1 Saturday 18th January 2025 UK Horse Racing Speed Ratings & Tips

Tomform Saturday 18th January 2025

There were 44 Races on Saturday 18th January 2025 across 6 meetings. There was 7 races at Navan, 7 races at Haydock, 7 races at Ascot, 7 races at Taunton, 9 races at Wolverhampton, 7 races at Lingfield, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.

Races & Results Saturday 18th January 2025

The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.

11:15 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 5f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

11:45 Lingfield Stakes (Class 2) 7f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

12:00 Navan Maiden Hurdle 16f - 5 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (9/2 -29%) James's Gate	4.5 9/2(-29%)	(3) James's Gate 9/2, Made light of a 19-month absence when scoring in smooth fashion in 19-runner maiden (6/1) at Punchestown (19.1f, soft) 39 days ago, easily. Open to further improvement. Early promise for Willie Mullins, reportedly fragile, has got his career back on track.
2 2nd (2) (4/1 -33%) C'est Ta Chance	4 4/1(-33%)	(2) C'est Ta Chance 4/1, Fairly useful in bumpers and looked potentially useful when winning 18-runner maiden hurdle at Clonmel (19.4f, soft) 46 days ago, kept up to work. Open to improvement. Odds-on maiden winner at Clonmel, plenty of room for improvement on his jumping..
4 3rd (4) (10/3 +39%) Taponthego	3.333333 10/3(+39%)	(4) Taponthego 10/3, Confirmed hurdling debut promise when scoring at Tipperary in November and ran at least as well when second on 12 on handicap debut at Leopardstown (19.8f) 20 days ago, albeit no match for winner. Likely to give another good account. Second in a 2m4f Leopardstown handicap after Christmas, may find this trip too sharp.
1 4th (1) (2/1 +27%) Ballygunner Castle	2 2/1(+27%)	(1) Ballygunner Castle 2/1, Dual bumper winner who did well to make a successful hurdling debut in 25-runner maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse (16f, good) on hurdles bow 49 days ago, rallying having twice suffered interference in closing stages. Sure to go on to better things. Dual bumper winner, overcame adversities to win on hurdling debut, a smart prospect.
5 5th (5) (7/1 -100%) Casheldale Lad	7 7/1(-100%)	(5) Casheldale Lad 7/1, Won maiden sole start on Flat for Andrew Kinirons and followed up in 17-runner maiden at Gowran (2m) 14 months later, drawing clear from 2 out. Will improve. Won only Flat start, gave a strong front-running display on his hurdling debut at Gowran.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

The lightly-raced JAMES'S GATE finished third in the 2022 Champion Bumper and showed nice ability in winning last month. He shaped OK last season before winning well at Punchestown, with the third and fourth scoring subsequently. He looks fragile but can better his 127 rating. Ballygunner Castle did really well to win having been badly hampered twice at Fairyhouse in November. That form is not outstanding, but the manner in which he recovered was very encouraging. Stablemate C'est Ta Chance takes his chance, despite dropping in distance, having briefly been outpaced when winning over 2m3f at Clonmel. Taponthego has good recent handicap form, while Casheldale Lad steps up from an easy maiden hurdle win.

BALLYGUNNER CASTLE did well to make a successful hurdling debut at Fairyhouse towards the end of November having been forced to overcome 2 serious bits of interference in the closing stages and, open to plenty of improvement, is fancied to take his record to 2 wins from as many starts in this sphere. Casheldale Lad and James's Gate are feared most but solid cases can be made for any of the 5.

Not much went right for BALLYGUNNER CASTLE at Fairyhouse and his winning performance can be upgraded to earn selection

12:10 Haydock Handicap Chase (Class 4) 20f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (10/3 +5%) Margaret's Legacy	3.333333 10/3(+5%)	(1) Margaret's Legacy 10/3, Ex-French chaser who's won 2 of his last 3 starts, including on return/debut for this yard at Southwell last month, landing a gamble in the process. Remains of interest. Won by 6l on last month's stable debut at Southwell and could still be well treated up 6lb.
5 2nd (5) (6/1 +0%) Ned Tanner	6 6/1(+0%)	(5) Ned Tanner 6/1, Dual chase winner at Kelso as a novice. Progress stalled last season but back on track fitted with headgear/tongue tie when scoring over C&D late last month. Capable of remaining competitive up 4 lb. Won over C&D last month in new headgear and remains well handicapped back up 4lb.
8 3rd (8) (33/1 +0%) Nine Nine Nine	33 33/1(+0%)	(8) Nine Nine Nine 33/1, Won twice at Leicester last season and better for return when third there 3 weeks ago. Will find this tough from out of the handicap, however. Two wins early last year but he's 5lb out of the handicap in this warm race.
6 4th (6) (14/1 +30%) Roger Rarebit	14 14/1(+30%)	(6) Roger Rarebit 14/1, Made a winning seasonal/chase debut at Uttoxeter (20f, heavy) 14 months ago. Seen only 4 times thereafter, though back to best after 8 months off when second at Warwick 5 weeks ago. Not sure to build on that, however. Reappeared with encouraging second and this 2m4f heavy-ground winner could be a contender.
2 5th (2) (10/1 -67%) Heros	10 10/1(-67%)	(2) Heros 10/1, Started his chase career with a brace of 18f wins at Taunton and back to his best when second at Wetherby/and this C&D last 2 starts. Can go well fresh so not taken lightly on return. Absent since runner-up over C&D last March but has won when fresh in the past; a possible.
3 6th (3) (9/2 +18%) Taras Halls	4.5 9/2(+18%)	(3) Taras Halls 9/2, Bumper winner who was winless over hurdles but decent start over larger obstacles, off the mark at Uttoxeter 18 days ago. Margin of victory that day probably flatters him, however, so more needed to defy 10 lb rise. Won by 15l at Uttoxeter on New Year's Eve and a 10lb rise may not stop him.
4 \|F\| (4) (2/1 +0%) No No Tango	2 2/1(+0%)	(4) No No Tango 2/1, Hasn't stood much racing of late but seems sure to make up for lost time judging by his impressive winning start for his up-and-coming yard at Wincanton last month. Sure to progress and win more races. Cosily made all on last month's stable debut and he's firmly in calculations up 8lb.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

NO NO TANGO readily accounted for a subsequent winner when scoring on his debut for Harry Derham at Wincanton last month. This is a competitive event and an 8lb rise is a concern, but it would be no surprise to see the eight-year-old earn another victory here. Taras Halls also won impressively when last seen and could prove to be the main danger, although Margaret's Legacy and Ned Tanner should not be discounted.

NO NO TANGO made light of a 13-month absence to justify strong support in good style starting out for this yard at Wincanton 6 weeks ago and shades the vote over Margaret's Legacy, who also landed a gamble for a new stable when making a winning comeback at Southwell. Ned Tanner responded well to headgear/tongue strap when taking advantage of his reduced mark over C&D late last month and is best of the others.

Having made all in convincing fashion at Wincanton last month, NO NO TANGO is taken to make it 2-2 for Harry Derham.

12:15 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 6f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

12:30 Ascot Conditions Hurdle (Class 3) 16f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (4/5 -60%) Lulamba	0.8 4/5(-60%)	(1) Lulamba 4/5, Very much bred for hurdling and created a good impression when off the mark in a 16-runner juvenile at Auteuil 3 months ago. Has been picked up by top connections since and looks a major player in this with promise of lots more to come. Won his only French start; already favourite for the Triumph Hurdle; bright prospect.
4 2nd (4) (15/8 +32%) Mondo Man	1.875 15/8(+32%)	(4) Mondo Man 15/8, Smart on Flat in France, (stays 1½m), best effort when fifth in Prix du Jockey Club, down the field in another Group 1 last time. Sold from P. & J. Brandt €520,000 in October, then gelded ahead of this eagerly-awaited hurdles debut. Very useful on Flat; commands respect, assuming his ability is transferred to hurdles.
3 3rd (3) (9/1 +10%) Viyanni	9 9/1(+10%)	(3) Viyanni 9/1, Fair form on Flat, improved when scoring on handicap debut at Bellewstown (14.5f, good) in July. Left John Patrick Murtagh and gelded/tongue tied, he made a winning hurdles debut in 5-runner contest at Market Rasen last month. Sure to progress. Incurs 6lb penalty for Market Rasen success but is open to further progress.
5 4th (5) (150/1 -20%) Ocean Conquest	150 150/1(-20%)	(5) Ocean Conquest 150/1, Lightly-raced winner at up to 1m on the Flat but it is a little concerning he was solid for just 9,000 gns out of M. D. O'Callaghan's yard and made little impact on hurdles debut following 15 months off at Cheltenham last month. Trailed home last of seven at Cheltenham; others have stronger claims.
6 5th (6) (28/1 -100%) St Pancras	28 28/1(-100%)	(6) St Pancras 28/1, Fairly useful handicapper on Flat (stays 1¾m), successful twice in 2024, including final outing. Sold from Martyn Meade 95,000 gns later in October and has had a breathing op ahead of this hurdles debut. Fairly useful on Flat (scored easily last time); type to do well in juvenile hurdles.
2 6th (2) (14/1 +30%) Moutarde	14 14/1(+30%)	(2) Moutarde 14/1, Fair Flat winner in Ireland for Gavin Cromwell and has started well over hurdles, doubling his tally in this discipline at Taunton 19 days ago. Lacks the potential of some of his rivals, however. 2-4 for new stable but faces a stiffer task under big penalty in this field.
7 7th (7) (100/1 -203%) Wyld Bill	100 100/1(-203%)	(7) Wyld Bill 100/1, Half-brother to fair hurdler Charles St (21f winner, by Outstrip). Down the field in 1m maiden on first of 2 starts on Flat for Michael Bell, amiss when pulled up next time. Hurdles debutant who needs to improve markedly on his two Flat efforts.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

There has been a fair amount of support for LULAMBA in the ante-post market for the Triumph Hurdle since the turn of the year, as he won his only start at Auteuil in October. Nicky Henderson boasts a terrific record with juveniles over the years and this may be another potential star recruit following on from Sir Gino last season. Mondo Man finished fifth in the Prix du Jockey Club and brings a strong level of Flat form to the table, while Viyanni and St Pancras complete the shortlist.

Having been snapped up by a leading owner following a winning debut in France, LULAMBA has been backed into Triumph Hurdle favouritism and, open to lots of progress, hopes have to be high that he will remain unbeaten. This looks a cracking contest though, with Mondo Man a €520,000 recruit from the Flat, and Viyanni open to plenty of improvement, too.

The word is out regarding ex-French LULAMBA, whose Triumph Hurdle odds collapsed last week. Mondo Man is feared most.

12:35 Navan Maiden Hurdle 20f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (16/1 0%) Jacob's Ladder	16 16/1(0%)	(4) Jacob's Ladder 16/1, Fairly useful winner at 17f in bumpers. Fifth of 17 in novice hurdle (14/1) at Leopardstown (16f, good) on hurdles bow 23 days ago. Will improve with this trip sure to suit. Tailed off at Punchestown in November and only minor promise on hurdling bow; must improve.
3 2nd (3) (6/5 +31%) Forty Coats	1.2 6/5(+31%)	(3) Forty Coats 6/5, Bumper winner. Promising type. 7/4, second of 19 in novice hurdle at Punchestown (19.1f, soft) 39 days ago. Open to improvement. Runner-up to the now Grade 1-placed Wingmen on hurdling bow; second again latest; player.
9 3rd (9) (16/1 +60%) Smooth Scotch	16 16/1(+60%)	(9) Smooth Scotch 16/1, Fair hurdler. Fifth of 15 in novice hurdle at Down Royal (20.1f, good to soft, 12/1) 23 days ago. Placed in three maiden hurdles in spring of 2022; respectable 5th at Down Royal last month.
5 4th (5) (11/8 +8%) Kainsbourg	1.375 11/8(+8%)	(5) Kainsbourg 11/8, Promising individual. 15/8, first run since leaving Francois Nicolle when second of 18 in novice hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) on IRE NH debut 23 days ago. Up in trip. Sets a good standard with promise of more to come. Can improve for step up in trip after Irish/hurdles debut 2nd over at Limerick last month.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Point-to-point winner FORTY COATS has shown consistent form in his career and seems nicely suited by this distance. A bumper winner last April, he chased home a subsequent Grade 1 third here in November and ran a solid race at Punchestown last month, finishing ahead of two subsequent maiden hurdle victors. Kainsbourg won two French bumpers - the latter coming at Grade 3 level - before selling for 355,000 euros in November 2023. It was therefore disappointing that he failed to win at Limerick over Christmas, but he still ran well and today's extra distance might help. Did I Ask You That was well held behind a subsequent Grade 2 winner at Punchestown in November.

KAINSBOURG will need to settle better to see it out over this trip but he's got more than his share of ability and is fancied to build on his opening second over hurdles. Forty Coats and Did I Ask You That head the opposition.

FORTY COATS chased home Wingmen over C&D on his return in November and that's arguably the strongest piece of form on offer here

12:45 Haydock Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) 16f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
6 1st (6) (8/1 +20%) Bertie's Ballet	8 8/1(+20%)	(6) Bertie's Ballet 8/1, Back on track lately and enhanced a solid track record when third in first-time cheekpieces here last time. Should make his presence felt again. Runner-up over C&D two starts ago; possible player despite lesser run over C&D since.
3 2nd (3) (7/1 -17%) Lario	7 7/1(-17%)	(3) Lario 7/1, Winner of his completed start over hurdles for Anthony Charlton last winter and generally positive start for this yard, back on track when third at Sandown last time. One to consider after a break. Reappeared with fair third at Sandown in November and is in good hands to progress.
2 3rd (2) (7/2 +36%) Spirits Bay	3.5 7/2(+36%)	(2) Spirits Bay 7/2, Did well last season, winning novice and handicap hurdle over 17f at Exeter. Made encouraging comeback when fifth of 14 at Cheltenham (16.8f, good to soft) 20 days ago, making big move from rear to head chasing pack (winner had flown), tired late on. Should build on that and is very much respected. Two wins at Exeter early last year and may have needed his reappearance run at Cheltenham.
4 4th (4) (16/1 -33%) Ninth Loch	16 16/1(-33%)	(4) Ninth Loch 16/1, Bumper winner for Willie Mullins prior to winning 3 times over hurdles for N. George & A. Zetterholm in France, showing fairly useful form. Claimed for €21,506 and has joined a yard that has an excellent record with new recruits. Interesting contender. Won at Auteuil in November; has moved to up-and-coming British yard; interesting contender.
5 5th (5) (9/1 -64%) Coniston George	9 9/1(-64%)	(5) Coniston George 9/1, Maiden/novice hurdle winner who has recorded good in-frame efforts in all 4 handicaps, fourth at Doncaster on latest. Should give another good account and may not have reached his limit. Has run well in defeat on all four handicap starts and could be thereabouts once more.
8 6th (8) (66/1 -65%) Rewired	66 66/1(-65%)	(8) Rewired 66/1, Won 2m handicaps at Doncaster and Taunton last winter but below that level more recently, failing to beat a rival over C&D last time. Others preferred. Won off 5lb higher last February but struggled to get competitive in second half of 2024.
7 7th (7) (11/8 +31%) Oh My Johnny	1.375 11/8(+31%)	(7) Oh My Johnny 11/8, Had the race at his mercy when falling at the last at Bangor on penultimate start but made amends at Uttoxeter (15.8f, soft) 25 days ago, led on bridle home straight, pushed out near finish, easily. Opening mark could be lenient and he's the one to beat Put in clear round to win readily at Uttoxeter and has potential off his opening mark.
1 8th (1) (12/1 +52%) Pembroke	12 12/1(+52%)	(1) Pembroke 12/1, Useful novice chaser last term but form dipped towards the end of the season and he hasn't fired back over hurdles since returning. Dropping down the weights but has failed to finish better than sixth this season.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

OH MY JOHNNY made amends for a final-flight departure when leading two starts ago with an impressive success over 2m at Uttoxeter last time. Now switched to handicaps, the five-year-old may be underestimated by an opening mark of 116. Any market support for Ninth Loch on his debut for this yard would have to be noted, while Bertie's Ballet is likely to be in the mix based on two encouraging C&D efforts last month.

OH MY JOHNNY had the race at his mercy when falling at Bangor on his penultimate run and the form has worked out very well. He quickly made amends at Uttoxeter and is fancied to follow up from what could be a generous opening mark. Lario is a threat and Spirits Bay needs considering having shaped better than the result in a competitive affair at Cheltenham last time.

This can go to OH MY JOHNNY, who comfortably won a maiden hurdle at Uttoxeter last month and looks to be on a good mark.

12:50 Lingfield Handicap (Class 3) 8f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

12:55 Taunton Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 19f - 12 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
11 1st (11) (10/3 -122%) Just A Rose	3.333333 10/3(-122%)	(11) Just A Rose 10/3, Won sole start in points (Dec 2023) and she's a hurdling debutante to note for top stable. Bought for £175,000 soon after winning point debut in December 2023; makes rules debut.
3 2nd (3) (16/1 +0%) Five Quarters	16 16/1(+0%)	(3) Five Quarters 16/1, €13,000 3-y-o, 25,000 gns 4-y-o, Shantou gelding. Dam, little impact in bumpers/failed to complete sole start over hurdles, half-sister to very smart hurdler (stayed 3m) Clondaw Warrior. Runner-up sole start in points (Dec 1). Second in a maiden point on last month's debut; faces a tougher assignment here.
8 3rd (8) (16/1 -33%) Seymourjohn	16 16/1(-33%)	(8) Seymourjohn 16/1, Off mark in points at fourth attempt but couldn't make that experience count switched to Rules when second in 3-runner bumper at Exeter in November. More needed now switching to hurdles. Maiden point winner; well-held second of three in Exeter on rules debut in November.
9 4th (9) (11/2 +8%) Stone's Throw	5.5 11/2(+8%)	(9) Stone's Throw 11/2, Debut bumper winner for Paul Webber. Failed to progress from an encouraging hurdling debut when fourth in 14-runner novice at Uttoxeter (15.8f, heavy) 19 days ago, but remains with potential now stepping up in trip. Fair form when making the frame on both hurdling starts; ought to be in the shake-up here.
7 5th (7) (7/1 -27%) Roman Roy	7 7/1(-27%)	(7) Roman Roy 7/1, Promise in a couple of bumpers last winter and only modest form so far in novice hurdles at Plumpton, his finishing effort lacking when turned over at short odds in 4-runner novice at Plumpton in November. Since had a breathing operation. Turned over at skinny odds in two Plumpton hurdles in autumn; had wind op since.
10 6th (10) (250/1 -150%) Clashmore Banter	250 250/1(-150%)	(10) Clashmore Banter 250/1, Unpromising in Irish points and makes little appeal on this switch to Rules. Second on Irish point debut but her other three runs in that sphere were not encouraging.
6 7th (6) (5/4 +55%) Noahsgreatrainbow	1.25 5/4(+55%)	(6) Noahsgreatrainbow 5/4, Made a likeable winning debut in bumper at Wincanton on Boxing Day and ran a fine race when second in listed contest at Newbury in February. However, rather worryingly was found to have bled on Sandown hurdle debut. Should be capable of much better. Useful in bumpers last season and had excuse (bled) when disappointing on hurdle debut.
12 8th (12) (250/1 -150%) Lyness Dancer	250 250/1(-150%)	(12) Lyness Dancer 250/1, Behind both starts in point bumpers and well held in bumper/novice hurdle under Rules. Well beaten on both starts under rules (bumper/2m4f hurdle) and can't be recommended.
1 \|U\| (1) (33/1 -106%) Aeroplane Blonde	33 33/1(-106%)	(1) Aeroplane Blonde 33/1, Improved on debut form in a first-time hood when ninth of 14 in bumper (80/1) at Cheltenham (16.4f, good) 84 days ago. Should have a future over hurdles. Displayed minor promise in both bumpers but probably best watched on rules debut.
4 \|PU\| (4) (150/1 -50%) Grand Sabre	150 150/1(-50%)	(4) Grand Sabre 150/1, No great shakes in a couple of bumpers and has offered little both starts over hurdles. A well-beaten 200-1 shot on his first two hurdling starts (2m/2m3f).
5 \|PU\| (5) (150/1 -50%) Granemore Road	150 150/1(-50%)	(5) Granemore Road 150/1, Pulled up both starts in points but hinted at ability on Warwick hurdling debut 58 days ago. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Shaped with promise before weakening on rules debut; not ruled out each-way.
2 \|PU\| (2) (300/1 -50%) Eric Gorcombe	300 300/1(-50%)	(2) Eric Gorcombe 300/1, No show in points and was pulled up on Exeter hurdling debut 17 days ago. Pulled up when 200-1 for recent rules debut.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

JUST A ROSE was the ready winner of her solitary appearance in a point-to-point and having subsequently changed hands for 175,000 pounds, she is an obvious starting point on her debut for the powerful Paul Nicholls yard. The betting should be informative, however, and any notable support for the likes of Noahsgreatrainbow, Roman Roy and Stone's Throw could prove to be significant given they all have previous Rules/hurdles experience to draw upon.

STONE'S THROW has shaped with promise on both hurdle starts to date and, with the step up in trip promising to trigger improvement, he's taken to make it third time lucky in this sphere. Just A Rose is a noteworthy Rules newcomer having joined Paul Nicholls after winning her sole outing in points, with Noahsgreatrainbow surely capable of appreciably better based on his bumper form.

Another chance is readily given to NOAHSGREATRAINBOW, who flopped on his hurdle debut but looked promising in bumpers last season.

13:05 Ascot Handicap Chase (Class 3) 24f - 5 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
5 1st (5) (3/1 -9%) In D'or	3 3/1(-9%)	(5) In D'or 3/1, French-import who was a wide-margin winner of a handicap hurdle at Ludlow in March. Improved for the switch to fences when making a winning return at Taunton and has more to come in this sphere. Made all in clearcut style on chase debut at Taunton (upped to 3m) latest; more to offer.
6 2nd (6) (15/8 +6%) Rockinastorm	1.875 15/8(+6%)	(6) Rockinastorm 15/8, Winless over hurdles but quickly set the record straight over fences last term, gaining a third victory at Ludlow (23.8f) in February. Improved again this season, winning last 2 starts at Ludlow and Wetherby, jumping well from the front. Likely to make another bold bid. 5-10 in chases, including wins on his last two outings; looks set for another bold show.
4 3rd (4) (7/2 +13%) Unanswered Prayers	3.5 7/2(+13%)	(4) Unanswered Prayers 7/2, Resumed winning ways at Fontwell in November and backed it up with a solid third of 10 in handicap chase at Sandown (28.7f, soft) 6 weeks ago. Ought to be thereabouts off the same mark. Back down in trip today but needs respect as an in-form contender in small field.
1 4th (1) (17/2 +0%) Annsam	8.5 17/2(+0%)	(1) Annsam 17/2, Well held over hurdles both starts this term but he returns to fences on a winning mark so not taken lightly over a C&D he has won at. Usually needs a run or two to gain fitness, so could return to form back over fences today.
2 5th (2) (11/1 +8%) Kitty's Light	11 11/1(+8%)	(2) Kitty's Light 11/1, Scottish National/bet 365 Gold Cup hero in 2022/23 and an excellent fifth in Grand National last term. Well held all 4 runs so far this season, though, and others appeal more on this occasion. Headgear re-fitted. Down the weights but this trip now looks too short; this winter's low profile may continue.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

IN D'OR was a useful type over hurdles last season and looked to have improved when making a successful chasing bow at Taunton in November. The seven-year-old is in the right hands to progress further and gets the vote ahead of the hat-trick seeking Rockinastorm, who went up 3lb for scoring at Wetherby last month. Unanswered Prayers didn't quite get home over 3m5f in the London National at Sandnown, but that was a commendable effort and he isn't discounted dropping in trip.

ANNSAM has been stuffed over hurdles this term but he returns to chasing on a winning mark at a track that suits, so could be worth chancing. Progressive pair In d'Or and Rockinastorm are obvious threats.

The leading players all go well from the front but ROCKINASTORM does not have to lead and can improve his admirable strike-rate again.

13:10 Navan Handicap Hurdle 20f - 19 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
18 1st (18) (12/1 -60%) Music Of Tara	12 12/1(-60%)	(18) Music Of Tara 12/1, Good fourth of 19 in 2m5f handicap chase at Navan last month. Switches from chase to hurdles. First run for yard after leaving Henry De Bromhead. Enters calculations. 6lb lower than chase mark on return to hurdling; first start for Gordon Elliott; respected.
19 2nd (19) (6/1 +50%) Blaze The Way	6 6/1(+50%)	(19) Blaze The Way 6/1, 16/1, career best when winning 18-runner handicap hurdle at this course (25f, good to soft) 34 days ago, well on top finish. A likely player despite 7 lb weights rise. 7lb hike to contend with but should be bang there again if he handles the drop in trip.
11 3rd (11) (3/1 +75%) Thecompanysergeant	3 3/1(+75%)	(11) Thecompanysergeant 3/1, Course winner. Creditable 10½ lengths fourth of 9 to Gorgeous Tom in Gr 3 chase at Cork (20f, good, 10/1) 76 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. First run for yard after leaving Denis Hogan and in the mix. Off the mark over fences at Galway; fair mark back hurdling on 1st start for in-form yard.
20 4th (20) (9/1 -80%) Koori Star	9 9/1(-80%)	(20) Koori Star 9/1, Lightly-raced winner over hurdles. 16/1, creditable fourth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 21 days ago. Needs considering. Travelled well for a long way when fourth at Leopardstown; drop to this trip is a plus.
14 5th (14) (20/1 +20%) Raglan Road	20 20/1(+20%)	(14) Raglan Road 20/1, Winner in hurdle at Naas in March. 18/1, pulled up in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (23.8f, heavy), dropping away approaching 3 out. Off 9 months. Tongue strap on 1st time. Others more persuasive. This trip will suit better but all of his form is on soft or heavy; may need the run.
12 6th (12) (14/1 +30%) Barry Lyndon	14 14/1(+30%)	(12) Barry Lyndon 14/1, Latest win in hurdle at Bellewstown in August. Good sixth of 24 in handicap hurdle (18/1) at Fairyhouse (20.2f, good) 49 days ago. Getting better with each recent run. Ran well off this mark when sixth of 24 at Fairyhouse; drying ground a positive.
7 6th (7) (28/1 -40%) Any Road	28 28/1(-40%)	(7) Any Road 28/1, 1 win from 3 runs this season. Pulled up in handicap hurdle (22/1) at Leopardstown (19.8f, good) 20 days ago, pulled up soon after start. Others have achieved more. Recent winner shaped well in two previous handicaps off lower marks and could go well.
6 8th (6) (28/1 +15%) Shadow Rider	28 28/1(+15%)	(6) Shadow Rider 28/1, 50/1, below form thirteenth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (19.8f, good) 20 days ago, very slowly away. Merits consideration if back on his A-game. Good run on reappearance over hurdles at Punchestown but failed to fire at Leopardstown.
13 9th (13) (14/1 +58%) Open To Question	14 14/1(+58%)	(13) Open To Question 14/1, Creditable seventh of 20 in handicap hurdle (25/1) at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 21 days ago, faring best of those held up. Blinkers back on and one to consider. Ballinrobe maiden hurdle winner has failed to make much of an impact in handicaps since.
8 10th (8) (8/1 +33%) No Looking Back	8 8/1(+33%)	(8) No Looking Back 8/1, 31¾ lengths fourth of 7 to Brighterdaysahead in Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown (16.7f, soft, 200/1) 56 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut with more needed. Set some stiff tasks; fair effort behind Brighterdaysahead latest and must be of interest.
2 11th (2) (12/1 -9%) Bottler'secret	12 12/1(-9%)	(2) Bottler'secret 12/1, 12/1 and blinkers/tongue strap on for 1st time, pulled up in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (19.8f, good) 20 days ago, losing touch 3 out. Cheekpieces back on. Runner-up to Kargese in Grade 1 at Punchestown; yet to rediscover that form this season.
9 12th (9) (28/1 -331%) Lord Erskine	28 28/1(-331%)	(9) Lord Erskine 28/1, Course winner. Eighth of 11 in minor event at the Curragh (12f, soft, 25/1) 88 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Back up in trip. Can make presence felt. Won valuable handicap hurdle at Leopardstown last February; should give his running again.
3 13th (3) (12/1 -9%) Jigoro	12 12/1(-9%)	(3) Jigoro 12/1, Course winner. 9/2, creditable second of 5 in minor event hurdle at Limerick (20f, soft) 22 days ago. No forlorn hope. Well below last season's form this term and struggled in handicap company twice already.
1 14th (1) (12/1 +25%) Intense Raffles	12 12/1(+25%)	(1) Intense Raffles 12/1, Smart winner at 29f in chases. 16/1, good ninth of 20 in handicap hurdle at this course (25.2f, soft) on hurdles bow 42 days ago. Down in trip. Uphill task here though. Irish Grand National winner; 10lb lower than chase mark but Aintree will be the big plan.
5 15th (5) (16/1 +0%) Espanito Bello	16 16/1(+0%)	(5) Espanito Bello 16/1, 28/1, respectable fifth of 19 in handicap chase at this course (20.7f, soft) 42 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Switches from chase to hurdles. Stable in good form. Ought to be in the shake-up. 11yo has been out of form for a while and all five career wins have been gained at Naas.
16 16th (16) (40/1 -100%) Gold Bullion	40 40/1(-100%)	(16) Gold Bullion 40/1, 16/1, sixteenth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 21 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Something to find on form. Never a factor on handicap hurdle debut at Leopardstown and trip on the sharp side here.
4 17th (4) (80/1 -220%) Whatcouldhavebeen	80 80/1(-220%)	(4) Whatcouldhavebeen 80/1, Latest win in hurdle at Fairyhouse in April. Below form tenth of 18 in handicap hurdle (28/1) at Galway (22.5f, soft) 168 days ago. Not taken lightly if shrugging off latest effort. 8lb higher than last April's Fairyhouse win and drying ground would be a concern.
10 18th (10) (40/1 -233%) Eagles Reign	40 40/1(-233%)	(10) Eagles Reign 40/1, 1 win from 3 runs this season. 23½ lengths seventh of 9 to Balko D'ange in listed handicap at Limerick (16f, soft, 11/1) 20 days ago. Up in trip. Not easy to make a case for. Listowel winner hasn't had his ground in 2 latest starts and won't want it to dry out here.
17 19th (17) (33/1 +0%) Jody Ted	33 33/1(+0%)	(17) Jody Ted 33/1, Tongue strap on for 1st time, pulled up in handicap hurdle (80/1) at this course (25.2f, soft) 42 days ago, pulled up before last. Down in trip. First run for yard after leaving Eoin Griffin. Versatile sort pulled up both starts this season; plenty to prove on first run for yard.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

MUSIC OF TARA reverts to timber on her first start for new connections and should compete. Third in a Grade 3 over fences in October, she was bought for 68,000 euros last month and while reasonably exposed, is rated 6lb lower in this sphere and won a handicap hurdle at the 2023 Leopardstown Christmas meeting. Stablemate Jigoro chased Mystical Power home in the Moscow Flyer a year ago and although raised 3lb following a useful Limerick run, he can go close. Thecompanysergeant debuts for new connections having been bought for 110,000 euros in November and although a better chaser, he is rated 7lb lower in this sphere and is suited by the distance. Blaze The Way is 7lb higher than when winning here last month and drops in trip.

Plenty are in with a shout but the vote goes to BLAZE THE WAY who took a big step forward on his handicap debut when going in here and can make light of a 7 lb rise in the weights. Gordon Elliott's new recruit Music of Tara is next on the list off a handy-looking mark ahead of Thecompanysergeant, Espanito Bello, Lord Erskine and Open To Question.

Set some stiff tasks in his career to date, NO LOOKING BACK can strike on his handicap debut stepping back up in trip

13:20 Haydock Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 21f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 1st (8) (7/2 +13%) Solar System	3.5 7/2(+13%)	(8) Solar System 7/2, Largely progressive in handicaps, making it 3 wins in last 6 starts when seeing off 7 rivals over 21f at Ludlow last month. A 4 lb rise shouldn't prevent another prominent showing. Won from off the pace on two of his last three outings; previous minor honours on soft.
7 2nd (7) (5/1 +29%) I Am Max	5 5/1(+29%)	(7) I Am Max 5/1, Bumper winner on debut in February and followed up on hurdles bow at Ayr (2m) later that month. Fell on chase debut at Wetherby in October but quickly back on the up when second at Kelso 3 weeks ago. Second at Kelso (extended 2m6f) last time; untapped potential at early stage of his career.
4 3rd (4) (13/2 +19%) Thanksforthehelp	6.5 13/2(+19%)	(4) Thanksforthehelp 13/2, Dual-hurdles winner. Very lightly raced in recent seasons but stepped up plenty on comeback effort when fourth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Cheltenham (24f) in November. Also shaped quite nicely at Bangor last time and he lurks on a dangerous mark. Steps back in the right direction on last two outings, form which gives him a place chance.
10 4th (10) (9/2 +18%) Clondaw Royale	4.5 9/2(+18%)	(10) Clondaw Royale 9/2, Failed to make a splash over fences but down in the weights and he landed a bit of a touch at this venue (3m) 19 days ago. Drop back in trip no concern and 5 lb rise very fair. Far more miss than hit but surged back to his best to win here (3m, soft; backed) latest.
11 5th (11) (6/1 +14%) Casual Observer	6 6/1(+14%)	(11) Casual Observer 6/1, Runner-up sole start in points. Failed to meet expectations in a bumper but positives to draw from all 3 starts over hurdles last season. Off 10 months ahead of handicap debut but he's in good hands. Probably acts on heavy going; needs a close look on handicap/seasonal debut.
2 6th (2) (80/1 -142%) Rockadenn	80 80/1(-142%)	(2) Rockadenn 80/1, Useful hurdles/chaser but lightly raced in recent times and patchy form in France for N. George & A. Zetterholm. Off 19 months so well-being an unknown for new yard. 588-day absence and last won in February 2021; back from France for new trainer.
1 7th (1) (16/1 +0%) Nordic Tiger	16 16/1(+0%)	(1) Nordic Tiger 16/1, Successful 3 times last season and ran right up to form when fourth in 8-runner handicap at Doncaster (19.4f, good) on return. Should give another good account from the same mark. Needs to build upon creditable reappearance and a 7lb-claiming amateur takes over.
9 8th (9) (16/1 -100%) North Parade	16 16/1(-100%)	(9) North Parade 16/1, A three-time 2m4f scorer at Newcastle last term and showed benefit of reappearance when fourth at Uttoxeter in November. In keeping with form of the yard, he showed more when second at Wetherby 3 weeks ago but he is prone to the odd mistake. Acts on heavy; back near best that form when beaten a neck at Wetherby on latest outing.
6 9th (6) (6/1 +82%) Leading Choice	6 6/1(+82%)	(6) Leading Choice 6/1, Fairly useful bumper winner who made light of a 15-month absence to bag 7-runner novice hurdle at Wetherby (19.7f, heavy) in February. Unsuited by emphasis on speed when sixth at Cheltenham on final run of last season and he's expected to step up on reappearance run. Acts on heavy; well beaten on seasonal/handicap debut (2m4f, heavy) early last month.
5 10th (5) (28/1 -100%) Blue Fin	28 28/1(-100%)	(5) Blue Fin 28/1, Has a good record fresh and made a winning seasonal return at Carlisle in October. Raised 5 lb and hit the frame both starts since. Back up in trip. Wore first-time cheekpieces when creditable third here (2m3f) last time; needs extra.
3 \|PU\| (3) (14/1 -100%) Honneur D'ajonc	14 14/1(-100%)	(3) Honneur D'ajonc 14/1, Improved at only the third of asking for James Owen when winning a Fontwell handicap in October. Disappointing at Uttoxeter next time but quickly back to form when finding only one too good over 18.9f here a month ago. 2nd here (heavy) latest; may find one or two too hot even if this is one of his good days.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

I AM MAX remains unexposed and showed plenty of promise when filling second place on his return to hurdles at Kelso a few weeks ago. A 1lb rise for that display is fair, especially as he may have more improvement left to come. Solar System is a progressive gelding who has won two of his last three starts and is an obvious threat to the selection. Others to note are Clondaw Royale, North Parade and Honneur D'Ajonc.

THANKSFORTHEHELP caught the eye for the second time this season when fourth at Bangor and given the mark he's on these days, he looks ready to strike. Clondaw Royale landed a gamble at Haydock 3 weeks ago under his good-value conditional rider so he's second choice, ahead of Solar System.

The three to concentrate on may well be I AM MAX, Casual Observer and Solar System, who are preferred in that order.

13:25 Lingfield Handicap (Class 2) 10f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

13:30 Taunton Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f - 12 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 1st (8) (15/2 +17%) Northern Air	7.5 15/2(+17%)	(8) Northern Air 15/2, Point winner and a couple of promising efforts over hurdles at Wincanton and Ayr. Not so good at Lingfield 6 weeks ago and has had a breathing operation since. Now tongue tied and suspect we'll see the best of her when upped in trip. Plenty of ability and has had wind surgery since failing to give her running last time.
2 2nd (2) (25/1 -257%) Future Fortune	25 25/1(-257%)	(2) Future Fortune 25/1, Made a winning debut in bumper at Hereford in October 2023 but she came in a well-held fourth on her hurdling bow at Huntingdon in November when gambled on. Likely to leave that form behind in time but this assignment demands a significant step forward. Bumper winner; disappointing on hurdling debut but only 13-8 and can do better.
5 3rd (5) (10/11 +55%) Jena D'oudairies	0.909091 10/11(+55%)	(5) Jena D'oudairies 10/11, Fair bumper winner here in April and ran to a similar level sent hurdling having had a breathing operation at Wincanton on Boxing Day. Entitled to progress and big run expected. Won her bumper here and was clear of the rest when second in a Wincanton novice.
4 4th (4) (3/1 0%) I've Madeupmymind	3 3/1(0%)	(4) I've Madeupmymind 3/1, Showed promise in bumpers and plenty when third in well-run novice hurdle at Hereford last month having been well backed. That has the look of a decent contest and she should improve. Leading claims under 7 lb conditional down in trip. Too free over further at Hereford last time; returns to 2m and has each-way claims.
6 5th (6) (150/1 -50%) Loud And Proud	150 150/1(-50%)	(6) Loud And Proud 150/1, Winless following 8 attempts between the flags and safely held both starts over hurdles to date. Tailed off in both her hurdles, last time finishing behind Jena d'Oudairies.
12 6th (12) (33/1 -136%) Zarhanya	33 33/1(-136%)	(12) Zarhanya 33/1, Built on Cheltenham bumper debut promise when third at Market Rasen first time up over hurdles, but not so good at Southwell since. Might be one for handicaps. Tongue tie goes on. First two runs were promising and the return of headgear looks favourable.
7 7th (7) (300/1 -200%) Majestic Mia	300 300/1(-200%)	(7) Majestic Mia 300/1, Fell in point in Ireland and well beaten on hurdles debut at Ludlow last month. Down in trip. 50-1 for hurdling debut at Ludlow and dropped out tamely.
3 8th (3) (300/1 -200%) Gemi Cat	300 300/1(-200%)	(3) Gemi Cat 300/1, Little promise in 2 runs over hurdles, jumping poorly. Dropped in trip. Pulled up and tailed off in her two runs and was held back by her jumping; opposable.
10 9th (10) (16/1 -129%) Rubymurree	16 16/1(-129%)	(10) Rubymurree 16/1, Milan mare out of a bumper/2¼m hurdle winner. Worth a second look in the betting. The only runner who lacks experience but she's in a good yard; market helpful.
11 \|U\| (11) (25/1 -25%) Seas The Day	25 25/1(-25%)	(11) Seas The Day 25/1, Bred for the job but ran below the form of her brace of seconds in bumpers sent hurdling after 9 months off at Uttoxeter in November. Hard to fancy. Second in bumpers but was tailed off on switch to hurdling at Uttoxeter.
9 10th (9) (300/1 -200%) Pretty Punctual	300 300/1(-200%)	(9) Pretty Punctual 300/1, Well beaten in Catterick bumper last month and likely to need more time and further now jumping. Half-sister to Any Second Now but went off 66-1 for a Catterick bumper and finished last..
1 \|PU\| (1) (100/1 -203%) Cyclonic	100 100/1(-203%)	(1) Cyclonic 100/1, Well bred but just modest form in bumpers and sold from Tom Weston for only £5,000 in May. Minor bumper form for Tom Weston and changed hands for £5,000.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

The winner of a course bumper in April, JENA D'OUDAIRIES was a respectable second on her hurdles debut/first start post-wind surgery at Wincanton on Boxing Day. This looks no tougher and she can go one place better. Northern Air, a costly recruit after winning a point-to-point in November 2023, is open to progression having also had a wind problem addressed since struggling at Lingfield. Rubymurree is a notable debutant to monitor in the betting.

I'VE MADEUPMYMIND made a promising start over hurdles at Hereford last month and is just preferred to Jena d'Oudairies, who returns to the scene of her bumper win having looked in need of the experience at Wincanton on her first crack hurdling.

A few with chances but JENA D'OUDAIRIES has the most compelling form credentials and perhaps the least to prove.

13:40 Ascot Conditions Hurdle (Class 1) 16f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (13/2 -44%) Take No Chances	6.5 13/2(-44%)	(1) Take No Chances 13/2, Useful mare who bagged a 2m Wetherby listed race at the beginning of November. Found the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth at Newcastle too hot but quickly returned to form with a solid third in a Cheltenham handicap 35 days ago. Respected. Consistent mare who is versatile trip-wise and the figures entitle her to have a major say.
2 2nd (2) (2/5 +35%) Kargese	0.4 2/5(+35%)	(2) Kargese 2/5, Useful hurdler who ran well when second twice at the top level before landing the Champion Juvenile at Punchestown 8 months ago. Type to do better again this season and should be hard to beat. Tough mare who was never out of the first two in four Grade 1s as a juvenile.
7 3rd (7) (17/2 +29%) Ooh Betty	8.5 17/2(+29%)	(7) Ooh Betty 17/2, Useful mare who had a breathing operation prior to making a successful reappearance in handicap at Sandown and quickly got back on track to double her tally for the campaign in similar event at Kempton last time. Not dismissed. Needs another career high to bustle up the best of these but she'll give it a good go.
3 4th (3) (16/1 -60%) Casa No Mento	16 16/1(-60%)	(3) Casa No Mento 16/1, Took her form up a level when going 4-5 over hurdles in 2m listed hurdle at Punchestown in May. Sub-par efforts both starts since returning, including on chase debut at Bangor last time, but could bounce back after a two-month break. Progressive last campaign but this season has not started well; tried fences last time.
6 5th (6) (66/1 +18%) Brendas Asking	66 66/1(+18%)	(6) Brendas Asking 66/1, Fair hurdler who ran well when second in a Ludlow handicap last time but looks out of her depth in this company. Consistent in handicaps of late but this is a different kettle of fish altogether.
5 6th (5) (25/1 -79%) All The Glory	25 25/1(-79%)	(5) All The Glory 25/1, Confirmed previous promise when scoring with something in hand at Musselburgh and followed up easily at Southwell last time. Thriving now and clear to see why connections would have a go up in grade. In form but has more on her plate this afternoon over a trip that's short of her best.
4 7th (4) (33/1 -18%) Pawapuri	33 33/1(-18%)	(4) Pawapuri 33/1, Useful 11f Flat winner for William Haggas who landed a maiden and a novice at up to 18.9f around this time last year. Hasn't fired so far this term, though, and has a bit to find. Former Listed winner but she's not fired at all on two visits to Kempton this winter.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

KARGESE was one of the leading juveniles last season with a brace of Grade 1 successes coming either side of two fine efforts in defeat at Cheltenham and Aintree. The form has been franked by both Majborough and Sir Gino and this appears to be a nice starting point for Willie Mullins' mare. Take No Chances ran extremely well when giving weight to a pair of progressive rivals at Cheltenham latest and she is expected to be competitive along with Casa No Mento.

KARGESE acquitted herself well in Grade 1 company in the spring and she stands out on form, so it's hard to oppose her despite others having a potential fitness edge. Take No Chances is the likeliest to capitalise if the selection doesn't fire, while the improving All The Glory can't be ruled out.

Kargese is returning from a break and preference is for TAKE NO CHANCES, who is consistent and versatile trip-wise.

13:45 Navan Handicap Hurdle 20f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (6/1 -33%) Collaborative	6 6/1(-33%)	(3) Collaborative 6/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Good third of 18 in handicap hurdle (well-backed 4/1) at Limerick (16f, soft) 22 days ago. Up in trip and can surely open his account soon. Last month's handicap run at Clonmel and Limerick suggest he is a strong contender.
4 2nd (4) (22/1 -120%) Betty Dutton	22 22/1(-120%)	(4) Betty Dutton 22/1, Fourteenth of 19 in handicap at this course (14f, good to soft, 16/1) 87 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Back up in trip. On a long losing run. One win from 19 starts over hurdles, generally below her best in 2024, others preferred.
5 3rd (5) (16/5 -28%) Lakota Blue	3.2 16/5(-28%)	(5) Lakota Blue 16/5, 3/1, below form seventh of 16 in juvenile hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) 23 days ago. Up in trip. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Makes handicap hurdle debut and one to note. Placed in two juvenile hurdles before disappointing Limerick run, cheekpieces may help.
11 4th (11) (7/2 +78%) Lariat	3.5 7/2(+78%)	(11) Lariat 7/2, Below form 27¼ lengths fifth of 15 to Duffys Hodey in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (20f, soft, 14/1) 2 days ago. Fair effort when fifth behind Duffys Hodey in a strong-run race at Fairyhouse on Thursday.
12 5th (12) (3/1 +60%) Jonny Mansie	3 3/1(+60%)	(12) Jonny Mansie 3/1, Good third of 13 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (22f, soft, 9/1) 5 days ago. Visor on 1st time. Took a step in the right direction at Punchestown on Monday, needs to jump more cleanly.
2 6th (2) (20/1 +39%) Voice Of Reason	20 20/1(+39%)	(2) Voice Of Reason 20/1, Respectable ninth of 16 in handicap hurdle (50/1) at Punchestown (20.6f, heavy) 6 days ago. Third in a 2m handicap at Cork in November, subsequent form provides no encouragement.
8 7th (8) (8/1 +43%) Rose Boum	8 8/1(+43%)	(8) Rose Boum 8/1, Tongue strap on for 1st time, good fourth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (20f, soft, 12/1) 22 days ago. Moderate fourth on handicap debut at Limerick, not helped by interference two out.
9 8th (9) (12/1 +64%) Not Before Time	12 12/1(+64%)	(9) Not Before Time 12/1, 25/1, respectable tenth of 19 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (23.8f, soft) 39 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Well held by Duffys Hodey on running at Tipperary in November, hard to make a case for her.
6 9th (6) (25/1 -56%) Malton Groove	25 25/1(-56%)	(6) Malton Groove 25/1, Thirteenth of 14 in handicap chase at Wexford (19.4f, good to soft, 12/1) 141 days ago. 0-8 over hurdles, seems more effective as a chaser, best run last year was on good ground.
1 10th (1) (66/1 -313%) Malbay Madness	66 66/1(-313%)	(1) Malbay Madness 66/1, 66/1, respectable fifth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) 22 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Up in trip. Won twice on the Flat, not a bad run at Limerick last time but needs to raise his game.
10 11th (10) (80/1 -21%) Cresthill	80 80/1(-21%)	(10) Cresthill 80/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Eighth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Tramore (21.6f, heavy, 50/1) 17 days ago. Point winner, weak maiden hurdle form, down the field in handicaps at Cork and Tramore.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

COLLABORATIVE has run well in two recent handicap hurdles and might put that experience to good use. Trained on his Flat debut by Dermot Weld, his hurdles form was largely unexciting but he ran two consistent races in December and can be counted upon to again compete. Jonny Mansie has a slightly more exposed profile than the selection, but ran well at Punchestown just five days ago. A quick turnaround isn't ideal but he is tried in a first-time visor. Lakota Blue has first-time cheekpieces fitted having disappointed slightly at Limerick over Christmas. He had previously shown more useful form and although only a four-year-old, is interesting on his handicap debut.

DUFFYS HODEY ran out an easy winner at Fairyhouse on Thursday and has obvious claims if turned out again. Collaborative and Lakota Blue are other likely players.

Two solid handicap runs at 2m give COLLABORATIVE a fighting chance if he can improve a little over this longer trip

13:55 Haydock Maiden Hurdle (Class 1) 16f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (6/1 +0%) Dedicated Hero	6 6/1(+0%)	(2) Dedicated Hero 6/1, Dual bumper winner who looked a useful prospect when winning 12-runner maiden at Kelso (16.2f, soft) 41 days ago, plenty in hand. More to come and interesting contender up in grade. Won easily at Kelso on second hurdle start; remains to be seen where his limitations lie.
7 2nd (7) (17/2 +47%) Cloonainra	8.5 17/2(+47%)	(7) Cloonainra 17/2, Debut winner who did very well under the circumstances when second of 19 on handicap debut at Leopardstown (16f, good, 40/1) 23 days ago, badly hampered first and forced to make headway on outer. Respected up in grade. Second of 19 in Leopardstown handicap; has 7lb mares' allowance and might not be far away.
5 3rd (5) (16/1 -129%) Peacenik	16 16/1(-129%)	(5) Peacenik 16/1, Runner-up both starts in bumpers and improved on hurdling debut form when making all in 8-runner novice hurdle at Exeter (16.7f, heavy) 17 days ago. This is a different kettle of fish, however. Won at Exeter on second hurdle start; needs another step forward today but form reads well.
1 4th (1) (1/3 +50%) Royal Infantry	0.333333 1/3(+50%)	(1) Royal Infantry 1/3, Point/bumper winner who has looked a smart prospect so far over hurdles, supplementing his Chepstow maiden success in facile fashion in 6-runner introductory event over C&D 45 days ago. Open to plenty more improvement and looks the one to beat. Listed bumper winner who is 2-2 over hurdles and stands out as the one to beat.
3 5th (3) (150/1 -50%) Famous Liss	150 150/1(-50%)	(3) Famous Liss 150/1, Irish point winner at sixth attempt who has shown fair form over hurdles, not seen to best effect when fifth in 10-runner maiden hurdle at Ayr (16f, soft) 16 days ago, left poorly placed (reported to have suffered breathing problem). Has lots to find in this company, though. 1-6 in points and went close at Hexham last June, but unable to replicate that form since.
4 6th (4) (50/1 -25%) Got A Dream	50 50/1(-25%)	(4) Got A Dream 50/1, Fairly useful bumper winner but just modest form in 2 runs over hurdles and will surely be outclassed here. Soft-ground bumper winner but well beaten on both hurdle starts (albeit over further).
6 \|PU\| (6) (28/1 -75%) Walking On A Dream	28 28/1(-75%)	(6) Walking On A Dream 28/1, £45,000 purchase after finishing runner-up all 3 completed starts in Irish points. Bright start under Rules when second at Ayr in October and didn't need to improve to go one better in a similar event back there (2m) 16 days ago. This is a big step up but remains open to improvement. Won Ayr maiden recently; in good hands to progress but others have more substance to form.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

ROYAL INFANTRY was the first British-trained horse past the post in the Champion Bumper last year and has developed that talent since tackling hurdles. Easy wins at Chepstow and over C&D have boosted his confidence ahead of this return to Graded company and another dominant display might book him his Cheltenham ticket. Dedicated Hero put a surprise Carlisle defeat behind him when scoring comfortably at Kelso, although Cloonainra could be the one for forecast backers following an excellent second in a competitive Leopardstown handicap.

ROYAL INFANTRY soon settled things with an impressive burst early in the straight over C&D on his most recent outing and, with scope for plenty more improvement, he'll surely take a fair bit of beating stepping up in grade. Dedicated Hero impressed at Kelso and is narrowly preferred to likeable mare Cloonainra for the forecast spot.

This looks a good opportunity for ROYAL INFANTRY to make it 3-3 over hurdles. Peacenik could be best of the rest.

14:05 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 24f - 14 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (22/1 -120%) Jesuila Des Mottes	22 22/1(-120%)	(1) Jesuila Des Mottes 22/1, Lightly-raced maiden who recorded a creditable third of 11 in novice hurdle at Southwell (20.4f, good to soft) 33 days ago. Much respected now going into handicaps. Makes her handicap debut but it's not hard to think she can raise her game over 3m+.
2 2nd (2) (7/4 +71%) Badbury Rings	1.75 7/4(+71%)	(2) Badbury Rings 7/4, Lightly-raced sort who advanced his form on his handicap bow when third of 15 over C&D (good) 37 days ago. Open to further progress. Likely player. Up to 3m for handicap debut here (good; 25-1) and came 9l third of 15 from off the pace.
5 3rd (5) (18/1 -13%) Babatunde	18 18/1(-13%)	(5) Babatunde 18/1, Purchased for £50,000 after finishing third in an Irish point last spring. Only minor promise over hurdles in recent months but handicaps may see him in a better light stepped back up in distance. Beaten 26l, 46l and 31l in his three maiden hurdles (2m6f, 2m4f and 2m3f); handicap debut.
8 4th (8) (9/1 +36%) Talkingtothemoon	9 9/1(+36%)	(8) Talkingtothemoon 9/1, Lightly-raced maiden sort who has been off for 22 months since coming in eighth in novice hurdle at Chepstow (19.4f). Tongue strap on for his handicap hurdle debut with his fitness to prove. 671 days off and is tongue tied for handicap debut over a new trip; worth a market check.
6 5th (6) (5/2 +29%) Honey Jack	2.5 5/2(+29%)	(6) Honey Jack 5/2, Took a step forward when getting off the mark in 10-runner handicap hurdle over C&D (good to soft) 51 days ago. Up 6 lb but he can go well again. Favourite in C&D handicap (good to soft) in November and registered a clearcut win.
12 6th (12) (33/1 +0%) Kintaro	33 33/1(+0%)	(12) Kintaro 33/1, Running well when fell 2 out in handicap hurdle here (19f, good to soft) 51 days ago. Up in trip and enters calculations in his bid for a breakthrough success. 0-18 after falling two out in 2m3f handicap here, when minor honours looked a stretch.
3 7th (3) (11/1 -83%) Ellerton	11 11/1(-83%)	(3) Ellerton 11/1, Fairly useful on Flat (stays 1¾m) and went close without winning over hurdles for Syd Hosie. Caught the eye for his new yard under a patient ride when fourth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Wincanton (15.2f, soft) 23 days ago. Very much one to consider stepping up in trip. Underperformed last July when upped to 2m3f and that is the furthest he's been.
14 8th (14) (50/1 -400%) Kick For Touch	50 50/1(-400%)	(14) Kick For Touch 50/1, Lightly-raced maiden hurdler who came in tenth of 14 in novice at Hereford (16.2f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Blinkered for his handicap debut upped markedly in trip and could still have more to offer. Soundly beaten over 2m; blinkers and 3m for this handicap debut, representing red-hot yard.
10 9th (10) (28/1 -100%) Nordic Storm	28 28/1(-100%)	(10) Nordic Storm 28/1, Posted a respectable fourth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Fontwell (21.8f, good) 62 days ago. Has since had a wind op and not ruled out in bid for a first success with tongue strap/cheekpieces added. Has now had wind surgery and a tongue-tie is enlisted, and they need to work wonders.
11 \|PU\| (11) (10/1 -33%) Glengolly	10 10/1(-33%)	(11) Glengolly 10/1, Has made a promising start for his current yard (formerly with Paul Webber), still in contention when unseating rider 4 out at Wetherby (24.1f) 22 days ago. Weighted to go well. Travelling okay in 3rd when unseating four out in handicap at Wetherby (upped to 3m; 6-1).
9 \|PU\| (9) (11/1 -29%) Bennettsbridge	11 11/1(-29%)	(9) Bennettsbridge 11/1, Placed in points but hasn't made much impact in 3 runs over hurdles, a well-beaten fourth in handicap at Market Rasen (23.1f, soft) 44 days ago. Cheekpieces are reached for now. Soundly beaten fourth over hurdles, upped to 2m7f for handicap debut last time; headgear.
4 \|PU\| (4) (20/1 -25%) Calli Black	20 20/1(-25%)	(4) Calli Black 20/1, Fair form shown in bumpers and a trio of hurdling starts, coming in a respectable fourth of 10 in novice hurdle here (19f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Not ruled out on his handicap hurdle debut with his stamina unlocked more. New trip needs a major response on handicap debut and there is some stamina in pedigree.
13 \|PU\| (13) (50/1 -52%) Alkhattaaf	50 50/1(-52%)	(13) Alkhattaaf 50/1, Off 17 months before pulled up in handicap hurdle at Exeter (16.7f, good) 71 days ago. Has plenty to prove. Showed little when returned to this sphere for 2m handicap in November.
7 \|PU\| (7) (150/1 -127%) Pontresina	150 150/1(-127%)	(7) Pontresina 150/1, Hasn't stood much racing since joining this yard from Oliver Sherwood and has been well beaten on all 3 starts since returning from 5 months off. 411 days off before pulled up at 125-1 over fences four weeks ago.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Stepping up in trip could provide the key to success for JESUILA DES MOTTES, who has shown ability in three previous starts in this discipline and can progress further with the emphasis more on stamina now she goes handicapping. Honey Jack is an obvious threat based on his C&D win in November, despite a 6lb higher rating. Calli Black, Ellerton and Badbury Rings have also shown enough promise to suggest they can figure in a race of this nature.

A case can be made for a few of these, not least Neil Mulholland's unexposed BADBURY RINGS who looks to have more to offer in handicaps and can gain a first success on the back of his excellent C&D third last time out. Ellerton shaped well for his new stable when fourth at Wincanton recently and heads the list of dangers, although the handily-weighted Glengolly and C&D winner Honey Jack can both have a say too. Kintaro completes the shortlist.

Honey Jack has a big chance to double up but JESUILA DES MOTTES proved she has significant ability on her final qualifying race.

14:15 Ascot Handicap Chase (Class 2) 21f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (15/2 +63%) Terresita	7.5 15/2(+63%)	(4) Terresita 15/2, Improved switched to fences and made a winning return in listed company at Carlisle (20f) in November. Backed it up with a very good third of 7 in handicap over C&D since so he's not taken lightly eased 1 lb. Ran well in C&D handicap last time but likely needs to find further improvement.
1 2nd (1) (14/1 -17%) Hitman	14 14/1(-17%)	(1) Hitman 14/1, Not the most consistent but started this campaign with creditable second in Old Roan Chase at Aintree (20f, good to soft) in October. Could prove dangerous if putting his best foot forward. Has plenty of ability but remains a frustrating and low-yield performer.
6 3rd (6) (9/1 +25%) Flegmatik	9 9/1(+25%)	(6) Flegmatik 9/1, A very useful 3m scorer early in 2024 but not at that level this term, cheekpieces back on when fifth of 8 in handicap here (23.8f, soft) 28 days ago. More is required despite a falling mark. Signs of a revival here last month; possibilities provided he builds on that effort.
8 4th (8) (9/2 +18%) Scarface	4.5 9/2(+18%)	(8) Scarface 9/2, Thrived over fences when cheekpieces went on, winning 3 times around 2½m between January and April. Comes here on the back of a good second of 7 over 2m2f here four weeks ago so must enter calculations. Second-season chaser whose turn looks near; just under 2l behind Kotmask here last time.
9 5th (9) (12/1 +25%) Tedley	12 12/1(+25%)	(9) Tedley 12/1, Won his first 2 starts over fences at Uttoxeter and Wetherby in the autumn and performed with credit since until last of 3 at Cheltenham (2m) 17 days ago. Sort to bounce back. Fairly useful novice chaser but faces a stiffer task at this level.
5 6th (5) (4/1 +20%) Kotmask	4 4/1(+20%)	(5) Kotmask 4/1, Resumed his progress with win in 7-runner handicap chase here (18.8f, soft) 28 days ago by 1¾ lengths from Scarface. Needs considering despite a 3 lb weights rise. Has form figures of 321, all at Ascot, this season; beat Scarface last time; solid claims.
2 7th (2) (4/1 +0%) Martator	4 4/1(+0%)	(2) Martator 4/1, Smart handicap chaser who brought up the 5-timer with plenty to spare here in November. Not at same level when third at Kempton (2m) latest but return to longer trip is in his favour and he looks sure to give a good account. Beaten favourite last time but very progressive otherwise since last March; 3-3 at Ascot.
10 \|F\| (10) (5/1 +29%) Bad	5 5/1(+29%)	(10) Bad 5/1, Fairly useful winning hurdler who has started well in this sphere, leading long way when a clear second of 10 in 2m4f Southwell handicap last month. Considered despite being 5 lb "wrong" in the weights. 0-11 in Britain but first-time blinkers may do the trick; 5lb out of weights.
3 \|U\| (3) (40/1 -60%) Latenightpass	40 40/1(-60%)	(3) Latenightpass 40/1, 2022 Foxhunters winner at Aintree and back on song this term after a wind op, coming in third of 15 in handicap chase at Cheltenham (29.2f, good to soft) 36 days ago. Considered. Likely to be tapped for finishing kick back down a mile in trip.
7 \|PU\| (7) (20/1 -25%) Kansas City Star	20 20/1(-25%)	(7) Kansas City Star 20/1, Cheekpieces back on when returning to form with win in 7-runner handicap chase at Doncaster (19.1f, good) 50 days ago. Needs to back it up now off 4 lb higher mark with headgear again sported. Benefited from drop back to Class 3 last time; returns to much deeper waters.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

With three previous wins over these fences, returning to this familiar venue should suit MARTATOR now he steps back up in trip after finding a couple too good in the Desert Orchid at Kempton over Christmas. Kotmask and Scarface are closely matched on recent form and also hold solid credentials. However, perhaps Hitman could be the best each-way alternative given this represents a drop in class.

MARTATOR saw his winning spree come to an end when third at Kempton last time but remains handily weighted and with this return to further likely to suit he can bounce back in style. The progressive Terresita heads the list of dangers, although a solid case can also be made for Scarface, Kotmask, Bad and Latenightpass in this very open handicap chase.

Armed with a 3lb pull and back up in distance, SCARFACE could well reverse last-time placings with Kotmask.

14:20 Navan Maiden Chase 24f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
11 1st (11) (3/1 -85%) Three Card Brag	3 3/1(-85%)	(11) Three Card Brag 3/1, Smart chaser. Blinkered for 1st time, respectable seventh of 27 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft, 17/2) 22 days ago, doing too much too soon. Cheekpieces back on. Leading form claims back in maiden compnay. Smart 147-rated second-season novice, has a level of experience that should prove vital.
6 2nd (6) (9/2 +36%) Kinturk Kalanisi	4.5 9/2(+36%)	(6) Kinturk Kalanisi 9/2, Useful chaser. 11/4, creditable second of 9 in novice chase at Fairyhouse (21f, good to soft) 35 days ago. In the picture. Went close at Fairyhouse despite jumping indifferently and racing in snatches.
2 3rd (2) (14/1 -56%) Captain Cody	14 14/1(-56%)	(2) Captain Cody 14/1, Useful winner at 20f over hurdles. Fourth of 7 in novice chase at Leopardstown (21.3f, good to soft, 20/1) 21 days ago, needing stiffer test. Yard having good spell. Open to progress. Grade 2 winner as a novice hurdler, no indication so far of similar potential as a chaser.
9 4th (9) (20/1 +9%) Now Is The Hour	20 20/1(+9%)	(9) Now Is The Hour 20/1, Useful winner at 24f over hurdles. 10/1, fifth of 7 in novice chase at Punchestown (24f, soft) 18 days ago. Likely to improve. Hard to fancy on the basis of two runs this term, held by Loughglynn on Punchestown form.
7 5th (7) (10/1 -67%) Loughglynn	10 10/1(-67%)	(7) Loughglynn 10/1, Useful winner at 23f over hurdles. Third of 7 in novice chase at Punchestown (24f, soft, 9/2) on debut over fences 18 days ago. Yard in good form. Can do better so one to consider. Grade 2 novice hurdle winner who stays well, should be able to build on Punchestown third.
10 6th (10) (7/4 +42%) Olympic Man	1.75 7/4(+42%)	(10) Olympic Man 7/4, Useful winner at 19f over hurdles. Promising fourth of 9 in minor event chase at Punchestown (23.3f, soft, 11/1) on debut over fences 39 days ago, travelling strongly. Sure to progress. Interesting. Error-prone on chasing debut but showed promise, potentially the pick of stable's quartet.
8 7th (8) (10/1 +29%) My Trump Card	10 10/1(+29%)	(8) My Trump Card 10/1, Useful hurdler. Unseated rider 3rd in novice chase (10/1) at Fairyhouse (21.5f, soft) on debut over fences 17 days ago. Remains with potential for top yard. Unseated early on first chase start, trainer also runs the smart Three Card Brag.
5 8th (5) (200/1 -300%) Jeel Des Mottes	200 200/1(-300%)	(5) Jeel Des Mottes 200/1, Modest hurdler. 300/1, fourth of 7 in novice chase at Punchestown (24f, soft) 18 days ago. Not disgraced when 300-1 at Punchestown, ended up 10l behind third-placed Loughglynn.
12 9th (12) (20/1 +29%) Cuta Des As	20 20/1(+29%)	(12) Cuta Des As 20/1, Fairly useful winner at 22f over hurdles. Fourth of 7 in novice chase (11/1) at Cork (21.2f, soft) on debut over fences 36 days ago, not knocked about. Yard in good form. Can take a step forward. Point/bumper/maiden hurdle winner, trainer appears to have stronger contenders.
3 10th (3) (66/1 -267%) Coming Up Easy	66 66/1(-267%)	(3) Coming Up Easy 66/1, Fairly useful winner at 21f over hurdles. Twelfth of 18 in novice chase at this course (20.7f, soft, 50/1) on debut over fences 42 days ago. Yard's third string on introduction to chasing; sole runner for stable now, should improve.
4 11th (4) (40/1 -21%) Grand Soir	40 40/1(-21%)	(4) Grand Soir 40/1, Useful chaser. Running well when fell 3 out (would have made the frame) in novice chase at Punchestown (24f, soft, 16/1) 18 days ago. Considered. Going well enough in second when falling three out at Punchestown, Loughglynn third then.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

THREE CARD BRAG won twice over hurdles and kept very good company over fences last term including when placed behind Spillane's Tower in a 3m1f Grade 1 at the Punchestown Festival. The selection made a lot of the running and only weakened in the straight last time in the valuable Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown. Willie Mullins saddles four runners and perhaps Loughglynn may pose the greatest threat. He won a 2m7f Grade 2 novice hurdle at Limerick last season and had a number of these rivals behind when third on his chasing debut at Punchestown. Stablemate Olympic Man was let down by his jumping at Punchestown last month, while Captain Cody also needs to brush up in that department.

THREE CARD BRAG holds the clear edge on form so is fancied to resume winning ways back in maiden company. Willie Mullins saddles four who all look to have better days ahead of them and Olympic Man and Captain Cody appeal as the pick of the quartet for place purposes.

A good opportunity for THREE CARD BRAG who was a smart novice last season and can put his experience to good use

14:30 Haydock Handicap Chase (Class 1) 26f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
7 1st (7) (4/1 -60%) Mr Vango	4 4/1(-60%)	(7) Mr Vango 4/1, Has quickly made up into a very useful chaser and made a winning return in 3m4f handicap chase at Sandown last month. Races off a 5 lb higher mark here but he scored cosily there and is a likely player. Won the London National latest and this lightly raced 9yo could have more left in the tank.
3 2nd (3) (12/1 -50%) Iwilldoit	12 12/1(-50%)	(3) Iwilldoit 12/1, Welsh National winner in 2021 and this veteran returned from 10 months off with a creditable third of 15 in that race at Chepstow (30.6f, good to soft) 22 days ago. Can make his presence felt again here. Now 12 but fine third in the Welsh National three weeks ago and he's a possible player.
6 3rd (6) (7/1 +56%) Richmond Lake	7 7/1(+56%)	(6) Richmond Lake 7/1, Had a prolific period in 2023 when completing a four-timer and back on song this winter when in the frame at Aintree in Grand Sefton and 2m4f handicap. Not ruled out stepping back up in trip. Stamina to prove but there are stayers in his pedigree; in good form & effective on heavy.
2 4th (2) (11/4 +39%) Trelawne	2.75 11/4(+39%)	(2) Trelawne 11/4, Low-mileage 9-y-o who resumed with success in 2m5f conditions event here in November. Backed it up with a solid fourth of 8 in handicap chase at Ascot (23.8f, soft) 28 days ago so he merits consideration. Won graduation chase here on reappearance and respected now back on testing ground.
4 5th (4) (10/1 -33%) Imagine	10 10/1(-33%)	(4) Imagine 10/1, Looked an exciting chasing prospect when successful at Fairyhouse and Punchestown (Grade 2) last November. Subsequently sold out of Gordon Elliott's yard for 320,000 euros but pulled up on yard debut in Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November. This low-mileage sort remains capable of better. Grade 2 novice chase winner last season but over 2m; pulled up on stable/seasonal debut.
8 \|U\| (8) (12/1 +52%) Bill Baxter	12 12/1(+52%)	(8) Bill Baxter 12/1, Winner of the Topham at Aintree in 2023. Lost his way over fences subsequently but better signs back hurdling this winter, fifth in 3m Chepstow handicap. 9 lb out of the handicap here though. Won the Topham in April 2023 but 0-9 since and 9lb out of the handicap today.
1 \|PU\| (1) (5/2 -11%) Royale Pagaille	2.5 5/2(-11%)	(1) Royale Pagaille 5/2, Mud lover who took his record here to 5-6 when seeing off Grey Dawning by 2 lengths to land a second Betfair Chase in November. Also bidding for a hat-trick in this event (scored in 2021 and 2022) and the one to beat again. Concedes lots of weight all round but phenomenal record here; has won the last 2 runnings.
5 \|PU\| (5) (66/1 -120%) Chambard	66 66/1(-120%)	(5) Chambard 66/1, Won the Kim Muir at 2022 Cheltenham Festival and and added another valuable handicap to his CV in the Becher at Aintree over a year ago. Hasn't fired subsequently, including on return at Cheltenham. Won the Becher Chase in December 2023 but well below best on his four runs in 2024.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Royale Pagaille has won the last two runnings of this and arrives on a high after landing his second Betfair Chase, proving himself a true Haydock specialist. A mark of 166 isn't insurmountable - he struck in 2022 off just 3lb lower - but MR VANGO is in receipt of almost two stone and in conditions that will play to his strengths, that could prove crucial. Iwilldoit also stays all day and ran yet another Welsh National cracker over Christmas. In contrast, Trelawne and Imagine have stamina to prove.

Venetia Williams' top-class chaser ROYALE PAGAILLE has built up a fine record round here and earns a confident vote to follow up his Betfair Chase heroics and complete a fine hat-trick in this event. Sandown-scorer Mr Vango remains quite unexposed and could emerge as the main danger in receipt of stacks of weight, with Iwilldoit, Trelawne and Imagine all worthy of consideration for minor honours.

The 11yo ROYALE PAGAILLE (nap) is conceding a stone or more to his rivals but is hard to oppose given his tremendous record at Haydock.

14:40 Taunton Handicap Chase (Class 4) 16f - 6 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (11/2 -10%) First Angel	5.5 11/2(-10%)	(4) First Angel 11/2, Won twice (at Stratford) from 4 starts last season for this yard and probably needed the run after 16 months off at Doncaster 5 weeks ago. Better expected now. Won twice in early part of last season and ran well last month, after a long absence.
6 2nd (6) (7/2 +89%) My Rockstar	3.5 7/2(+89%)	(6) My Rockstar 7/2, Poor handicap chaser who got back to winning ways under a positive ride in a thin race at Taunton 7 weeks ago. However, struggled at Exeter next time and 8 lb out of the handicap here. 20-1 course winner in November but pulled up next time and is 8lb wrong today.
2 3rd (2) (10/1 -200%) Fast Buck	10 10/1(-200%)	(2) Fast Buck 10/1, Now 13 lb lower than when registering latest success at Wincanton a year ago. Turned in best effort of the season when third at Ludlow last month but wasn't convincing and doesn't strike as likely to build on that. Regressive 11yo; latest run was a step back in the right direction but others appeal more.
1 4th (1) (9/4 +36%) Davidoc	2.25 9/4(+36%)	(1) Davidoc 9/4, Point/hurdles winner who made a promising start switched to fences when second of 6 in 2m4f Southwell handicap. Possibly found next run coming too soon and worth another chance back from a break. Didn't fire last time but was in good form beforehand; big player if back on song.
3 5th (3) (7/2 -27%) Yggdrasil	3.5 7/2(-27%)	(3) Yggdrasil 7/2, Improved for switch to chasing in 2021/22, winning 3 times. Not in same form both starts for this yard 19 months apart but did shape much better than bare result on comeback at Wincanton, going through the race as well as any until lack of an outing told. Well treated if building on that. Shaped well over 2m4f last month, after long layoff; drops back in trip here; interesting.
5 \|PU\| (5) (9/1 -80%) Force De Frap	9 9/1(-80%)	(5) Force De Frap 9/1, Successful at Bangor and Ludlow last term but ended that campaign with a couple of rather subdued efforts. Some encouragement both starts this season and is becoming well treated. Didn't run badly at Ludlow last month and comes here on a workable mark; can't rule out.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

DAVIDOC never looked like rewarding favourite-backers at Doncaster, but that came quickly after his solid Southwell second and he is worth another chance. Yggdrasil offered plenty of encouragement on his comeback at Wincanton, only fading when an 18-month absence told. Much better is expected, as it is from First Angel, who also returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines when fourth at Doncaster.

YGGDRASIL shaped much better than the distance beaten suggests returning from 19 months off at Wincanton last month and is potentially well treated if building on that back down in trip. Davidoc is worth another chance to confirm chase debut promise with a good-value conditional booked, while Force de Frap is another who is lurking on a dangerous mark.

The most interesting one is arguably YGGDRASIL, who drops back in trip after travelling strongly for a long way over 2m4f lsst month.

14:50 Ascot Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 19f - 12 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 (8) (16/1 -33%) Spirit D'aunou	16 16/1(-33%)	(8) Spirit D'aunou 16/1, Posted personal best when successful at Sandown (16f) in December 2023. Without a win since but, in first-time cheekpieces, fared better than previously this season when fourth of 11 at Newbury (20.5f, good to soft) last time. Task is now to build on latest effort. Ran encouragingly with cheekpieces applied last time; back on last winning mark.
4 1st (4) (3/1 +40%) Altobelli	3 3/1(+40%)	(4) Altobelli 3/1, Won first 2 starts over hurdles and good efforts when placed twice here (both at 15.7f) last season. Looked rusty after 10 months off when runner-up at Doncaster in December, though finished off well, so he enters calculations back up in trip with cheekpieces added. Has solid Ascot form and looks interesting, assuming he takes well to cheekpieces.
11 2nd (11) (11/1 +45%) Aston Martini	11 11/1(+45%)	(11) Aston Martini 11/1, Bumper winner who also landed her first 2 starts over hurdles last winter. Resumed progress when runner-up at Bangor (19.6f) on handicap/seasonal debut and, whilst she failed to back it up at Newbury (16.3f, good to soft) since, the return to further should suit. Low-mileage mare; tapped for toe over 2m last time; return to 2m3f looks a plus.
13 3rd (13) (20/1 +39%) Moveit Like Minnie	20 20/1(+39%)	(13) Moveit Like Minnie 20/1, Made winning chase debut at Stratford (17f) but went the wrong way next 3 starts, running out twice. Fared better back hurdling with visor added when fourth of 18 at this course (15.7f, good to soft) in December, though others still more persuasive. Cheekpieces reapplied. Benefited from return to hurdles here last time but now goes back up two grades.
10 4th (10) (10/1 +60%) Wilful	10 10/1(+60%)	(10) Wilful 10/1, Progressive winner in bumpers and similar story over hurdles, completing hat-trick in a Worcester novice (20f) in August. However, after 4 months off he found it tougher sent handicapping when down the field at Taunton (19f, good) 37 days ago. Limitations appeared to be somewhat exposed last time; this is harder.
2 5th (2) (5/2 +29%) Bo Zenith	2.5 5/2(+29%)	(2) Bo Zenith 5/2, Promising juvenile hurdler for Gary Moore in 2022/23, winning twice and second in Grade 1 at Aintree final outing. After 20-month absence, finished strongly for third in handicap at Cheltenham (16.8f, good to soft) in December, so he remains with potential upped in trip. Eyecatching third on debut for Nicky Henderson and remains open to further progress.
12 6th (12) (16/1 +20%) Bowenspark	16 16/1(+20%)	(12) Bowenspark 16/1, Not straightforward but recorded a creditable third of 9 to Kamsinas in handicap at Aintree (20f) on return, though typically carried head high. However, in first-time visor he wasn't in the same form at Haydock (18.9f, soft) on latest outing. Ties in with Kamsinas; seems best when fresh; could go well on return from break.
5 7th (5) (50/1 -52%) Stoner's Choice	50 50/1(-52%)	(5) Stoner's Choice 50/1, Successful over fences and hurdles at Kempton in 2022/23. Following 19-month absence, showed he retains ability when second of 4 in handicap hurdle at same course (21f) in November, before making the frame here (21.6f, good to soft) last time. This is tougher, though. The oldest contender and faces a tough assignment back up in grade.
3 8th (3) (9/1 +10%) Kamsinas	9 9/1(+10%)	(3) Kamsinas 9/1, Won three times during novice campaign, including a Haydock Grade 2, and added to his tally in handicap at Aintree (20f) on return. Ran at least as well when fourth of 14 at Haydock (18.9f, soft) last time and he can give another good account. Good form in the autumn; has a respectable record when fresh; remains of interest.
7 9th (7) (14/1 -17%) Georgi Girl	14 14/1(-17%)	(7) Georgi Girl 14/1, After 7 months off, proved better than ever when scoring readily at Warwick (21f) in November and backed that up when fifth of 12 at Cheltenham (20.2f, good to soft) 35 days ago, though did hang right and flash tail run-in. Will need to find more again. In-form mare but she faces a stiffer assignment back against males.
9 \|PU\| (9) (13/2 -8%) Doddiethegreat	6.5 13/2(-8%)	(9) Doddiethegreat 13/2, Had been shaping up well in 2023/24, including good fourth in Betfair Hurdle at Newbury, but held back by inexperience on chasing debut at Kempton on return. Hampered at the start back hurdling at Kempton last time, so he's worth another chance from his current mark. Probably best to forgive his Kempton efforts this term; likely player on best form.
1 \|PU\| (1) (33/1 -65%) Goshen	33 33/1(-65%)	(1) Goshen 33/1, Very smart hurdler in his pomp but struggled for form last season. Back over fences, opened his chase account at the third attempt in an Exeter handicap (17.5f, heavy) in March, though only narrowly denied sole other finisher, so others preferred on his return. Talented but mercurial; absent since chase success ten months ago.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Nicky Henderson has won two of the last five renewals and Bo Zenith and Doddiethegreat are solid contenders for that stable. However, Fergal O'Brien could be responsible for this year's winner as KAMSINAS shades preference based on his scope for further progression. The eight-year-old won a similar race at Aintree in October and was far from disgraced when fourth at Haydock most recently. The admirable Goshen and Georgi Girl add further spice to the race.

Things haven't gone to plan so far this season for DODDIETHEGREAT, hampered at the start when pulled up back over hurdles at Kempton on Boxing Day, but he's now on a handy mark given the promise he showed last season and could be ready to take advantage. Altobelli has run well both starts at this course and heads the list of dangers, while Bo Zenith could still have more to offer.

Returned to Ascot and back up in trip with cheekpieces added, ALTOBELLI (nap) is preferred. Bo Zenith is feared most.

14:55 Navan Handicap Chase 24f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
7 1st (7) (5/1 +75%) One Horse Army	5 5/1(+75%)	(7) One Horse Army 5/1, 33/1, eighth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) 22 days ago, inadequate test. Switches from hurdles to chase. Significantly back up in trip. Chase form is undistinguished but could be given a chance on his best hurdles form.
5 2nd (5) (25/1 -150%) Hunt Museum	25 25/1(-150%)	(5) Hunt Museum 25/1, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, pulled up in handicap chase at Galway (22.5f, heavy, 11/1) 83 days ago, pulled up after eighth. Absent since pulled up at Galway in October, beaten 12l when second at Wexford last May.
2 3rd (2) (6/1 +20%) A Great Buzz	6 6/1(+20%)	(2) A Great Buzz 6/1, 9/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time, last of 10 in handicap chase at this course (16f, good to soft) 34 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Jumping concerns make it hard to be confident but trip may suit if she can avoid error.
6 4th (6) (5/1 -167%) Cullenwaine	5 5/1(-167%)	(6) Cullenwaine 5/1, Career best when winning 14-runner handicap chase at Thurles (25.1f, good, 15/2) 28 days ago, forging clear. Expected to be bang there. Won well on good ground at Thurles, could still be well treated but soft going is a worry.
8 5th (8) (9/2 +40%) Tangental	4.5 9/2(+40%)	(8) Tangental 9/2, Respectable fifth of 13 in handicap chase at Tramore (21.4f, heavy, 9/1) 53 days ago. Two wins over hurdles, yet to prove he can achieve a similar standard over fences.
9 6th (9) (40/1 -21%) Rose Of Kalanisi	40 40/1(-21%)	(9) Rose Of Kalanisi 40/1, 25/1, ninth of 13 in handicap chase at Down Royal (20.6f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Point-to-point winner in 2022, no obvious merit in her racecourse form in recent seasons.
1 7th (1) (9/2 +10%) He Fitz In	4.5 9/2(+10%)	(1) He Fitz In 9/2, Creditable fourth of 19 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (23.8f, soft, 11/2) 39 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase. Merits consideration. Has been running well enough off his lower hurdles mark to suggest he can reach the money.
10 8th (10) (15/2 +53%) Starlight Cato	7.5 15/2(+53%)	(10) Starlight Cato 15/2, 6/1, below form seventh of 12 in handicap chase at Limerick (22.6f, soft) 20 days ago. Blinkers on 1st time. Closely matched with Tangental on Tramore running, less encouraging run at Limerick since.
3 \|PU\| (3) (15/2 -50%) Chosen Shant	7.5 15/2(-50%)	(3) Chosen Shant 15/2, First run since leaving Ciaran Murphy when fifth of 18 in handicap chase at Naas (16f, good to soft, 7/2) on debut over fences 33 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Likely to improve. Well exposed over hurdles, remote fifth on chase/stable debut at Naas, may improve.
4 \|PU\| (4) (16/1 +20%) On The Tide	16 16/1(+20%)	(4) On The Tide 16/1, Remains a maiden after 17 NH runs. 28/1, respectable sixth of 13 in handicap chase at Down Royal (20.6f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Moderate sixth at Down Royal last month, considerable improvement needed.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

TANGENTAL gained both hurdle wins on soft ground including over this trip at Clonmel and showed some promise over fences last spring. The Colm Murphy-trained gelding should benefit from his reappearance behind the progressive Portarlington at Tramore. Cullenwaine justified good support over 3m1f at Thurles last month and is still a threat off his revised mark, although the softer ground conditions would be a concern. Chosen Shant has yet to score in 25 starts but has placed form over a variety of trips and now steps up considerably in distance after his stable debut at Naas last month. Course winner He Fitz In is another to consider.

CULLENWAINE improved on previous chase form to finally take advantage of a lower mark in this sphere at Thurles 4 weeks ago and remains on a workable mark in this sphere. Chosen Shant shaped much better than the distance beaten suggests starting out for this yard at Naas last month and is an interesting contender, while He Fitz In is potentially on a nice mark back over fences.

Not many of these inspire confidence. It may be worth taking a chance with HE FITZ IN, whose recent hurdles form is mildly encouraging

15:05 Haydock Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) 24f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (10/1 +38%) Uncle Bert	10 10/1(+38%)	(4) Uncle Bert 10/1, Useful hurdler who posted a career-best effort when adding to his tally at Bangor (19.6f) last March. Failed to convince in trio of starts over fences this season but looked more at home back over hurdles and duly ran up to best when third at Aintree (20f, soft) recently. Considered. Did not prove his suitability for this sort of trip on two previous attempts.
10 2nd (10) (13/2 +46%) Kilbarry Hill	6.5 13/2(+46%)	(10) Kilbarry Hill 13/2, Two wins in November, got off the mark in 6-runner novice hurdle at Hereford before claiming a walk over. Another step forward when scoring on handicap debut at Uttoxeter (23.3f, soft) last month, rallying to lead late on. Lightly-raced sort represents red-hot stable so fancied to be in the mix. Battled back in major way to win handicap debut at Uttoxeter (extended 2m7f, soft) latest.
2 3rd (2) (9/2 -13%) Punta Del Este	4.5 9/2(-13%)	(2) Punta Del Este 9/2, Dual winner last season who posted good third on Carlisle return (20f) and was left with a lot to do when creditable fifth of 14 in handicap hurdle at this course (18.9f, soft) 8 weeks ago. Mark unchanged and he should be in the shake up with the tongue tie discarded. Two of his poor performances last term were his only two attempts at this sort of trip.
11 4th (11) (5/1 +29%) Tiny Tetley	5 5/1(+29%)	(11) Tiny Tetley 5/1, Opened his account in a 21.5f Exeter maiden hurdle last February and showed a good attitude to record a first handicap success in 6-runner event at Taunton (23.9f, good to soft) just under 3 weeks ago, staying on to lead final 100 yds. Not out of things from 4 lb higher. Up 4lb since Taunton win but a slog should suit and he's from a stable in blinding form.
5 5th (5) (9/2 +25%) Tune In A Box	4.5 9/2(+25%)	(5) Tune In A Box 9/2, Most progressive switched to handicaps last season, making it 4 wins from 5 starts when taking big-field contest at Punchestown (19.5f) last April. Good fourth of 16 in a warm race at Cheltenham (21f) in November and did all he could back at 3m when close second at Chepstow just over 3 weeks ago. In good form and goes well over 3m in the mud but he looks more exposed than some of these.
12 6th (12) (12/1 +0%) Bushypark	12 12/1(+0%)	(12) Bushypark 12/1, Proved more miss than hit on the back of a C&D victory 13 months ago but responded well to fitting of cheekpieces when runner-up on final start of last season at Kelso in April. Low-key return to action at Lingfield last month and having been supported, fell heavily mid-race over C&D since. 11yo; 3-3 over hurdles at this track before he fell four out here 19 days ago.
6 7th (6) (8/1 +43%) Inox Allen	8 8/1(+43%)	(6) Inox Allen 8/1, Scored twice in a light campaign over hurdles last term. Off 8 months and resumed with a promising third of 5 in handicap chase at Uttoxeter (24f, heavy) on his chasing debut just under 8 weeks ago, closing up late. Quickly switches back to hurdles. Back hurdling after a creditable chase debut and he's far from fully exposed at this trip.
9 8th (9) (11/2 +45%) Good Look Charm	5.5 11/2(+45%)	(9) Good Look Charm 11/2, Fairly useful hurdler who enhanced her good record fresh when winning 8-runner handicap (9/2) under this pilot at Sandown (19.8f, heavy) 6 weeks ago. 5 lb rise fair, and she can be expected to go well again back up in trip. Clearcut win at Sandown (2m4f, heavy) under Chad Bament last time; stays an extended 2m7f.
7 \|PU\| (7) (16/1 -14%) Young Jack	16 16/1(-14%)	(7) Young Jack 16/1, Maiden point winner who scored on his second start over hurdles at Newcastle (2½m, heavy) last February. Built on decent return when scoring at Kelso last month but let down by his jumping and also found to have suffered from an irregular heartbeat 3 weeks later. Must bounce back. Won at Kelso (extended 2m6f, soft) but he flopped over that same C&D three weeks later.
8 \|PU\| (8) (28/1 +30%) Fonzerelli	28 28/1(+30%)	(8) Fonzerelli 28/1, Listed novice hurdle winner at Doncaster in March 2022. Very lightly raced since but she did shape as if retaining ability when sixth of 9 in handicap at Carlisle (25f) last month. Should strip fitter for that first outing in 8 months and the market should be a good indicator (66/1 on return). All her noteworthy form was in the 2021-22 season; has raced only twice since (last year).
1 \|PU\| (1) (33/1 +0%) Bold Endeavour	33 33/1(+0%)	(1) Bold Endeavour 33/1, Very useful hurdler and chaser at his best for Nicky Henderson in recent seasons. Rejoined Laura Morgan after 6 months off when tailed off in handicap hurdle at Aintree on return and failed to come on for that with his usual headgear discarded at Market Rasen since. Cheekpieces back on. Big question mark over current form having suffered three heavy defeats this term.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

The Philip Hobbs and Johnson White team have been in excellent form over the past couple of weeks and TINY TETLEY appears capable of defying a 4lb rise for his recent Taunton success. The seven-year-old displayed a likeable attitude on that occasion and gets the vote with the potential for further improvement. Tune In A Box was denied close home at Chepstow over the Festive period and is respected along with Punta Del Este.

Cases can be made for any number of these, but the suggestion is GOOD LOOK CHARM, who enhanced her good record fresh when winning under this pilot at Sandown 6 weeks ago and Anthony Honeyball's mare can take her tally to five wins from 12 starts in this sphere. Punta del Este has picked up from where he left off last season, so he can provide most resistance, with Kilbarry Hill and Uncle Bert another couple worth considering, too.

From a yard in superb form, TINY TETLEY is a second-season hurdler who will be well suited by this test. It's not an easy call, however.

15:15 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 19f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
7 (7) (7/4 0%) Dominic's Fault	1.75 7/4(0%)	(7) Dominic's Fault 7/4, Well-bred, rangy sort who overcame a lengthy absence to land a 6-runner Leicester novice in January and has progressed further since, scoring with something to spare in a handicap at Lingfield last time. Clearly the one to beat. Clearcut winner at Lingfield last month and now 2-5 over hurdles; may still have potential.
3 1st (3) (13/8 +64%) Aurigny Mill	1.625 13/8(+64%)	(3) Aurigny Mill 13/8, Took his form to a new level (formerly with Victor Dartnall) when a most impressive winner of 7-runner handicap hurdle at Newbury (2m) on stable debut (second since won a decent race at Ascot). Best forgiven latest Ascot effort when hampered early and looks a contender. Won under very well-judged ride on stable debut; might be on a tough mark now, though.
9 2nd (9) (7/2 +46%) Paso Doble	3.5 7/2(+46%)	(9) Paso Doble 7/2, Fairly useful Flat winner who quickly reached a similar level in this sphere, gaining his second victory as a novice at Taunton over (16.5f) 3 years ago. Only outing since came when seventh there last month but he seemed to retain ability and is well treated. Not beaten far over C&D last month, after a long absence, but remains tricky to weigh up.
5 3rd (5) (17/2 +58%) Stream Of Stars	8.5 17/2(+58%)	(5) Stream Of Stars 17/2, Reappeared from lengthy absence as good as ever, recording back-to-back wins at Fontwell in September/October but has found things tougher since. Not disgraced in competitive races since his two emphatic Fontwell wins in the autumn.
2 4th (2) (11/4 +66%) Might I	2.75 11/4(+66%)	(2) Might I 11/4, Capitalised on a falling mark in 11-runner handicap hurdle at Bangor in November but found things tougher at Cheltenham next time. Still feasibly treated if he can put latest effort behind him. Won off reduced mark in November (2m3f) and didn't run badly over 3m last month a player.
1 5th (1) (16/1 -256%) Dargiannini	16 16/1(-256%)	(1) Dargiannini 16/1, Bagged fifth success over hurdles when scoring over C&D 14 months ago and back to that sort of form when second of 8 in handicap at Doncaster (19.4f, good to soft, 18/1) 36 days ago. Tongue strap back on. Should give another good account. Looked as good as ever when close second at Doncaster last month; in the mix again.
6 6th (6) (18/1 -29%) Zambezi Fix	18 18/1(-29%)	(6) Zambezi Fix 18/1, Tends to save his best for Chepstow, usually ridden patiently and likes a good pace to aim at. Couldn't cash-in on lower chase mark at his favourite venue three weeks ago. Back over smaller obstacles and although he is now on his last winning hurdles mark, this looks competitive. In fair form over hurdles in the autumn but didn't fire over fences last month.
4 7th (4) (14/1 -17%) Monviel	14 14/1(-17%)	(4) Monviel 14/1, Back to his best over hurdles for the yard, placed for the third completed start in a row when runner-up at Uttoxeter (19.9f, soft) in May. However, after 6 months off he was well-beaten at Sandown (19.8f) in November (reported to have bled). Bounce back called for. Claims if judged on last spring's form in cheekpieces; well beaten (bled) on latest outing.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

DOMINIC'S FAULT has just five runs under his belt, but is still eligible for this seniors' race. Olly Murphy's eight-year-old has clearly had his issues, but gained compensation for being pipped on his handicap debut by landing the odds at Lingfield. He can continue to make up for lost time, possibly at the chief expense of Might I, who once again failed to stay 3m at Cheltenham but was a good winner at Bangor prior to that. Dargiannini got back on track with a solid second at Doncaster and is also noted.

DOMINIC'S FAULT is comfortably the most progressive in this field and looks an obvious choice on the back of a cosy win at Lingfield. Aurigny Mill is respected in anticipation of a better showing than last time (easily excused), while Dargiannini can go well again.

The suggestion is STREAM OF STARS, who could still be on a good mark if judged on his two Fontwell wins this season.

15:25 Navan NH Flat Race 16f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
5 1st (5) (10/3 -11%) Spinningayarn	3.333333 10/3(-11%)	(5) Spinningayarn 10/3, €60,000 3-y-o, Order of St George gelding. Dam (c74/h114), bumper/2½m-3m hurdle winner, half-sister to very smart hurdler/winning chaser (stayed 3m) Sam Spinner. Won sole start in points (Mar 2024). Obvious player. Dam bumper and 2m3f/3m hurdle winner; easily won Ballyknock point-to-point; major player.
2 2nd (2) (6/4 +33%) Eachtotheirown	1.5 6/4(+33%)	(2) Eachtotheirown 6/4, €48,000 3-y-o, Westerner gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to fairly useful chaser (stays 3m) Glamorgan Duke. Notable newcomer. 48,000euros 3yo; stable won this race last year with William Munny; watch the betting.
4 3rd (4) (7/4 +50%) Sine Qua Non	1.75 7/4(+50%)	(4) Sine Qua Non 7/4, €90,000 3-y-o, Masked Marvel gelding. Half-brother to French/US hurdler Fast Vision. Dam unraced half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/chaser (17f-19f winner) Mukonzi Has. Beat sole other finisher by wide margin in 13-runner event sole outing in points (Nov 24). Very interesting Rules newcomer. 90,000euros 3yo won a Lingstown point-to-point by 48l in November; stable 3-26 in bumpers.
3 4th (3) (40/1 -150%) Mount Mason	40 40/1(-150%)	(3) Mount Mason 40/1, Twice-raced maiden. Tongue strap on for 1st time, first run since leaving J. Newman when eleventh of 14 in bumper at Down Royal (17.2f, good to soft, 14/1) 23 days ago. Claims if back to the sort of form he showed on debut. Second behind subsequent novice hurdle winner in an Exeter bumper but poor at Down Royal.
8 5th (8) (33/1 +0%) Shabra Diya	33 33/1(+0%)	(8) Shabra Diya 33/1, Waldgeist gelding. Half-brother to 3 winners on Flat, including smart 7f winner Raydara. Dam 7.4f-1½m winner. Bred to have enough speed for this sort of test. 25,000gns yearling, 5,500gns 2yo; stable can ready one so market watch advised.
1 6th (1) (15/2 -200%) Dream Diamond	7.5 15/2(-200%)	(1) Dream Diamond 15/2, Twice-raced maiden. Second of 19 in novice hurdle at Cork (16.2f, soft, 25/1) 36 days ago. Makes bumpers debut. Worthy of respect. Ran Kel Histoire close at Cork; big player with Patrick Mullins booked; yard on cold list.
6 7th (6) (150/1 -20%) Times A Wastin	150 150/1(-20%)	(6) Times A Wastin 150/1, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. 125/1, pulled up in novice hurdle at Leopardstown (16f, good) on hurdles bow 23 days ago. Switches from hurdles to bumpers. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Failed to complete in two points; modest form in bumpers; tailed off on hurdling bow.
7 8th (7) (100/1 +20%) Amy's Quest	100 100/1(+20%)	(7) Amy's Quest 100/1, Once-raced maiden. Last of 10 in bumper (125/1) at Fairyhouse (16.5f, good to soft) on NH debut 35 days ago. Stable has poor bumper record & this mare was tailed off on debut at Fairyhouse last month.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,

DREAM DIAMOND has shown promise on both hurdle starts notably when beating all bar Kel Histoire last time in a 19-runner Cork maiden. The winner advertised the form when runner-up to Salvator Mundi in a Grade 2 at Punchestown last Sunday and the booking of Patrick Mullins adds to confidence. Sine Qua Non easily beat Loaded And Locked (won since) on his only point-to-point start at Lingstown in November while Spinningayarn also represents powerful connections and has a similar profile. Eachtotheirown is a newcomer to note from a yard in good form.

A couple of big owners are represented with point winners here, with SINE QUA NON and Spinningayarn likely to fight it out. The former was most impressive and takes marginal preference, while Dream Diamond isn't completely dismissed on the back of a good second over hurdles.

Impressive Ballyknock point-to-point winner SPINNINGAYARN gets the vote on debut for Gordon Elliott

15:32 Ascot Conditions Chase (Class 1) 17f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (8/13 +0%) Jonbon	0.615385 8/13(+0%)	(4) Jonbon 8/13, Top-class chaser who has won 11 of his 13 starts over fences, reappearing with a cosy success from a couple of these at Cheltenham before taking the Tingle Creek once again last month. That performance was among the best of his remarkably consistent career and he'll be hard to beat once more. Has become a powerhouse in this division; now a dual Tingle Creek winner; highly respected.
3 2nd (3) (9/4 +0%) Energumene	2.25 9/4(+0%)	(3) Energumene 9/4, Top-class chaser who has won 11 of his 13 starts over fences, creating a good impression back from 20 months off when scoring at Cork last month, still 2 lengths ahead when left clear last as subsequent King George winner Banbridge unseated. Tactically versatile and poised for another big run. Encouraging return to action in the Hilly Way; the best horse in this field on peak form.
2 3rd (2) (12/1 +14%) Edwardstone	12 12/1(+14%)	(2) Edwardstone 12/1, Won the Grade 2 Game Spirit at Newbury last season and still capable of high-class form, proving none the worse for his Tingle Creek fall when second under a big weight in 2m Grade 2 Kempton handicap at Christmas. 0-5 against Jonbon and surprising if he can take this on first ever start at Ascot. Very smart on his day but is 0-5 when racing against Jonbon; unlikely to turn the tables.
1 4th (1) (16/1 +20%) Boothill	16 16/1(+20%)	(1) Boothill 16/1, Unbeaten in 3 runs over C&D but his jumping has been letting him down since his latest success in November 2023. Held by Jonbon on his return at Cheltenham and fell for the third time in 5 starts at Kempton over Christmas (Edwardstone second). Up against it. 3-3 over C&D (handicap wins) but needs a career-best performance to land this prize.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content,

The top-class Energumene returned from a 593-day absence to score easily in a Grade 2 at Cork last month and although he's worthy of the utmost respect, this is all about JONBON. Nicky Henderson's star chaser recorded an eighth Grade 1 triumph when bolting up in the Tingle Creek last month and with no signs of slowing down, he's expected to do the business. It was much more like it from Edwardstone in the Desert Orchid, but he still has plenty to find in this company.

A mouthwatering first clash between ENERGUMENE and Jonbon, who have won a remarkable 13 Grade 1 chases between them, and Energumene looks the one to side with at the prices. He missed last season but made a taking return at Cork, jumping well until late in the day and probably having Banbridge's measure when the subsequent King George winner unseated at the last. Likely to build on that, he can see off the remarkably consistent Jonbon, who ran to his best when landing a second Tingle Creek.

Energumene's peak form sets a high standard but current Champion Chase favourite JONBON brings the best recent figures.

15:40 Haydock Handicap Chase (Class 3) 16f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (11/1 -83%) Prairie Wolf	11 11/1(-83%)	(1) Prairie Wolf 11/1, Made a fine start over fences last season, winning 3 times in handicaps from 6 races. Struggled for form at start of current campaign, but was in share of third when unseating 3 out at Carlisle (20.9f, soft) last time. Now only 1 lb above last winning mark. Course winner who was in contention when unseating at Carlisle last month; possible player.
4 2nd (4) (4/1 -60%) Prince Quali	4 4/1(-60%)	(4) Prince Quali 4/1, Successful over hurdles/fences in France and ended last season on the up for current yard, landing back-to-back handicap chases at Chepstow (both at 16f). Stepped up on return when third at Ascot (18.8f, soft) in December and he's not taken lightly. Fair third on both starts this term and perhaps today's more testing ground will be a plus.
7 3rd (7) (4/1 +27%) Dr T J Eckleburg	4 4/1(+27%)	(7) Dr T J Eckleburg 4/1, With reappearance run behind him, proved better than ever when scoring at this C&D (soft) in November, form boosted by the runner-up winning next time. Ran at least as well when second at Chepstow 22 days ago and he's a major player back here. A win (C&D) and a good second from his last two starts and he could be in the mix.
5 4th (5) (11/4 +63%) Xcitations	2.75 11/4(+63%)	(5) Xcitations 11/4, Successful at Sandown on second start last season but hasn't managed to match that level since. However, showed the benefit of his reappearance when third at this C&D (heavy) in December, so he's one to note from his easing mark. Step back in right direction when third over C&D last time and he's not discounted.
6 5th (6) (5/2 +17%) The Famous Five	2.5 5/2(+17%)	(6) The Famous Five 5/2, Dual winner over hurdles and confirmed promise of his chasing debut when winning 5-runner handicap at Newbury (16.4f, good to soft) 3 weeks ago, value for extra having had to overcome a mistake 5 out. Respected with further progress to come. Narrow win at Newbury on second chase start; there's room for improvement in his jumping.
3 6th (3) (22/1 -57%) Escapeandevade	22 22/1(-57%)	(3) Escapeandevade 22/1, Took his form up a notch with cheekpieces enlisted last term, bringing up the hat-trick at Kelso (17.1f) in March. Disputing the lead when unseating rider 3 out at Wetherby on return, but hasn't been in the same form in his 2 starts since. Bumped into highly progressive Skelton winner when 16l 2nd last time; could make bold bid.
2 7th (2) (14/1 -75%) Netywell	14 14/1(-75%)	(2) Netywell 14/1, Wide-margin winner of 4-runner handicap at this C&D (heavy) last season and also successful on next 2 starts. Third back at this venue on his reappearance, but was reported to be lame when pulled here 4 weeks ago. Bounce back called for. Pulled up over C&D last time (lame); won over C&D on heavy last term and could bounce back.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

THE FAMOUS FIVE won at Newbury, despite his jumping not being particularly fluent, and it may well be the return to more testing ground will see him in a better light. Dr T J Eckleburg won over C&D on his penultimate start before running with credit to be second at Chepstow. He is capable of another decent showing, while others to note include Prince Quali and Prairie Wolf.

DR T J ECKLEBURG showed improved form with a smooth-travelling success at this C&D in November, before bumping into a good prospect at Chepstow last time, so he is taken to resume winning ways returned to this venue. He can see off the challenge of The Famous Five, who should have more to offer on only his third chase start, with Prince Quali also in the mix.

The unexposed Newbury winner The Famous Five is respected but PRINCE QUALI could appreciate the return to testing conditions.

15:50 Taunton Handicap Chase (Class 5) 23f - 14 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (9/1 -80%) Safe Destination	9 9/1(-80%)	(1) Safe Destination 9/1, Made it 2-3 this season with a career best in 7-runner handicap chase at Southwell (24.3f, good to soft, 11/2) 33 days ago. Not taken lightly in his current mood. Won under Toby McCain-Mitchell at Southwell last month and is now 2-3 for the season.
12 2nd (12) (12/1 +14%) School For Scandal	12 12/1(+14%)	(12) School For Scandal 12/1, C&D winner in November but below form both runs since, sixth of 10 in handicap chase here (26.3f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Dual winner in the autumn (once over C&D) but ended 2024 with two lesser efforts.
10 3rd (10) (15/2 +38%) Robinsville	7.5 15/2(+38%)	(10) Robinsville 15/2, Maiden hurdler/chaser who wasn't disgraced after 4 months off when fourth of 9 to School For Scandal in handicap chase at Wincanton (25.1f, good) 93 days ago. Since had a wind op so can't be discounted off a 2 lb lower mark. Placed in two good-ground chases last spring but below form on next two outings.
7 4th (7) (11/1 +8%) Whynotnowroy	11 11/1(+8%)	(7) Whynotnowroy 11/1, Signed off for Keiran Burke with 2m5f Fontwell success in May. Resumed for his new stable with an excellent second at Fontwell but ran poorly when 5/4 favourite there last time. Needs to bounce back on his chase debut. Flopped over hurdles last time but ran well in defeat on stable debut; makes chase debut.
6 5th (6) (100/1 -100%) Spotty Dog	100 100/1(-100%)	(6) Spotty Dog 100/1, Dual winner over fences at Huntingdon at the start of 2023 but has offered little in four outings since. Others appeal more. Struggled on all three outings in 2024; needs new cheekpieces to make a huge difference.
8 6th (8) (11/1 -29%) Tribesmans Glory	11 11/1(-29%)	(8) Tribesmans Glory 11/1, Fair winning chaser for Tom George in 2020. Scored for current yard at Warwick in May and resumed with a good second of 13 in handicap chase here (18.2f, good to soft) 51 days ago. Can go well again. Not the force of old but went close over 2m2f here last time and is unexposed as a stayer.
11 7th (11) (33/1 +0%) Totowolfe	33 33/1(+0%)	(11) Totowolfe 33/1, Irish point winner who has shown little since shaping with some encouragement on his hurdling bow, including on chase debut at Leicester last month. 0-7 under rules; ran well to a point on chase debut but dropped out tamely in the straight.
9 8th (9) (5/2 +55%) The Cox Express	2.5 5/2(+55%)	(9) The Cox Express 5/2, Winless since his debut but he posted a very good clear second of 15 on his chasing bow at Exeter (2m3f) 30 days ago. That form has been franked so big shout despite a 2 lb rise. Creditable second of 15 on last month's chase debut (2m3f); attempts a new trip here.
5 9th (5) (33/1 -32%) Dindin	33 33/1(-32%)	(5) Dindin 33/1, Successful at Worcester in summer of 2023 and runner-up on 3 occasions after. Decent comeback third at Newton Abbot in August but has gone the wrong way from it. High-mileage veteran who looked out of sorts on his final two appearances in 2024.
2 \|U\| (2) (8/1 -33%) Proper Twelve	8 8/1(-33%)	(2) Proper Twelve 8/1, Blinkered/tongue strap on for 1st time, creditable second of 6 in handicap chase at Huntingdon (23.6f, heavy, 8/1) 41 days ago. Visor on 1st time. Enters calculations. Boosted by blinkers when second at Huntingdon last month; tried in a visor here.
14 10th (14) (33/1 -65%) Firefly Lane	33 33/1(-65%)	(14) Firefly Lane 33/1, Winning pointer who opened her account over fences at Newton Abbot (21f) in September. Only fourth of 5 over 2m2f here last time but she's the sort to bounce back. Came good over fences in September but a few of the others in this field look stronger.
4 11th (4) (20/1 -67%) Up For Appeal	20 20/1(-67%)	(4) Up For Appeal 20/1, Got off the mark over fences at Newton Abbot in June and he was running well when fell 2 out in handicap chase at Sedgefield (21.1f, soft) 43 days ago. Can make his presence felt. In contention before penultimate-fence fall at Sedgefield last time; still on handy mark.
15 \|PU\| (15) (5/1 +41%) Try The Money	5 5/1(+41%)	(15) Try The Money 5/1, Maiden hurdler who shaped with encouragement sent chasing when fourth at Ffos Las in November. Only seventh at Uttoxeter since so needs to get back on track. Failed to build upon encouraging chasing debut when a disappointing favourite last month.
3 \|PU\| (3) (14/1 -27%) Rebel Intentions	14 14/1(-27%)	(3) Rebel Intentions 14/1, Scored at Kempton in October but only eleventh of 13 in handicap hurdle at Ascot (21.6f, good to soft) 29 days ago. Switches to fences with visor on for 1st time and more needed. Ended 2024 with two below-par hurdle runs and was pulled up in all three previous chases.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

SAFE DESTINATION arrives here on the back of a victory over 3m at Southwell a month ago and a 4lb rise may not be enough to stop the progressive seven-year-old from taking this contest as well. Proper Twelve hit the crossbar at Huntingdon last time and is likely to be in the mix once again, while Tribesmans Glory and The Cox Express complete the shortlist.

Not as competitive as the numbers suggest and THE COX EXPRESS looks the way to go on the back of his promising chasing debut second at Exeter (form working out well). Tribesman Glory arrives at the top of his game and rates a big threat though, with Robinsville, Safe Destination and Proper Twelve also in the mix.

Nudged up only 2lb for a creditable second on his chase debut, THE COX EXPRESS gets the vote in this hope today's longer trip suits.

16:02 Ascot Novices Hurdle (Class 3) 22f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 (1) (5/2 +9%) I'm A Lumberjack	2.5 5/2(+9%)	(1) I'm A Lumberjack 5/2, Fairly useful bumper performer who confirmed hurdling debut promise when running out a tidy winner of 11-runner maiden hurdle (6/5) at Warwick (21f, soft) 37 days ago, suited by the longer trip. Likely to progress further. Much the strongest in the closing stages at Warwick (2m5f, good to soft); major player.
2 1st (2) (13/2 -30%) Jax Junior	6.5 13/2(-30%)	(2) Jax Junior 13/2, Placed in bumpers last spring. Had wind surgery after making a disappointing start to his hurdle career at Uttoxeter in November and totally different proposition at Doncaster 6 weeks later, winning by 10 lengths. There should be more to come. 10l Doncaster win is not the best form in this but he made a very positive impression.
7 2nd (7) (10/3 -33%) Country Park	3.333333 10/3(-33%)	(7) Country Park 10/3, Fair useful hurdler who was running well when falling 2 out in maiden hurdle over C&D (good to soft) 29 days ago, going best at time. Enters calculations. Travelling strongly just behind the leaders when he fell two out in a C&D maiden last time.
5 3rd (5) (5/2 +67%) U Cant Be Serious	2.5 5/2(+67%)	(5) U Cant Be Serious 5/2, Rangy gelding who showed promise in bumpers and left his hurdling debut form well behind to open his account in 10-runner novice at Taunton (19f) 19 days ago, quickening clear flat having jumped/travelled well. This is tougher but open to further improvement. Always close up at Taunton (2m3f, good to soft) and surged clear in the closing stages.
3 4th (3) (6/4 +70%) Laurens Bay	1.5 6/4(+70%)	(3) Laurens Bay 6/4, Confirmed previous promise as he made it third time lucky over hurdles in 10-runner novice hurdle at Huntingdon (15.8f, heavy, 8/11) 41 days ago, driven out. Step up in trip promises to suit and remains capable of better. 1st or 2nd every time; there's a good chance he will get this trip; improvement is needed.
6 5th (6) (33/1 +34%) Copper Jack	33 33/1(+34%)	(6) Copper Jack 33/1, Irish point winner who appeared to improve on the form shown on bumper debut when fourth of 5 in a class 2 C&D novice in November. That was a steadily-run affair however, and the form looks suspect. After his two hurdle races, it does not look like he will be winning one just yet.
8 6th (8) (125/1 -25%) Minella Kaiser	125 125/1(-25%)	(8) Minella Kaiser 125/1, Placed on the first of 2 starts in Irish points but looks one for handicaps later on based on early evidence under Rules. After his two Irish points and a 2m5f Plumpton maiden hurdle, he looks a big outsider.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

I'M A LUMBERJACK just failed to beat a progressive rival on his hurdling bow at Bangor in November but, upped in trip at Warwick the following month, Alan King's gelding made no mistake. The son of Jack Hobbs looks set to progress further and he gets the nod, although Country Park had made stylish headway before coming to grief two from home over C&D recently, and he is a big player given a clean round. Others to note include Laurens Bay and Jax Junior.

LAURENS BAY did well to get the better of one that's useful on the level in what became a bit of a dash at Huntingdon the previous month and looks capable of defying a penalty, especially with today's step up in trip sure to suit. I'm A Lumberjack's Warwick win is backed up by the timefigure and he warrants plenty of respect. with U Can't Be Serious another to note having won in quite impressive fashion at Taunton.

This group looks tough to separate but JAX JUNIOR is slightly preferred to I'm A Lumberjack.

16:20 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 19f - 16 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (3/1 +40%) Star Of Affinity	3 3/1(+40%)	(2) Star Of Affinity 3/1, Had previously shaped like more of a staying type but showed benefit of wind surgery/application of a tongue strap after 5 months off when landing an Exeter handicap in October. Good placed efforts since and likely to make his presence felt again. Placed twice since breakthrough win in October; probably in the mix again.
16 2nd (16) (8/1 +60%) Diesel Line	8 8/1(+60%)	(16) Diesel Line 8/1, Attracted support and made a winning debut in good style in 9-runner bumper at Exeter in February 2023. Disappointing so far over hurdles, including in handicap at Fontwell last time, and others make more appeal. Won on bumper debut in 2023 but has not shown a great deal over hurdles.
1 3rd (1) (15/2 +32%) State Of Fame	7.5 15/2(+32%)	(1) State Of Fame 15/2, Bumper/multiple point winner but 0-11 over hurdles, including only midfield in handicaps at Uttoxeter and Hereford since joining Tom Lacey. Has first-time visor added to a tongue tie. First two stable runs were very respectable and Cameron Iles claims a useful 7lb here.
3 4th (3) (7/2 -17%) Ugo Bingo	3.5 7/2(-17%)	(3) Ugo Bingo 7/2, Going the right way at present, winning his last two completed outings. Showed a good attitude and was well on top at the finish at Wincanton last time, so plenty to like about his chances back up in trip. Won twice (once over C&D) towards end of 2024 and might still be improving; respected.
4 5th (4) (33/1 +34%) Just Go For It	33 33/1(+34%)	(4) Just Go For It 33/1, C&D winner who possibly needed the run on first outing since leaving Mitchell Hunt (after 7 months off) when well-held third of 9 in handicap hurdle at Hereford in November. Failed to build on that when eighth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Wincanton (19.8f, soft) 32 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Has lost her way since her easy C&D win last March; younger rivals appeal more.
9 6th (9) (9/1 -20%) A Little Something	9 9/1(-20%)	(9) A Little Something 9/1, Career-best on handicap debut at Hereford when third of 9 (16.2f, good to soft) 27 days ago, shaping as if she will stay further. Step up in trip would seem to be to her advantage based on that showing and she has solid claims. Placed over 2m on recent handicap debut and open to improvement over this longer trip.
15 7th (15) (40/1 -21%) Bruce Gobbler	40 40/1(-21%)	(15) Bruce Gobbler 40/1, Little form of worth for the Philip Hobbs & Johnson White stable last season, including well held on handicap debut in February. Has won a point since but well-held fourth in that sphere last month ahead of this return to hurdles. Struggled over C&D on handicap debut last February but has since won a point.
7 8th (7) (12/1 +0%) Taritino	12 12/1(+0%)	(7) Taritino 12/1, Fair on Flat for Amy Murphy and showed an aptitude for hurdling for this yard last season. Racked up a hat-trick back on the level subsequently but only mid-field here last month. Won three times on the Flat last spring but recent hurdle return was only respectable.
13 9th (13) (22/1 -10%) Churchman	22 22/1(-10%)	(13) Churchman 22/1, Went close in 2m course handicap last February. Should stay this far but off since a below-form fifth over 2½m at Bangor in May. In fairly good form when last seen last spring but may need this outing.
14 10th (14) (17/2 0%) Nobody's Perfect	8.5 17/2(0%)	(14) Nobody's Perfect 17/2, Little to shout about in bumpers/over hurdles to date but not unduly punished on most recent outing and could make more impact now switched to a handicap over a longer trip. Needs improvement on handicap debut but the longer trip ought to suit and Sean Bowen rides.
11 11th (11) (40/1 +0%) Johannes	40 40/1(+0%)	(11) Johannes 40/1, A fair 2m Flat winner in France and off the mark over hurdles at Taunton in February. Pulled up on all three outings since, however, so plenty to prove. C&D winner on handicap debut last February but pulled up all three starts since.
10 \|PU\| (10) (10/1 +50%) West Park Boy	10 10/1(+50%)	(10) West Park Boy 10/1, Clear signs of ability in his 3 qualifying runs and seemed the type who would make an impact in handicap hurdles. Has struggled on two outings since a long absence, though. Unexposed after only five hurdle starts but first two handicap runs were disappointing.
5 \|PU\| (5) (25/1 -150%) Hermes Le Gris	25 25/1(-150%)	(5) Hermes Le Gris 25/1, Career best when winning 7-runner handicap hurdle (2/1) at Ffos Las (20f, soft), driven clear. May yet have more to offer for this stable but 9-month absence is a slight concern. 2-5 for current stable but has fitness to prove after nine-month layoff.
8 \|PU\| (8) (40/1 -264%) Exmoor Lad	40 40/1(-264%)	(8) Exmoor Lad 40/1, Hasn't threatened as yet but there was a good deal more encouragement under a patient ride when fifth in a C&D novice last time. That was 14 months ago, however, so market likely to be informative on handicap debut. Absent since three low-key qualifying runs in 2023 but still worth a glance in the betting.
6 \|PU\| (6) (100/1 -203%) Kendelu	100 100/1(-203%)	(6) Kendelu 100/1, Has gone well here in the past but showed nothing back from a 35-month absence on return and is hard to make any sort of case for with that in mind. Runs this track very well but returned from mammoth absence with heavy defeat last month.
12 \|RR\| (12) (14/1 +44%) Broomfield Gale	14 14/1(+44%)	(12) Broomfield Gale 14/1, Modest hurdler at best in Ireland for Robert Murphy. Solid effort on penultimate outing but disappointing at Warwick last time, so needs hood to have a positive effect. Not disgraced on first three stable start but needs to up her game here.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

STAR OF AFFINITY has made the frame on both starts since winning over an extended 2m at Exeter in October and Joe Tizzard's gelding sets the standard now eased in grade slightly. Ugo Bingo's victory at Wincanton on Boxing Day means that he has to be considered, although a 5lb rise demands more from him. The returning Hermes Le Gris and A Little Something are the pick of the remainder.

A LITTLE SOMETHING stepped up on previous form when third at Hereford on handicap debut and this longer trip is likely draw further improvement out of her, so she's narrowly preferred to Ugo Bingo, who looks firmly on the up. Another likeable effort is expected from the in-form Star of Affinity.

Unexposed mare A LITTLE SOMETHING (nap) found 2m a bit too sharp when third on her handicap debut but can strike over today's trip.

16:30 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 7f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
7 (7) (125/1 0%) Alice's Impact	125 125/1(0%)	(7) Alice's Impact 125/1, Winner at Beverley in July. Blinkered for 1st time, last of 10 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 33/1) 78 days ago. First run for yard after leaving John & Sean Quinn. Not easy to make a case for. Sole win over stiff extended 7f on turf; well beaten in two 7f Newcastle runs; new yard.
1 1st (1) (4/7 +37%) Ash Wednesday	0.571429 4/7(+37%)	(1) Ash Wednesday 4/7, 4/5, career best when winning 11-runner handicap at this C&D 11 days ago by 3½ lengths from Bossy Parker, readily. Shortlist material. Very well suited by C&D, unlucky on Boxing Day then overwhelmed rivals 11 days ago; up 8lb.
9 2nd (9) (28/1 +20%) Hawajes	28 28/1(+20%)	(9) Hawajes 28/1, Latest win at Chepstow in September. Tenth of 12 in handicap at this C&D (12/1) 23 days ago. Has run respectably here in the past but he's not in much form at present.
8 3rd (8) (18/1 +18%) Porfin	18 18/1(+18%)	(8) Porfin 18/1, C&D winner. Good third of 10 in handicap (18/1) at this C&D 11 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. Looks competitive on form. Multiple wins, including C&D; well handicapped now; fair 3rd here last week after break.
3 4th (3) (6/1 +0%) Bossy Parker	6 6/1(+0%)	(3) Bossy Parker 6/1, C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2024. Creditable 3½ lengths second of 11 to Ash Wednesday in handicap at this C&D (16/5) 11 days ago. Blinkers back on. Respected. Two C&D wins; no match for Ash Wednesday latest but place possibilities again.
10 5th (10) (66/1 +27%) Dodgy Bob	66 66/1(+27%)	(10) Dodgy Bob 66/1, C&D winner. Fifteen runs since last win in 2023. 80/1, eighth of 9 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) 8 days ago, slowly away. Nine-time winner, two over C&D in 2023; limited encouragement these days, though.
5 6th (5) (17/2 -6%) Mashaan	8.5 17/2(-6%)	(5) Mashaan 17/2, C&D winner. Latest win here in December. 3/1, good third of 12 in handicap at Chelmsford City (7f) 7 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Player. Solid form for this yard includes a C&D win on Boxing Day; new cheekpieces an unknown.
6 7th (6) (14/1 +44%) Buttercross Flyer	14 14/1(+44%)	(6) Buttercross Flyer 14/1, One win from 26 Flat runs. 16/1, creditable fourth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 7 days ago. Others more persuasive. Handily treated on C&D form in the autumn but not in the same form on this track since.
4 8th (4) (6/1 -20%) Viva Voce	6 6/1(-20%)	(4) Viva Voce 6/1, C&D winner. 11/2, won 14-runner handicap at Dundalk (8f) 36 days ago, keeping on well. Can give a good account. Won on all 3 Tapeta tracks but last 4 wins over 1m, including latest on Dundalk Polytrack.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

ASH WEDNESDAY proved far too strong for Bossy Parker (second) when recording a commanding C&D triumph earlier this month. An 8lb rise will ask more questions of Heather Main's gelding, but he's relatively unexposed compared to many of these and there might be more to come. Dundalk winner Viva Voce merits respect in a race of this nature, while Mashaan could find more for the addition of first-time cheekpieces.

ASH WEDNESDAY comprehensively made amends for a luckless effort the time before when landing the odds over C&D 11 days ago and looks capable of defying an 8 lb rise. Bossy Parker should finish closer to the selection this time on 8 lb better terms and is feared most ahead of Mashaan.

Bossy Parker should get closer to ASH WEDNESDAY this time but the latter was impressive last week and can shrug off an 8lb rise.

17:00 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 7f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (7/4 +50%) South Dakota Sioux	1.75 7/4(+50%)	(3) South Dakota Sioux 7/4, C&D winner. Latest win here in September. 9/2, creditable second of 13 in handicap at Kempton (7f) 38 days ago. Merits consideration. Ended losing run over C&D in September; close 2nd at Kempton (7f) in December; thereabouts.
6 2nd (6) (33/1 -18%) Anamika	33 33/1(-18%)	(6) Anamika 33/1, 7¾ lengths seventh of 10 to Heavenly Fire in handicap (28/1) at this C&D 11 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. Went close on 2nd start but hasn't repeated the promise in three handicap runs.
4 3rd (4) (9/1 +0%) Plumette	9 9/1(+0%)	(4) Plumette 9/1, 3-time C&D winner. Twenty six runs since last win in 2023. 15/2, creditable fourth of 8 in handicap at this C&D 14 days ago. Close up in C&D handicaps in November and December; not quite in same form now.
7 4th (7) (16/1 +20%) Outreach	16 16/1(+20%)	(7) Outreach 16/1, C&D winner. 16/1, bit below form seventh of 12 in handicap at this C&D 23 days ago, never nearer. Something to find on form. Acts well over C&D, winning twice, but form ebbs and flows these days.
1 5th (1) (5/2 +38%) Ravenglass	2.5 5/2(+38%)	(1) Ravenglass 5/2, Course winner. Latest win here in October. Creditable third of 10 in handicap at this course (8.6f, 7/2) 11 days ago. Needs considering. Fortunes revived since blinkered, involved in two close finishes in last two 7f runs.
5 6th (5) (7/2 -17%) Star Of Atlantis	3.5 7/2(-17%)	(5) Star Of Atlantis 7/2, Won 12-runner minor event (10/3) at Southwell (7.1f) 14 days ago, driven out. Has good chance on form. Mildly progressive; beat a subsequent winner over 7f at Southwell recently.
9 7th (9) (125/1 +0%) Lil Wade	125 125/1(+0%)	(9) Lil Wade 125/1, Remains a maiden after 23 Flat runs. Ninth of 11 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f, 100/1) 3 days ago. Maiden; finished way back on first 7f attempt at Southwell on Wednesday.
2 8th (2) (12/1 -33%) Heavenly Fire	12 12/1(-33%)	(2) Heavenly Fire 12/1, C&D winner. Winner here in January. Turned out quickly when sixth of 9 in handicap at this C&D (3/1) 7 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Down weights by the time she got off the mark, over C&D this month; ran flat last week.
8 9th (8) (40/1 +39%) Peachey Carnehan	40 40/1(+39%)	(8) Peachey Carnehan 40/1, 3-time C&D winner. Fifteen runs since last win in 2024. Seventh of 11 in handicap at this course (6.1f, 18/1) 19 days ago. Has done sterling service with 17 wins but latest one was last February; down the list.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

SOUTH DAKOTA SIOUX went agonisingly close at Kempton last month and, off an unchanged mark and from a handy draw, he can go one place better. John Butler's gelding will have his challengers though, perhaps most notably in the shape of Ravenglass, who can benefit from a drop in trip. Star Of Atlantis landed classified honours at Southwell a fortnight ago and is respected back in a handicap.

STAR OF ATLANTIS found some improvement when off the mark in a minor event at Southwell 2 weeks ago, beating a next-time-out winner in the process, and can follow up back in a handicap. South Dakota Sioux and Ravenglass are feared most.

This can go to STAR OF ATLANTIS who was suited by the return to 7f at Southwell recently when beating a subsequent winner.

17:30 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 5) 8.5f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
5 1st (5) (16/1 -33%) Commander Of Life	16 16/1(-33%)	(5) Commander Of Life 16/1, 12/1, ninth of 10 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 10 days ago. Back up in trip. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Needs the headgear to have a positive effect. 1-17 and 0-13 in handicaps; needs the cheekpieces to have a positive effect.
1 2nd (1) (3/1 -20%) Hitched	3 3/1(-20%)	(1) Hitched 3/1, C&D winner. Seven wins from 21 Flat runs. Three wins from 10 runs last year. 4/1, career best when winning 5-runner handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 9 days ago, cosily. Not taken lightly. In fine form on the AW since November (form 111321); C&D winner and respected.
8 3rd (8) (5/2 +69%) Partisan Hero	2.5 5/2(+69%)	(8) Partisan Hero 5/2, 9/2, good second of 12 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 30 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Expected to be bang there. A repeat of last month's narrow Southwell defeat would make him a strong contender.
11 4th (11) (80/1 -100%) Eden Storm	80 80/1(-100%)	(11) Eden Storm 80/1, Course winner. 33/1, respectable fifth of 10 in handicap at this course (7.2f) 12 days ago, not clear run. Up in trip. Has work to do. Dual 7f winner here but not shown much in four starts for this yard.
7 5th (7) (12/1 +70%) Charencey	12 12/1(+70%)	(7) Charencey 12/1, Ninth of 11 in handicap (16/1) at Southwell (7.1f) 30 days ago. Up in trip. Others are more persuasive. Has to bounce back from a modest effort last time; this the longest trip he has attempted.
6 6th (6) (8/1 -14%) Imperial Fighter	8 8/1(-14%)	(6) Imperial Fighter 8/1, 22/1, didn't need to improve to win 10-runner handicap at this C&D 7 days ago. Remains well treated on past efforts and can make presence felt if the race doesn't come too soon. Ended a 21-race losing run over C&D a week ago; just 2lb higher and hard to ignore.
9 7th (9) (8/1 -33%) Spectacular Style	8 8/1(-33%)	(9) Spectacular Style 8/1, 4/1, respectable third of 10 in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 15 days ago, slowly away. Not discounted from a mark that has become very appealing. Fair third last time, but 0-6 in handicaps and has become disappointing.
10 8th (10) (80/1 -21%) Evocative Spark	80 80/1(-21%)	(10) Evocative Spark 80/1, Course winner. Latest win here in November. 28/1, ninth of 10 in handicap at this course (7.2f) 12 days ago. Back up in trip. Not firing at present. Back off last winning mark, but moderate the last twice and stamina remains a query.
2 9th (2) (7/2 -17%) Radiant Beauty	3.5 7/2(-17%)	(2) Radiant Beauty 7/2, Career best when winning 5-runner handicap at this C&D (13/8) 12 days ago, responding well. Progressive and sure to go well again. C&D winner last time; up 4lb but still high on the list, especially if allowed to dominate.
4 10th (4) (50/1 +60%) See Paris	50 50/1(+60%)	(4) See Paris 50/1, Ninth of 10 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 40/1) 46 days ago. Back up in trip. Something to prove. Has shown little in two starts on Tapeta since joining this yard; best watched.
3 11th (3) (66/1 +47%) Cosmos Raj	66 66/1(+47%)	(3) Cosmos Raj 66/1, C&D winner. 50/1, last of 10 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 20 days ago. Needs to get back on track. Record over C&D reads 43411; can't be written off if recent return has brought him on.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Radiant Beauty won over C&D recently and although respected off a 4lb raised mark, she likes to lead and the draw has not been kind to her. Partisan Hero and Imperial Fighter, also a C&D winner last time, are also likely to force the pace and that could set this up perfectly for HITCHED. The Cotai Glory gelding, who stays further than this, has risen a total of 19lb in the handicap since winning at Lingfield in November and he might not be done progressing yet.

RADIANT BEAUTY showed a good attitude to score here recently and, if she can get across to lead from a wide draw, she may well be capable of following up. Hitched also arrives at the top of his game and looks a big threat along with Partisan Hero.

The vote goes to PARTISAN HERO following a narrow defeat on his return from another lengthy absence at Southwell last month.

18:00 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 16f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (6/4 +33%) Payment Plan	1.5 6/4(+33%)	(1) Payment Plan 6/4, Latest win at Southwell in November. Creditable third of 12 in handicap at this C&D (15/8) 23 days ago, not seen to best effect. Good chance. Won twice over similar trip at Southwell in November and third over C&D last time.
10 2nd (10) (11/2 +54%) Shaad	5.5 11/2(+54%)	(10) Shaad 11/2, 8/1, ninth of 12 in handicap at this C&D 23 days ago. Better than the result last time and may yet click for this stable. Cheekpieces go back on. 0-9; finished behind three of these over C&D last month.
8 3rd (8) (18/1 +0%) Lumberjack	18 18/1(+0%)	(8) Lumberjack 18/1, Creditable third of 11 in handicap (28/1) at Chelmsford City (14f) 9 days ago, well positioned. Vulnerable even from basement mark. 0-12 and still to fully convince that he wants this far.
2 4th (2) (8/1 -33%) Alex The Great	8 8/1(-33%)	(2) Alex The Great 8/1, Winner at Southwell in November. Creditable fourth of 11 in handicap at Chelmsford City (14f, 15/2) 9 days ago. Worthy of respect. 1-18, the win coming off this mark; each-way claims.
5 5th (5) (14/1 -75%) Sir Joseph Swan	14 14/1(-75%)	(5) Sir Joseph Swan 14/1, Latest win at Southwell in November. 12/1, creditable sixth of 10 in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 15 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Holding form well without threatening to defy current mark. Consistent sort who won with some authority at Southwell in November; should run his race.
6 6th (6) (9/1 -20%) Typewritten	9 9/1(-20%)	(6) Typewritten 9/1, Course winner. Twenty runs since last win in 2022. Good second of 9 in handicap (14/1) at Newcastle (16.2f) 8 days ago, faring best of those held up. Not reliable but needs considering off the back of an encouraging showing. Losing run up to 20, but only beaten a head at Newcastle eight days ago; shortlisted.
3 7th (3) (16/1 +0%) Black Smoke	16 16/1(+0%)	(3) Black Smoke 16/1, Course winner. 22/1, respectable sixth of 11 in handicap at Chelmsford City (14f) 9 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Could get involved if things drop right. Dual course winner over 1m6f; attempts this far for the first time on the Flat.
4 8th (4) (14/1 -27%) Anisoptera	14 14/1(-27%)	(4) Anisoptera 14/1, Nineteen runs since last win in 2023. Creditable seventh of 12 in handicap at this C&D (16/1) 23 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Can't be ruled out. Has only managed to win one of her last 33 starts; others are preferred.
7 9th (7) (9/2 +50%) Bond Spirit	4.5 9/2(+50%)	(7) Bond Spirit 9/2, Creditable fifth of 12 in minor event at Newcastle (12.4f, 11/2) 16 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Visor on 1st time. Not discounted. 4lb below last winning mark; dual Tapeta winner but stamina for this far remains unproven.
11 10th (11) (66/1 -65%) Rogue Raider	66 66/1(-65%)	(11) Rogue Raider 66/1, 66/1, creditable fifth of 11 in handicap at Chelmsford City (14f) 9 days ago. Needs to up his game somewhat. 0-11 and hasn't built on early promise; makes little appeal.
9 11th (9) (80/1 -100%) Freewheelin	80 80/1(-100%)	(9) Freewheelin 80/1, Sixteen runs since last win in 2022. Respectable fourth of 11 in handicap at this course (14f, 33/1). Off 173 days. Likely to need this, so others are more persuasive. Both wins over similar trips on Tapeta, though the latest was at the start of 2022.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Having won two of his three starts over this trip, PAYMENT PLAN has the ability to make amends for failing to justify favouritism when third here on Boxing Day. If anything, this appears to be an easier assignment and, off the same mark, he looks worth persevering with. Sir Joseph Swan wasn't far behind in fifth in that race and rates another key player. Anisoptera and Lumberjack complete the shortlist.

PAYMENT PLAN is at the top of his game and would have gone closer to landing the hat-trick with a clear run over C&D last time. This doesn't look strong and he's fancied to resume winning ways at the possible expense of Typewritten, who shaped well from an unpromising position at Newcastle 8 days ago. Alex The Great isn't without hope.

The vote goes to recent dual Southwell winner PAYMENT PLAN, who had three of these behind when third off this mark over C&D last month.

18:30 Wolverhampton Stakes (Class 5) 6f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (8/1 -140%) Twilight Diamond	8 8/1(-140%)	(2) Twilight Diamond 8/1, £52,000 yearling, Twilight Son gelding. Brother to smart 5f-6f winner Twilight Calls and closely related to winner abroad by Kyllachy. Highly respected on debut (stable also responsible for Toralou). Enough in his pedigree to make him worth monitoring in the market on belated debut.
3 2nd (3) (11/2 +45%) Bear Rock	5.5 11/2(+45%)	(3) Bear Rock 11/2, Bit below form second of 5 in novice at this course (7.2f, 10/3) 19 days ago and looks right up against it. Runner-up in her last two starts here (7f); guaranteed fitness should count for something.
1 3rd (1) (9/4 +32%) Al Waqidi	2.25 9/4(+32%)	(1) Al Waqidi 9/4, 2-2 when trained by Charlie Appleby, notably winning a warm novice event (10f) at Newmarket in April 2021. Bought by current yard for £16,000 in March 2023. Returns after wind op, down in trip and tongue tied on first run for over 3.5 years. Market may guide. 2-2 for Charlie Appleby; watch market on stable debut after 1374 days off; tongue-tie on.
4 4th (4) (1/1 +27%) Toralou	1 1/1(+27%)	(4) Toralou 1/1, Promising type. Second of 9 in novice (15/2) at Haydock (6f, good to soft) on debut, running on. Off 18 months but she's in very capable hands and is open to lots of progress. Not seen since just beaten by a useful rival on Haydock debut in July 2023; market useful.

LTO Selection:hiden content,

Although a lot needs to be taken on trust, TORALOU was a promising second to Great Generation on her solitary previous start and has been found a weak opening on her return from a lengthy absence. Al Waqidi, who was 2-2 for Charlie Appleby, hasn't been seen since he won a novice stakes over 1m2f at Newmarket in April 2021 and carries obvious risk after such a lengthy period on the sidelines. Therefore, Bear Rock is put forward as the main danger.

The market will surely tell a tale given TORALOU has been off the track 18 months, Al Waqidi returning for a new yard following 3.5 years away and Twilight Diamond a newcomer and stablemate of the first-named horse. At this stage, Toralou gets the vote.

Preference is for TORALOU who showed plenty of promise when just losing out to a nice sort on her Haydock debut in the summer of 2023.

19:00 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 5f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (7/2 -75%) Buraback	3.5 7/2(-75%)	(1) Buraback 7/2, Four wins from 20 runs last year. 2/1, didn't need to improve to win 6-runner handicap at this C&D 5 days ago. Carries penalty but he retains plenty of handicap scope. Everything fell into place over C&D five days ago; has the penalty.
5 2nd (5) (5/2 +44%) Hastily	2.5 5/2(+44%)	(5) Hastily 5/2, Cheekpieces on for first time, improved on recent efforts to win 14-runner handicap at Dundalk (7f, 7/1) 38 days ago, driven out. Down in trip. Makes tapeta debut and she's a player if the headgear works again. Shaken up to score narrowly over 7f at Dundalk a month ago when in new cheekpieces.
11 3rd (11) (25/1 +24%) Admirable Lad	25 25/1(+24%)	(11) Admirable Lad 25/1, C&D winner. Tenth of 11 in minor event at this course (6.1f, 10/1) 11 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Uphill task. Goes well here but was soon on the back foot after a break 11 days ago and beat one home.
6 4th (6) (6/1 -33%) Second Collection	6 6/1(-33%)	(6) Second Collection 6/1, Four-time course winner. Blinkered for first time, improved on recent efforts to win 9-runner handicap at this C&D (7/1) 33 days ago. Up just 1 lb for that. Only 1lb higher than for recent C&D win and another fast-run race will suit her.
7 5th (7) (13/2 +84%) Spanish Angel	6.5 13/2(+84%)	(7) Spanish Angel 13/2, Three-time C&D winner. Fourteen runs since last win in 2024. 20/1, eighth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 40 days ago, always behind. This race could pan out favourably as he likes to chase a strong pace.
8 6th (8) (14/1 +58%) Mrs Bagerran	14 14/1(+58%)	(8) Mrs Bagerran 14/1, Two wins from 41 Flat runs. 25/1, below form sixth of 12 in handicap at Southwell (5f) 30 days ago. Likes to force the pace but she rarely stays in front with a strike-rate of 2-41.
10 7th (10) (14/1 +44%) May Remain	14 14/1(+44%)	(10) May Remain 14/1, C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2024. Ninth of 11 in minor event at Southwell (5f, 12/1) 3 days ago. Others more persuasive. A six-time AW scorer but has been out of the frame in three successive classified races.
4 8th (4) (8/1 +27%) Nordic Glory	8 8/1(+27%)	(4) Nordic Glory 8/1, Latest win at Windsor in August. Ninth of 11 in handicap at Chelmsford City (6f, 9/2) 7 days ago. Bounce back required. In good nick until last time but all his AW success has come on Polytrack.
2 9th (2) (25/1 -56%) Wakai Umi	25 25/1(-56%)	(2) Wakai Umi 25/1, C&D winner. Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. 9/1, last of 9 in handicap at this C&D 58 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. Cheekpieces back on and her mark continues to fall. Won C&D nursery in November 2022 but she's 0-13 in the meantime.
3 10th (3) (16/1 -220%) Street Life	16 16/1(-220%)	(3) Street Life 16/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 22 runs last year. Latest win here in October. Good second of 9 in handicap (4/1) at Southwell (5f) 20 days ago, better placed than most. Dual course winner and nearly added to his tally last time at Southwell.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Last-time-out winners Buraback and SECOND COLLECTION appeal most, with the latter shading preference based on her potential to find a little more now she has proven that blinkers can aid her concentration. The application may have been instrumental in her determination to score over C&D last month and she has an obvious chance of following up off just 1lb higher. Similar comments apply to Buraback but a 5lb penalty does hinder his chance this time. Street Life and Spanish Angel complete the shortlist.

BURABACK cashed in on a falling mark over C&D on Monday and a 5 lb penalty shouldn't prevent a bold follow-up bid. Hastily and Second Collection both reacted well to the application of headgear last time and head the opposition.

Buraback is drawn wide and carries a penalty, so preference is for SECOND COLLECTION who is likely to be played late.

19:30 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 6f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (4/5 +47%) Cut To The Chase	0.8 4/5(+47%)	(1) Cut To The Chase 4/5, Career best when winning 11-runner handicap (6/4) at Chelmsford City (6f) 7 days ago, readily. Raised 6 lb but has sound follow-up claims. Did it nicely at Chelmsford last time and a 6lb rise may not stop this progressive 4yo.
3 2nd (3) (11/2 +0%) Rogue Thunder	5.5 11/2(+0%)	(3) Rogue Thunder 11/2, C&D winner. Latest win here in December. Respectable third of 11 in handicap (4/1) at this C&D 7 days ago. A win and a close third on his last two starts, both C&D; could be bang there once more.
6 3rd (6) (11/1 -10%) Global Effort	11 11/1(-10%)	(6) Global Effort 11/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in November. 2/1, creditable third of 7 in minor event at Chelmsford City (6f) 7 days ago. C&D winner who has been in good form in classified races the last twice; possibilities.
2 4th (2) (14/1 -75%) Starsong	14 14/1(-75%)	(2) Starsong 14/1, C&D winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2024. Below form fifth of 9 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 9/1) 15 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. Return to 6f in her favour. C&D winner who went close two starts ago but has been inconsistent in recent months.
7 5th (7) (15/2 +0%) Ballyare	7.5 15/2(+0%)	(7) Ballyare 15/2, C&D winner. Sixteen runs since last win in 2023. 5/1, good fourth of 11 in minor event at Newcastle (5f) 7 days ago, nearest finish. Back up in trip. On a long losing sequence but signs of promise at Newcastle recently and not ruled out.
5 6th (5) (33/1 -200%) Q Twenty Boy	33 33/1(-200%)	(5) Q Twenty Boy 33/1, Three-time C&D winner. Three wins from 19 runs last year. 15/2, creditable second of 10 in handicap at Chelmsford City (6f) 9 days ago. Went very close at Chelmsford recently and this four-time course winner could be involved.
8 7th (8) (16/1 +52%) Balmy Breese	16 16/1(+52%)	(8) Balmy Breese 16/1, Remains a maiden after 19 Flat runs. 18/1, creditable sixth of 12 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f) 3 days ago. His best efforts have come over C&D but he's a 19-race maiden and others appeal more.
4 8th (4) (17/2 -21%) Kapparis Kid	8.5 17/2(-21%)	(4) Kapparis Kid 17/2, Temperamental sort. Didn't need to improve to win 12-runner minor event at Southwell (6.1f, 9/5) 15 days ago, just holding on. More to do back in a handicap. 0-13 in handicaps but won Southwell classified last time and might not be far away.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

Cut To The Chase won well over 6f at Chelmsford a week ago but a 6lb rise demands more from him here. As a result, preference is for Q TWENTY BOY, who was only beaten a head into second on his most recent outing and remains on a workable mark. Kapparis Kid is another recent winner to consider, while Rogue Thunder completes the shortlist.

CUT TO THE CHASE cranked it up another notch when an easy winner at Chelmsford last week and, kept to this sort of grade, he can outclass these. 6f looks Starsong's trip so she is offered as the chief threat, ahead of Rogue Thunder.

Topweight CUT TO THE CHASE (nap) is a 4yo on the up and won in good style at Chelmsford last Saturday. He is also effective on Tapeta.

20:00 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 6f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (9/4 +59%) Back Tomorrow	2.25 9/4(+59%)	(3) Back Tomorrow 9/4, Recorded a first success in 12 months in 11-runner minor event at this C&D 11 days ago, well on top finish. Could go well again. Raised 6lb for winning a classified race but she's returned from a break in top form.
5 2nd (5) (9/2 -80%) Red Walls	4.5 9/2(-80%)	(5) Red Walls 9/2, Recorded a fifth course success in 11-runner handicap over C&D (11/1) 7 days ago, value for a bit extra over the result having raced up with strong pace throughout. Much respected in follow-up bid. Never far away when prevailing narrowly for a fifth course win here last week.
8 3rd (8) (14/1 -17%) Chiedozie	14 14/1(-17%)	(8) Chiedozie 14/1, Remains a maiden after 21 Flat runs. 7/1 and eyeshields on for 1st time, fourth of 7 in minor event at Chelmsford City (6f) 7 days ago. Frustrating maiden but ran quite well in this new headgear combination last week.
6 4th (6) (12/1 -20%) Fast Flo	12 12/1(-20%)	(6) Fast Flo 12/1, Long-standing maiden who ran one of her better races when second of 7 in minor event at Chelmsford City (6f) last week, albeit needing plenty of stoking up early on. Not sure to be in the same form. 0-30 but finished well from an unpromising position to go close in 6f classified last week.
1 5th (1) (2/1 +20%) Autumn Angel	2 2/1(+20%)	(1) Autumn Angel 2/1, Bounced back to form to win 12-runner minor event at this C&D 11 days ago. Shortlist material. Kept busy since Christmas and holding her form well; up the weights.
7 6th (7) (33/1 +59%) Lochaber	33 33/1(+59%)	(7) Lochaber 33/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2024 and finished last of 12 in minor event at Southwell (6.1f, 66/1) 15 days ago. Occasionally competitive during his losing run but that's not been the case of late.
4 7th (4) (6/1 +29%) Bankrupt	6 6/1(+29%)	(4) Bankrupt 6/1, Course winner who failed to build on the promise of last run when only seventh of 12 to Autumn Angel in minor event (7/2) at this C&D 11 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Not at his best here last time but possibilities if perked up by the cheekpieces.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

RED WALLS scored over C&D a week ago and tops the shortlist for this open event off just a 2lb higher rating. Autumn Angel and Back Tomorrow also arrive here on the back of wins over this track and trip, but those victories came in classified company and they return to handicaps off stiff enough marks. Others to consider are Fast Flo and Chiedozie.

RED WALLS was value for a bit extra over the result having raced up with a strong pace throughout when recording a sixth course success last week, so is the percentage call to follow up. Fellow last-time-out scorers Autumn Angel and Back Tomorrow rate the principal threats.

Autumn Angel and Back Tomorrow have live chances but BANKRUPT could be interesting if perked up by headgear.

20:30 Wolverhampton Handicap (Class 6) 12f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
7 (7) (6/1 +70%) Esticky End	6 6/1(+70%)	(7) Esticky End 6/1, Unreliable type who ended a long losing run in 14-runner handicap at Dundalk (12f, 16/1) 29 days ago. Not an obvious type to follow up. Won at Dundalk last month on first attempt over 1m4f; may remain competitive.
1 1st (1) (18/1 +10%) Sisterandbrother	18 18/1(+10%)	(1) Sisterandbrother 18/1, Good length third of 9 to Khangai in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 22/1) 15 days ago. Again seems set for a bronze medal at best; 0-8 on AW.
6 2nd (6) (12/1 -100%) Harlington	12 12/1(-100%)	(6) Harlington 12/1, C&D winner who again when second of 8 in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 9 days ago. Back up in trip. C&D winner in November; two good efforts at Lingfield since; solid claims back here.
4 3rd (4) (4/11 +56%) Jujubella	0.363636 4/11(+56%)	(4) Jujubella 4/11, Showed improved form to get off the mark at Newcastle in January and made a mockery of an 8 lb hike in the weights when following up back there (12.4f) 4 days ago, relishing the extra 2f. Looks up to completing the hat-trick. 2-2 since upped to middle distances and avoids a penalty for her 11l win on Tuesday.
2 4th (2) (9/2 +50%) Khangai	4.5 9/2(+50%)	(2) Khangai 9/2, C&D winner who wasn't disgraced when 12¼ lengths third of 7 to Jujubella in handicap at Newcastle (12.4f, 7/2) 4 days ago. Has done well on AW for current yard but was well behind Jujubella four days ago.
3 5th (3) (28/1 -180%) Disclosure	28 28/1(-180%)	(3) Disclosure 28/1, 13/2 and visored for 1st time, creditable third of 7 in handicap at this course (9.5f) 11 days ago, left poorly placed. Up in trip. Still a maiden but could well show improvement for this new trip; drops in grade.
5 6th (5) (18/1 -50%) Sophosc	18 18/1(-50%)	(5) Sophosc 18/1, C&D winner. Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. Creditable fifth of 10 in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW, 7/1) 15 days ago, not ideally placed. Back down in trip. Visor back on. Back in better form of late but is still on a long losing spell.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content, hiden content, hiden content

It is very hard to oppose JUJUBELLA, who was an 11-length winner on her first start over 1m4f at Newcastle on Tuesday. The four-year-old does not have to carry a penalty for that success here and will taking plenty of stopping if in the same form. The Irish raider Esticky End has to be of interest following his Dundalk win a month ago, while Harlington is also noted.

JUJUBELLA is improving in leaps and bounds and will take some stopping in her hat-trick bid given she escapes a penalty for her wide-margin success at Newcastle earlier in the week. Harlington and Disclosure can battle it out for minor honours.

Jujubella has a great chance provided her Newcastle form is transferred to this venue. DISCLOSURE is an interesting alternative.

22:15 Lingfield Handicap (Class 4) 16f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

22:45 Lingfield Handicap (Class 5) 7f - 0 Run Class & Speed Card

Info	Form		Odds	Key Rating	Tips	Win %	Place %	Betfair Place %	Dist Win %	Dist Place %	Dist Betfair Place %	Ability Rating	Horse Pace	Prediction	A.I Rating	Movement	Class Runs	LTO Speed	Top Speed	WSR	TF Rating	Course	Going	Distance	Timespeed	OR	Weight	Runs	Age	Comments

LTO Selection:

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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