Author: John Burke

Hi all,

I’m time restricted today so today’s preview is a bit shorter than normal. It’s cracking finale to the 2020-2021 jumps season at Sandown this afternoon and despite the good ground the field sizes have held up well.

Sandown

1:55 – Herbiers appreciated the decent gallop and good ground when winning on his handicap hurdle debut at Ascot 27-days ago. He’s up 4lb for that success but is open to further improvement and the forecast strong pace gives him a good chance of following up.

1pt win – Herbiers – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:40 – bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – 3m 5f

It’s not the classiest renewal of this historic handicap chase but it’s competitive nonetheless.

Tom Scudamore is an eyecatching jockey booking for Golan Fortune, a late starter over fences. He won on his chase debut at Ludlow and ran well in Grade 1 & Grade 2 novice chases on his next two starts over the larger obstacles.  Wasn’t the best away and could never get into the race in the Midlands Grand National last time. If you forgive him that run, he’s nicely weighted here.

Kitty’s Light first caught my eye when a strong finishing third in the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton last November. She then ran in a couple of “jumpers’ bumpers” and a hurdle race. Before returning to fences to win at Kelso last month. The handicapper has raised her just 4lb for that success. Which came over 3m 2f, she should stay further and this race looks to have been the plan for the mare who is well suited to a sound surface.

Crosspark’s form figures this year are 2222P2. He seemed to throw away a good chance to win at Ascot 27-days ago. The 11-year-old has run well here twice this season and finished runner-up in the 2019 Scottish Grand National, having earlier won the Eider Chase that season. A return to 3m 5f is a positive and he’s effective on good ground as we saw in the Scottish Grand National and on his seasonal return at Chepstow back in October.  

1pt win – Golan Fortune – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Kitty’s Light – 8/ 1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – Crosspark -16/1 @ Bet365

4:50 – Killer Clown an easy winner at Kempton two starts back. Improved again of 15lb higher when finishing 2^nd of 14 at Newbury (good) last month. He’s been nudged up another 3lb but seems likely to progress further.

Farinet is another improving handicap chaser. The 6-year-old won a competitive C&D handicap on just his second start for Venetia Williams 42-days ago.  He’s up 9lb for that success but he’s open to plenty of improvement and can defy his rise in the ratings provided he’s as effective on today’s much quicker ground.

Iconic Muddle has just had two starts over fences but he’s shaped with enough promise in both them to think he can win off his present mark. A winner over this sort of distance over hurdles and should be capable of more progress. Trainer Gary Moore saddled the winner of this race in 2019.

1pt win – Iconic Muddle – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Farinet – 13/2 @ Bet365

5:25 – Nicky Henderson has saddled the last two winners of this handicap hurdle. He runs recent Ascot winner Cascova who makes his handicap hurdle debut here. The 6-year-old clearly like spring ground and looks capable of more improvement now going into handicaps.

Scaramanga looked as good ever when winning at Newbury last month. That was the 6-year-old’s first run for 146-days so he comes into the race fresher than most. Says to 2m on the flat so looks worth a try 2m 4f.

L’Homme Presse was visually impressive when winning on his first start for Venetia Williams in a  Chepstow novice hurdle two weeks ago. The ground was good that day so he should be fine on today’s underfoot conditions. Hard to gauge his form but he’s open to any amount of improvement on his handicap debut.

Bard Of Brittany won over C&D last month. The 7-year-old is now 11lb higher than for his last success but goes well on good ground and remains unexposed over this sort of distance.

Floating Rock appreciated the return to 2m 4 when winning at Ayr last Sunday. The ground was good that day and as it was Conditional Jockey’s race, he escapes a penalty for that win. At the right end of the handicap and won’t be far away.

1pt win – Floating Rock – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Haydock

2:50 – Dreamloper ended last season with a career best effort on RPR’s when winning on her handicap debut at Ascot last September. A strong traveller the drop back to 7f shouldn’t be a problem for the filly who is very effective on good ground. Starts the new campaign off 6lb higher but can find further improvement as 4-year-old.

Fox Champion won the German 2,000 Guineas and finished third to Too Darn Hot in a Group 1 as a 3-year-old.  He seemed to lose his way with Richard Hannon and has his first start for Ralph Beckett today. He’s now 12lb lower than when starting last season and has been gelded. If the change of yard has had the desired effect, he looks on a good mark for a yard that has hit form.

Persuasion was predictably outclassed in last season’s 2,000 Guineas. A promising enough juvenile he wasn’t disgraced when runner-up on his final start last year and given he’s only had seven career starts he could be capable of better.

Admiralty hasn’t won since winning on his seasonal return in 2019, off 2lb lower. He’s run plenty of good races in defeat since. including finishing a length third of 17 in that years Bunbury Cup at Newmarket and when runner-up in Ayr’s Silver Cup last season. Not the easiest to win with but on a winnable mark if all the cards fall right.  

1pt win – Admirality – 9/1 @Bet365 & Coral

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Republican was in the process of going very close when coming down at the last at Perth yesterday.

There’s a good Sandown flat card and it’s the final day of Perth’s April meeting. The feature race at Sandown is the Group 2 bet365 Mile (3:00), There’s only four runners and Palace Pier will be a short-priced favourite to make a winning seasonal return. There’s a good supporting card of races at Sandown, including the Group 3 bet365 Classic Trial which sees ten runners with dreams of classic success still alive.

Sandown

Despite the quickish ground the field sizes at Sandown have held up.

1:55 – bet365 Esher Cup Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

Dingle comes into the race in good form having finished 3^rd of 16, behind Mithras, at Newbury 7-days ago. The step up to mile should suit and he can race off the same mark as last week. Should be up to win a decent pot this season.

Tawaareq a promising fifth behind 2,000 Guineas favourite One Ruler on his racecourse debut here last season. He went onto to win a Doncaster maiden before struggling on soft ground on his nursery debut at Newmarket. Has been gelded in the off season and looks the type to improve as a 3-year-old.

Given the form of Charlie Appleby 3-year-old colts Quintillus must be respected. Shaped like the run was needed at Chelmsford 22-days ago and will be fitter today.

2pt win – Dingle – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Tawaareq – 9/1 @ Bet365

2:25 – bet365 Gordon Richards Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 2f

Hukum so impressive when winning a Royal Ascot handicap and a Group 3 at Newbury is having first run since not staying in last season’s St Leger. Starts the season off dropped back to a 1m 2f but has the potential to make up into a smart middle-distance performer as a 4-year-old.

Thunderous & Highest Ground were first & second in last season’s Dante at York. The latter didn’t seem to enjoy the good to soft ground at Newmarket on his last start. Lightly raced the Sir Michael Stoute trained colt has the potential to rate much higher this season. Thunderous hasn’t race since winning at York. He was overlooked by punters in the Dante who were all over the Stoute horse as they are again here.

1pt win – Thunderous – 6/1 @ bet365

3:35 – bet365 Classic Trial (Group 3) – 1m 2f

There seems to be plenty of confidence behind the Charlie Appleby trained Yibir who won his final two juvenile starts here and Newbury. However, preference is for Lone Eagle improved with each of his four juvenile starts and found plenty for pressure when winning the Group 3 Zetland Stakes (soft) at Newmarket last October. Stayed the 1m 2f well as a 2-year-old so no stamina issues for the son of Galileo who seems ground versatile. Seems sure to go on to better as a 3-year-old.

1pt win – Lone Eagle – 11/2 @ Bet365

Perth

2:40 – William Hill Highland National Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m 6 ½ f

Gran Paradiso seems to have improved for the reapplication of the blinkers winning his last two start over fences at Sedgefield. Now 10lb higher than for last easy win but comes into the race in good form like good ground and is at the right end of the handicap. Big chance if he stays today’s marathon trip

2pts win – Gran Paradiso – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Just the two selection today from Perth as I prepare for a couple of days at Sandown and of course next week’s Punchestown Festival & Newmarket Guineas meeting.

Perth

1:50 – I’m not taking one that looks overpriced here and its Echo Du Large. The 7-year-old showed signs of ability in novice/maiden company last season. Returned from nine months absence to post an improved effort on his handicap hurdle debut when 2^nd of 12 at Hereford in November. Ran well below that performance a month later at Ascot. Maybe it was the heavy ground at Ascot or maybe something else was amiss with the 7-year-old Back from another absence here but is unexposed and looks on a competitive enough mark if reproducing his Hereford performance.

1pt each way – Echo Du Large – 22/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes (paying 4 places 1/5 odds)

3:30 – Republican bounced back to form and put in a career best effort over hurdles when a one & half-length 3rd of 15 at Haydock 19-days ago.  Step up to 3m 2f can bring out a bit more improvement in the 6-year-old who looks on a handy mark. Not a great price at around 7/2 but he’s the one for me.

2pts win – Republican – 4/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Ironically the one horse I mentioned that wasn’t a selection won at Epsom yesterday. Group One Power went off at a generous looking 100/30 in winning the Grand Metropolitan Handicap yesterday and as I suspected got the run of the race out in front. Hopefully some of you got on the bigger than expected price. The runner-up Soto Sizzler will likely be back for a handicap at the Derby meeting.

As the 2020/2021 British NH season concludes, we have three days of racing at Perth’s April meeting and of course Sandown’s Bet365 Gold Cup Day on Saturday. The Irish jumps season has a week longer to go. It ends with a bang and five days of high-class action at the Punchestown Festival.

I have a couple of election from this afternoon’s card at Perth.

Perth

1:55 – William Hill Extra Places Every Day Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m

Peur De Rien made it 2-5 since switching to the larger obstacles when winning at Kempton (good) last month. The 8-year-old has been raised 6lb for that success but is going the right way and will appreciate the drying ground. Trainer among the winners 2-7 in the past 14-days.

1pt win – Peur De Rien – 6/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

3:00 – Phil Nelson Supports Perth Handicap Chase (Class 3) – 3m

Valtor isn’t the horse he once was but the 12-year-old has dropped down to a tempting mark. He was in process of putting in one of better recent efforts when blundering and unseating his rider two out at Ludlow last time.

1pt win – Valtor – 8/1 – Gen

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A good midweek card at Epsom this afternoon. The feature race is the Listed Blue Riband Trial (2:15) and there are a number of interesting supporting races including; The City And Suburban Handicap (2:50) & Grand Metropolitan Handicap (3:55).

Epsom

2:15 – Blue Riband Trial (Listed Race) – 1m 2f

John Gosden has won four of the last five renewals of the race and he saddles likely favourite Uncle Bryn. The Sea The Stars colt won both his juvenile starts last season on the all-weather. First start on turf but looks capable of further progress.  

At the prices Star Caliber could give the favourite most to do. The colt showed a good attitude to win his sole start at Goodwood (good) last September and more improvement should be forthcoming for the step up to 1m 2f.

1pt win – Star Caliber – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:50 – City And Suburban Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 2f

Blue Cap seemed to relish the step up to 1m 2f when storming clear of his rivals to win a Sandown handicap (good to firm) last summer. The 5-year-old was hiked up 16lb for that success but Ryan Moore who rode him at Sandown is back in the saddle and can go close here if handling the track.

No wins last season for Alfred Boucher but he’s a useful handicapper at his best and the 5-year-old ended last season with solid placed efforts at Sandown & Nottingham. He looks more than capable of winning at the distance, off around his present mark when all the cards fall right.

1pt win – Alfred Boucher – 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:55 – Great Metropolitan Handicap (Class 3) – 1m 4f

Soto Sizzler 2-2 over C&D for previous yard, including this race in 2019. He showed he retains plenty of his old ability on first start for new trainer David Menuisier when fourth of 9 at Kempton 24-days ago. That was the 6-year-old’s first run for 18 months so was entitled to need the run last time. Best form has come on good/good firm going so no problems with the ground.

Group One Power’s two career wins have come on the all-weather and he’s 0-3 on turf. However, his career best effort came when fourth of 17 in the Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap at Royal Ascot. He’s only had five career starts and could be capable of better. Has been gelded since disappointing on soft ground at Newmarket last July.

I’m concerned that they won’t go quick enough for Soto Sizzler here and the more prominently ridden Group One Power could benefit.   

4:30 – Jockey Club Thanks All Owners Handicap (Class 4) – 1m ½ f

Dejame Paso built on the promise of his first two juvenile starts when improving to win at Lingfield on his first start over a mile last autumn. A mark of 78 for his handicap debut looks fair enough and he could be capable of more progress as a 3-year-old. Trainer has made a good start to the new season.

1pt win – Dejame Paso – 13/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A rather frustrating Saturday. The main selections all ran well. Unfortunately, Tauran Shaman was carried across the track by the winner and lost fourth in the final few strides. Ok, if you were on with bookies paying five places but I was with Bet365 paying just the four. He was very unlucky not to finish in the first four. Copper And Fire ran a cracker to finish third but there was a non-runner in his Nottingham race so only seven ran. Jeremiah also ran well to finish a close-up third at Thirsk. It was one of those days when nothing went right on another day you get a good return on your day’s punting.

A feast of racing at Ayr, with the latest running of the Coral Scottish Grand National and a an excellent supporting card of competitive handicaps and at Newbury which hosts two Guineas Trials and a competitive looking Spring Cup Handicap.  

Ayr

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

Duke Of Navan might be a 13-year-old but he showed he still has the legs to run well when runner-up at Doncaster last time. He goes well on good ground and his form figures in this race are 13F. Clearly, remains vulnerable to younger horses like favourite King D’argent but I can see him giving backers a good run for their money.

1pt win – Duke Of Navan – 9/1 – Gen

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

The Scottish Grand National maybe today’s feature race but this is a competitive thirteen runner novices’ handicap chase.

Irish raider Pilbara heads the market. The 6-year-old is 0-5 over fences and didn’t jump well enough when 9^th 0f 13 at Galway (soft) on his last start in October.  He was sent of the 15/8 favourite which suggests connections think they have a well handicapped horse on their hands. He’s 2-2 over hurdles when racing at 3m and can go well off a layoff, won off a 313-day break last year.

Five Star Getaway has returned from a winter break to win three handicap chases. He’s been raised 15lb for his last win at Haydock but that might not stop this fast-improving young chaser from making it four wins on the trot.  First run beyond 2m 4f but he did finish first past the post in an Irish point so should stay 3m.

Sirwilliamwallace won here over 2m 4 ½ f last month. He should stay 3m but both his wins have come on soft ground. He’s a good jumper of a fence and if he’s as effective on quicker ground he’s got a chance.

Marown goes well here winning once over fences and twice over hurdles.  Unexposed over 3m and should make up into a good handicap chaser but the suspicion is that he may want more ease in the ground that he’s likely to get here.

Dublin Four won at the fifth attempt over fences when winning at Newbury over an extended 2m 6f last time. He’s been raised 9lb for that win but he’s on the upgrade and more improvement can be expected for the step up to 3m.

Dead Right a winner at Market Rasen in September. Off for six months he wasn’t best placed and never got competitive behind The Shunter at the Cheltenham Festival. Has had a wind-op since and gets the first-time tongue tie today. The quicker the ground the better his chance and he’s got each way claims.

Verdict: I can see Dead Right going well on quick ground. Pilbara could be a very well handicapped However, at the prices I like the improving Five Star Getaway and Dublin Four.

2pts win – Five Star Getaway – 4/1 – Gen

1pt win – Dublin Four – 9/1 @ Paddy Power & Bet365

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

Milkwood must be respected on his third of 25 in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham and today’s quicker ground will be more in his favour.  Provided he hasn’t had to hard a race at Cheltenham looks set to go close again.

Calico has won two of his three starts over hurdles and finished runner-up to Cape Gentlemen in the Grade 2 Dovecote Novices’ Hurdle. First start in handicap company and looks a good prospect.

Anna Bunnina was just over three lengths behind Milkwood in the County Hurdle but gets 2lb here. Another suited by good ground and she should get closer to Milkwood here.

Thyme White was further behind in the County Hurdle. He’s got 4lb to find with Anna Bunnina on that running but has been dropped 2lb since Cheltenham. Get’s his optimum conditions of good ground and a sharp 2m today and a better run should be forthcoming from the 5-year-old.

Tommy’s Oscar has been a big improver this season and made it 4 wins from 6 runs since going hurdling when winning a Kelso handicap 22-days ago. Two of the six-year old’s wins have come on good to soft so the quicker ground shouldn’t inconvenience. Up 6lb for his Kelso success but of more concern would be this would be his fifth start since the turn of the year.

Verdict: Despite slight concerns that Tommy’s Oscar may have had too may races this season he remains high on the shortlist as does Thyme White who should be well suited to a sharp track and good ground.

1pt win – Tommy’s Oscar – 8/1 @ Coral & Bet365

1pt win – Thyme White – 15/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

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

Plenty of the field have yet to prove their credentials beyond 3m 5f. One who has is Mighty Thunder who won the Edinburgh National two starts back and improved further when finishing runner-up in the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter. Good ground asks a different question of the 8-year-old.

Sandy Thomson has a couple of contenders in Dingo Dollar and The Ferry Master. The former bounced back to form on his first start for the trainer when winning at Newcastle. Ground fine but stamina doubts remain. The Ferry Master looks like he will be better suited by the 4m and he’s well suited to good ground.

The consistent Aye Right must be respected given his performances in valuable handicap chases this season. Should be suited by today’s marathon trip but it won’t be easy to carry 11-11 to victory.

Soldier Of Love was in good form last summer and all five career wins have come on good ground. First run since pulling up on unsuitable soft ground at Cheltenham in November.

Irish raider Mister Fogpatches stayed 3m over hurdles and could show significant improvement for going over marathon trips over fences. Returned from 10 weeks off the track to finish a good fourth of 14 at Leopardstown., would have finished closer but for being hampered by a faller at the last. The form of that race was given a big boast when runner-up Livelovelaugh won the Topham at Aintree. Needs to jump better than he did last time

Alan King has aimed Notachance at this race since he won the Classic Chase at Warwick in January, Can be forgiven a laboured effort when pulled up on heavy ground in the Grand National Trail at Haydock last time. Stable won this in 2013 with Godsmejudge who had gone close in that Warwick race.

The Hollow Ginge hasn’t completed on either start since a strong finishing fourth in the Ladbrokes Trophy. He would have to be respected if reproducing his Newbury effort and the 8-year-old shapes like a marathon trip will suit.

Coup De Pinceau seemed to improve for the step up to an extended 3m 4f when winning at Taunton last month. That race wasn’t the strongest but he could improve further for the step up to 4m. Plenty of winning form on good ground.

Normally you would put a line through a 12-year-old but Claud And Goldie is lightly raced for his age. Admirably consistent he looked good when winning at Kelso two starts back. You can forgive his last run as his saddle slipped when back over hurdles. Now 5lb higher than for his last win but he get’s the first time cheekpieces which could bring out bit more improvement in the veteran who’s effective on a sound surface.

Verdict: Despite advancing year’s Claud And Goldie has each way claims. Notachance has been aimed at this race since January. Mighty Thunder is a proven stayer unlike plenty in the field. He’s improving and won’t be far away. Mister Fogpatches could be well handicapped if improving for the step up in distance.

1pt win – Notachance – 11/1 @ Bet365

1pt each way – Claud And Goldie – 50/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook (both paying 6 places 1/5 odds)

Newbury

I haven’t looked at the Classic Trials here but instead concentrated on the two handicaps.

3:20 – MansionBet Spring Cup Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

It looks a good renewal of the Spring Cup although ante post favourite Troll Peninsula is now a non-runner. There are plenty who could improve beyond their present marks

Nugget shaped well after nine months off the track when a close-up third at Nottingham on his seasonal return 11-days ago. Didn’t get the best of passages last time and looks capable of winning more races this season. Ryan Moore takes the ride.

Matthew Flinders appreciated quick ground and a straight mile when winning at Doncaster on September. The 4-year-old shaped better than the bare result when 8^th of 13 at York on soft ground and stepped up to 1m 2f. Get’s his ground and can go close.

Danyah might just have needed the run when fourth in the Lincoln handicap last month and looks capable of better.

Raaeq a winner here over 7f as a juvenile. The 4-year-old improved to win twice last Autumn at Sandown & Ascot. Not as his best when only 5^th of 18 in Balmoral Handicap at Ascot (soft) on Champions Day. Can do better this season.

National League is in a deeper race than when second of 10 on his seasonal reappearance at Redcar. That said he can win races this year.

HMS President put in a career best when runner-up here over 1m 2f last summer. He didn’t rally build on that promise on three subsequent starts. Can be keen in his races but a strongly run on a straight mile could really sort the 4-year-old and he’s not totally dismissed here.

Verdict: HMS President could be suited by the drop back to a mile and a fast pace but I’m with Nugget and Matthew Flinders here.

1pt win – Matthew Flinders – 13/2 @ Coral

1pt win – Nugget – 13/2 @ Ladbrokes

5:05 – There is no doubt the unreliable Good Birthday has dropped down to a winnable mark if consenting to put in maximum effort. Third in the 2019 Cambridgeshire he had only been beaten a length into third in the London Gold Cup over C&D earlier that season.

Inchicore put in a much-improved display when winning on her handicap debut at Leicester in October. The ground was heavy and she found plenty for pressure that day. Up 5lb but looks the sort capable of more improvement as a 4-year-old. Ground will be much quicker than last time but she’s by Galileo and her dam won on firm ground so there’s a good chance she doesn’t need testing ground.

Verdict: Good Birthday and Inchicore have different profiles but both have claims in the concluding race on the card.

1pt win – Good Birthday – 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Inchicore – 7/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

I wasn’t going to put up any selections but I have recent eyecatcher running at Nottingham this evening and there are a couple of decent handicaps at the Curragh & Thirsk that I have found a couple of selections for.

Curragh

4:15 – Joseph O’Brien saddles four live contenders Dance Jupiter, Fame And Acclaim, Never Forgotten & Raise You and they are no bigger than 7/1 in the overnight betting market. Fame And Acclaim is the only one of the four to have had a previous run. Dance Jupiter may be better over 1m 2f as could Raise You.  Dance Jupiter looks open to more improvement as a 5-year-old.

The filly Never Forgotten finished runner-up in a C&D maiden last season and then went one better in Gowran Park last July. Handicap debut and like two of her stablemates might end up being better over a couple of furlongs further. Handicap debut for the 4-year-old who’s open to further improvement and a useful apprentice takes off a handy 5lb.

Another I like is Tauran Shaman who ran well in a couple mile handicaps last season. The drying ground will suit the 5-year-old, as should the forecast fast pace as he tends to be doing his best work at the finish. Starts the season off a 6lb lower mark than last year. If fully tuned up I think he will go close. I can’t resist the stand out 16/1 available with Bet365.

Verdict: It’s Tauran Shaman each way for me with a saver on the filly Never Forgotten.

1pt each way – Tauran Shaman – 16/1 @ Bet365 (paying 4 places ¼ odds)

1pt win – Never Forgotten – 11/2 @ Bet365

Thirsk

1:40 – Throne Hall showed the benefit of an off-season gelding operation when winning a competitive 1m 2f handicap at Doncaster 20-days ago. The step up to 1m 4f should bring out even more improvement in the 4-year-old. The one to beat he’s odds on for what looks a good handicap.

At the prices the one I like is Jeremiah who was perked up by the first-time blinkers when winning a Class 2 handicap at Ascot last summer. He’s up 4lb higher here but connections have opted for the first-time visor for this quirky but talented handicapper. He won over C&D under today’s jockey Danny Tudhope as a 3-year-old.  Trainer Charlie Fellowes has his horses in winning form this week and he told the Racing Post the horse is “in great form and this has been the plan for a long time”. Sadly, there are just seven runners so there’s no real each way betting opportunity.

1pt win – Jeremiah – 8/1 @ Bet365

Nottingham

6:15 – There is a potentially well handicapped horse in the race in the shape of likely short priced favourite Russian Virtue who will be tough beat if building on the promise of his Doncaster reappearance which does seem likely.

I put up Copper And Fire in my Daily Punt column this week as one for the tracker. This is what I wrote:

“The lightly raced 5-year-old had shaped with promise in handicaps last season and was unlucky not to land a Class 4 on final start of 2020. He was far too keen on his return to action at Pontefract last Tuesday and did well to finish as close as he did in fifth. Will need s strong pace and some cover if he’s to take advantage of what looks a winnable mark”.

Granted a slight concern that Copper And Fire has been upped back into Class 4 company here but provided he can get some cover I think he can get into the places.

1pt each way – Copper And Fire – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Irish Roe plugged on into third to grab the each-way money at Cheltenham. However, we had to wait for the lucky last at Newmarket for a winner with Bullace running out an impressive winner of the 3-year-old only 1m handicap.

A Steady profit on the day and most of yesterday’s losses regained.  

Friday is new the Saturday this week. Saturday’s two main meetings have been moved to Sunday as a mark of respect for Prince Philip’s funeral. Which means the Coral Scottish Grand National at Ayr and the Newbury Guineas Trials at Newbury will now be run on Sunday. However, there’s some good racing at Ayr & Newbury today and I have looked at a few races at both tracks. Let’s begin at the Scottish track and the first day of the Scottish Grand National Meeting.

Ayr

2:40 – Coral Backing Scottish Racing Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 3m ½ f

Didonato will be a short price to land the hat trick after wins at Doncaster and Ludlow. This is only the 6-year-old’s second start beyond an extended 2m 3f and she’s only been raised 6lb for a decisive success last time. Open to more improvement and will be a tough nut to crack.

Her biggest rival could turn out to be Irish raider Lily’s Gem.  A winner of a Carlisle novice hurdle last season. The 8-year-old produced a seasonal best when 3^rd of 12 at Down Royal 26-days ago. Needs to improve for her step up to 3m to win but that’s possible.

1pt win – Lily’s Gem – 8/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:15 – Hillhouse Quarry Handicap Chase (Listed Race) – 2m 4 ½ f

Nietzsche didn’t stay the 3m 1f of the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Drops back in trip today and is suited to good/good to soft ground. Handicapped to be competitive.

Schiehallion Munro has finished runner-up on his last three starts. Ran a fine race over 2m 6 ½ f at Kelso last time. Can race off the same mark here and the drop back in trip is a positive. As is small field with the 8-year-old’s last five form figures in races with less than seven runners being 12112. Brian Hughes booked for this solid jumper and he should go close.

Theinval is a well handicapped horse if bouncing back to something like his best. The 11-year-old hasn’t won since successful at the meeting 3-years ago. Needs good ground to be at his best and this has traditionally been his time of the season. Very much in the mix.

2pts win – Schiehallion Munro – 3/1 @ Bet365

3:50 – Ayrshire Cancer Support Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 2m

Defining Battle has run well on both his starts over hurdles. The 5-year-old ran Camprond to 1 ½ lengths at Taunton last time and that one has since improved to run well to go close in a handicap hurdle at Aintree last week. Handicap hurdle debut off what looks a winnable mark.

Fete Champetre won at the third attempt over hurdles at Wetherby (good) 15-days ago. He’s on the upgrade and looks on a workable mark for his handicap hurdle debut. Brian Hughes is a positive jockey booking for the 6-year-old.

Dino Velvet won this race in 2018 and finished runner-up in the Scottish Champion Hurdle in 2019. He’s been mostly disappointing since that excellent effort but he’s dropped down to 6lb below his last winning mark and can never be ruled out on genuinely good ground. Vulnerable to any improving types in the race.

4:27 – Book Your Staycation @Western House Hotel Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 3m ½ f

Nicky Richards has saddled the winner of this handicap hurdle in 2015 & 2018. He runs No Regrets in this year’s race.  A winner on good ground at Southwell last August. He followed up at Stratford on his next start and ended 2020 proving his stamina for 3m when a neck, second of 10 at Musselburgh. Off for 3 months and raced like the run was needed when 5^th of 6 at Newcastle last month. In with a good chance of making a third win in the race for the trainer.

1pt win – No Regrets – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Newbury

Three Class 2 handicaps to get stuck into at Newbury.

1:40 – Dubai Duty Free Handicap (Class 2) – 5f

Kings Lynn has only had five career starts. Runner up at Doncaster on his return to action last August. He was then sent off 4/1 favourite for Ayr’s Silver Cup but lacked the experience for such a big field handicap. Bounced back with an improved neck second of 12 in 6f handicap at Doncaster in October. Starts the new season off just 2lb higher and looks capable of winning a valuable sprint handicap this season. Despite the drop back to 5f he will take the beating here and he’s gone well fresh in the past.

Come From The Dark was having his first start since an off season gelding operation and wind surgery when a head third of 13 at Musselburgh 13-days ago doing best of those coming off the pace. He can win races this season.

Ivatheengine won two of his three juvenile starts and completed the hat-trick on his handicap debut at Newmarket on his only start last season. First run since June but he’s well suited to quick ground. However, his only defeat did come over 5f. Capable of more progress as a 4-year-old.

2:15 – Compton Beauchamp Estates Ltd Silver Bar Handicap (Class 2) – 2m ½ f

Almighwar looks set to go off a strong favourite on his first attempt at 2m.  Twice a 1m 4f winner at Kempton last year. He made a good return to action when runner-up to the useful Al Zaraqaan, clear of the rest. Stamina to prove but shaped like a staying type last time and looks capable of more progress as a 4-year-old.

Almighwar takes on a few experienced staying handicappers such Hochfield & Solo Saxophone.  The former was length third of 13 to stablemate Themaxwecan at Musselburgh last time. Nudged up 3lb for that effort but another bold run can be expected from the Mark Johnston trained 7-year-old who stays 2m.

Solo Saxophone holds no secrets from the handicapper but had a good season last year winning four of his eight starts.  Stays 2m but he starts this season off a career high mark of 98. Won first time up last season so can go well fresh.

Imperium comes into the race looking for the hat trick after two wins at Kempton at the end of last year. Today’s likely strong gallop will suit the 5-year-old but he must prove he’s as good on grass as he is on the synthetics. If he is, then he’s on good mark.

2:50 – Dubai Duty Free Full Of Surprises Handicap (Class 2) – 7f

Sixteen are set to go post for what could be an informative 3-year-old only handicap with plenty of the field open to more progress this year. The pace is forecast to be strong which could suit the closers.

Mithras, trained by John Gosden, improved for the fitting of the tongue tie when winning on his all-weather debut at Newcastle in November. Drop back to 7f shouldn’t be a problem as he quickened up nicely to win last time. Handicap debut off 90 but he’s open to more improvement.

Rafiki has improved on all his three starts. A winner at Wolverhampton on his second start. He returned from a 5-month break to follow up at Lingfield, upped to a mile, last month. Handicap/turf debut but likely to continue improving if as effective on the grass.

Beautiful Bertie, trained by Roger Charlton, was a neck third of 14 over C&D (good) last September and then went on to win twice on the all-weather in novice company at Lingfield & Chelmsford. Potential for more improvement as 3-year-old and could be one to follow this season. Won’t be far away if fully tuned up on his return.

Caribou improved on all his four starts last season winning his last two at Goodwood and here over 6f on his handicap debut. Up 5lb but is another who can win races this year. Slight concern would be both those wins did come on heavy ground though.

Dingle looks the pick of the three Richard Hannon runners. The colt shaped with promise when third of 9 in the valuable Convivial Maiden Stakes at York last August. Built on that performance when beating four rivals on his nursey debut at Kempton the following month. Looks the type to make up into a good 3-year-old. Has been raised 4lb for his Kempton win which isn’t harsh. The forecast strong pace will suit as he showed he stayed a mile well last time. Yard had the winner of this in 2015 & 2018.

Verdict: Plenty in with a chance Mithras looks a worthy favourite, Beautiful Bertie looks worth following but may need the run, at the prices I’m going to side with Dingle.

1pt win – Dingle – 13/2 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A disappointing day for Wednesday’s selections, after a good recent run. It’s the final day of the Craven Meeting and the second day’s racing at Cheltenham. The mares take centre stage at the latter track. Whilst at Newmarket the feature race is the Group 3 Craven Stakes (3:35) over the Guineas distance.

So, plenty of racing to enjoy but I can’t find many solid betting opportunities. I’m not too concerned though, as there are going to be plenty more between now and Sunday.

Newmarket

1:50 – Each Way Extra At bet365 Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

Nine are set to go to post for this 3-year-old only sprint handicap.

Cairn Island won a Ayr novice on his third juvenile start and improved further to follow up on his nursery debut at York on his next start. However, he ran below market expectations when only 7^th of 15 in a valuable Sales Race at Doncaster in September. First run since a gelding operation. The return to handicap company should suit and the Kevin Ryan stable is among the winners.

Jumby showed plenty of speed when winning a 7f minor event at Ascot on his racecourse debut and wasn’t disgraced on either start after. First start at 6f for the colt but he doesn’t lack pace and I think the drop back to sprinting can suit him.

1pt win – Jumby – 9/2 @ Bet365

3:35 – bet365 Craven Stakes (Group 3) – 1m

Ten colts have been declared for an open looking Guineas Trial. Charlie Appleby has two in Master Of The Seas & La Barrosa. The former had the better juvenile form of the pair but arguably La Barrosa has more scope of the pair to improve as 3-year-old.

Aidan O’Brien brings over two in Khartoum, the choice of Ryan Moore and Sandhurst ridden by Frankie Dettori. Both should improve this year and it will be interesting to see where the pair are in the Ballydoyle pecking order.

Devilwala, trained by Ralph Beckett, is top rated on RPR’s. He lost any chance he had at the start in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf on his final start.  Prior to that, the colt had put in a career best effort when 4^th of 14 in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes.

Akmaam impressed when making all to win on his racecourse debut at Ascot. He wasn’t disgraced when a 4½ lengths 5th of 10 to One Ruler in Group 3 Autumn Stakes here next time. Looks the sort to improve as a 3-year-old and has each way claims if he has.

1pt each way – Akmaam – 10/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:45 – Bet Builder At bet365 Handicap (Class 4) – 1m

An intriguing 3-year-old’s only handicap with a few who could prove to be ahead of their marks. Balearic has the benefit of race fitness. He improved for the fitting of the first-time blinkers when winning on his handicap debut at Newcastle, finding plenty for pressure. 20-days ago. Up 8lb but capable of more improvement for the step up to a mile.

Spirit Of Bermuda will appreciate the return to a sound surface for her handicap debut and given the form of her stable has to be respected.

Rogue Force has improved on all three of his starts, all on the all-weather, and if he can transfer that form to turf has to be on the shortlist on his handicap debut.

Without Revenge is another making his handicap debut.  He ended last season winning a Lingfield novice back and looks capable of more progress if he’s as effective on the grass.

Crossford made all to win at Newcastle on his third career start last October. Needs to improve again to defy his opening handicap mark but the step up to a mile could bring out more progress in the colt. Ryan Moore booked and trainer Charlie Hills is 4-11 with his runners in the past 14-days.

Bullace made it 2-2 on the all-weather when winning a Kempton novice under a penalty on his final juvenile start in November. The colt ran with plenty of promise when 2^nd 7 t Sandown on turf on his racecourse debut. Trainer Ralph Beckett saddled the winner of the race in 2018 with a handicap debutant like Bullace.

1pt win – Bullace – 9/1 @ Bet365

Cheltenham

The fact that today’s card is for the mares means I won’t be going in heavily on the punting front. In fact, there’s only that I like at a decent price.

2:45 – Citipost Mares’ Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) – 2m 4 ½ f

I’m happy to take an each-way chance with Irish Roe here. The 10-year-old mare has only won once since December 2017. That win came in Class 2 handicap hurdle at Aintree (good) in May 2019, off 4lb higher. She’s well treated on her best form and its not hard to imagine her going well on ground that will suit.

1pt each way – Irish Roe – 12/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

An impressive win by Double Or Bubble at Newmarket yesterday. Hopefully you were on BOG.

The Craven meeting continues today with two Group 3s: the bet365 Earl of Sefton Stakes (3.00) and the Lanwades Stud Nell Gwyn Stakes (3.35). In the latter race C&D winner Saffron Beach takes on unbeaten filly Love Is You in a race which could provide punters with some 1,000 Guineas clues. There’s also the first of two days of competitive racing at Cheltenham.

You can watch the best of the action from Newmarket’s Craven meeting and Cheltenham on ITV this afternoon.  I have selections from both meetings but I have also looked at some of the big races where I haven’t got any picks.

Newmarket

1:50 – bet365 Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

Going Places has been a revelation since switching to the Archie Watson stable. Making all to win two of his three starts on the all-weather both over 7f.  Drop back to 6f, but doesn’t lack pace, and is having his first start on grass since juvenile debut in 2019. Stall 10 could be better but he will take the beating if he maintains his recent good form back on turf.

George Bowen is on a losing run that goes back over two years. The 9-year-old has dropped down to a good mark and his seasonal return when 6^th of 15 at Doncaster provides encouragement that he will be able to win again this season.

Dazzling Dan had good 3-year-old season winning over C&D and on the July Course. Not so good last season but has had wind surgery over the winter and is now 9lb below is last winning mark.

Chil Chil won a C&D nursery in 2019 and came from off the pace to win at Ascot last August. The 5-year-olds form figures on good/good to firm going are an impressive 2111. Can’t be dismissed if ready to roll on her seasonal reappearance.

Verdict: Going Places could take some stopping if as effective on turf as a synthetic surface. Chil Chil is respected if fully tuned up. Dazzling Dan is well handicapped if his recent wind-op has the desired effect.

1pt win – Dazzling Dan – 9/1 @ Bet365

2:25 – bet365 European Free Handicap (Listed Race) – 7f

Just seven go to post for the race but you can give them all some sort of chance. There doesn’t seem to be much pace in the race. Likely favourite Naval Crown who made all to win at Meydan last time could get a solo out in front.

Aidan O’Brien brings over Ontario whose best run last year came when 2^nd of 5 in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes here over a mile last September.

Percy’s Lad a winner of his first two juvenile starts put in a career best when runner-up in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes at Newbury (heavy). Better ground should suit but 7f maybe on the short side given he’s bred to appreciate 1m 2f.

Legal Attack won on his racecourse debut on the July Course last season and wasn’t disgraced when runner-up in a Group 3 at Chantilly on his next star. Proved a major disappointment when a beaten favourite at York in October. If you forgive that run, he has potential for better this season.

3:00 – bet365 Earl Of Sefton Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 1f

Global Giant, an easy winner of the Listed Magnolia Stakes at Kempton 18-days ago and is the one to beat.  Marie’s Diamond made a winning return to action last season and he’s the only guaranteed front runner in the six strong field. He could be hard to peg back if getting an uncontested lead.

San Donato’s two best RPR’s have come first time up so a 207-day layoff isn’t a necessarily a negative. In fact, I think it’s a positive for the strong travelling 5-year-old. Yard has made a good start to the season and has a good record at this meeting.

My Oberon could be open to more progressive this season. The 4-year-old an easy winner at York last summer put in a career best effort’s on RPR’s when finishing runner-up in Group 3 contests at Goodwood & Haydock. Ran below par at Redcar (15/8 Fav) on his final start of the season but if you forget that run, he’s in the mix here.

Verdict: Global Giant has race fitness on his side and if he can reproduce his all-weather form should win this. Marie’s Diamond will be tough to peg back if getting out on his own in front. My preference is for San Donato who goes well first time up.

1pt win – San Donato – 6/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook.

3:35 – Lanwades Stud Nell Gwyn Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) – 7f

The bookies have got the betting right for this 1,000 Guineas trial. With the unbeaten fillies Saffron Beach and Love Is Youheading the market.

Saffron Beach is 2-2 over C&D and showed a good battling attitude to win the Group 3 Oh So Sharp Stakes last time out. She’s reported to have thrived physically from two to three and if that’s the case she should be good enough to win this on her return.

Love Is You won the 7f Listed Radley Stakes at Newbury on her final juvenile start. It was heavy that day and good to soft when she made a winning racecourse debut at Ascot. There’s no reason why she won’t be effective on quicker ground but you don’t know until they have tried it. The daughter of Kingman had looked a smart prospect when winning at Newbury.

Tawahub is thrown in the deep end here. Another daughter of Kingman she looked useful when winning a Chelmsford in October. Look capable of winning more races as 3-year-old but would need to have improved plenty over the winter to beat the likes of Saffron Beach & Love Is You.

Verdict:  Saffron Beach is my idea of a lively outsider for the first fillies’ classic.  I have had an each-way nibble on her at 20/1 for the 1,000 Guineas and the 16/1 available with Paddy Power remains value as she will be shorter, if winning here.

4:45 – Cash Out At bet365 Handicap (Class 3) – 1m 2f

Three -year-old handicaps can be tricky in the first month of the season, as you don’t know which have improved over the winter.

Mohaafeth showed he’s trained on from two to three when winning at Lingfield 26-days ago. The colt who has Dante & Derby entries makes his handicap debut off what looks a competitive mark of 85 and is bred to improve for the step up to 1m 2f.

Sir Michael Stoute seems to have his string forward. He has saddled the winner of this race in 2015 & 2019 and he relies on Just Fine who won at Sandown on his second juvenile start last season. Another bred to appreciate a step up to 1m 2f. He’s been gelded since finishing third in a York nursery debut last October and has potential for more improvement as a 3-year-old.

Cheltenham

2:05 – Ballymore Silver Trophy Handicap Chase (Grade 2) (A Limited Handicap) – 2m 4 ½ f

The Big Bite is 2-6 over fences but threw away good opportunity to win the Grade 3 Greatwood Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury last time when hanging badly left on the run in. No issues with good ground but an undulating track like Cheltenham is a bit of an unknown for the 8-year-old.

Up The Straight has yet to win after five starts over fences but put in career best when 2^nd of 9 at Sandown last month. Looked set to win when jumping the last but he tired in the run on very testing ground. Finished 3^rd of 19 in a handicap hurdle on his only start here in October and is well suited to a sound surface. He’s handicapped to win a decent pot.

Verdict: The Big Bite looks worth taking on here with Up The Straight.

1pt win – Up The Straight – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

2:40 – Kingston Stud Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 2m 4 ½ f

Java Point seemed to enjoy the step up to 2m 5f when winning a Warwick maiden hurdle (good) 15-days ago. Prior to that he had finished a neck 2^nd of 13 in handicap company at Newbury. Nudged up 4lb for his Warwick win but he’s unexposed at 2m 4f and is open to further progress on a sound surface.

1pt win – Java Point – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:50 – Jockey Club Cheltenham And SW Syndicate Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 3m

Encore Champs returned from almost a year off the track when 5^th of 10 at Kempton on his first start for Dan Skelton. He wasn’t subjected to hard race when his jockey realised his chance had gone in the straight. Likely needed the run at Kempton, will strip fitter today and looks like he can win races for his new yard.

Domino Effect got off the mark at the 7^th attempt over hurdles when winning a Chepstow maiden hurdle last month. The first time cheekpieces seemed to have had the desired effect that day and the 7-year-old is on the upgrade. Should be in the mix on going that suits.

Aaron Lad is another who returned from a long absence when 4^th of 8 at Newbury 19-days ago. The 10-year-old ran well for a long way and showed he retains plenty of his old ability. Has been dropped 3lb by the handicapper and the former C&D winner has each-way claims.

Verdict: Encore Champs shaped with promise on his first start for Dan Skelton and can win races of his present mark. Domino Effect is also high on the shortlist after his recent Warwick success.

1pt win – Domino Effect – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:25 – Weatherite Handicap Chase (Class 2) – 3m 2f

Born Survivor took advantage of a handy mark on his favoured good ground when winningat Stratford 16-days ago. Up 9lb for that win but of more concern would be his stamina for 3m 2f.

At the prices it may be worth taking a chance with Enqarde travelled like a well handicapped horse when winning at Ascot in January. Up 8lb and sent off 4/1 favourite for the Grand National Trial at Haydock. He ran well for a long way but his stamina for an extended 3m 4f was stretched before fading two out. Has be a strong contender dropped back in trip if he handles the track.

Verdict: Born Survivor won’t be far away again but given there are doubts about his stamina for 3m 2f it may pay to side with Enqarde who looked progressive when winning at Ascot two starts back.

1pt win – Enqarde – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John