Author: John Burke

Hi all,

Inside today’s main piece I’m once again looking ahead to March and the Cheltenham Festival. There’s another ante post selection. Plus, I have a selection from this afternoon’s meeting at Catterick.  

Path To Cheltenham

Its Thursday so it’s the second instalment of my “Path to Cheltenham” series. Last week I put up an ante post selection for the Pertemps Series Final. This week my attention has turned to the Champion Hurdle.

Unibet Champion Hurdle

Honeysuckle is going to be very tough to beat in the Unibet Champion Hurdle. Doesn’t she just bolt up if she turns up in the same form as last year?  With her 7lb mares allowance she could run 6lb or 7lb below last year’s best form and still win this seasons’ race.

Even though Honeysuckle is the most likely winner of the Champion Hurdle. I’m looking for something at an each-way price

Plenty will be looking to Sharjah and you can see why. He’s finished runner-up in the last renewals of the race and given he goes so well at the course; he won’t be far away again in March.

Besides Sharjah we also have his stablemate the intriguing Appreciate It. Runner-up in the 2020 Cheltenham Bumper. He went one better when winning last season’s Supreme Novices Hurdle. The 8-year-old had been expected to go novice chasing this season. However, he’s staying over the smaller obstacles. That said we have yet to see him run this season and his preparation has been less than ideal. Like his stablemate he’s a best priced 8/1 for this year’s Champion Hurdle.

2020 winner Epatante was very disappointing in last years race but she had back problems last season. She seems to be over what was ailing her. Having dead-heated with Not So Sleepy in Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle. Before winning the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. Again, she’s another who get make the places but even her Grade 1 form this season isn’t good enough to win.

Saint Surprise

That leaves Saint Roi. The 7-year-old looked a future Champion Hurdle contender when landing the 2020 County Hurdle. He started last season with what looked like an unlucky second in a slowly run Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown.

He didn’t really build on that promise on two subsequent starts though. Returning from a near 11-month absence he shaped well when a 5 length third of 6 to stablemate Sharjah in Matheson Hurdle at Leopardstown.  Not for the first time he was a little keen but he wasn’t subjected to hard race when his jockey realised, he wasn’t going to win. He will now head to the Irish Champion Hurdle at the Dublin Racing Festival. 

I think there remains a big performance in Saint Roi. The 33/1 that was available at the weekend has gone but you can still back him at 25/1 with Bet365. At the prices he seems much better value each way than the likes of Sharjah, Appreciate It and Epatante.

Selection: Saint Roi – 25/1 @ Bet365 (Non Runner No Bet) – Each Way.

Thursday Racing

Catterick and Bangor provide the action over jumps on Thursday. Plus, there are all-weather fixtures at Newcastle and Chelmsford. The highlight of a seven-race card Catterick is the Vickers.Bet North Yorkshire Grand National Handicap Chase (2:40).

Catterick

2:40 – The favourite Sidi Ismael is sure to be popular with punters in today’s feature race. The 8-year-old made it 3-3 since joining the David Pipe yard when winning the Lincolnshire National at Market Rasen on Boxing Day. The step up to 3m 3f suited that day and he should stay 3m 6f.

Chef D’Oeuvre was very disappointing when I put him up at Haydock last time. However, the ground was really testing that day so that’s a possible excuse for his poor performance. Now it’s possible that the 11-year-old legs have gone. The first-time visor he wore at Haydock is replaced by the reapplied blinkers and given he’s 4lb below his last winning mark I’m going to give me another chance here.

1pt win – Chef D’Oeuvre – 9/1 @ Bet365 or 8/1 – Gen.

Good luck with your Thursday bets.

John

Hi all,

There are decent looking jumps cards at Exeter and Doncaster this afternoon and that means a couple of selections for you today. The best-looking race at the latter track is the Class 3 Sky Bet Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (1:40).

Doncaster

1:40 – Sam Barton won a maiden hurdle race here (soft) in February. Looking like a nice chasing prospect last season.  He hasn’t done well on either start over fences in the autumn but has had wind surgery since disappointing at Market Rasen in November. Capable of better and this could be the day it all comes right for him over the larger obstacles.

At the prices though he doesn’t offer as much value as Our Power. The 7-year-old got off the mark over fences at the second attempt at Wincanton last month. He showed a good attitude to hold off Jacamar on the run-in.  The runner-up has gone onto win at Kempton over Christmas so the form looks solid enough. That Wincanton success came on good ground but he had form on soft ground over hurdles.

Granted Our Power doesn’t have the scope of a Sam Barton over the fences. But he has the form in the book that should make him a bit shorter than his rival.  

1pt win – Our Power – 5/1 – Gen

Exeter

2:30 – A Class 3 handicap chase and the best race on the Exeter card. Morning Spirit heads the early betting after his recent 1 ¾ length 2nd of 17 over C&D last month. He’s in form and if in the same form as last time he’s the one to beat.

Musical Slave takes a drop-in class for his first start since May and looks to be starting the season on a good handicap mark. However, he’s had a wind op since his last run and his jumping has tended to let him down in the past. If he can cut out the mistakes he can win. 

Classic Ben is another who’s dropped down to a good mark. However, he’s not won since February 2019 and better could have been expected when well beaten on his seasonal reappearance here when well behind Morning Spirit. Best run did come over C&D on his seasonal return last season when 2^nd of 18.

Musical Slave to gain a second success over fences.

1pt win – Musical Slave – 11/2 @ Bet365 or 5/1 – Gen

0.5pts win – Classic Ben – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Prime Venture and Another Crick’s wins made for another good Saturday for the service.  Sundays haven’t been that great of late but there is a good handicap at Fairyhouse to get stuck into tomorrow. Otherwise, I would have given it a miss. At this time of the season, you must grab the big races when you can.

There is likely to be another Cheltenham Festival ante post selection out on Thursday. However, I am expecting another quiet week on the selections front. Do watch your inboxes for any updates though.

Below is my preview of the Fairyhouse feature race.

Fairyhouse

2:20 – Dan & Joan Moore Memorial Handicap Chase (Grade A) – 2m 1f

Dunvegan beat subsequent Leopardstown winner Grange Walk over C&D last time. Up 7lb for that success. He remains a clear candidate but the ground was good when he won last time.

Grange Walk is another raised 7lb for his recent win. He deserves his place in the line up and given he’s a 6-year-old could be capable of better. Take All was a 4-length 3rd of 14 behind Grange Walk at Leopardstown. He get’s 5lb from the winner here. That was a personal best over fences from the 7-year-old and he’s going the right way.  That said I wouldn’t be surprised to see Grange Walk confirm form with him.

Soviet Pimpernel was a 16-length 7^th in the handicap chase won by Grange Walk. A winning hurdler he’s yet to transfer his very useful hurdle form to fences. The 7-year-old goes in the mud though, is capable of better and Rachel Blackmore has been booked.

Blackbow another with useful hurdle form. He had made a good start to novice chase career when winning a Navan beginners’ chase on his seasonal reappearance last season. Highly tried in Grade 1 company and his best effort came when 10 ¾ length 3rd of 9 to Energumene in Irish Arkle Novices’ Chase at the Dublin Festival. First start since down the field at the Cheltenham Festival. Makes his handicap chase debut here and must be respected from the Willie Mullins yard.

Top-weight Castlegrace Paddy is a three-time Grade 2 winner over the larger obstacles. He might well have added a fourth but for last fence mistake here in April. Well suited soft or heavy ground and his form figures around here are 212. Not seen since putting in a rare below part effort when pulling up at Gowran Park in October. Was said to have bled after the race that which is a bit of a concern. Mind you its worth noting the 11-year-old is 5 wins from 8 runs when returning from a 61-day plus lay off.

Eclair De Beaufeu, trained by Gordon Elliott, is having his first start over fences since falling at the last in a Grade 2 at Navan November 2020. A very useful handicap hurdler, putting a personal best when 2 ¼ length 4th of 25 to Belfast Banter in the 2021 County Hurdle at Cheltenham. Two from seven over fences. The 8-year-old’ best performance over the larger obstacles also came at the Cheltenham Festival when he finished a 1 ¼ length 2^nd of 19 to stablemate Chosen Mate in the 2020 Grand Annual Handicap Chase. Distance and going fine and he’s respected if perked up by the return to chasing.

Verdict: Dunvegan and Grange Walk must be high on the shortlist. Blackbow too on his handicap chase debut although he’s a bit short in the market for me. Castlegrace Paddy might not be the horse he was but he’s not handicapped out of this if bouncing back to form after a poor return to action. Eclair De Beaufeu is very interesting on his return to fences and although he’s a bit a weak in the ante post betting there’s likely a decent handicap chase pot in the 8-year-old this season.

1pt win – Grange Walk – 8/1 @Bet365

1pt win – Eclair De Beaufeu – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

0.5pt win – Castlegrace Paddy – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A tricky and highly competitive days sport. Today’s big races are at Sandown. Where its Tolworth Hurdle Day. Besides the Grade 1 Unibet Tolworth Novices’ Hurdle (2:25). We also have the final of the 2021 Veterans Chase Series (3:00). The ITV cameras are covering four races from Sandown and four from Wincanton as part of an eight-race programme this afternoon.

I was out and about yesterday so Saturday’s preview is shorter than usual. Let’s begin at Sandown.

Sandown

1:50 – Unibet Horserace Betting Operator Of The Year Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 1m 7 ½ f

Gunsight Ridge – An eyecatcher when 3^rd of 8 at Aintree on his chase debut. He improved again when 6 length 2nd of 8 to the smart L’Homme Presse in handicap chase at Exeter last time. He’s 3lb higher than at Exeter but looks well in if you take that form literally.

Numitor a winner at Wetherby on his seasonal reappearance. The 8-year-old ran just as well when 6 ½ length 2nd of 12 at Newbury last time. He’s won three of his six starts over fences and looks capable of winning again off a mark of 132, particularly if he gets an uncontested lead.

Monsieur Lecoq has question to answer as to his well being after finishing last of seven over hurdles last time. However, he’s on the same mark as when running Amoola Gold to a head at Ascot three starts ago. A winner over hurdle here in the past. He’s got a decent handicap in him if bounces back to form.

Up The Straight won a novice chase at Plumpton on his seasonal return but arguably put in his best performance when a 6 ½ length 2^nd of 9 to Farinet here over 2m 4f in March. Drops back to the minimum trip for the first time and if it’s not an inconvenience he’s in the mix.

3:00 – Unibet Veterans’ Handicap Chase (The Final Of The 2021 Veterans Chase Series) (Class 2) – 3m

Aso, trained by Venetia Williams, was a 3 ¾ length 2nd of 11 to Blaklion in veterans handicap at Haydock last time. The 12-year-old has top weight to carry but does have a touch of class and the yard won this in 2019. He goes well in the mud but 3m on a stiff track does leave him vulnerable to stronger stayers.

Evan Williams saddled the winner in 2018 and has also had a third & fourth in the race. He could saddle Prime Venture. Respected on his 8-length 5^th of 18 in last seasons’ Welsh Grand National. Was found to have bled when pulling up last time on his seasonal return.

Sir Ivan was a 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 15 in last year’s race. He finished a respectable 6 ½ lengths 4th of 11 to Final Nudge in veterans chase at Warwick last time. Now 5lb higher than 12 months ago but he’s respected.

3:35 – Unibet Casino Deposit £10 Get £40 Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m

Hermes Bay is the runner inn the field with the most upside and he looked a big improver when winning an 18-runner novice hurdle at Exeter (soft) last time. Handicap hurdle debut off what looks a workable mark of 124 makes him a worthy favourite.

Volkovka won on heavy at Exeter in February so shouldn’t have any issues with underfoot conditions. A winner at Carlisle on her seasonal reappearance the mare put in a career best when a  1 ¼ lengths second of 12 here last time. Drops back to 2m here but a stamina test will suit her and she shouldn’t be far away.

Wincanton

1:30 – Midnight Callisto hasn’t really built on her winning racecourse debut in a Fontwell bumper back in October 2019. Winless after seven starts over hurdles. However, she did put in a personal best over the smaller obstacles when a 1 length 2^nd of 12 in novice handicap hurdle at Taunton last month. The first time cheekpieces are added and if they have the desired effect, she can win this.

2:05 – Belle De Manech a useful hurdler, made it 2-3 here at Wincanton when making a winning chase debut on Boxing Day. That was a mares’ only handicap chase but she couldn’t have been more impressive in winning by 14 lengths. Up 10lb for that success and down to the minimum trip but she didn’t look short of pace last time so should be ok with it.

Another Crick is a potentially well handicapped on his 4 ¼ length 4^th of 12 at Warwick in February. Likely in need of his seasonal return when 3^rd of 8 over hurdles at Leicester last month and looks a big player here.

2:40 – Apple Rock won three times over hurdles last season, all right-handed. He goes well in the mud. The 8-year-old ran better than his 18 ¼ length 7^th of 12 at Leicester on his seasonal reappearance suggests, as he raced on the unfavored inner part of the hurdle track that day. Back down to his last winning mark.

Crossing The Bar has just had the two starts over hurdles and the 4-year-old was a good 3 ¾ length 3rd of 8 at Ffos Las last time. Open to further improvement and makes his handicap hurdle debut off what looks a winnable mark of 108.  

3:15 – I’m not sure Killer Clown will want the ground to be as testing but the drop back to 2m 4f looks a positive and he goes well right-handed.

Stolen Silver will find this more to his liking than when 4^th of 7 in a Grade 1 at Sandown last month. A winner at Market Rasen in October before finishing a neck 2^nd of 9 to Editeur Du Gite at Cheltenham. He finished nicely clear of the third that day and although he’s up 5lb should go close. Stayed 2m 4f over hurdles and this will be his first start over the trip over the larger obstacles.

Mont Des Avaloirs is back from a 455-day absence here. A useful hurdler, the 9-year-old is 0-5 over fences but he’s shown enough to think he can be competitive off a mark of 137. Looked booked for second when taking a crashing fall at Chepstow when last seen in action. Ground should be fine and trainer Paul Nicholls saddled the winner of this 12 months ago.

Betting Advice:

1:50 – 1pt win – Up The Straight – 15/2 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Monsieur Lecoq – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

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

3:35 – 1pt win – Volkovka – 6/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

Wincanton

1:30 – 1pt win – Midnight Callisto – 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:05 – 1pt win – Belle De Manech – 5/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power and 1pt win – Another Crick – 11/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Unlike last season. I haven’t really got stuck into any ante post betting markets for this season’s Cheltenham Festival. That’s about to change. Over the next nine weeks. I will be sharing with you some ante post selections. The first of them is a horse I mentioned in my Tuesday Daily Punt column.

Pertemps Series Final (Handicap Hurdle)

Irish trained horses have won the Pertemps Series Final for the last six seasons and I think they will win it again this year. Gordon Elliott saddled the winner for three successive years between 2018 & 2020.  Given last year Elliott was forced to miss last year’s festival due to his ban. I fully expect he will have a few plotted up for this season’s handicaps.

One of those plots is hopefully Dunboyne. The 7-year-old has now qualified for the final after 5th of 27 in the Pertemps Series Qualifier at Leopardstown last week.  He wasn’t given a hard race by his jockey after he realised, he couldn’t win. However, he did enough to book his ticket to Cheltenham should connections aim the horse at the race. Which I think they will.  I don’t think he will be the sole runner from the Elliott yard and given the race he won’t be my only bet in it either. However, for now I have taken the 16/1 available with Bet365.  I also fancy Elliott horse for the Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle. Sadly, he’s not quoted in the bookies lists for the race yet. So for now I will hold fire with him.

Selection: Dunboyne – 16/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

It’s the final Grade 1 race of the festive period with the latest running of the 2m 4f Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle at Naas (2:10). The best race this side of the Irish Sea is the Sky Sports Racing Sussex National Handicap Chase (2:20) There’s also a jumps card at Ayr and an all-weather fixture at Newcastle.  

I have had look at a couple races at Naas & Plumpton.  I doubt there will be many selections in the upcoming week but watch your inboxes for updates.

Naas

2:10 – Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) – 2m 4f

Ginto has won both his starts over hurdles and last time looked a smart prospect when winning a Grade 2 at Navan last month. Looks a Grade 1 hurdle in the making and the right favourite here.

Ginto’s stablemate Hallow Games, in the same ownership, also looked a novice hurdling prospect when winning a Grade 3 at Navan last time.

Both may have to play second fiddle to the sole Willie Mullins runner Whatdeawant who made a winning hurdle debut at Navan over 2m 4f and beat Ginto in a bumper on his racecourse debut last January. The 6-year-old has won on heavy so the forecast going shouldn’t hold any terrors for him.

Verdict: Ginto will be a tough nut to crack but Whatdeawant should give him a race and can win this.  

Plumpton

2:20 – Sky Sports Racing Sussex National Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m 4 ½ f

The going is being described as soft at Plumpton and it means good field of 16 for this year’s renewal.

Last year’s winner Seaston Spirit and 2020 winner Christmas In April both bid for another win in this marathon handicap chase.

Seaston Spirit didn’t reproduce that form on three starts last season and wasn’t much better on his seasonal reappearance in the London National at Sandown last month. However, he has slipped to 3lb below last years winning mark. Christmas In April pulled up in the same race and the yard is going through a quiet spell.

I See You Well made it 5-7 here when winning over 3m 2f her last month. He’s up 5lb which makes things tougher but he’s in form and his course form put him high on the shortlist. Granted stamina for 3m 4f must be proven but he was still going well when falling five out in this race in 2019.

Pemberley has just had the four starts over fences and got off the mark with an improved performance at Warwick last month. Up 6lb for his last win but he looks the sort to do well in stepped up to a marathon trip like this.

Verdict: Both the front two in the betting Pemberley and I See You Well must be high on the shortlist with a slight preference for the latter. Last year’s winner Seaston Spirit is 3lb lower this time around and must be respected despite a poor seasonal return.

Plumpton

2:55 – I’m interested in two previous C&D winners here in Finnegans Garden and Duhallow Lad . Finnegans Garden stepped up on a low-key reappearance when 7- length 2^nd of 7 to subsequent Gallic Geordie at Lingfield last time. He might be a 13-year-old but he’s a four-time winner at Plumpton and his form figures over C&D are 61131. Soft and heavy ground suits and he shouldn’t be far away here.

Duhallow Lad is 2-2 at Plumpton.  He goes well in the mud as he showed when winning on heavy ground at Uttoxeter last December. First run since March and he doesn’t have a great record fresh but if ready to roll he’s handicapped to go close.

Betting Advice:

Plumpton

2:20 -1pt win – I See You Well – 7/1 @ Bet365 and 0.5pts each way – Seaston Spirit – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (both paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

2:55 – 0.5pts win – Finnegans Garden – 9/1 @ Bet365 – and 0.5pts win – Duhallow Lad – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Happy New Year everyone.  It’s hard to believe that another year has passed us by. Although, I’m not sure whether it’s gone fast or not.

Anyway, back on point. There’s a good card at Cheltenham today and a big crowd is expected at the home of jumps racing.  The ITV cameras are covering four races live from Cheltenham, three from Musselburgh and as a bonus the Grade 3 Savills New Year’s Day Chase at Tramore (2:20). A race which sees the annual return of former double Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo.

I start today’s preview at Cheltenham and the New Year’s Day betting advice is at the end of the piece.

Cheltenham

The going at Cheltenham is being described as soft and we haven’t seen that sort of going so far at the track this season.  The first race I’m looking at sadly isn’t being covered by the ITV cameras.

12:50 – New Four Eighty Restaurant At Cheltenham Festival Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 3m 2 ½ f

Honest Vic has won here over hurdles in the past. The 9-year-old has made a good start to chasing career. Handicap chase debut off what looks a workable mark and trip that should suit. Slight concern about the ground but at around 7/1 he’s drifted to a decent price.

Destinee Royale a winner at Wetherby in February. The mare failed by just a short head to follow up at Haydock, off 9lb higher, the following month. Her jumping was good at Haydock and despite a further 2lb rise in the weights remains on a good mark. First start for 283-days but has won fresh off a similar lay off in the past and trainer Venetia Williams is 8 winners from 33 runners 24% +40.13 this season with her handicap chasers making their seasonal return. All three career wins have come on soft ground.

At bigger odds I can see Smooth Steeper go well.  The 13-year-old is 2lb below last season’s winning mark. He shaped like he badly needed the run when 5^th off 11 to Blaklion in a veteran’s chase at Haydock on his seasonal return last month.  Get’s the first time cheekpieces today and the softer the ground the better for him and this is usually his time of the season – 4 wins from 12 starts in January & February. Each way claims.

1:25 – Paddy Power Novices’ Chase (Registered As The Dipper Novices’ Chase) (Grade 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

L’Homme Presse looked a smart novice chase prospect when making it 2-2 over fences when winning a graduation chase at Ascot last time. First run at Cheltenham and if he handles the track, he looks the one here.  His biggest rival looks to be Glancing Queen. The mare also made it 2-2 over fences when winning a Listed Mares chase at Warwick last time.  She gets the 5lb mares’ allowance here and is open to further improvement over fences.

2:00 – Paddy Power New Year’s Day Handicap Chase (Grade 3) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 2m 4 ½ f

The big betting race of the day and with £56,950 on offer to the winner It’s unsurprisingly attracted a strong field of 16 handicap chasers.

Coole Cody gained his third course success when winning the Racing Post Gold Cup here last month. Up 4lb makes life tougher and he faces competition for the lead.

Zanza was a 2-length runner-up to Coole Cody. He get’s a 2lb pull in the weights today which entitles to get closer. Has been doing his best work at the end of his races so probably needs then go hard up front of he’s to get his head in front.

Heading the ante post market though is the Dan Skelton trained Alnadam. Twice a winner at Sandown last season. The 8-year-old goes well with plenty of give underfoot and the 9=year-old remains on a winnable mark. Trainer won this 12 months ago.

Simply The Bets made a solid start to his career with Paul Nicholls when 6th of 19 to Midnight Shadow in Paddy Power Gold Cup here at the November meeting. However, the 9-year-old could never get competitive when stepped up to 3m in the Many Clouds Chase at Aintree last month.  Goes well here though and if he bounces back has claims.

Funambule Sivola took a hike in the weights for winning a handicap chase at Ascot back in March before finishing runner-up to Shishkin in a Grade 1 at Aintree. A good 4 ½ length 2nd of 6 to First Flow in Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon last time. In with a chance back in handicap company but he’s not the biggest of horses to carry to-weight of 11-10 here.

Riders Onthe Storm seemed to lose way on three starts last season. However, he bounced back to form when a 3 ¼ length 2nd of 10 to Clan Legend in a handicap chase at Aintree earlier in the month. It was a good start to his career for trainer Richard Hobson but he might be better going back right-handed.

Galahad Quest almost put in a career best when a staying-on 5th of 19 to Midnight Shadow in Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November. Still seemed to be going well when falling at the 9^th in the Aintree race that Riders Onthe Storm finished second in. He should be able to win a decent handicap chase pot this season and will enjoys today’s ground.  

2:35 – Paddy Power Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 3m

Pileon was beaten a short head in the Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle in March 2020. He’s returned to form on both his starts this autumn finishing 4^th of 11 at Aintree. Before going on to win a Pertemps Hurdle Series Qualifier at Sandown earlier in the month.  Up 6lb for that success but capable of another big run.

Fergal O’Brien saddles a couple of live contenders in Art Approval & Ask Dillon. Art Approval put in a career best when 4^th of 12 here over 2m 4f. Before putting up an even better effort to win here last time(good) over 2m 5f. Both runs this season have come a sound surface but he did win on heavy 12 months. He should stay further than 2m 5f and although he’s up 8lb in better race I can see him going well.

Ask Dillon won over 3m here in April and is now 3lb below that mark today. Three poor runs this season but the 9-year-old bounced back to form when a 5 ¾ length 3^rd of 9 to Kansas City Chief here last time. No problem with a return to softer ground, Can be hard ride as was once again in evidence last time but he can’t be dismissed either.

Botax Has showed he stayed 3m when a 1 ¼ length 2nd of 9 to Kansas City Chief at Cheltenham last time. If he can improve a bit more for softer ground he should be bang there again.

3:10 – Dornan Engineering Relkeel Hurdle (Grade 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

Not the strongest renewals of the Relkeel. Brewin’upastorm has looked a much better horse since returning to hurdling early in 2021. He put in a career best effort over hurdles when winning at Aintree 56-days ago. The one to beat although trainer Olly Murphy is only 1-30 in the past 14-days.

Interesting to see that Willie Mullins brings over Stormy Ireland. The mare quickly returned to form on the return to the Mullins yards last spring winning a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse. Before going on to win a Grade 1 mares’ hurdle at the Punchestown Festival. The 8-year-old probably needed her seasonal reappearance when well beaten behind Honeysuckle in the Grade 1 Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in November.

I am not going to look at the Tramore race on ITV and in truth the three races at Musselburgh aren’t brilliant either. Although I have had a look at the feature race at 2:10.

Musselburgh

2:10 – Betway Hogmaneigh Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 1m 7 ½ f

Tommy’s Oscar bids for the hat trick after wins at Haydock and Doncaster. Up 3lb for that Doncaster success but Tom Midgley takes off 7lb which could prove vital. He’s a previous C&D winner and a worthy favourite. Despite the just the seven runners there will hopefully be a decent pace for him to chase.

Fiveandtwenty is 4-4 at the track, including twice over C&D including at this meeting 12 months ago. Not in the same form in two starts in much better company in the spring. Last of seven at Wetherby on her seasonal return and has had wind surgery since that dismal effort. Better can be expected back at venue that really suits. Her stablemate Blakeney Point won this race last year, off 1lb higher and isn’t totally out of this.

Betting Advice:

Cheltenham

12:50 –0.5pts each way Smooth Stepper – 40/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power (both paying 4 places 1/5 odds) and 1pt win – Honest Vic – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:00 -1pt win – Galahad Quest – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Bet365

2:35 – 1pt each way – Ask Dillon – 12/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power (both paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

Cheers

John

Hi all

The big race caravan comes to halt today and after all the sustained quality of the last few days, it’s a bit of relief.

There are just three meetings today. Jump cards at Haydock and Taunton and a tea time all-weather fixture at Wolverhampton.

The going at Haydock is heavy for what is a decent seven race card. Give the amount of racing we have had of late and the forecast heavy ground. Not unsurprisingly just 58 horses have been declared.

It was good to get back among the winners yesterday and even better for the first time in what seems like ages I read the races well. It’s a been a busy few days and there won’t be any selections tomorrow.

Haydock

1:00 – Campbell Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) – 2m 6f

Torn And Frayed is sure to be popular with punters after his 7 length 2nd of 4 to My Drogo in a Cheltenham novice chase last time.

Mint Condition was a useful novice hurdler last season. He put behind him a poor reappearance over hurdles when neck 2^nd of 4 to Kiltealy Briggs in novice chase here on his chase debut last time.

Farrants Way is the only one of the six runners that has yet to race over fences. The 7-year-old is having his first start since pulling up here over hurdles in February. Prior to that he had gone close on heavy ground here in a handicap hurdle. He looks a decent mark for his chase debut.

2:05 – Last Fling Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 3m

Just seven go to post for the Haydock feature race. Plenty of old favorites on show. Blaklion took advantage of a sliding mark to win a veterans chase here last time. He’s up 5lb but that rise in the weights is more than manageable on his back form.

The Two Amigos was an 8-length 3^rd of 9 here in the Grand National Trial in February. He’s potentially well treated on his best form now 2lb lower than when a 3-length 2^nd of 18 to Secret Reprieve in last season’s Welsh Grand National.

Beware The Bear is another who looks on a good mark if bouncing back to his best. However, he’s not the most consistent of horses and once again ran in snatches on his stable debut at Bangor last time. The blinkers he normally wears are replaced by the cheekpieces.

Bobo Mac goes well in the mud. The 10-year-old was well below form on his Bangor reappearance but was better, albeit well beaten, 2^nd of 7 at Ludlow last time. Needs to do much better to win this but the ground will help and he’s on a fair mark.

Vieux Lion Rouge has twice won around here, including over C&D. The 12-year-old was struggling when hampered and unseating his rider in the Becher Chase last time. Ground is fine but you wonder if age might have caught up with him.

Chef D’Oeuvre won this race in 2018 and showed his liking for the track when winning a C&D handicap chase in March, off today’s mark. The 10-year-old put in a respectable effort when 3^rd of 9 over an inadequate 3m at Wetherby earlier this month. The cheekpieces he’s been wearing are replaced by the first-time visor today.

2:40 – Windham Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 2m 3f

Celebre D’Allen had been off the track for 26 months when winning a heavy ground C&D handicap hurdle on his stable debut for Philip Hobbs last time. Up 6lb for that success which shouldn’t be an issue given he seemed to win with plenty in hand that day. Of more concern would be the possibility that 9-year-old will suffer the dreaded “bounce”.

Homme Public was a 7 ¾ lengths behind Celebre D’Allen last time but that was the 4-year-old’s first start for 9 months and he’s entitled to be sharper here. He’s only had six starts over hurdles so could be capable of better.

Rattle Owl was only having his second start in handicap company when a 3 ½ length 2nd of 7 at Doncaster last time. The return to 2m 3f will suit but heavy ground is an unknown for the 5-year-old. Handicapped to go close if he handles the testing underfoot conditions.

No ground concerns for Mister Watson who caused a 50/1 shock when winning on heavy ground at Lingfield 22-days ago. His two best RPR’s have come on heavy ground. Up 7lb in a better race but another big run could be on the cards.

Rockadenn is another well suited to the mud. Likely in need of the run on his first start for new trainer Alastair Ralph when well behind Tommy’s Oscar at Doncaster 19-days ago. Back down to the same mark as when winning at Taunton in February.

Minella Charmer ran like something was amiss when pulling up on his first start for ten months here last time. The previous course winners aren’t totally out of it, if you forgive his last run and his form figures on heavy are 1311.

3:15 – Codrington Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 2m 5 ½ f

The biggest field of the day with thirteen set to meet the starter.

Geryville faces different ground today than when winning at Wetherby two starts back and finishing 4 ½ lengths 2nd of 10 back at the same venue last time.

Orrisdale won on heavy ground over hurdles. He’s 0-7 over fences but did put in a personal best over the larger obstacles when a length 2nd of 5 in novice handicap chase at Market Rasen (good to soft) last month.

Venetia Williams saddled the winner of this in 2018. She relies on The Crooner today. The 6-year-old made it 2-5 over fences when winning at Fontwell in February. Up 3lb for his seasonal reappearance and can go well if ready to roll first time.

Wouldubewell a winner on heavy ground over hurdles at Uttoxeter last season. The mare made a winning start over fences at Fontwell (heavy) 23-days ago. She jumped soundly for a novice that day and there should be more to come from the 7-year-old although she does take a big drop in distance from last time.

Keep Wondering was off nearly 2 years when 17 ½ lengths 5th of 12 at Chepstow last time. He’s only had three starts over fences so is open to more progress. Sole career win came on heavy so the ground shouldn’t be an issue.

Up Helly Aa King shaped with plenty of promise when a 13 ½ lengths 4th of 11 to Blaklion in veterans chase here last time. The drop down to Class 3 company will suit the 10-year-old as will the drop back in trip on testing ground.

Town Parks is 3lb below his last winning mark but the 10-year-old was well beaten on his seasonal return last month.

Tanarpino came up against a progressive handicap chaser when a ½ length 2^nd of 8 to Major Dundee at Bangor last time.

Thomas Macdonagh ran well when 2^nd of 7, off 6lb higher here in March. However, he’s been well below form on both starts this season. The first time cheekpieces are applied today and you must respect Jeremy Snowden runners at Haydock 8 -19 runners in the past five seasons.

Taunton

The Taunton card is moderate but there a couple of competitive handicaps.

1:50 – I’m loathe to ignore any Jeremy Scott trained runner, given the excellent form of the yard. That’s why you must respect Lady KK on her third start over fences.

Cape Robin a winner at Worcester in June bounced back to form when a 2-length 2nd of 8 to Reve in a similar race at Ludlow 56-days ago. That was the 7-year-old’s first start beyond 2m 6f since his point days. He showed he stayed an easy 3m 2f that day so today’s 2m 7f will be fine. He wouldn’t want the ground to ease from good to soft but if it doesn’t, he’s in the mix.

3:30 – The final handicap hurdle on the Taunton card is arguably the competitive. The two I like most are Sizeable Sam and Only The Bold.

Sizeable Sam, hails from the inform Jeremy Scott, had some decent form over hurdles last season winning twice at this time last year at Wincanton. Looked the sort do well over fences this season but he hasn’t really taken to them on either start this season. He still has more offer as a hurdler and looks interesting in the first time cheekpieces.

Only The Bold won a soft ground 2m 4f novice hurdle at Southwell in February. Before struggling back at the same venue, a month later. The 6-year-old stepped up on reappearance at Aintree when a keeping on 9 ¼ length 6th of 13 here over 2m 3f last time. Shaped like further and better stamina test would suit. Ok, he may be better on softer ground but he’s not out of this.

Betting Advice:

Haydock

2:05 – Chef D’Oeuvre – 5/1 @ Bet365

2:40 – Rockadenn – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:15 – Up Helly Aa King – 9/1 @ Bet365

Taunton

3:30 – 1pt win – Sizeable Sam – 8/1 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Only The Bold – 8/1 @ Bet365

All that’s left to do is to you wish you and yours a Happy New Year. See you On New Year’s Day.

Cheers

John

Hi all,

It’s the final days of Leopardstown & Limerick’s Christmas meetings. This side of the Irish Sea there are three jump fixtures at Newbury, Doncaster and Kelso and all-weather jumps card at Southwell.

At Leopardstown where there are two Grade 1 contests. There’s also a competitive card at Newbury where the feature race is the Grade 1 Challow Novices Hurdle (3:05).

ITV are covering the best of today’s action from Newbury (five races), Leopardstown (two races), and Doncaster (2 races).

I begin today’s preview at Newbury with ITV races. As ever my betting advice can be found at the end of the main piece.

Newbury

The ground has eased to soft at Newbury.

1:25 – MansionBet Faller Insurance Handicap Chase (For The Hallowe’En Trophy) (Class 3) – 2m ½ f

Gallic Geordie comes into the race seeking the hat trick after two wins at Lingfield. He has a 7lb penalty for the last of those successes 9-days ago. He’s won on good to soft and heavy so seems ground versatile. Different track today but the one to beat.

Early Du Lemo off for 10 months and ran respectably when a 6 ½ length 3rd of 9 at Sandown earlier in the month. The 8-year-old was a solid enough runner-up over fences at the meeting in 2018. Trainer Gary Moore has his horses in good form with 7 winners from 26 runners in the past 14-days.

At bigger odds we have the potentially well handicapped Russian Doyen. The 8-year-old was a useful hurdler and novice chaser, winning twice, including C&D, and finishing 4^th of 20 to A Plus Tard in a novice handicap chase at the 2019 Cheltenham Festival when with Colin Tizzard. He seemed to lose his way and switched to the Jeremy Scott yard last season. Yet to hit his best form for a new yard on either start this autumn but has slid down to a good mark. Trainer Jeremy Scott has his runners in better form with 4 winners from 13 runners in the past 14-days.

2:00 – Bank A Winner With MansionBet Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

An interesting handicap hurdle with Dashel Drasher and Dickie Diver both back over the smaller obstacles. The first named has improved over fences but did well over hurdles 4-7 and won over C&D in March 2019. He’s potentially very well handicapped back over hurdles. 

Dickie Diver had just two starts over fences last season. The 8-year-old is having his first start over hurdles since finishing 11-length 4^th of 20 to Minella Indo in the Grade 1 Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle at the 2019 Cheltenham Festival. Allaho was one place in front of him and Lisnagar Oscar in fifth.

They take on several useful handicap hurdlers though.

Philip Hobbs who won this in 2018 saddles Masters Legacy.  A winner at Chepstow on his seasonal return. He improved again when a length 2^nd of 11 over C&D last month.  Proved his stamina for the trip that and day looks to be going the right way. He’s sure to be there or thereabouts.

Trainer Tom Lacey has his horses in winning form. He runs Pounding Poet who put in a career best when a short-head 2^nd of 13 in similar race at Aintree last time. The 5-year-old is 5lb higher here but remains on a competitive mark and will like the further ease in the ground.

Beauport ended last season with a surprise win in a valuable novice’s handicap hurdle at Sandown in March. Shaped with plenty of promise when a 1 ½ length 2^nd of 10^th on his seasonal return at the same venue 52-days ago. The soft ground will suit the 5-year-old who is capable of better albeit he might need further.

2:35 – Follow @mansionbetrace On Twitter Mandarin Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m 2f

A good-sized field of 14 for a very intriguing handicap chase.

Saint Palais bids for the hat trick after wins at Worcester and Wetherby, earlier in the month. He’s up 10lb for that latter success but had plenty in hand last time and the 4-year-old is open to further improvement.

Gericault Roque has run well on both his starts over fences. He confirmed the promise of his Wetherby chase debut when ½-length 2nd of 12 to Pats Fancy in novice handicap chase at Chepstow 25-days ago. The 5-year-old was doing his best work at the finish over 3m and should stay further.

Crypto ended last season with a soft ground handicap chase success at Carlisle in March. The 7-year-old made a solid return to action when a 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 11 at Bangor last month.

Nestor Park is an eight-race maiden over fences but he’s respected on his neck 2^nd of 14 in this race last year. Likely needed the run when 4^th of 9 at Lingfield on his seasonal return 59-days ago. Looks well treated and must be respected returning to a track he goes well at.

Wayfinder won novice handicap chase on his second start over fences in October 2020. Off for 14 months and brought down at ninth at Bangor 19-days ago. If his confidence hasn’t been dented by that mishap, he remains open to improvement. Trainer Rebecca Curtis saddled the winner of this in 2016.

3:05 – MansionBet Challow Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) – 2m 4 ½ f

Paul Nicholls saddled Bravemansgame to win last years renewal. He runs favourite Stage Star who looked an ideal type for the race when making all to win a novice hurdle over C&D last month (good to soft), a race that was won by Bravemansgame. Different ground today than last time but he did win a bumper on soft ground so should handle it.

Lossiemouth made it 3-6 over hurdles when winning a Grade 2 novice hurdle at Sandown 26-days ago. He brings the best form to the race and won’t be inconvenienced by the easing of the ground.  

West Balboa looked a very smart prospect when winning on her hurdle debut at Warwick last month.

Gordon Elliot brings over Gringo D’aubrelle. A bumper winner at Navan two starts back before winning over hurdles at the second attempt at Fairyhouse last month. Capable of better in the spher and looks interesting stepped up to 2m 4f.

3:35 – MansionBet Proud To Support British Racing Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) – 2m 6 ½ f

You can make some sort of case for all eight runners.

Fern Hill has to be respected on his neck 2^nd of 7 to Come On Teddy in novice handicap chase at Uttoxeter on chase debut 22-days ago. That was the 6-year-old’s first start for 10 months and he was 7lb out of the weights that day. There was plenty to like about his attitude at the finish last time.

Flash Collonges was thrown in the deep end for his chase debut when 3^rd of 4^th to Ahoy Senor in Grade 2 novice chase here last month. He should be all the better for that experience and looks the type do better over fences.

Patroclus twice a winner over hurdles last season is having his first run since pulling up in a valuable novices’ handicap hurdle at Sandown in March. Looks the type to do better over fences but a slight concern would be a further easing of the ground.

Beatthebullet a decent enough hurdler made a winning chase debut when beating two rivals at Exeter last month. The 7-year-old is vulnerable to less exposed types and does need to jump with more fluency than he did last time.

Leopardstown

1:45 – Neville Hotels Novice Chase (Grade 1) – 3m

Run Wild Fred took advantage of a handy mark to win the valuable Troytown Handicap Chase at Navan last time and brings the best form into the race.

Run Wild Fred’s stablemate Fury Road missed the beginners’ chase yesterday to come here. A runner-up to the smart Gabynako on his chase debut he’s since gone onto finish 1 ½ length 3rd of 8 in the Grade 1 Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse. A smart staying hurdler he’s made a solid start to his chase career. The first time cheekpieces are applied here and the step up to 3m looks a plus.

Ontheropes won the Munster National two starts back before finishing a never nearer 4^th of 20 in the Ladbroke Trophy at Newbury last time.

Vanillier last season’s Albert Bartlett winner at the Cheltenham Festival. He built on the promise of his Down Royal Chase debut when winning the Grade 2 Florida Pearl Novice Chase at Punchestown last month. His jumping was solid enough that day and the step to 3m should bring out more improvement in the 6-year-old.

2:20 – Matheson Hurdle (Grade 1) – 2m

Sharjah is a standing dish in this race and bids for a four timer. The 8-year-old made a winning return to action when beating two rivals in the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown last time. He’s a worthy odds-on favourite and it’s hard to see him being beat.

It could be one -two for trainer Willie Mullins who also saddles Echoes In Rain. The mare was 15 lengths behind Sharjah in the Morgiana but was far to keen to do herself justice on her first start since winning a Grade 1 novice hurdle at the Punchestown Festival. She’s better than she was able to show the last day and if she gets a decent gallop remains a mare capable of better.

2:55 – Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Handicap Hurdle – 2m 4f

A field of twenty are set to mee the starter. The two I like most are Farrawaybay and Mahlers Dollar.

Farrawaybay has been a steady improver over hurdles this autumn.  The mare put in a career best effort on RPR’s when winning an 18 runners handicap hurdle at Navan 53-days ago. She’s only had seven starts over hurdles. Up 8lb for her latest success, demands more from her but she may be capable of more improvement, if she handles today’s softer ground.

Mahlers Dollar won a Clonmel Maiden hurdle (soft) two starts back and improved again when finishing a 5 ¾ length 3rd of 16 on his handicap hurdle debut at Cork last time. He travelled like he was on a winnable mark at Cork and the return to 2m 4f could bring out more progress in the 7-year-old.

Doncaster

The final two races on the Doncaster card are on ITV but I have just looked at the first of them and there are few in with a chance.

2:50 – Sky Sports Racing Sky 415 Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m

Glen Forsa was never really travelling before eventually pulling up in the Rehearsal Handicap Chase at Newcastle last time. Prior to that the 9-year-old had finished an encouraging 10-length 4^th of 10 at Ascot on his first start for new trainer Charlie Longsdon. He’s on a good mark on his best form, if you ignore his Newcastle performance although he does have to prove his stamina for 3m. Trainer won this in 2018.

Oscar Robertson took advantageof a drop-in class to win over 3m at Wetherby last time. He should run well again albeit this is a better race.

Philip Hobbs saddled last year’s race winner and has a live contender in Kalooki. The 7-year-old was sent off the 4/1 favourite for better race at Newbury on his return to action last month. However, he ran well below market expectations in finish 7^th.  He’s surely better than that run and the return to 3m should suit.

Cool Mix looked as good as ever when a 13-length 4^th of 12 in the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle last time. Fifth in last season’s Scottish Grand National. A consistent sort he shouldn’t be far away again.

Cat Tiger was well fancied (3/1 fav) for the Grand Sefton Handicap Chase over the Grand National fences on his seasonal return. He made a few mistakes that day that didn’t help his cause. Third in the Foxhunters at Aintree last April. He’s not handicapped out of this, if he can cut out the mistakes.

Chirico Vallis won at Chepstow (good) in October but he’s not certain to repeat that performance on softer ground today.

Port Of Mars is having first run since pulling up at Kelso in February. He’s had a breathing operation since that run. He’s only had four starts over fences and could be capable of better on his handicap chase debut. Both career wins have come the mud so soft ground won’t inconvenience the 7-year-old.   

Betting Advice:

Newbury

1:25 – 1pt win – Russian Doyen – 12/1 @ Bet365

2:00 – 1pt win – Dashel Drasher – 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 1pt win – Pounding Poet – 6/1 – Gen

2:35 – 1pt win – Nestor Park – 13/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power and 1pt win – Wayfinder – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Leopardstown

1:45 – 1pt win – Fury Road – 7/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

2:55 – 1pt win – Farrawaybay – 7/1 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Mahlers Dollar -10/1 @ Bet365

Doncaster

2:50 – 1pt win – Glen Forsa – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The big race focus moves across the Irish Sea for the next couple of days.  ITV are covering eight races live this afternoon.  Four from Leopardstown and two each from Catterick & Leicester. I will start today’s preview at where else but Leopardstown.  As ever my betting advice is at the end of the main piece.

Leopardstown

1:10 – Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Qualifier) – 3m

I tend to swerve Pertemps Series Qualifiers for betting purposes but its live on ITV and some of you may be interested in having a punt.  The race has attracted a maximum field of 28 which makes an even more tricky puzzle to solve. However, I’m going in big time here.

Gentlemansgame is the least experienced hurdlers in the field. The 5-year-old must carry top-weight of 11-10. Which will be no easy task. However, he has a touch of class as he showed when 2^nd of 8 in a Grade 1 novice hurdle at the Punchestown Festival when last seen in action in April. Won first time up last season so can go well lay off.

A Great View might be a 10-year-old but he’s run well on both starts this autumn. Including when doing his best work at the finish when a 2 ½ lengths second of 23 to Commander of Fleet at Navan last time. Was beaten a short head in this race in 2017 and can go close again.

Given the form of the Willie Mullins yard you can’t easily dismiss the claims of Maze Runner.  The 6-year-old won a 22 runner C&D handicap hurdle in February, off 10lb lower. He ran with credit on the flat over the summer & autumn, including finishing 3^rd of 30 in the Irish Cesarewitch at the Curragh in October. Goes well in big fields, is effective in soft ground and was still in contention when making a mistake three out at Navan (A Great View 2^nd) back over hurdles last time.

Coltor, trained by Dermot Weld, showed useful form on the level last flat season, including winning the valuable amateur riders handicap (2m 1f) at the Galway Festival. First run over hurdles for the 4-year-old since finishing a 6 lengths 5th of 22 to Jeff Kidder in Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival. In the mix on his first start over 3m.

1:45 – Dornan Engineering Christmas Hurdle (Grade 1) – 3m

Eleven are set to meet the starter for the first of the Grade 1 races. Flooring Porter won this race 12 months ago. Before going on to make all in the Stayers Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. He pulled up in the Grade 1 won by Klassical Dream at the Punchestown Festival on his final start of last season. Was in the lead and going well when falling two out in the Grade 2 Lismullen Hurdle at Navan last month. If none the worse for that mishap will back a bold bid for back-to-back wins in the races.

Flooring Porter wasn’t at his best in the Grade 1 Champion Stayer Hurdle won by Klassical Dream. The 7-year-old who had won 2019 Supreme Novices Hurdle was racing in the first-time hood and was also having his first start for 16 months. He proved at Punchestown that he was well suited to 3m and a win here could see him become clear favourite for the Stayers Hurdle in March.

2:20 – Savills Chase (Grade 1) – 3m

Just the eight have declared for the race of the day, Willie Mullins saddles four and Gordon Elliott three. However, neither have the favourite which is the Henry De Bromhead trained A Plus Tard.  A Plus Tard made an impressive seasonal return when running away with the Betfair Chase at Haydock last month. The 7-year-old won this race last year when getting up in the final strides to beat Kemboy before finishing runner-up in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. He’s the one they must beat.

Kemboy loves Leopardstown. Not only did he finish ½ length behind a Plus Tard in this race last season but he also won this in 2018. He likely needed the run when well behind stablemate Allaho in the Grade 1 John Durkan Chase, over an inadequate 2m 4f, at Punchestown earlier in the month. Better expected back here.

Delta Work won this in 2019. His form figures at Leopardstown are 111U with the unseat coming in this race last year. He probably needed the run when a 5 ¾ length 4th of 5 to Frodon in Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal on his seasonal reappearance.

Melon was a 2-length 3^rd of 14 in last year’s race. The 9-year-old doesn’t find winning easy but he was an encouraging 5 ¼ length 3rd of 10 to Allaho in John Durkan last time.

Janidil put in a career best when 2-length runner-up to Allaho in John Durkan last time. The 7-year-old has only had six starts over fences and could be capable of better. He stays 2m 4f well enough but 3m is unknown territory for him stamina wise.

2:55- Ballymaloe Relish Beginners Chase – 2m 5f

Galopin Des Champs makes his much-anticipated debut over fences. The Willie Mullins trained 5-year-old won last season’s Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March. He’s got some size about him and should make up into a high-class novice chaser.

He faces some decent rivals they include stable Blue Sari. The 6-year-old lost his way over hurdles after a making a winning debut over hurdles two seasons back. He made a promising chase debut when ¾-length 2nd of 18 to Farouk d’Alene in a Navan beginners chase earlier this month.

Gordon Elliott likely provides the main opposition to Galopin Des Champs with Fury Road. Fury Road has the best form over fences so far.  Runner-up to the smart Gabynako on his chase debut he’s since gone onto finish 1 ½ length 3^rd of 8 in the Grade 1 Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse. A smart staying hurdler he’s made a solid start to his chase career but likely needs the first time cheekpiece’s to bring out more improvement.

Its more moderate fair at Leicester and Catterick but its good to see both cases getting their day in the sun ITV.

I have had quick look at three of the races.

Leicester

2:45 – Somekindofstar looks to have returned to action as good as ever based on his 1 length 2^nd of 8 at Fontwell three weeks ago. A winner over C&D in March he looks interesting in the first-time visor.

Rob The Getaway also gets the addition of the first-time headgear in his case the cheekpieces. The 8-year-old is just 1lb higher than his last winning mark and can go close if the headgear has the desired effect. Trainer had a winner at Huntingdon Boxing Day and is 2-3 in the past 14-days.

3:20 – Its heavy on the hurdle course which must be of concern for backers of Natural History who is probably on a decent mark.

No ground concerns for Mcgowan’s Pass. The 10-year-old will be better for his seasonal reappearance 22 ½ length 7^th of 11 at Haydock 27-days ago.  That was first run for the Jennie Candlish yard and he looks on a winnable mark.

It will be interesting to see if the money arrives for Friary Rock who is having his first start for new trainer Laura Morgan and get the addition of the first-time hood today.

The 13-year-old Applesandpierres is a moody sort but he did win this race in 2019 and is 2-2 over C&D on heavy ground so can’t be totally dismissed despite big odds.

Catterick

1:25 – No Cruise Yet looked a useful enough staying handicap chaser in this sort of grade when winning at Sedgefield (soft) 25-days ago and has big claims despite a 6lb rise in the weights.

Sigurd won this race 12 months ago although he was a lot lower in the weights that day. He went on to win over C&D the following a month and at Wetherby, in March off 5lb lower. Hasn’t been in form on either start this autumn but his C&D form brings him into contention should he bounce back to last season’s best.

Eagle De Guye was beaten by more than a lack of fitness when a well beaten 9^th of 10 Ayr last month. That was his first start for ten months but looked a hard ride. The tongue tie returns here and he also gets the addition of the first-time visor. Today’s 3m 1f distance should suit the 7-year-old who does look on a workable mark.

Betting Advice:

Leopardstown

1:10 – 1pt win – Coltor 1pt win – 8/1 @ Coral, 1pt win – Maze Runner – 11/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook and 1pt win – A Great View – 14/1 @ Bet365

2:20 – 1pt win – Kemboy – 11/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Leicester

2:45 – 1pt win – Somekindofstar – 13/2 @ Bet365 and 0.5pts win – Rob The Getaway – 16/1 @ Bet365

3:20 – 0.5pts win – Applesandpierres – 33/1 @Bet365

Cheers

John