Claude Rouget in France. He will be having his first start for yard after a €70,000 move. O’Meara’s won this in 2017 with a runner making his stable debut and Mondialiste was only beaten a neck in the 2015 renewal and like Darkness was also an ex-French recruit.

Fame And Acclaim might prefer some juice in the ground but I think the 5-year-old can win a mile handicap this season. He’s been aimed at this race and has place claims from a high draw.

Kempton

2:40 – Unibet Queen’s Prize Handicap – (Class 2) – 2m

Bandinelli has improved to win both his starts since stepping up beyond 1m 4f, including over C&D back in November. Up 5lb for that success but looked progressive when last seen in action and won’t be far away.

Moliwood is another last time out C&D winner. Then 4-year-old finished ¾ length behind Bandinelli at Haydock last September and is 4lb better off here with that one today. He’s just 2lb higher than when winning here in January and is entitled to go close.

Curragh

It’s also the start of the Irish flat season at the Curragh and 27 are set to meet the starter for another competitive Irish Lincolnshire.

4:16 – Paddy Power Irish Lincolnshire (Premier Handicap) – 1m

The ante post favourite is the Johnny Murtagh trained Raadobarg. The 4-year-old was in good form early last season, winning three times between April & May, when trained by Roger Varian. Seems well suited to some juice in the ground so hopefully there will be enough in it for him to enable to go close on his first start for a new yard.

Ahandfulofsummers was highly tried as a juvenile and as 3-year-old, finally got off the mark at the nineth attempt when winning a heavy ground Tipperary maiden in October. On a competitive mark for her handicap debut for a yard who saddled the 2015 winner of the race.

Noel Meade trained last years winner and he’s got another live contender in Luke Short. The 5-year ended last season’s flat campaign with a strong finishing ½-lengt 5th of 23 in a valuable handicap here over 1m 2f last September. Now 2lb higher and racing from 2lb out of the weights but can run well on ground that should suit.

Trainer Adrian McGuiness saddled seven of the 27 runners. They all have some sort of claims but the best of them could be Star Harbour and Star of Cashel. The former finished1 length behind Luck Short here in September and is 4lb better off here. The drier the ground the better the 4-year’s old chance and mark of 92 looks workable this season. Star Of Cashel was a 1 ¼ length 4^th of 24 in last year’s race.  He’s 5lb lower this time around and nicely treated but unlike his stablemate may want more juice in the ground than likely to encounter here.

Meydan

I have selections in a couple of the turf races on World Cup Night.

1:35 – Al Quoz Sprint Sponsored By Azizi Developments (Group 1) – 6f

Suesa so impressive when winning the Group 2 King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood last summer didn’t get the best of luck with the draw when only 4^th of 14 in the Nunthorpe at York and when 5^th of 11 in the Prix de l’Abbaye at Longchamp. A flat 6f on good ground should suit the 4-year-old who remains capable of better and did win first time up last season.

3:55 – Longines Dubai Sheema Classic (Group 1) – 1m 4f

Fifteen are set to meet the starter for a race where nine of the field are separated by just 3lb on Timeform ratings. The bookies are going 4/1 the field which shows how competitive a race it is.

Japanese raider’s Shahryar and Glory Vase are respected in particular the latter who beat Pyledriver by a length in the Group 1 Hong Kong Vase in December. The 7-year-old goes well fresh and won’t be far away from stall 6.

Hukum improved further as 4-year-old, winning four of seven last starts last season, and made a winning start to 2022 when successful in a Group 2 over C&D three weeks ago. Yet to prove himself at Group 1 level but this track should suit and he will have improved for his reappearance.

The William Haggas pair of Dubai Honour and Alenquer. The latter won the Winter Derby (1m 2f) at Lingfield last month and should be suited by the return to 1m 4f here and shouldn’t be underestimated. Dubai Honour put in a career best effort when a ¾-length runner-up to Sealiway in the Group 1 Champion Stakes at Ascot. He didn’t get the best of runs 1f out when a 1 ¼ length 4th of 12 in Hong Kong Cuplast tim. Stamina for 1m 4f not guaranteed but he shaped last time like he could be suited by the trip.

Betting Advice:

Doncaster

2:25 – 1pt win – Mostawaa – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:35 – 1pt win – Mujtaba – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 0.5pts each way – 40/1 @ William Hill (Paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

Kempton

2:40 – 1pt win – Moliwood – 6/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Curragh

4:16 – 1pt win – Raadobarg – 11/2 – Gen and 1pt win – Star Of Cashel – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Meydan

1:35 – 1pt win – Suesa – 11/2 @ Bet365

3:55 – 1pt win – Glory Vase – 7/1 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Hukum – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Conor Orr gave Screaming Colours a lovely ride to win the Midlands Grand National.  It was good to end the day with another profit after a challenging week. And, it could have been better I went with wrong Emma Lavelle in the handicap chase at Kempton.

It’s going to be case of “After the Lord Mayor’s Show” now until the start of the new turf flat season which is now less than a week away.

Pretty moderate stuff today with the best races being the fifteen runners Randox Ulster National Handicap Chase (3:35) at Downpatrick and the fourth leg of The Veterans’ Chase Series at Carlisle (2:55). I have selections from both tracks for you today including the Ulster National.

I will be taking a couple of days break to recharge the batteries after a very intensive period of punting. I may have something for Haydock on Wednesday. If not, I will be back for the ‘Go North’ Finals Day which is being held at Musselburgh on Friday.

Downpatrick

3:45 – Randox Ulster National Handicap Chase – 3m 4 ½ f

Joshua Webb put in career best over fences when a 7 lengths 2nd of 7 in a beginners chase at Gowran 8-days ago. The first time cheekpieces seemed to have the desired effect that day but the 7-year-old has a mile further to go here.

Peaches And Cream, is1-9 over fences, did best of those held up when a 12-length 4th of 16 to Run Wild Fred in the valuable Troytown Handicap Chase at Navan when last in action back in November. The 7-year-old could well find more improvement for the step up to this marathon trip and drying ground will also suit.Stablemate Spades Are Trumps doesn’t have the most appealing of win records 2 wins from 23 runs. That said he’s useful on a going day. A winner of a Kilbeggan beginners chase back in August but he’s since run poorly in the Cork National and back down in trip in Fairyhouse novice chase last time. Mark McDonagh does take off a handy here 7lb though.

Envol Pierj would have to be respected on his 1 ½ length 3^rd of 12 at Down Royal (3m) on his seasonal reappearance two starts back. The 8-year-old didn’t really build on that promise next time when only a 17-length 4th of 10 at Punchestown last time. Not the most reliable but he could be suited by today’s step up in trip and the yard has its horses in winning form in the past two weeks.

First reserve Conquredalofeurope and Thunderosa were second & third respectively in a 11 runner 3m handicap chase at Navan last month. There was just ½ length between the pair that day and both shaped like a further step up in trip will suit. Of the pair the first named looks the more reliable but Thunderosa can’t be ruled out if in the same form today.

Portstorm has been well beaten on all three starts in beginners’ chases this season. However, he ran much better over hurdles last time when a 4 ½ length 2nd of 9 at Punchestown last month. Handicap chase debut, over an extended 3m 4f, could be ideal for the 7-year-old and he’s come in for some support in the early bird betting.

Verdict: Portstorm lacks chase experience but he looks nicely treated based on his best form over hurdles. Conquredalofeurope would be interesting if getting into the race as is Thunderosa who will either love this unique track or hate it.  If it’s the former he will be in the mix. The Gavin Cromwell pair of Peaches And Cream & Hearts Are Trumps are respected with preference for the former on drying ground. Envol Pierj hails from an inform yard and is respected on his best form.

1pt win – Peaches And Cream – 15/2 @Bet365

1pt win – Envol Pierji – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:15 – A chance is taken with Dragon’s Pass. The 6-year-old returned from a 10-week absence when a 3-length 4th of 18 at Navan 26-days ago. The mare isn’t the quickest and shaped at Navan like she would be worth a try over further. Hopes are pinned on the first time cheekpieces sharpening her up for the drop back to 2m 3f.

1pt win – Dragons’s Pass – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Carlisle

2:55 – The likes of recent Doncaster Veterans qualifier winner Up Helly Aa King and Belami Des Pictons will have their supporters although the drying ground isn’t a positive for either horse’s chance.

Smooth Stepper won this race 12 months ago. He’s now 7lb below that mark and is well handicapped but it was soft when he won last year and he’s another who might find the ground has gone against him.

Uncle Alastair, a three-time winner over hurdles, including here, has placed on all his four starts over fences. He hasn’t been the easiest start as this his only his fourth start since finishing a 2-length 2^nd of 13 to Vinndication in a 2m 4f novice chase back in November 2018. The 10-year-old has finished runner-up on both starts this season, including when a ½ length 2^nd of 9 to Tango Papa Charley here over 2m 5f on his seasonal return. The step up to 3m should suit and he looks on a decent mark but his best form has come on soft ground.

Some Chaos arguably needs the ground to dry out further as all his best performances have come on good ground. The 11-year-old looked revitalized by a summer wind operation when winning a Chepstow veterans handicap chase, off today’s mark back in October. He’s since pulled up in three subsequent starts, albeit in much stronger handicap chases than this. He should appreciate the return to veteran company and if the ground dries out then he could well bounce back to winning ways here.

Verdict: Last year’s winner Smooth Stepper is respected off a lower mark this time around. Uncle Alastair looks a worthy market leader given his lightly raced profile. Some Chaos will like the drying ground and is back to down a winnable mark if bouncing back from three underwhelming efforts since winning a veterans chase at Chepstow.

0.5pts win – Some Chaos – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

I had to wait until the last race of the Cheltenham Festival to find a value winner as Banbridge landed the Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle with another selection Cobblers Dream finishing runner-up.

The Cheltenham Festival is over for another 12 months. However, that doesn’t mean the end of the big race action. Today its Midlands Grand National Day at Uttoxeter and there’s also a competitive looking card at Kempton. ITV are covering the best of the action from Kempton and Uttoxeter as part of an eight programme this afternoon.

In today’s preview I have looked at five of today’s races. As ever my betting advice is at the end of today’s preview.

Uttoxeter

2:25 – Create Novices’ Handicap Chase (GBB Race) – 3m

Saint Palais was no match for Ahoy Senor in the Grade 2 Towton Novices Chase at Wetherby. Prior to that the 5-year-old had completed the hat trick over fences when winning the Mandarin Handicap Chase at Newbury over 2f further. He’s 10lb higher but very much respected back in handicap company.

Harry Whittington has two strong contenders in Docpickedme & Young Bull. The first named made it 2-4 over fences, both wins here over 2m 4f and latterly 3m 2f. Interestingly the first-time visor replaces the cheekpieces he’s worn on the last three starts. Up 6lb demands more but he’s an unexposed staying chaser. Young Bull, off for 15 months, shaped with plenty of promise when a 17 ¼ lengths 3rd of 6 to Nestor Park at Newbury 27-days ago. The 8-year-old will be sharper today and he surely win a race or two over fences.

3:00 – Optimum Pay Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 4f

Beauport has finished runner-up on his three starts this season and last time he put in a personal best when a ¾ length 2^nd to 17 to Green Book at Sandown last time. He has a 6lb in the rise in the weights to overcome if he’s to prevail today. The soft ground will suit the 6-year-old but will the drop back to 2m 4f.

Boothill must be respected on his 2 ½ length 3^rd of 14 to Soaring Glory at Ascot on his seasonal return. Off for off 10 weeks, after a disappointing first go over fences, when a 8th length 9th of 14 in the Betfair Hurdle last month. The step up to 2m 4f should suit on pedigree although he my prefer less testing ground.

The Paul Nicholls trained Red Risk managed to win over C&D last time when most of his yard’s runners were performing poorly. This is deeper race but he’s still respected.

Teescomponentsyess seemed to enjoy the return hurdles and the application of the first time cheekpieces when a 2-length 4th of 16 at Fairyhouse three weeks ago. The going will suit the 6-year-old and if the cheekpieces continue to work he’s in the mix.

3:35 – Boulton Group Midlands Grand National (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 4m 2f

The Midlands National is the second longest race in the National Hunt calendar and on soft ground it will test the eighteen runners’ stamina to the max.

Last year’s winner Time To Get Up is just 4lb higher this time around and gets the addition of the first time cheekpieces. Returned from 105-day break and ran better than his much better than his 33 lengths last of 3 finishers behind The Galloping Bear suggests in Haydock’s Grand National Trial. He travelled through the race like he remains a well-handicapped horse but just got very tired on heavy ground. Big chance for the favourite, if the last time hasn’t left a mark.

The favourite faces plenty of rivals with claims though and will have to be at his best to win. Screaming Colours was a 5-length 4^th in the race last year. Seemed to improve when a 3-length 2nd of 12 to Braeside in Cork National when last seen in action at the end of October. Stays very well and like soft ground but he’s worse off at the weights with Time To Get Up this time around. Still very much in the mix.

Truckers Lodge comfortably won the 2020 renewal. He finished a 7 ½ length 7^th in the race last year but he’s 8lb better of with the winner this time. The 10-year-old was 1 ¾ length 3^rd of 9 to Fortescue at Ascot last time. That was over 3m and he’ll be better suited by a return to a marathon trip.

Final Nudge finished runner-up in the veterans chase final last time and was a 3 ½ length 3^rd in this 12 months ago. He’s a through stayer and can’t be dismissed once more but he is 1lb worse off with the winner.

Given the form of the Venetia Williams yard this week you can’t rule out a big run from Achille. The 12-year-old ran poorly, didn’t seem to enjoy the good to soft ground when well beaten in the Eider Chase three weeks ago. He was a 7 ½ length 7^th in last year’s race but is 9lb lower today and does get a healthy pull in the weights with those that finished in front of him. The first-time blinkers replace the cheekpieces and he’s well treated if bouncing back to form.

De Young Warrior won his first two starts over fences. However, he didn’t jump with the same fluency when 8 ½ length 2nd of 4 at Exeter last time. The first time cheekpieces are applied today and although the 9-year-old is 4lb out of the weights here, he’s unexposed over fences and marathon trip could well suit.

Hewick improved for the step up to 3m 5f when winning the Durham National Handicap Chase back in October. He’s 8lb higher now and is probably better on a sound surface but is unexposed over marathon trips and is capable of more improvement.

Young Dev like Hewick comes over from Ireland for this. He’s been running well in handicap hurdles this season and this is first start over the larger obstacles since he pulled up at the Punchestown Festival. Stamina unproven, does stays 3m well, but jockey Mark McDonagh takes off a handy 7lb and will be on a high after his win in yesterday’s Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle.

Another Irish raider Hear No Evil beat the useful Empire Steel over fences last season. Two low key efforts over hurdles after a 12-month absence but the 10-year-old was back on track over fences when a neck 2^nd of 9 at Navan two weeks ago.

Verdict:  Last year’s winnerTime To Get Upis handicapped to go close again and is a worthy market leader. De Young Warrior has a nice light weight and open to better over today’s marathon trip. Achille is down to very good mark if the first blinkers have the desired effect he won’t be far away. The 2020 winner Truckers Lodge will relish a return to today’s stamina test. The Irish have some lively contenders. Hewick is open to further improvement over marathon trips but want the ground to dry out more. Young Dev has no weight, has been running well over hurdles and is interesting back over fences. Screaming Colours ran a cracker when 4th here 12 months ago and if he isn’t ridden too far back, looks be the pick of the Irish contenders on soft ground.

Kempton

2:40 -Virgin Bet Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 5f

Jay Jay Reilly is 15lb higher than when making all to win a Doncaster handicap hurdle last time. The 6-year-old was well suited by good ground at Doncaster. He looked well handicapped horse when successful last time but he well face competition for the lead today.

Brief Times won his first two starts over hurdles in November before a career best effort when a length 2nd of 7 on his handicap hurdle debut at Wincanton last time. The drying ground is a plus and he could improve further for the step up to 2m 5f.

Another who will be suited by a return to a sounder surface is Carys’ Commodity. The 7-year-old bounced back from a poor run at Hereford when a neck 2nd of 11 over C&D three weeks ago. Fresher than most at this time of the year and is very much on the shortlist.

Press Your Luck was a good winner at Wincanton last month. This is better race but that was a career best from the 7-year-old and he’s only been raised 2lb for that win. Should be in the shake up again.

Dorking Boy a winner at Taunton in January, off 5lb lower, has since finished runner-up on his last two starts. Not sure how he will go back on quicker ground but the forecast strong pace will suit the 8-year-old and he’s not ruled out.

Annsam jumped poorly over fences here last time so this is a likely confidence booster for the 7-year-old. That said he wasn’t disgraced when a 5 ¼ length 3^rd of 11 over hurdles in similar handicap at Newbury in November.

3:15 – Virgin Bet Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

There could be plenty of pace on here with four of the ten runners liking to race prominently. Debece was back to form to form when 2 ¼ length 3rd of 7 at Newcastle last time. Comes into the race fresher than most and looks on a winnable mark, However, he’s likely to face competition for the lead here.

Another who like to get on with it is the Nicky Henderson trained Pistol Whipped. The 8-year-old won twice on good ground last April and went down by a nose in his hat trick attempt at Uttoxeter a month later. Now 2lb higher and was said to have bled when pulling up at Ascot in November.

Diego Du Charmil often travels well through his races but tends to find less than expected at the finish of his races as he did when a 9 ½ length 2^nd of 9 at Ascot 91-days ago. This sharper should suit him better over this trip.

Emma Lavelle saddles a couple of live ones in Killer Clown & Manofthemountain. The former won a C&D handicap chase last season. He returned to winning ways in good style at Wincanton two starts back. Couldn’t back that up at Ascot two weeks later but the ground was more testing that day and that race may have come to quick for him. The drying ground will suit the 8-year-old better and he has been given a 56-day break. Manofthemountain is the choice of Tom Bellamy. He finished runner-up in this race 12 months ago, albeit off 8lb lower. Back from a 126-day absence today and his form figures when returning from a 121 to 365-day break are 112. He’s a three-time winner on good ground so a big run should be forthcoming from the 9-year-old.

Paddy’s Poem is now 5lb below his last winning mark. Much better than on his seasonal return when a 19 ¼ lengths 3rd of 6 at Newbury last time. Shaped like run was needed at Newbury and the ground would have plenty soft enough for him that day. Dropping down the weights and has a race in him on this sort of ground but it might be another day.

Up The Straight is another who will be suited by the good ground. A winner over hurdles here. The 8-year-old, a winner of a Plumpton novice chase on his seasonal return. He hasn’t been in the same form on his last three starts and was pulled up at Sandown (9/2) on heavy ground in January. The return to 2m 4f is a positive as is the going. He’s a well-treated horse when bouncing back to form.

Betting Advice:

Uttoxeter

2:25 – 1pt win – Young Bull – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:00 – 0.5pts each way – Teescomponentsyess – 20/1 @ Bet365 (paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

3:35 – 1pt win – Screaming Colours – 12/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook and 1pt win – Hewick – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Kempton

2:40 – 1pt win – Brief Times – 10/1 @ Bet365

3:15 – 1pt win – Up The Straight – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes  and 1pt win – Manofthemountain – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John