Hi all,
Not sure what happened yesterday but was it was a disappointing day. On to Thursday and couple of selections running at Newbury.
Newbury
2:05 – A beginners’ chase over 2m 6 ½ f.Six runners have been declared with The Champ the hot favourite to make a winning start to fences. A winner of the Challow Hurdle here last December he then went onto finish runner-up in the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival before landing a Group 1 at Aintree in April. No problem with the trip, won over 3m ½ f at Aintree, for the 7-year-old who will be tough to beat.
Beakstown was runner-up to Sam Spinner on his chase debut at Wetherby 22-days and the winner has gone onto win again at the weekend. A Grade 2 winning hurdler last season but has a bit to fins with the favourite. His best form has come on good to soft/good ground and is expected to do very well in the novice division this season. His chase experience could prove vital in closing stages of the race.
Dashel Drasher is a fascinating runner. The 6-year-old was well placed to win his last four starts over hurdles although he didn’t win at Graded level last season is rated 4lb higher according to Racing Post Ratings (RPR’s). Seasonal debut and first run over the larger obstacles. Made all for his wins over hurdles and could have a solo out in front today.
1pt win – Dashel Drasher – 15/2 @ Bet365
3:40 – Mr David Maxwell’s jockey style might not suit everyone, but he’s improved plenty and as he proved at Wincanton recently his strength in the saddle can get a horse home. He rides Chef D’Equipe in this handicap chase. The 7-year-old was runner-up in this race 12 months ago and can race off 2lb lower this time around. Would liked to have seen more from him on his seasonal reappearance, when down the field at Wetherby, but I’m expecting better today.
0.5pts each way – Chef D’Equipe – 8/1 @ Bet365
Cheers
John