Hi all,
A brave run from Head To The Stars who just failed to land a hat trick of win in Ludlow’s Forbra Gold Cup.
It’s the first of two days racing at Newbury and it’s the Berkshire track that I’m heading for today’s selections.
Newbury
4:05 – Stellar Magic returned from a 10-month lay-off with an excellent effort when a 1 ½ length 2nd of 9 behind Up For Parol at Haydock in December. Ran poorly at Ascot on his next start but shaped better last time when a 5 ½ length 4th of 9 at Wincanton 13-days ago. The step up to 3m threatens suit and the addition of first time cheekpieces will hopefully show that he’s on a winnable mark.
Guerlain De Vaux is the most interesting runner among the 11 strong field. The 6-year-old made it 2-2 over hurdles when winning at Catterick last time. He stays 3m well so no issues with stamina. Trainer Oliver Sherwood told the Racing Post that the horse is “definitely an embryonic chaser.” And you can see why as he didn’t look totally at home on the track at Catterick. The more galloping nature of Newbury should suit him better. Hard to say he’s well handicapped for his handicap debut but he’s open to plenty of improvement.
1pt win – Guerlain De Vaux – 6/1 – Gen
1pt win – Stellar Magic – 6/1 – Gen
4:35 – Paddy’s Poem a winner at Wincanton 12 months ago, off 1lb higher, never got into the race and was pulled up at Sandown on his return from a 10-month absence in January. The 11-year-old is better than that run and although there is a slight concern about his well-being he’s nicely treated and looks a decent price.
1pt win – Paddy’s Poem – 6/1 @ Bet365
Cheers
John