Author: John Burke

Hi all,

Not as many fixtures as on Boxing Day. However, still plenty for punters to get stuck into. In fact, with the Coral Welsh Grand National at Chepstow (2:50) and the Paddy Power Chase (Extended Handicap Chase), which makes it more valuable than the Welsh Grand National, there’s plenty to look forward to if you like your big field handicaps which I do.  

Sadly, the Leopardstown action isn’t on ITV although it is tomorrow. The ITV cameras are covering eight races live from Chepstow and Kempton. It’s day two of Kempton’s Christmas meeting. However, its Chepstow which hosts the best of the day’s action in Britain and that’s where I start today’s preview.

My betting advice can be found at the end of the main piece and includes selections from Leopardstown.

Chepstow

The going at Chepstow is being described as soft and with showers forecast it could ease a bit more.  So, it seems the Welsh Grand National will be run on reasonably testing ground.

1:05 – Watch Racing Online Free With Coral Handicap Chase (Class 2) – 2m 3 ½ f

Zambezi Fix is a six-race maiden over fences.However, he was travelling like the mostly likely winner when falling three out at Ffos Las two starts back. He’s since finished 2^nd of 11 at Sandown over hurdles. The 6-year-old looks to be on a mark he can win off and he finished runner-up here three times over fences last season. Needs to cut out the jumping errors but can win a race like this if he does.

1:40 – Forever Blessed looked an above average juvenile hurdler when making it 2-2 over hurdles last time and looks the right favourite for this Grade 1 contest.

At bigger odds I’m hoping for a big run from the Jane Williams trained Saint Segal who produced a pleasing performance to win at Bangor (good to soft) on his racecourse debut last month. He will need to improve to win this but is capable of more progress in the sphere and today’s softer ground should be in his favour.

2:10 – Flashjack might be an 11-year-old but he showed he was no back number when a 6-length 3^rd of 11 over C&D on his seasonal return.  

Saint Dalina is surely better than she was able to show when 9^th of 10 at Carlisle on her seasonal reappearance 15-days ago.

Kateson could get an uncontested lead here and was back to form when 3^rd of 13 back over hurdles at Aintree early this month. A three-time winner on soft ground. The 8-year’s old form figures at Chepstow are 121 and although he’s yet to win beyond 2m 5f looks the one to be with here. Yard has its horses in winning form.  

2:50 – Coral Welsh Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) (GBB Race) – 3m 6 ½ f

I fancied 2018 winner Elegant Escape. He had a nice prep for this over hurdles at Sandown earlier in the month. However, the Tizzard stable seem to have gone off the boil in the past two weeks.

Deise Aba was beaten a nose at Sandown last time. He can race off the same mark here and looks nicely treated. Highland Hunter beat Deise Aba at Sandown, has a 4lb penalty to carry for the success but can’t be ruled out as he’s unexposed over marathon trips.

Last season’s winner Secret Reprieve won this last season as a novice. He’s 6lb higher this time around but was a comfortable winner 3 length winner and its not hard to think there could be more to come from him. First run since winning this in January could be negative though and horses making their seasonal reappearance are 0-11 1 placed since 2008.

Irish raider The Big Dog is well fancied. The 8-year-old improved for the step to 3m 4f when winning the Grand National Trial at Punchestown in February. He’s had a couple of prep runs in the autumn and should be spot on fitness wise. Needs to avoid the silly mistakes but if he does won’t be far away.

Venetia Williams has couple of contenders in Hold That Taught, the choice of stable jockey Charlie Deutsch, and Achille.  The first named improved for the step up 3m 2f when winning at Carlisle 57-days ago. The 6-year-old is up 6lb for that success and 5lb out of the weights here but is capable of better and looked all about stamina last time. Achille has Hugh Nugent taking off a handy 5lb and he should be ready for this after his 5^th of 21 in the Becher Chase at Aintree earlier this month. The 11-year-old stays well and looks on fair mark off 141.

Kempton

1:55 – Coded Message won this mare’s only handicap hurdle in 2019 and was a good 8 ½ length 3^rd of 8, off 14lb higher 12 months ago. A reappearance 4^th of 8 at Ascot should put her spot on for another crack at the race.

Emmpressive Lady was one place and 6-lengths ahead of Coded Message last year. The 6-year-old should be better for her reappearance effort when 7^th of 12 at Sandown 23-days ago with the return to 3m a positive.

3:10 – Cap Du Nord must be respected on his 3 ¼ length 2^nd of 11 to Royale Pagaille in this race 12 month ago.

Morning Vicar could have needed the run when only 5^th of 9 at Newbury last month. His stamina for 3m must be taken on trust and he may be better on a sounder surface. However, on the plus side he seems likely to get an uncontested lead should connections adopt his normal front running tactics.

Fortescue hails from the inform Henry Daly yard. The 7-year-old won twice in the spring at Sandown (soft) and Perth (good to soft). He ran like the run was just needed at Kelso in October. Before finding the competition to hot when 7^th of 21 in the Ladbroke Trophy at Newbury.  He goes well in the mud and is just 3lb above his last winning mark.

Leopardstown

Finally, a look at the two big handicaps at Leopardstown.

2:20 – Eighteen go to pot for this two-mile handicap hurdle. Cotteemcavennigoal improved for the step into handicap company when a head 2^nd off 11 at Navan last month.  Raised 3lb for that effort but could be capable of better given the 6-year-old has only had five starts over hurdles.

Sea Ducor finished a 5-length 2^nd of 22 in this race 12 months ago. That was just the 5-year-old’s third start over hurdles and he looks on a decent enough handicap mark. First run since finishing last of 19 on the flat at the Curragh in June. Something was surely amiss that day and he did win first time up over hurdles last season.

Call My Lyreen is 3-8 over hurdles and must be respected on his short head 2^nd of 24 in a valuable handicap hurdle on his handicap debut at the Punchestown Festival in April. Below that form on two subsequent runs at Galway & Killarney in the summer but if he was to bounce back to his best would go close.

2:55 – Paddy Power Chase (Extended Handicap Chase) (Grade B) – 3m

The most valuable race either side of the Irish Sea today and not surprisingly it has attracted a maximum field of 27 runners.

Noble Yeats should be suited by the step up to 3m but does need to jump better than he did at Cork last time admittedly that performance did come over an inadequate extended two mile. Looks on a competitive handicap mark.

The Bosses Oscar a useful handicap hurdler has only had three starts over fences. He produced a personal best over the larger obstacles when a 1 ½ length 2nd of 8 to West Cork Wildway in a beginners’ chase at Thurles last month. Step up to 3m for his handicap chase debut will suit and the 6-year-old did finish runner-up in a 3m handicap hurdle at this meeting 12 months ago. Respected in the first-time tongue tie and cheekpieces.

Alfa Mix is another who gets the first time cheekpieces today. The 6-year-old put in a career best when a neck 2^nd of 9 on his handicap chase debut at Punchestown last month. Today’s likely softer ground looks a big plus and he shapes like he will stay 3m.

School Boy Hours remains a maiden after nine starts over fences. He proved to be a consistent type over the larger obstacles last season and looks on a fair mark. First start since April but did put in arguably his best performance over fences when a 2-length 2^nd of 10 to latest Exhibition on his seasonal return last October.

Stones And Roses looked a staying handicap chaser worth following when winning a 3m 1f handicap chase at Punchestown last December. The 7-year-old ran respectably on his first start for 11 months when a 11 ½ length 4th of 11 to Smoking Gun at Fairyhouse last month. The softer the ground the better for the Willie Mullins trained runner and he could out run big odds.

Betting Advice:

Chepstow

1:40 – 1pt win – Saint Segal – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:50 – 0.5pts each way – Achille – 20/1 @ Coral & Bet365 (both paying 5 places 1/5 odds) and 1pt win – Hold That Taught – 10/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Kempton

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

Leopardstown

2:20 – 1pt win – Call Me Lyreen – 10/1 @ Bet365 and 1pt win – Sea Ducor – 7/1 @ Bet365

2:55 – 1pt win – The Bosses Oscar – 8/1 @ Bet365 and 0.5pts each way Stones And Roses – 20/1 @ Bet365 & Ladbrokes (both paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

Cheers

John

Hi all,

I hope you all had a good Christmas. We went to York to our lass’s sisters for a small family gathering of eleven and enjoyed a nice walk around a very quiet York City Centre.  

Anyway, its back to business today and the start of a busy week or so of high-class racing.  Apart from the Grade 1 King George VI at Kempton. There plenty of racing to get stuck into on Boxing Day with no less than 11 meetings across Britain & Ireland.

The best of the action is at Kempton but there’s also a good card at Wetherby. The ITV camera’s will be covering four races from Kempton and the Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (2:10) from Wetherby as part of a five-race programme. Leopardstown sees the first of four days of exciting racing at its Christmas Festival. Meanwhile at Limerick the feature race is the Grade 1 BoyleSports Faugheen Novice Chase (2:40).

There are just 42 runners over six races at Kempton which is a disappointment. In comparison Wetherby’s seven race card, which seems likely to be run on soft ground, has attracted 80 runners.

Possibly the good ground has scared a few off but more likely the better class races, including the handicaps don’t attract big fields apart from at the Cheltenham Festival. Whilst on the subject of the weather. Kempton was being described as good on Christmas Eve but rain is forecast for Chrsitmas Day so fingers crossed it arrives makes it more like good to soft on Boxing Day.

I have concentrated today’s preview on the ITV races. Although two of my Boxing Day selections are not in the ITV races

Kempton

1:20 – Get Your Ladbrokes £1 Free Bet Today Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) – 2m 4 ½ f

The first race on ITV and eight have stood their ground. The front three in the betting Bothwell Bridge, Danny Kirwan and Mister Coffey look strong and I will be surprised if one of them doesn’t win.

Bothwell Bridge looked the sort to do well over fences when novice hurdling last season and so it proved when he won on his chase debut at Sandown earlier this month. He’s up 5lb but open firther improvement.

Danny Kirwan failed to deliver what I had been anticipated over hurdles. However, the 8-year-old always had the size to better over the larger obstacles. He made a highly encouraging chase debut when a 3-length 2^nd of 5 at Cheltenham 65-days ago, A winner of a bumper here. All three of his career wins have come going right-handed and he jumped last time like he will be suited returning to going this way around.

Mister Coffey, a stablemate of Bothwell Bridge, looks to have been rejected by Nico De Boinville. However, he seems to have a similar chance to his stablemate. The 6-year-old has produced some decent form over hurdles and he bettered that when a 4 ¼ length 3^rd of 5 on his chase debut  at Newbury last month. Like Bothwell Bridge he’s capable of better.

1:55 – Ladbrokes Kauto Star Novices’ Chase (In Memory Of Nigel Clark) (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m

Four go to post for the Grade 1 contest but in reality it’s a two horse race between Bravemansgame and Ahoy Senor. Its not betting race but looks set to be a cracker provided there are no mishaps for the big two. Bravemansgame jumped better than Ahoy Senor last time but a strongly run 3m could stretch the 6-year-old stamina. The easing of the ground to good to soft will suit Ahoy Senor and he’s one of the horse’s I have really looking forward to see run over the Christmas period after is exciting win at Newbury last time.

2:30 – Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 2m

A disappointing field of just five are set to meet the starter for this Grade 1 contest. The mare Epatante heads the overnight betting The 2020 Champion Hurdle winner and winner of this race in 2019 was beaten in this race last year at long odds on. She dead heated with Not So Sleepy in the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle on her seasonal return.

Not So Sleepy like to be at the head of affairs and seems likely to get an uncontested lead. That could be crucial today and I’m surprised given the pace set up that he’s so much bigger a best priced 3/1 compared to Epatante.   

Both Soaring Glory and Tritonic are high class handicap hurdlers but you wouldn’t be surprised if either won here. I think the first named could do both a strong gallop to chase which he probably won’t get here. Tritonic won the Betfair Exchange Trophy Handicap Hurdle at Ascot just 8-days ago. A previous C&D (Grade 2 Adonis Hurdle in February) winner, the 4-year-old goes well on a flat right-handed track. Provided the race doesn’t come to quick the 4-year-old he could give the front two in the betting most to do. Although Since 2000 no 4-year-old has one the Christmas Hurdle.

3:05 – Ladbrokes King George VI Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m

Nine runners and all the big names have stood their ground for the big race of the festive period, The only one not to declare was a my big priced each way fancy Dashel Drasher.

The ante post betting is headed by Clan Des Obeaux who bids for a third win in the race. He was very disappointing in last year’s race but he came into the contest on the back of a hard race in the Betfair Chase. No such issues this year as the King George will be the 9-year-old’s first start since winning at the Punchestown Festival in April. This is his track and his main target of the season. We also know trainer Paul Nicholls will have spot on fitness wise for this. A worthy favourite. I think so.

Clan Des Obeaux stablemate Frodon won last year’s race and must be respected. However, the 9-year-old did get the race run to suit 12 months ago and I don’t think Bryony will be allowed to dictate the pace as she did last year.

Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Minella Indo seems likely to come over for the race. The 8-year-old finished 5 lengths behind Frodon at Down Royal on his seasonal reappearance. However, he will be sharper for that run and needed it more than Frodon. Three mile around Kempton could be on the sharp side for him, especially on good ground but a decent pace will suit and if the ground does his stamina will come into play.

Asterion Forlonge, trained by Willie Mullins, seems a likely runner. He looked the most likely winner of the Grade 1 John Durkan at Punchestown when making a mistake an unseating his rider three out. I don’t doubt his ability to win a race like this but will his jumping hold up.

Nicky Henderson is bullish about the chances of double Grade 1 Novice Chaser Chantry House. The 7-year-old looked high class chase prospect when winning at Cheltenham & Aintree last season. Granted he does need to improve again to win a race like this. However, 3m around Kempton looks perfect for him.

3:40 – On To Victory useful on the flat won the 2020 November Handicap at Doncaster (soft). He’s 2-11 over hurdles winning novice hurdles at Wincanton & Warwick last season. The 7-year-old as disappointed on both starts over hurdles this autumn but looks a worth another try over 2m 5f, finished 2^nd of 12 over C&D in February 2020. Not the most reliable but he’s nicely treated if bouncing back to form.

Wetherby

2:10 – William Hill Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (Grade 3) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m

The feature race of seven race card at the West Yorkshire track is the 3m William Hill Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (2:10).  There was a decent looking entry at the five-day declaration stage.

Silver Hallmark heads the ante post betting. The 7-year-old who’s only had three starts over fences shaped well when a 10 ¼ length 4th of 6 to Fiddlerontheroof in The Colin Parker Intermediate Chase at Carlisle on his seasonal return. Open to further improvement. He looks on a good mark for his handicap chase debut. The forecast soft ground is a plus although his stamina for 3m must be proved.

Empire Steel missed the Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase. The 7-year-old returned from an 8-month absence with an excellent 1 ½ length 2nd of 7 to Strictlyadancer at Haydock (good) last month. Softer ground won’t inconvenience the 7-year-old and he looks sure to be there or thereabouts.

Lake View Lad won this race in 2018. The 11-year-old won the Grade 2 Many Clouds Chase at Aintree last December and finished a good 7^th of 22 in last season’s Scottish Grand National. The more rain the better his chance, as his very best form has come on soft and heavy ground. His form figures at Wetherby are 113 and his record in December is 4 wins from 8 runs +30 7 placed. He had a nice pipe opener for this when 3rd of 11 in a veteran’s chase at Haydock 25-days. Trainer Nick Alexander enters the Christmas period in great form with 5 winners from 12 runners +7.57 in the past two weeks. Ok. He’s vulnerable to younger progressive types like Silver Hallmark and Empire Steel. But at 12/1 with Bet365 & Paddy Power (both paying 4 places), he looks each way value to me.

Leopardstown

1:45 – Given the form of the Joseph O’Brien it worth taking a chance on Banbridge in this 2m handicap hurdle. The 5-year-old was in good form in the spring early summer winning a Killarney bumper before going to win novice hurdles at Punchestown and Roscommon. Poor run with a double penalty at Galway when last seen in action July. Has been given 150-day break since and with Shane Fitzgerald taking 5lb off the top-weight back he’s got to be respected here on his handicap debut.

Betting Advice:

Kempton

3:05 – 1pt win – Chantry House – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:40 – 1pt win – On To Victory – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Wetherby

2:10 – 1pt each way – Lake View Lad – 12/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook (Both paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

Leopardstown

1:45 – 1pt win – Banbridge – 6/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Back to action on the track. It’s the last Saturday of action before Christmas and there’s an excellent six race card at Ascot with the highlights being the Grade 1 Howden Long Walk Hurdle (2:25) Howden Silver Cup Handicap Chase (3:00) and the Betfair Exchange Trophy Handicap Hurdle (3:35).  Sadly there will be no Buzz in the Long walk Hurdle as the 7-year-old has been ruled out of the race by season-ending injury.

There’s also a seven-race card at Haydock with the highlight being the Virgin Bet Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase (2:40). The ITV cameras are covering four races from Ascot and two from Haydock as part of a six-race programme on Saturday.

Once again, I’m just concentrating on those races where I have selections and my betting advice can be found at the end of the main piece. Let’s begin at the principle meeting Ascot.

Ascot

The going at Ascot is good to soft.

1:50 – Howden Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 3f

Palmers Hill looked a handicap chaser when following when winning at Wetherby  last month after an eight month layoff. He’s up just 4lb for that success but is capable of better this being only his third start over fences. The drying ground will also suit the 8-year-old.

Knight In Dubai shaped well enough on his first start since unseating his rider at the 2020 Cheltenham Festival when 7 ¾ length 5th of 8 in a handicap chase at Aintree 42-days ago. He’s on a competitive enough mark although he may prefer softer ground.

Previous C&D winner Sully D’Oc AA was a respectable 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 7 here (2m 1f) two starts back. Possibly found the race coming to quick, just seven days later, when a well beaten 6^th of 12 at Newbury three weeks ago. The return to C&D will suit although interestingly the usual cheekpiece and tongue tie combination are discarded today.

2:25 – Howden Long Walk Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m ½ f

Despite the absence of Buzz out its still an intriguing contest. Thyme Hill tops the OR’s but the Aintree Grade 1 winner and last year’s runner-up does have to bounce back from a poor run at Auteuil on his seasonal reappearance last month.

Last year’s winner Paisley Park bids for a third success the race. However, the 9-year-old doesn’t look in the same form as 12 months ago and I suspect he needs the ground softer these days. It was soft when he won in 2018 and heavy 12 months ago.

Paisley Park was 11 lengths behind Thomas Darby in the Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury 22-days ago. He does get a 6lb pull in the weights with the winner but on this ground, he will do well to finish ahead of the winner. Thomas Darby seemed to appreciate the fitting of the tongue tie last time and won with more in hand than his margin of victory suggests. Looks a big player here and arguably the value at present prices.

Add in Irish raider Ronald Pump who beat all bar Honeysuckle on his seasonal return and Champ who returns to hurdles for the first time since winning the Grade 1 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree in April 2019 and you have the makings of a competitive race.

3:00 – Howden Silver Cup Handicap Chase (Listed Race) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m

Thirteen handicap chasers have stood their ground for this valuable prize.

Regal Encore will bid for a third win the race having been successful in 2016 & 2019. He also finished third in last year’s renewal. This could well be the 13-year-old’s final race and it’s hard to see him being out of the frame. 

The ante post favourite is Belami Des Pictons. The 10-year-oldreturned from a 21-month layoff with an excellent 6-length 4^th of 14 to Snow Leopardess at Bangor last month. He’s dropped down to handy mark but I wonder if first time up was the time to catch him.

Annsam ran well over hurdles last time. He remains likely capable of better over the larger obstacles and is the mix if he stays 3m.

Jerrysback is an unreliable jumper but if he was to put in a clear round is on decent mark.

Storm Damage is now 2lb below his last winning mark. However, his best form over fences has come at Cheltenham and over a bit further. He was also a disappointing 100/30 fav when pulling up at Cheltenham in October. Although softer ground will suit him.

Cloth Cap ran well for a long way when 6^th of 21 in his bid for back-to-back wins in the Ladbroke Trophy at Newbury last time. Prior to that he had finished a respectable 4^th of 11 at Cheltenham reappearance.  Granted the top-weight must prove he can defy a mark of 150 but he’s very much respected on drying ground that will suit.

Verdict: A clear round and Jerrysback can win this. The problem is how likely is that? Annsam is another on a decent mark but has stamina to prove. Regal Encore loves it around here but is vulnerable to younger legs from a win perspective. Belami Des Pictons is on the high on the shortlist although I wonder if first time was the time to catch him. Cloth Cap is another capable of a big run on going that will suit.

3:35 – Betfair Exchange Trophy (A Handicap Hurdle) (Grade 3) – 1m 7 ½ f

Most of the of the leading fancies have stood their ground for the day’s feature race.

At the head of the betting is No Ordinary Joe who improved when 2 ¾ length 3rd of 19 to West Cork in Greatwood Handicap Hurdle on handicap debut at Cheltenham last month.

West Cork is 4lb worse off with No Ordinary Joe but there shouldn’t be much between the pair again with both open to more improvement. West Cork does also tick some of the key trends and trainer Dan Skelton has saddled the winner of the race twice since 2013.

Samarrive seemed to show improved form for facing soft ground when winning at Sandown last time. He’s up 11lb in a much better race here. However, the 4-year-old has only had four careers starts so is capable of better.

Garry Clermont posted a career best on RPR’s when a ¾ length 2^nd of 9 over C&D (good) last month. He’s been raised 5lb for that effort but that was his first start since May and softer ground could suit him better. He could still rate higher.

Global Citizen is more exposed than most. The 9-year-old seemed to lose his way over fences but shaped with a bit more promise when 2^nd of 8 at Doncaster last time. The first time cheekpieces seemed to spark him into life that day and there’s no doubt he’s become a well handicapped horse.

Goshen is making his handicap hurdle debut should he run on Saturday. It would be a great effort to win this off top-weight. However, he’s a former C&D winner and he shaped a bit better than his final position suggests when 4^th of 5 to Buzz on his seasonal return here last month. He didn’t stay 2m 3f that day and will be better back at the minimum trip.

Tritonic was an 8 ½ length 5th of 19 to West Cork in Greatwood Hurdle on handicap debut last time. At the revised weights he would have to come under serious consideration. He shaped at Cheltenham like he might be worth a try beyond the minimum trip but he’s a former C&D winner and provided the ground isn’t too soft could go well.

Benson can be a tricky ride, as he again showed when 4^th off 11 at Sandown two weeks ago. It’s worth noting, he was a 6-length 4^th of 17 in this race last year, off 4lb higher. He shapes like needs further than the minimum trip but the forecast strong pace will suit him. Interestingly the first-time visor is applied today. If the headgear has the desired effect, he ‘s very much in the mix on the best of last season’s efforts.

Verdict: I had eight on my shortlist but I have narrowed them down to West Cork, the first-time visored Benson and Gerry Clermont.

Haydock

The going at Haydock is now soft all over..

2:40 – Virgin Bet Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 3m 1 ½ f

Sixteen are set to meet the starter for Haydock’s feature race.

Last year’s winner Sam’s Adventure will bid for back-to-back successes and the 9-year-old will like the soft ground and has likely been aimed at the race again.

Mind you this year’s contest looks potentially deeper. Ante post favourite is the David Pipe trained Remastered who was still travelling well when taking a heavy fall four out in the Ladbroke Trophy at Newbury. If his confidence hasn’t been affected by that mishap, he will take some beating off a mark of 146.

Veteran former C&D winner Vintage Clouds loves it around Haydock. Two of his best four RPR’s have come over C&D and he’s just 2lb higher than when winning the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March. His seasonal reappearance at Kelso wasn’t devoid of promise but he disappointing at Warwick last time. The return to the mud will suit and he can’t be dismissed if on a going day.

Fuji Flight, hails from the inform Ventia Williams yard. The 6-year-old should be suited by the testing ground and looks a decent mark based on his French form. Finished an encouraging 8 ¾ length 3rd of 9 at Lingfield on his seasonal return last month.  Stamina for 3m 1f must be taken on trust but if he stays, he shouldn’t be far away.

Buzz De Turcoing is a progressive handicap chaser but he’s the least experienced of field over fences. The 7-year-old built on the promise of his Wetherby chase debut when beating four rivals at Ayr (good to soft) 19-days ago. He’s up 6lb for that success and this is a much hotter race but he won with more in hand than the official margin of 2 ½ length suggests last time. Won on heavy ground her last December so underfoot conditions shouldn’t phase him.  I think he can defy of 129 over fences although is a tough race to do so.

Verdict: Remastered is a worthy favourite and most likely winner. The veteran Vintage Clouds will appreciate the return to the venue and soft ground. At the other end of the experience scale Buzz De Turcoing needs respecting.

3:15 –Virgin Bet Fives Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 3m ½ f

Mr Harp’s best efforts came around this time last season. A winner at Uttoxeter (2m 7 ½ f) last December, off 5lb lower, he then went on to finish a 2 ¼ length 2^nd of 13 in a Pertemps Hurdle Series Qualifier at Warwick (3m 1f) the following month. Both those two performances came on heavy ground so soft ground around her should be an issue. The 8-year-old was doing his best work at the finish when 5^th of 12 at Sandown (good to soft) 15-days ago. On a winnable mark if building on his Sandown effort. This race isn’t on ITV but he’s my idea of the best bet of the day.

Betting Advice:

Ascot

1:50 – 1pt win – Sully D’Oc AA – 8/1 @ Bet365

2:25 – 1pt win – Thomas Darby – 7/1 – Gen

3:00 – 1pt win – Belami Des Pictons – 5/1 – Gen and 1pt win – Cloth Cap – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

3:35 – 1pt win – West Cork – 8/1 @ William Hill,  0.5pts win – Benson – 14/1 @ Bet365 and 0.5pts win Garry Clermont – 14/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Haydock

2:40 – 1pt win – Buzz De Turcoing – 11/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook and 0.5pts win Vintage Clouds – 14/1 @ Paddy Power & Bet365

3:15 – 1pt win – Mr Harp – 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Not sure if there will be any selections on Sunday.  If not, it’s likely today’s selections will be the last until Boxing Day. If that turns out to be the case. I wish you all a healthy and as happy a Christmas as you can make it.

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The first of two days racing at Ascot. It’s an interesting enough six race card which could prove informative going forward. Although I have selections in just two races.

Ascot

1:45 – Howden Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 3) – 2m 1f

You can make a good case for three quarters of the 8 runners. Of those at the front of the betting Red Rookie took well chasing when neck 2nd of 13 in a novice handicap at Chepstow on his debut over fences last month. There will be more to come from the 6-year-old over the larger obstacles.

One True King has more experience over fences and made it third time lucky over the larger obstacles when successful at Sandown two weeks ago.  He’s looks capable of better although he’s vulnerable to the likes of Red Rookie over the trip. The cheekpieces that seemed to improve him last time remain and at the prices he looks a bit more value. Albeit he’s weak in the early betting.

2:20 – Howden Kennel Gate Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 1m 7 ½ f

All eyes on Jonbon who made an impressive hurdle debut at Newbury three weeks ago. Favourite for the Supreme Novices Hurdle after that success and looks a high-class hurdling prospect.  Provided he doesn’t boil over before the race he’s the one they all must beat.

If the favourite does underperform the one who could take advantage is Irish raider Colonel Mustard.  Runner-up in the in the Grade 1 Champion Novices’ Hurdle at Punchestown last spring. He didn’t need to be anywhere near that level of form to comfortably win a Galway maiden hurdle 55-days ago. He’s another good prospect and he can hopefully give Jonbon most to think about.

Betting Advice:

Ascot

1:45 – One True King – 10/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

2:20 – Colonel Mustard – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A rare midweek foray for me. I’m just hoping that the ground doesn’t dry out too much and its genuinely soft ground at Exeter for today’s selection

Exeter

1:40 – You can make some sort of case for plenty of the 18-strong field. However, rather unimaginatively I like the claims of likely favourite No Rematch. The 7-year-old had looked a promising staying handicap chaser when making a winning debut over fences at Chepstow in February. That was his seasonal reappearance last season and he makes his seasonal return here. The softer the ground the better for him and although he’s 9lb higher than for his last win, he looks capable of defying a mark of 126 over fences this season.

1pt win – No Rematch – 11/2 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

All eyes on the second and final day Cheltenham’s International meeting. There’s a seven-race card at the home of NH racing. The last four of the seven are being covered by ITV. With the broadcaster also covering three races from Doncaster.

The highlights at Cheltenham are the Grade 2 International Hurdle (3.00), and the Grade 3 Racing Post Gold Cup (1.50). It’s not often the best race on ITV is the first one being broadcast live but the threat of low sun means that’s the case today.

I have concentrated this preview on some of the ITV races. As ever you can find my betting advice at the end of the main piece.

Cheltenham

1:50 – Racing Post Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – 2m 4 ½ f

We have a new sponsor of Saturday’s big race at Cheltenham the December Gold Cup. Recent sponsor Caspian Caviar are gone and this year’s race is now the Racing Post December Gold Cup Handicap Chase (1:50). Last year’s race produced a very easy winner in the well handicapped Chatham Street Lad. Hopefully this year’s renewal will prove a bit more competitive.

Key Trends:

170 horses have competed in the in the last 12 renewals of the race.

Odds SP: 18/1 & bigger – 0 winners from 54 runners 5 placed

Horse Age: 9yo and older – 0 winners from 35 runners 3 placed

Days Since Last Run: 16 to 30 – 11 winners from 95 runners +25 26 placed

Last Race Track: Cheltenham – 8 winners from 75 runners +3 19 placed.

All five of the Paul Nicholls winners ran at Cheltenham last time prior to success in race – 5 winners from 16 runners 31% +37 6 placed.

Paul Nicholls has the year’s ante post favourite in Lalor. The 9-year-old is on a winnable mark and was a 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 19 to Midnight Shadow in the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at the last meeting. That was his first run since switching to the Nicholls yard and the runner-up Protektorat ran away with last week’s Many Clouds Chase at Aintree. His claims are clear for all to see. However, at a best priced 9/2 I can let him win given this looks an 7/1/8/1 the field type of race.

Dostal Phil finished one placed behind Lalor when a 3 ¼ lengths 4th of 19 in Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham last time. He was doing his best work at the finish that day and should be sharper for that run.

Silver Hallmark is interesting back going left-handed. The 7-year-old has just had the three starts over fences and is open to further progress. He was likely in need of the run when 4^th of 6 to Fiddlerontheroof in the Colin Parker at Carlisle on his seasonal reappearance.

Farinet is another open to more improvement over fences this season. A winner of a 9-runner listed novice handicap chase at Sandown when last seen in action in March. He’s been waiting for soft ground and is at the right end of the handicaps. Rachel Blackmore is an eyecatching jockey booking. Stablemate Cepage finished runner-up to Frodon in this race in 2018 and won over C&D in January 2020, off 3lb lower. Pulled up here 12 months ago but that run apart the 9-year-old’s form figures on his seasonal return are a respectable 1222P. Top weight is vulnerable to better handicapped rivals, Including Farinet, but may be better suited by the good to soft more than his stablemate.

Siruh Du Lac a smart handicap chaser when with Nick Williams, winning twice over C&D, including at the 2019 Festival. Unseated his rider at the first in last year’s Paddy Power Handicap Chase. Not seen out again until down the field over hurdles here in October. Is 3-3 over fences on good or good to soft ground, including 2-2 at Cheltenham. He’s just 2lb higher than winning the Plate at the Festival and isn’t easily dismissed.

Verdict: Lalor is a worthy favourite, if plenty short enough for me. The Venetia Williams pair are both in the mix. I was hoping for softer ground for Farinet who I think can land a decent handicap chase pot over this winter. It will be tough for top-weight Cepage but he’s got each way claims as he’s probably not as ground dependent as his stablemate. If David Pipe has Siruh Du Lac anywhere back to his best, he’s another with claims.

3:00 – Unibet International Hurdle (Grade 2) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 2m 1f

Seven go to post for the most valuable race of the day.

Song For Someone won this race 12 months ago. However, his form tailed off in the second half of the season. Returned from an 8-month absence with a more encouraging effort when a 3 ¼ length 2^nd of 5 to Buzz at Ascot last month. Was trying to 6lb to the winner that day which proved too much of an ask for the 6-year-old. Despite dropping back in trip he’s the one to beat provided there’s an enough juice in the ground.

Guard Your Dreams was 2 ¼ lengths back in third at Ascot. A winner of a C&D handicap hurdler in October. I don’t see why he should reverse placings with Song For Someone today.

Sceau Royal a smart hurdler and consistent hurdler in this sort of company. Won his first two start over hurdles this season before finishing a close-up 1 ½ lengths 3rd of 6 in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle last time. The better the ground, the better his chance.

Heaven Help Us made all to comfortably win the Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle at the Festival in March. The mare put in a better performance than her 13-length 6^th of 8 at Punchestown suggests. She was still very much in contention when making a race ending mistake two out. Will be sharper here and not totally out of this if she’s allowed an uncontested lead.

3:35 – Close Brothers Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

Trapista, a half sister to a Group 1 winner, won her sole start over hurdles when trained in France an made a winning stable debut for Jonjo O’Neill at Huntingdon 41-days ago. Handled good ground last time won on very soft in France. Handicap Hurdle debut off a workable mark of 131 and today’s extra furlong suit should suit the 4-year-old but this is a tough race.

Alan King saddles three contenders in Wynn House, Hotter Than Hell & Her Indoors.

Wynn House made it 3-6 over hurdles when winning a mares’ only handicap hurdle at Wincanton last month. Up 3lb but is going the right way and goes well on good ground.

Hotter Than Hell was ¾ length back in second that day and shouldn’t be far away again.

Her Indoors won here in April over 2m 1f (good). Well below her best form when only 5th of 7 to Molly Ollys Wishes in listed Mares’ Hurdle at Wetherby last time. Course form means she has to be respected although you would have liked to have seen more at Wetherby.

Doncaster

2:05 – bet365 Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 2m ½ f

Paul Nicholls has saddled the winner of this handicap hurdle twice since 2016. He runs Sonigino who must be respected on his second start for the yard and on handicap debut.

Takeit Easy beat Tommy’s Oscar at Wetherby two starts back and was a useful 4 ½ length 2nd of 5 to Onemorefortheroad at Huntingdon last time. Must be respected here, off just 2lb higher than for his Wetherby success.

Tommy’s Oscar has since gone onto win at Haydock but is 9lb higher here and meets Takeit Easy on much worse terms than when they met at Wetherby. That said the 6-year-old goes well on a decent surface and his Haydock success was a career best.

Pyramid Place a useful juvenile hurdler made a good return to action when a ¾ length 2^nd of 11 at Chepstow in October. Not really built on that performance on either start since but was disputing second when making a bad mistake three out here last time.

3:15 – bet365 Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) – 3m

If the ground is soft enough then likely favourite Two For Gold will be tough to beat. The 8-year-old stays 3m but arguably put in a career best when digging deep to beat Aso at Warwick over 2m 4f in February. Just 1lb higher here. First run since unseating his rider in the Topham Chase at Aintree in April. Has won fresh in the past and trainer Kim Bailey saddled last year’s winner.

Fidux is a useful handicap chaser at his best as he showed when winning at Worcester (good) in June, off 4lb lower. A 2-length 3^rd of 7 to Strictlyadancer at Haydock (good to soft) last time was arguably a personal best from the 8-year-old. Trainer Alan King won this in 2015 with Sego Success. Could be the one to take advantage should the favourite underperform.

Mance Rayder is 4lb out of the weights here but goes well on good ground. Was doing his best work at the finish when a ½ length 2^nd of 6 to Brian Boranha at Catterick (3m 1f) last time. Probably needs a bit further in this sort of company but not discounted, if the rain stays away.

Betting Advice:

Cheltenham

1:50 – 1pt win – Farinet – 17/2 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook and 0.5pts each way – Siruh Du Lac – 14/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

3:00 – 1pt win – Heaven Help Us – 14/1 @ Bet365

Doncaster

2:05 – 1pt win – Takeit Easy – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:15 – 1pt win – Fidux – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Slowly but surely, I’m getting there. I wish my sense of taste and of course with-it appetite was fully back to normal. However, fingers crossed I’m feeling well on the way to clearing the virus.

It’s the first day of Cheltenham’s two day International meeting. The seven-race card has seen 73 horses stand their ground.

One of the 73 is 2020 Gold Cup runner-up Santini, who is set to have his first start for trainer Polly Gundry carrying top weight in the Grade 3 Betfair Handicap Chase (2.25). The nine-year-old has not been seen since being pulled up in the Gold Cup in March.

Sporting John a handicap hurdle winner at the last meeting will face ten rivals in his bid for back-to-back Cheltenham successes in the 3m handicap hurdle (3.35).

The ITV cameras are covering for four races live from Cheltenham and one from Bangor as part of a five-race programme.

In today’s preview I have had a look at three of the ITV races.

Cheltenham

1:50 – F Roberts Electrical & Mechanical Services Mares’ Handicap Chase (Challenger Mares’ Chase Qual’) (Class 3) – 2m 4 ½ f

Fontaine Collonges got off the mark at the second time of asking over fences when winning at Warwick last month. The mare showed great tenacity to rally, after a mistake three out, and get up on the run in. I think she can confirm placing with Warwick runner-up Precious Eleanor.

The most interesting of her ten rivals looks to be Rose Of Arcadia who makes her debut over fences. The 6-year-old shaped with plenty of encouragement on her seasonal reappearance when a 3 ½ lengths 3rd of 7 to Wynn House in mares handicap at Wincanton last time. Looks the type who will improve for going over the larger obstacles.

2:25 – Betfair Handicap Chase (Grade 3) (GBB Race) (Class 1) – 3m 2f

Santini faces nine rivals in his first start in handicap company. If the switch in yard has had the desired effect, then the 9-year-old is on a winnable mark.

Enrilo last season’s Bet365 Gold Cup first past the post is sure to be popular with punters. The 7-year-old was still travelling well enough when falling at the fourteenth in Ladbroke Trophy at Newbury last time.

Commodore was in the process of running well when unseating his rider at the last in this race last year. First run since another wind operation and his first start pulling up in the Wincanton in February. Went close on last year’s seasonal reappearance at Haydock and is on a decent mark.

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

Sporting John will be a warm order to back up his recent C&D success. The 6-year-old is 5lb higher today but I think he can confirm places with runner-up Onagatheringstorm and third Kansas City Chief.

Ask Dillon won over C&D in April and is 2lb lower here. However, he’s been well beaten on his three starts so far this season.

Botox Has, twice a winner here in the past over much shorter and was a respectable 12 ¼ length eighth of 19 in Greatwood Handicap Hurdle here last month. Must prove he stays further than 2m 3f but at least the first time cheekpices could eke out some improvement.

Saint Dalina twice a winner last season she improved for the fitting of cheekpieces last season. Producing a career best when winning on her last start in March. She had to dig deep to prevail that day but she stays well and won’t be inconvenienced should the ground ease further. If ready to roll on her return looks the one to give Sporting John most to think about.

Betting Advice:

Cheltenham

2:25 – 1pt win – Santini – 9/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power and 1pt win – Commodore – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:35 – 1pt win – Saint Dalina – 11/1 @ Bet365 or 10/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A stellar weekend of jump racing continues today.

At Punchestown it’s Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase (2.00). Ten have been declared for the race and they include the likes Envoi Allen, Fakir D’oudairies and Allaho. Down at Cork it’s the Grade 2 Hilly Way (2:20) which sees the eagerly return of the exciting Energumene who faces a tough rival in Notebook.

This side of the Irish Sea Huntingdon stages its most valuable days racing of the year. With feature race of a seven-race card being the Grade 2 Peterborough Chase (1.52). Last year’s race had to be run at Cheltenham due to flooding at Huntingdon. There shouldn’t be any problems with flooding at the track this year. Recent Old Roan Handicap Chase winner Allmankind will be short price to beat his five rivals. Up at Kelso its Scottish Borders National Day with 13 declared for the 4m ½ f marathon.

I have had a look at the four big races in this preview but Have selections in just one race.

Huntingdon

1:52 – Fitzdares Peterborough Chase (Grade 2) – 2m 4f

Allmankind goes well on a sound surface and was fully fit for his winning seasonal return in the Old Roan Chase. Looks the one to beat if reproducing his Aintree form here.

He does face several decent rivals. Master Tommytucker looked as good as ever when a 4-length 2^nd of 6 to Lostintranslation in 1965 Chase at Ascot last time. A previous C&D winner, the 10-year-old won’t go down without a fight.

Funambule Sivola was steadily progressive over fences last season. Ended the campaign with a personal best when 3 ¼ length 2nd of 5 to Shishkin in a Grade 1 Novices Chase at Aintree. Was likely a shade flattered to get as close to the winner that day who seemingly wasn’t at his very best that day. Unproven over this sort of trip but respected on his seasonal return.

Eldorado Allen runner-up to Shishkin in last season’s Arkle Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. The 7-year-old made a winning seasonal reappearance when winning the Haldon Gold Cup (Handicap) at Exeter on his seasonal return

First Flow was completing a six timer when winning the Grade 1 Clarence House Chase at Ascot in January. Not proven beyond 2m 1f and may be better on softer ground than seems likely today That said he’s got to be respected back going right-handed and did win first time up last season.

Kelso

1:03 – Scottish Borders National Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 4m ½ f

West Street a useful staying handicap chaser when with Oliver Sherwood shaped well when length 2nd of 12 at Down Royal last time, on just his second start for Gordon Elliott. Stays 4m and despite being an 11-year-old could be capable of better for his new yard.

Almazhar Garde won here over 3m in April (good). Finished a decent 5 ½ lengths 2nd of 8 to Salty Boy in Southern National at Fontwell last time. Vulnerable to stronger stayers over this sort of distance.

Amateur shaped like the run was needed when a 24 ¼ lengths fifth of 11 to Jersey Bean at Haydock last time. Stays 3m 7f and with his Haydock reappearance under his belt should go close.

Dino Boy won this race last year although did benefit from a final fence faller who was going slightly better at the time.

Big River bounced back to form when a 3-length 2^nd of 6 here last time. He’s now down to a career low chase mark. You can’t be certain that he will reproduce that effort again. However, his excellent track record, form figures of 112111B12 was bought down in this race in 2019 means he must be respected.

Punchestown

2:00 – John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase (Grade 1) – 2m 4 ½ f

Willie Mullins is starting to bring out the big guns now and saddles seven of the ten declared runners.

Envoi Allen easily brushed aside five rivals when winning a Grade 2 at Down Royal on seasonal return. Still to produce a really big figure over fences compared to his two main market rivals but today could be the day.

Fakir D’oudairies won the Grade 1 Melling Chase at Aintree in April and comfortably beat three rivals in the Clonmel Oils Chase on his seasonal return. He’s a high-class chaser on his day and not out of this.

Allaho put in arguably the most impressive chasing performances at the Cheltenham Festival when winning the Ryanair Chase, 12 lengths clear of Fakir D’oudairies. Beat all but Chacun Pour Soi when back over 2m at the Punchestown Festival last time. An aggressive ride over this sort of trip looks ideal but has race fitness to give away here.

Asterion Forlonge’s jumping seemed to hold him back for most last season but he seemed to put his jumping issues behind him when winning 15-runner Novice Handicap Chase under top-weight at the Punchestown Festival last time. Goes well here and fresh so could get into the money.

Cork

2:20 – Kerry Group Hilly Way Chase (Grade 2) – 2m ½ f

Energumene makes his seasonal return here and if the smart chaser, unbeaten on is four starts over fences, is ready to roll on his first start since winning a Grade 1 Novices’ Chase at the Punchestown Festival is the one to beat.

Notebook is just a bit short of Grade 1 company and a winning seasonal return in a Grade 2 at Naas last month. He does have race fitness on his side though and can’t be totally dismissed given his form figures between October & January are 221111121.

Daly Tiger gets weight from Energumene and Notebook here. He will do well to beat the likes of Energumene & Notebook but it’s worth noting he’s 4-4 on his seasonal return and he goes well right-handed.

Betting Advice:

Kelso

1:03 – 1pt win- Big River – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 1pt win – Amateur – 8/1 @Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Our lass tested positive for Covid19 on a PCR early in the week and I have tested positive on a couple of lateral flow tests. I’m now waiting for a PCR to confirm my status. So far, fingers crossed we seem to only have heavy cold symptoms. Although I have spent the last couple of days in bed, I haven’t watched any of the racing. You can see why they say “brain fog” is one on of the early symptoms.

The Grade 1 Tingle Creek Chase is the highlight of a seven-race card at Sandown on Saturday Hopefully we’ll see Chacun Pour Soi come over from Ireland to take on Nube Negra. The Henry VII Novices’ Chase (1.50) is the other Grade 1 on the card. Add in some potentially competitive handicaps and you have the makings of great card with decent field sizes.

It’s not just Sandown on Saturday though. Aintree hosts an eight-race card which includes the Becher Handicap Chase (2:40) run over the National fences and the Grade 2 Many Clouds Chase (2:05). ITV are covering four races live from Sandown and four from Aintree as part of an eight programme this afternoon.

Today’ piece is shorter than normal for a Saturday and I assume you will appreciate why.

Aintree

12:55 – Galahad Quest, a useful novice handicap chaser last season, returned from a summer break with a promising 3^rd of 10 at Wetherby. Before finishing a 5 ½ lengths 5th of 19 to Midnight Shadow in Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham and should be able to defy his current mark.

Palmers Hill returned from am 8-month absence to win with more in hand than the 1 ¼ length margin of victory suggests at Wetherby last month. The 8-year-old hasn’t been the easiest to keep sound. A 4lb rise in the weight likely underestimates him if he’s as good on softer ground.

2:40 – Unibet Becher Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – 3m 2f

The National fences are back in action with 22 handicap chasers set to meet the starter for what looks a good renewal.

Last year’s race was won by Vieux Lion Rouge who had also been successful in the 2016.  The 12-year-old is 5lb higher than 12 months ago but he won by 24 lengths that day so that small rise in the weights shouldn’t stop him from going close again this year. The going could be key to whether he can make it back-to-back wins in the race. He does like soft ground.

Snow Leopardess has been aimed at this race all season and the mare must be respected on her recent Bangor seasonal reappearance success. The mare jumped well last time and although she’s been raised 5lb for that success is on the upgrade. Must be high on the shortlist.

Achille missed the whole of 2020 but returned earlier this year in better form than ever. Finishing a ½ length 2^nd of 13 in the Classic Chase at Warwick on hid first start for 14 months. Before finishing a ½ 2^nd of 9 in the Grand National Trial at Haydock. Handicapped to go well and stays further than 3m 2f but whether hold tactics will be suited here I’m not sure.

Sandown

3:00 – Betfair Exchange London National Handicap Chase (Class 2) – 3m 5f

Deise Aba is 2-2 at Sandown winning twice over 3m. The last of those wins came in February off 3lb lower. The 8-year-old made a promising return to action over hurdles when a neck 2^nd of 11 at Aintree 28-days ago. Not the most consistent of horses but probably deserves to head the betting albeit he looks plenty short enough to me.

Strictlyadancer has won his last three starts. Up 7lb for his last win but I don’t think we have seen the best of the 7-year-old just yet. Goes well on good/good to soft ground so no problems with underfoot conditions but does he stay 3m 5f? If he does, I think he wins this.

No issues with the trip for Salty Boy who won the Southern National at Fontwell last time by 5½ lengths last time. This a better race but he’s thorough stayer and can’t be easily dismissed off 5lb higher than at Fontwell.

3:35 – Metier won his first three starts over hurdles last season, including the Grade 1 Tolworth Novices Hurdle over C&D in January. Well, beaten in the Supreme Novices Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival when last seen in action. First start in handicap company over hurdles but has a touch of class but may need even softer ground.

Benson was another to win his first three starts last season, including this race off 8lb lower. Shaped with encouragement when a 9-length 5th of 11 at Cheltenham last month. That was his first run since wind surgery and he possibly found the 2m 5f stretching his stamina that day. Better expected here back over 2m.

Betting Advice:

Aintree

12:55 – 1pt win – Galahad Quest – 4/1 – Gen

2:40 – 1pt win – Snow Leopardess – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes and 1pt win – Vieux Lion Rouge – 10/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Sandown

3:00 – 1pt win – Salty Boy – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes  

3:35 – 1pt win – Benson – 4/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Four meetings today. Haydock is the only one over jumps and despite the soft ground, the six-race card has attracted just 55 runners.

At least the field size has held up for the feature race with 12 set to meet the starter for the veteran’s handicap chase (2:50).

There are three all-weather cards at Lingfield & Dundalk in the afternoon and Kempton this evening. I have a handful of selections from Haydock for you.

Haydock

1:50 – Burrows Edge won Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton by 9 lengths in January 2020 and wasn’t disgraced when 13^th of 25 in the Coral Cup at that season’s Cheltenham Festival. The 8-year-old missed the whole of last season due to injury. Well-being must be taken on trust but had looked the sort to make up into a decent novice chaser and looks worth chancing here on his return to action.

1pt win – Burrows Edge – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:50 – A cracking veterans chase with plenty of old favourites in action. If I lived closer to Haydock there would be worse places to be on Wednesday afternoon.

Aso heads the market for Venetia Williams. The 11-year-old has a touch of class and shapes like he needs 3m these days although its worth noting he’s 0 winners from 8 starts 1 placed racing beyond an extended 2m 5f and hasn’t won since January 2019. Will be sharper for his recent run in the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Cheltenham 18-days ago and has dropped to a nice mark 8lb below his neck 2nd of 12 at Warwick in February.

Lake View Lad won the Many Clouds Chase on his seasonal reappearance last season. The top-weight has now won twice on his seasonal return so fitness shouldn’t be an issue and he’s very much in the mix given he’s dropped down to an attractive handicap mark.

It’s usually worth noting the 10-year-old’s in this type of race and both Prime Venture and bottom weight Tinkers Hill Tommy are worth a second look. The former won on his seasonal return and the latter is better than he was able to show when pulling up on his seasonal return at Ludlow.

1pt win – Lake View Lad – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:20 – Bold Plan won a Class 2 handicap hurdle over C&D in November 2019, off 1lb lower. A track that favours speed suits the 7-year-old, although he needs to have come on plenty for a low-key reappearance at Bangor last month. Top-weight here but ticks the all-important boxes marked course, distance and going.

1pt win – Bold Plan – 9/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John