Cheltenham Races & Results Tomform Saturday 26th October 2024
There were 44 Races on Saturday 26th October 2024 across 6 meetings. There was 7 races at Cheltenham, 7 races at Newbury, 8 races at Doncaster, 7 races at Kelso, 7 races at Galway, 8 races at Chelmsford-City, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Saturday 26th October 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(3) Lisnamult Lad 20/1, Useful Irish winner at 21f over hurdles who arrives in good nick over fences, cheekpieces on when fourth of 7 in handicap chase at Kilbeggan (20.2f, good to soft) 77 days ago. In the mix with tongue strap back on. Irish raider; fair mark on hurdling form but yet to be quite so good over fences.
9
2nd (9) (17/2 +15%) Weveallbeencaught
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(9) Weveallbeencaught 17/2, Useful hurdler/chaser for Nigel Twiston-Davies. Got back on track for his new handler when third of 5 in novice chase at Worcester (23f, soft) 29 days ago. Considered in first-time cheekpieces. Dropping back to 2m4f might not suit one who gallops rather than quickens; cheekpieces now.
4
3rd (4) (17/2 +6%) Riskintheground
8.5
17/2(+6%)
(4) Riskintheground 17/2, Much improved over fences since dropped back in trip, bagging his fourth success at Bangor in September. Posted another good effort when third of 4 in novice chase at Newton Abbot (21f, good) 36 days ago. Can go well again. Prolific already this season; handicapper closing in but this 7yo can give his running.
2
4th (2) (11/2 -10%) Guard Your Dreams
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(2) Guard Your Dreams 11/2, Smart hurdler at his best who made light of a 6-month absence to land 6-runner handicap chase at Warwick (20f, good) on his debut over fences 23 days ago. Up 4 lb but not taken lightly for last year's winning yard. Smart hurdler; back on track with successful chase debut and can improve again.
13
5th (13) (28/1 +15%) Andys Flame
28
28/1(+15%)
(13) Andys Flame 28/1, A fair winner at 19f over hurdles who made a promising start over fences when second of 10 in novice at Downpatrick (19.4f, good to soft) 15 days ago. More to offer now going into handicaps. Needs considering despite being 5 lb "wrong" in the weights. Hadn't been in the best of form until finishing a 7l second on chase debut at Downpatrick.
12
6th (12) (17/2 +61%) Bashers Reflection
8.5
17/2(+61%)
(12) Bashers Reflection 17/2, Improved hurdler last season, scoring at Wetherby and signing off with a solid ninth in 2m4f handicap here in first-time cheekpieces. No forlorn hope now going chasing. Capable of dealing with this mark if he can deliver a trouble-free round on chase debut.
11
7th (11) (13/2 +41%) Bob Bob Ricard
6.5
13/2(+41%)
(11) Bob Bob Ricard 13/2, Improved for the switch to fences during the summer, landing back-to-back handicap chases at Ffos Las and Worcester. Not disgraced twice since over hurdles at Worcester so enters calculations back chasing. Hurdling the last twice and had previously gone 2-2 over fences; fitness assured.
1
8th (1) (10/1 +0%) Will Carver
10
10/1(+0%)
(1) Will Carver 10/1, Improved sent chasing this term, scoring on his debut at Cartmel and looking likely to follow up in 2m4f Uttoxter handicap in June when blundered 2 out. Jumps soundly in the main and he's capable of another bold bid after a wind op. Won chase debut; late mistake cost him last time and he's in here off an untouched mark.
10
9th (10) (4/1 +33%) Marv Michael
4
4/1(+33%)
(10) Marv Michael 4/1, Got off the mark over hurdles at Tramore in August and followed up in striking style on his chasing bow at Kilbeggan (2m4f) following month, making all under an attacking ride. Player on his handicap debut. Impressed from the front on chase debut and this mark might be okay; respected.
8
|F| (8) (6/1 +29%) Lord Of Thunder
6
6/1(+29%)
(8) Lord Of Thunder 6/1, Son of Getaway was firmly on the up when last seen over hurdles in January, scoring twice in novice company around 2m4f at Wincanton. This points runner-up is an interesting chasing debutant. Won last two novice hurdles comfortably; chase debut and could be on a good mark.
7
|PU| (7) (12/1 -33%) Dutch Schultz
12
12/1(-33%)
(7) Dutch Schultz 12/1, Already a dual winner over fences this term, latest in 2m1f handicap at Killarney in August. Wasn't seen to best effect back hurdling when seventh at Listowel (20f, soft) 30 days ago so merits consideration reverted to fences. Might be a better horse over shorter but has a lot going for him otherwise.
13:10 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 3) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
GUARD YOUR DREAMS gained his first success since landing the International Hurdle here in December 2021 on his chasing debut at Warwick earlier in the month and the eight-year-old remains on a mark that he can be more than competitive from. Marv Michael took well to the larger obstacles at Kilbeggan and has to enter the reckoning along with Riskintheground, who has been kept busy over the summer months, and Will Carver.
This is wide open but Nicky Henderson's WILL CARVER was unfortunate not to go 2-2 over fences when thwarted by a late blunder at Uttoxeter in the summer and gets the nod with likely more to come after breathing surgery. Irish challengers Dutch Schultz (second choice) and Marv Michael both look capable of better too and rate the chief threats, although a host of others are also in the mix, namely Lord of Thunder, Weveallbeencaught and Guard Your Dreams.
Joe Tizzard must have no qualms about LORD OF THUNDER making his chase debut around here and he has looked a smashing prospect.
(3) Intense Approach 2/1, Dual bumper winner who was good enough to overcome ongoing jumping issues when landing maiden/novice events in recent months. Fine second in Persian War on most recent outing and ought to make presence felt once again. Second in a Grade 2 last time; clear claims for yard with a good record in this race.
5
2nd (5) (14/1 +13%) Hauraki Gulf
14
14/1(+13%)
(5) Hauraki Gulf 14/1, Won twice in handicaps last season and shaped as if back in good form when runner-up at Newton Abbot (25.8f) in May. Found only a progressive sort too strong back over hurdles at Fontwell last month but this is tougher. Dual chase winner; second back hurdling last time but this is far more challenging.
1
3rd (1) (6/1 -33%) Donnie Devito
6
6/1(-33%)
(1) Donnie Devito 6/1, Struck at the second time of asking over hurdles in a Punchestown maiden in June and improved further when following up at Galway in August. Seemed beaten on merit under a penalty at Listowel since but still a big player in this company. Improving novice and sufficient stamina in his pedigree to believe 3m will be within range.
4
4th (4) (5/2 -11%) Millforce
2.5
5/2(-11%)
(4) Millforce 5/2, Took 6 goes to get off the mark in points but struck at the first time of asking under Rules in a 2m4f maiden at Bellewstown in August. Would have likely followed up with a better round of jumping when narrowly denied at Cork (24.4f) 13 days ago and remains with potential. 2m4f maiden winner who went close at 3m last time behind a similarly progressive type.
2
5th (2) (3/1 +25%) Fine Margin
3
3/1(+25%)
(2) Fine Margin 3/1, Fairly useful hurdler who completed a hat-trick in maiden/novice company earlier in the season. However, had winning run ended in tame fashion back in handicap company at Worcester last month. Rattled off a hat-trick in British novices and soft ground was no good to him last time.
13:45 Cheltenham Maiden Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
INTENSE APPROACH was on a hat-trick when finding one too strong in the Persian War at Chepstow. The manner of that performance suggested that going up to 3m would be a positive move and the five-year-old can make it a third triumph in this contest for his trainer since 2020. Bellewstown winner Millforce was beaten a short head at Cork and remains open to improvement on just his third start under Rules. Fine Margin should appreciate this kind of test having not appeared to handle the ground when pulling up at Worcester.
MILLFORCE's jumping technique certainly requires refinement but he strikes as the one with the most potential in this field, so gets the nod to come out on top. Intense Approach is another who's had his fair share of jumping issues but arrives following a fine second in the Persian War, with Donnie Devito deserving respect, also.
John McConnell has a good record in this race and Persian War runner-up INTENSE APPROACH is preferred to Millforce.
(6) Senior Chief 11/1, Useful hurdler who got off the mark at third time of asking over fences at Punchestown (22.8f) in February. Well fancied but failed to give his running in Irish Grand National next time but remains with potential and hails from a yard with a good record at this meeting. Good first season over fences until not giving his running in the Irish National.
14
2nd (14) (9/1 +55%) The Short Go
9
9/1(+55%)
(14) The Short Go 9/1, Performed creditably since sent handicapping over fences, latest when fourth of 14 in at Kilbeggan (25.4f, good to soft) in August. More on plate here but can't be discounted given the yard's record at this meeting. 1 lb out of the weights. Low weight today and he's run well when made favourite for his two handicaps.
2
3rd (2) (9/4 +36%) Broadway Boy
2.25
9/4(+36%)
(2) Broadway Boy 9/4, Made a successful start over fences in a Worcester novice before scoring twice at this course, the form of his handicap win in December boosted by the second and third subsequently. Not in same form on final 2 starts but reappears on a handy mark and must enter calculations. Front-runner who could yet be Graded class and returns with his yard in top form.
1
4th (1) (12/1 -9%) Does He Know
12
12/1(-9%)
(1) Does He Know 12/1, Smart chaser who returned to form, with positive tactics readopted, when landing the Grimthorpe at Doncaster on slow ground in March. Ran poorly at Sandown next time, however, and may find this test sharp enough first time up. Just one noticeable effort last season; has had wind op; this looks tough with top weight.
4
5th (4) (9/1 +0%) Le Milos
9
9/1(+0%)
(4) Le Milos 9/1, Big improver over fences for this yard in 2022/23, including victory in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury. Disappointed in first 3 starts (over hurdles) last term but offered more when seventh in Bet365 Gold Cup on final outing and can't be ruled out here. Well handicapped; didn't stay 3m4f when belatedly sent chasing on final appearance.
11
6th (11) (12/1 +14%) Pepe Le Moko
12
12/1(+14%)
(11) Pepe Le Moko 12/1, Winless following 5 attempts over hurdles but quickly put that right sent chasing, taking 2 of his first 3 starts (at up to 20.5f). Ended campaign with disappointing fifth at Kempton but scored on his return last year and will be a danger to all if staying this longer trip. Progressive profile last season but being unraced beyond 2m4f isn't ideal.
8
7th (8) (7/1 +42%) Chasing Fire
7
7/1(+42%)
(8) Chasing Fire 7/1, Improved on hurdles efforts when making an impressive winning return/chasing debut in a novice at Uttoxeter this time last year and back to that sort of form when scoring at Perth (23.8f) in April. Asked a bigger question now but returns on a fair mark. First run over 3m when winning well at Perth and he's unexposed as a stayer.
12
8th (12) (20/1 -25%) Unanswered Prayers
20
20/1(-25%)
(12) Unanswered Prayers 20/1, Posted creditable second of 8 in handicap chase at Kempton (24f, good to soft) when last seen in May but hasn't scored since taking a novice handicap here 2 years ago and others look better treated. Just about stays 3m but today's stiffer stamina test could leave him vulnerable.
10
9th (10) (28/1 -75%) Kansas City Star
28
28/1(-75%)
(10) Kansas City Star 28/1, Having left Gordon Elliott, made a winning stable/chase debut at Huntingdon in January and left behind a poor run when successful at Plumpton in March. However, not been in same form since and others are more appealing. Unraced beyond 2m1f as a chaser; stays 2m4f but it's not hard to have doubts over this far.
13
|PU| (13) (13/2 +0%) Some Scope
6.5
13/2(+0%)
(13) Some Scope 13/2, Had a good first season over fences, winning on 2 of his 5 starts and ending campaign with creditable fourth of 14 in handicap chase at this course (26f, good) in April. Likely more to come this term. 6yo who surely has more to offer and lurks on a lovely weight here.
3
|PU| (3) (16/1 +27%) Vanillier
16
16/1(+27%)
(3) Vanillier 16/1, Albert Bartlett winner in 2021 who ran a cracker from a long way back when a strong-finishing second in 2023 Grand National. Largely disappointed last term, however, and it's been some time since he got his head in front. Former Grand National runner-up and unlikely to be fully wound up for this reappearance.
7
|PU| (7) (16/1 +84%) Escaria Ten
16
16/1(+84%)
(7) Escaria Ten 16/1, Formerly useful performer for Gordon Elliot but has gone backwards in recent seasons, including on debut for this yard in April, and is best watched. Down the field on stable debut here in April and has essentially lost his way.
5
|PU| (5) (20/1 -11%) Kinondo Kwetu
20
20/1(-11%)
(5) Kinondo Kwetu 20/1, Snapped a run of poor form when scoring at Uttoxeter and Worcester this summer and arrives on back of creditable second of 5 in handicap chase at Perth (23.8f, soft, 3/1) 31 days ago. Should give another good account but this is much more competitive. Has no recent wellbeing questions but this would be the highest mark he's won off.
9
|PU| (9) (28/1 -40%) Captain Morgs
28
28/1(-40%)
(9) Captain Morgs 28/1, Returned to form from out of the blue, after 3 months off, when scoring at Aintree (25f) in May. However, underlined his inconsistency when running badly at Worcester next time and his overall profile remains off-putting. Has had a breathing operation. Good ground is important but he's not the easiest to predict at the best of times; wind op.
14:20 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 2) 25f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Broadway Boy enjoyed a fine start to life over fences before his form tailed off in high-class company. He is likely to be ready to do himself justice on his return, but may face a couple of better-handicapped rivals. Senior Chief was well fancied for the Irish National, only to pull up, and is an interesting contender if handling quicker conditions. The vote, though, goes to SOME SCOPE, who won at Catterick and Doncaster before running with great credit when runner-up to Does He Know in the Grimthorpe and finishing fourth here on the New Course in April. The six-year-old doesn't appear to have reached his ceiling yet and appears set for another productive campaign.
PEPE LE MOKO has to prove his stamina over this longer trip but he returns on a fair mark and the likelihood is we haven't seen the best of him yet. He gets the nod. Broadway Boy has a fine record here and is feared most, whilst Some Scope and Senior Chief are also much respected.
Broadway Boy could be set for a good season but he'll need to be right on the ball to concede so much weight to SOME SCOPE (nap).
(3) The Wallpark 9/2, Smart hurdler who was faced with a different sort of test but still completed a hat-trick in 3-runner minor event at Galway (21.6f, good to soft) just under 7 weeks ago. Will have no issues with the extra distance and is one for the shortlist back in a handicap. Progressive 6yo who has won his last three races, including a big-field Listed handicap.
4
2nd (4) (7/1 +13%) Gowel Road
7
7/1(+13%)
(4) Gowel Road 7/1, Held his form well last season, posting creditable sixth of 22 in Pertemps Final (Handicap) at this course (24f, soft) when last seen 7 months ago, reportedly showing post-race heat stress. Tongue tie left off for return and no surprise to see another good run with yard flying. Failed to win last season but ran well in some good handicaps; returns on workable mark.
9
3rd (9) (9/2 +25%) Zain Nights
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(9) Zain Nights 9/2, Useful stayer on the Flat for Harry & Roger Charlton and fast heading that way over hurdles, making it 3 wins from 4 starts in handicaps in 16-runner event at Haydock (24.3f, good to firm) back in May. Remains unexposed at the trip and can continue improving this season. Took form to new level when upped to 3m in spring, winning three in a row; back from break.
13
4th (13) (22/1 -38%) Hardy Boy
22
22/1(-38%)
(13) Hardy Boy 22/1, Got off the mark for the season at Market Rasen in August and ran as well as he ever has when runner-up at Uttoxeter (23.3f, good to soft) just under 3 weeks ago, headed close home but pulling clear of rest. This a tougher assignment and he's 6 lb out of the weights. Won in good style at Market Rasen this summer but is 6lb out of the weights.
2
5th (2) (14/1 +0%) Beacon Edge
14
14/1(+0%)
(2) Beacon Edge 14/1, Seen to maximum effect when scoring at Ballinrobe in May and has held his form since, running well reverted to handicap company when fourth of 18 in listed event at Galway (22.5f, soft) in August. Proving consistent and should go well again back on these shores. Holds no secrets from the handicapper but was in good form in spring/summer; in the mix.
11
6th (11) (10/1 +38%) Como Park
10
10/1(+38%)
(11) Como Park 10/1, Showed improved form upped in trip to double his tally over hurdles at Bellewstown (24.5f, good to firm) in July. Unable to justify odds-on favouritism back on Flat at Killarney (16.8f, good to soft) since but this Irish raider warrants plenty of respect back hurdling (unexposed at trip). Useful Flat stayer who won over hurdles when upped to 3m at Bellewstown this summer.
5
7th (5) (9/1 +10%) Supreme Gift
9
9/1(+10%)
(5) Supreme Gift 9/1, Triple winner over hurdles in 2022/23 and made his second chase start a winning one last November. Below that level next 2 starts but fared better back hurdling, winning at Ascot in March before a good third to Zain Nights at this track (24f, good) when last seen 6 months ago. In the mix. Good third to Zain Nights here in April; contender if in similar form after break.
10
8th (10) (9/1 +25%) Idem
9
9/1(+25%)
(10) Idem 9/1, Posted a career best when readily bagging 15-runner handicap hurdle at Kelso (22.7f, good) in May and backed up that improvement shown returning from 5 months off when runner-up at Perth (23.9f, soft) recently, an error at the second last probably crucial. This tougher but can go well again. Up in grade today but ran well in defeat at Perth last month and remains unexposed over 3m.
8
9th (8) (33/1 -32%) Secret Trix
33
33/1(-32%)
(8) Secret Trix 33/1, Has won 5 times over hurdles since fitted with cheekpieces, resuming winning ways after a breathing operation at Uttoxeter (23.3f, soft) in July. Turned in a rare poor effort at Cartmel next time and offered little over fences at Newton Abbot (21f, good) last time. Quickly back hurdling. Career-best form when winning this summer but two very poor performances have followed.
1
10th (1) (11/1 -10%) Botox Has
11
11/1(-10%)
(1) Botox Has 11/1, Second success in Grade 2s last season when bounding clear in the Rendlesham at Haydock in February. Pulled up in Liverpool Hurdle next time, but not disgraced in a change of headgear when fifth to Impaire Et Passe in Select Hurdle at Sandown (21.5f, good) when last seen 6 months ago. Dual 3m Grade 2 winner last season; tough task under top weight but this C&D suits.
6
11th (6) (9/2 +40%) Al Gasparo
4.5
9/2(+40%)
(6) Al Gasparo 9/2, Useful hurdler who bolted up by 24 lengths in a maiden at Killarney in May and doubled his tally returned to that venue (17f, soft) in a novice just under 3 weeks ago, that track clearly suiting his running style. Upped to 3m for his handicap debut and likely has more to offer. 2-9 in novice maiden hurdles (2m-2m4f); 3m may unlock improvement on handicap debut.
12
12th (12) (50/1 +24%) Classic Concorde
50
50/1(+24%)
(12) Classic Concorde 50/1, Into the veteran stage of his career but thrived last season, winning 6 times, the latest coming in comfortable fashion at Chepstow in February. Bled at Uttoxeter the following month but back on song when seventh in a top-end Aintree handicap in April. Returns from 1 lb out of weights. Late-maturing 11yo who won six times last season; may find this race too hot, though.
14:55 Cheltenham Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
THE WALLPARK did it well when scoring in a hot Galway Festival handicap hurdle over an extended 2m6f, before giving weight and a beating to two useful rivals at the same course over a furlong shorter. With his stamina drawn out further here, the progressive six-year-old gets the vote to land the spoils, albeit off a career-high mark. Zain Nights was on target at Haydock when last seen in May and a 5lb rise doesn't discount another bold bid. Smart on his day, Botox Has also merits respect pitched back into handicap company.
A wide-open first Pertemps qualifier of the season in which the suggestion is ZAIN NIGHTS, who doesn't win by far but made it 3 victories from 4 starts in handicap hurdles at Haydock when last seen in the spring and Lucy Wadham's progressive 5-y-o can pick up from where he left off. Gordon Elliott sends a couple over from Ireland and his The Wallpark may emerge as the main threat, with Como Park, Gowel Road and Supreme Gift all having plenty going for them, too.
There may still be more to come from THE WALLPARK, who collected a good prize in the summer and can extend his winning run.
(5) Givemefive 7/2, Fair Flat winner in Ireland who made it 2 from 2 over hurdles for current yard at Warwick in January, before progressing again when second in the Adonis at Kempton. Below form at Fairyhouse in April, but with a recent Flat run behind him he can get back on track. Won two juvenile hurdles before going close in Grade 2 Adonis in February; major player.
4
2nd (4) (5/1 -11%) Dodger Long
5
5/1(-11%)
(4) Dodger Long 5/1, Fair form in bumpers and made second hurdles start a winning one in March. Has taken his form up a notch since returning for new trainer in August, making it back-to-back wins when scoring in good style in handicap at Chepstow 2 weeks ago. Not dismissed lightly. Drew nicely clear in Chepstow handicap this month and now 3-6 over hurdles; in the mix.
1
3rd (1) (5/6 +17%) Bottler'secret
0.833333
5/6(+17%)
(1) Bottler'secret 5/6, Progressive on the Flat for Ciaran Murphy and created good impression on yard/hurdles debut when winning a Grade 3 juvenile at Naas in February. Followed up at Fairyhouse, before a good second in Champion Juvenile Hurdle at Punchestown in May. Leading contender. Creditable second in Punchestown Grade 1 on latest outing in May; good chance here.
7
4th (7) (12/1 +14%) Royal Way
12
12/1(+14%)
(7) Royal Way 12/1, Winner on Flat in France and took very well to hurdling for new connections last season, scoring twice at Ludlow before completing the hat-trick in an Ascot handicap in March. Showed a good attitude last time and could do better still if ready to go on return. Kept on resolutely to win valuable juvenile handicap at Ascot in March on latest outing.
3
5th (3) (25/1 +38%) Balboa
25
25/1(+38%)
(3) Balboa 25/1, Fair maiden on Flat who opened account in juvenile hurdle at Chepstow a year ago. Best effort in handicap hurdles when runner-up at Ayr in April and creditable second back at Chepstow 2 weeks ago, though no match for Dodger Long. Has work to do. Held by Dodger Long on recent Chepstow form but largely consistent; not ruled out each-way.
2
6th (2) (11/1 +56%) An Bradan Feasa
11
11/1(+56%)
(2) An Bradan Feasa 11/1, Won juvenile event at Ballinrobe on hurdling debut (final start for Joseph O'Brien) last season and also successful here on second outing for Jack Jones. Didn't manage to kick on subsequently though, including when eighth in the Fred Winter in March. Others preferred. Twice ran well here towards end of 2023 but was not at same level after turn of the year.
6
7th (6) (33/1 +34%) Latin Verse
33
33/1(+34%)
(6) Latin Verse 33/1, Won twice over hurdles last season, including an impressive handicap success at Ludlow in February. Pulled up in the Fred Winter next time, but bounced back when second at Musselburgh in April. Has something to find here though, even with his recent run behind him. Shaped quite well when sixth at Chepstow last month but is not favoured by today's weights.
8
8th (8) (20/1 -25%) Hasten Slowly
20
20/1(-25%)
(8) Hasten Slowly 20/1, Fair Flat winner who displayed similar form when winning a Tramore maiden hurdle in August. Lesser effort back on the level next time, but after 7 weeks off she made a successful handicap hurdle debut at Punchestown 10 days ago. Merits consideration in receipt of weight. Won against own sex on recent handicap debut; more needed here; still not ruled out.
15:30 Cheltenham Conditions Hurdle (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
This can go to BOTTLER'SECRET, who readily got the better of Givemefive (fourth) when triumphant in a Fairyhouse Grade 2 back in the spring. Gavin Cromwell's charge looked a juvenile of considerable ability on that occasion, before confirming that promise when runner-up behind classy filly Kargese in a Grade 1 at the Punchestown Festival. Provided he is fully tuned up for his return to action, he should be good enough to successfully concede weight all round. Dodger Long and Royal Way are a couple of others to consider.
BOTTLER'SECRET has quickly developed into a useful hurdler, losing little in defeat when runner-up in the Champion Juvenile at Punchestown, so he is taken to pick up where he left off and make a winning return. Givemefive also made a bright start to his hurdling career and could be the main danger with a Flat run behind him, ahead of Hasten Slowly.
Grade 1 runner-up BOTTLER'SECRET is untested on ground quicker than yielding to soft but he's the one to beat.
(1) Hyland 9/2, Useful hurdler who made a winning start over fences in handicap at Southwell (20.4f, good) in June. Weakened out of contention in the closing stages at Uttoxeter since but it's early days for him in this sphere and he has a clear chance on these terms. Four-time hurdle winner; very good start to chasing career when eased-down winner in June.
6
2nd (6) (17/2 +15%) Transmission
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(6) Transmission 17/2, Irish import who did well in staying handicap hurdles after joining this yard last season, winning twice and placed twice from half-a-dozen appearances. Well beaten sole previous start over fences (when in the care of Colm Murphy) but he's surely capable of better in this sphere. Well beaten on last summer's chase debut but has done well over hurdles for new yard since.
4
3rd (4) (11/2 +31%) Moon D'orange
5.5
11/2(+31%)
(4) Moon D'orange 11/2, Winner of a novice hurdle during a short stint for Fergal O'Brien during the spring and shaped well on recent chase debut having rejoined former yard when third of 12 in a Punchestown maiden (16.6f, good). This trip will be more his bag and improvement could be on the way. Just a respectable third over 2m on recent chase debut but 3m suits him better.
5
4th (5) (15/8 +17%) Theatre Man
1.875
15/8(+17%)
(5) Theatre Man 15/8, Useful hurdler who took well to fences last term, placed in handicaps at Newbury and this course prior to falling early on when favourite for the Plate at the Festival. Probably best to draw a line through subsequent hurdles effort and bold show likely on return in first-time cheekpieces. 0-4 over fences last season but has strong claims if judged on 2m4f second here in January.
3
5th (3) (8/1 -33%) Bowtogreatness
8
8/1(-33%)
(3) Bowtogreatness 8/1, Successful on 2 of his 4 starts over hurdles and has twice performed with great credit in valuable handicaps in this sphere, including when third in the Coral Trophy at Kempton (3m, soft). Below that level both starts since, though, and record over fences now stands at 0-11. Placed in major handicap in February but is 0-11 over the fences over the last two seasons.
2
|F| (2) (7/2 -17%) Yeats Star
3.5
7/2(-17%)
(2) Yeats Star 7/2, Save for a poor effort in the Martin Pipe at the Festival, he didn't do anything wrong over hurdles last season. Perfect start to chase career when landing a 6-runner Listowel maiden (2¾m, soft) last month and his yard has saddled 2 of the last 4 winners of this race. Useful handicap hurdler who won Listowel beginners' chase last month; respected.
16:05 Cheltenham Maiden Chase (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Useful over hurdles, Hyland made a successful start over fences at Southwell in June and really should be capable of better than he showed when he was last-but-one in a five-runner handicap at Uttoxeter subsequently. He's undoubtedly a player, but the concession of 5lb to fellow unexposed chaser THEATRE MAN could be crucial. Richard Bandey's eight-year-old shades preference with first-time cheekpieces added for this drop back down in class. Irish raider Yeats Star appeals as the pick of the remainder.
Cases can be made for each member of the sextet but THEATRE MAN is the one with the most persuasive claims. Indeed, he was a solid second to Ginny's Destiny (twice placed in Grade 1 company since) in the Timeform Novices' Handicap Chase in January, which is the best chase form on offer here. Yeats Star made a smooth transition to the larger obstacles at Listowel and he is feared most ahead of fellow Irish raider Moon d'Orange and Hyland.
He signed off on a low note in the spring but THEATRE MAN began his chasing career with three very promising runs last autumn/winter.
(4) Block Rockin Beats 14/1, Winner of a maiden point in Ireland in March. Bought for £28,000 in May. The stable gets the odd bumper winner but might be best watched this time. Beat just two other finishers to win his point but the runner-up went in by 20l next time.
9
2nd (9) (5/1 +9%) Fortune De Mer
5
5/1(+9%)
(9) Fortune De Mer 5/1, Bought for £105,000 after finishing runner-up on his completed start in Irish points (Apr 20). Has joined a top stable and would firmly enter the reckoning if the betting speaks in his favour. Runner-up in his second Irish point and has since joined top yard for £105,000.
3
3rd (3) (25/1 -108%) Cloudy View
25
25/1(-108%)
(3) Cloudy View 25/1, Made a winning debut for Paul Collins at Uttoxeter in July. Bettered that form under a penalty when going down by only a neck at Sedgefield for Adrian Keatley last month. Tongue tie added. Not discounted. First and second so far but this is a big step up from Sedgefield last time.
1
4th (1) (14/1 -27%) Not So Sobers
14
14/1(-27%)
(1) Not So Sobers 14/1, Promise at Market Rasen in the spring, second on debut before going one better 6 weeks later. Will need an improved performance to defy a penalty in this stronger race, though. Solid start in Market Rasen bumpers but this is tougher and he's penalised.
14
5th (14) (22/1 -57%) Rubber Ball
22
22/1(-57%)
(14) Rubber Ball 22/1, Won sole start in Irish points (Apr 28). Worth a market check having joined a stable no stranger to bumper success. Sluiced through the field to win going away by 4l in a 3m Irish point in April.
2
6th (2) (5/2 +0%) The Dancing Tree
2.5
5/2(+0%)
(2) The Dancing Tree 5/2, Ran out an easy winner of a heavy-ground bumper at Limerick on his Rules debut in January. Open to improvement and likely to have a big say for an Irish yard with a strong Cheltenham record. Point third reads well and he then came out on top in sprint finish to bumper at Limerick.
15
7th (15) (22/1 -57%) Everest
22
22/1(-57%)
(15) Everest 22/1, Kayf Tara mare who was a promising second of 11 on her Southwell debut (2m, good to soft) in June. May do better. Couldn't match an Alan King newcomer at Southwell but ran well.
10
8th (10) (66/1 -32%) Kashchei
66
66/1(-32%)
(10) Kashchei 66/1, Third in bumpers 5 months apart but hasn't achieved enough to think he can be competitive in this warmer race. Open to improvement in the tongue-tie but likely to need some.
8
9th (8) (80/1 -60%) Aeroplane Blonde
80
80/1(-60%)
(8) Aeroplane Blonde 80/1, 13/2, offered something to work on when third of 7 in bumper at Newcastle (17f, heavy) on debut back in April, outpaced 2f out before keeping on gradually. Will need to leave that bare form well behind to get heavily involved here, though. Hood goes on. Some 16l off the winner when third at Newcastle on heavy ground; now hooded.
7
10th (7) (9/4 +59%) Seatoit
2.25
9/4(+59%)
(7) Seatoit 9/4, Reached the frame in 2 Irish bumpers at the end of last year, finishing runner-up at Punchestown latterly. Changed hands for £120,000 in January. Interesting new recruit for Kim Bailey, who won this race last year. Two good bumper runs in Ireland and it took £120,000 to take him to Kim Bailey's.
5
11th (5) (9/1 +18%) Jager Time
9
9/1(+18%)
(5) Jager Time 9/1, Third on only start in Irish points in January. His stable has a good record in this race (3 wins since 2017) so it'll be interesting to see what the betting makes of him. Promising run in an Irish point and stable usually runs a good one in this.
12
12th (12) (80/1 -21%) Osterberg
80
80/1(-21%)
(12) Osterberg 80/1, Idaho gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Classic Escape. The stable's 3-84 record in bumpers in the last 5 seasons doesn't mark him down as the likely winner of this. 6,000euros foal; half-brother to 2m5f hurdle/3m1f chase winner Classic Escape.
11
13th (11) (25/1 -108%) Let Me Go Boys
25
25/1(-108%)
(11) Let Me Go Boys 25/1, Purchased for £82,000 after finishing runner-up in an Irish point in February. The betting should help guide to expectations on Rules debut. Bought for £82,000 after going close in a 2m4f Irish point on yielding ground in February.
13
14th (13) (100/1 -203%) Pougie
100
100/1(-203%)
(13) Pougie 100/1, Dartmouth gelding. Half-brother to 3 winners, including useful hurdler Bardenstown Lad and fairly useful hurdler/chaser Southern Sam. Bred to have a future but a watching brief is advised this time. 13th foal; half-brother to winners but probably for one further down the line.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
THE DANCING TREE impressed with an emphatic win in a bumper at Limerick on his debut under Rules in January and, having been given plenty of time to strengthen up, the five-year-old is an attractive proposition for a yard that has hit the ground running for the upcoming autumn/winter campaign. The betting should be informative, however, and the likes of Seatoit, Cloudy View and Everest are all notable types to carefully monitor for signs of support.
THE DANCING TREE created a good impression in a Limerick bumper at the start of the year and is taken to defy a penalty on his return to action. Kim Bailey won this race last season and his new recruit Seatoit rates an obvious danger. Fortune de Mer and Jager Time, whose stable has a good record in this, showed promise in points and would also enter the reckoning should the betting vibes be strong.
Most of these have confirmed themselves quite useful but SEATOIT has the ability and potential to go up a level.
Racecard Key
Ths is the racecard key.
Icon
Meaning
TomForm top stats, gold rated
TomForm top stats silver rated
Ran similar race before
S
TomForm fatstest rated speed horse, last time out
T
Top Time speeed rated
Top Racingpost rated
At the races watchout for
At the races top pick
Top rated for thet statistic
How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
About U.K Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
The most famous horse racing event in the UK is the Grand National, which is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is a jump racing event that is known for its challenging course and has become a national institution in the UK. Other notable horse racing events in the UK include the Derby, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, and the Royal Ascot, held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
Horse racing in the UK is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which sets rules and standards for the industry. It is responsible for the welfare of racehorses and the safety of jockeys and trainers, as well as ensuring fair and transparent racing practices.
In addition to its economic and cultural importance, horse racing in the UK also plays a significant role in the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses. Many of the world's top thoroughbreds are bred and trained in the UK, and the industry plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Overall, horse racing is an integral part of British culture and a major contributor to the country's economy. It is a thrilling and exciting sport that continues to attract a loyal following and generate significant interest from spectators and bettors around the world.
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