1 Tuesday 21st January 2025 UK Horse Racing Speed Ratings & Tips

Tomform Tuesday 21st January 2025

There were 28 Races on Tuesday 21st January 2025 across 4 meetings. There was 7 races at Down Royal, 7 races at Ayr, 6 races at Leicester, 8 races at Newcastle, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.

Races & Results Tuesday 21st January 2025

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

12:40 Down Royal Maiden Hurdle 17f - 15 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
11 1st (11) (6/1 +76%) Putapoundinthejar	6 6/1(+76%)	(11) Putapoundinthejar 6/1, Thrice-raced maiden under NH rules. 14/1, sixth of 16 in novice hurdle at Navan (16f, soft) on hurdles bow 45 days ago. Likely best watched until his attentions switch to handicaps in this sphere. Ran okay on his hurdles debut at Navan last month; can get into the money.
1 2nd (1) (11/10 +69%) Pour Les Filles	1.1 11/10(+69%)	(1) Pour Les Filles 11/10, Useful bumper winner who displayed plenty of promise when twice finishing third in a pair of big-field maiden hurdles last season. Represents top stable and there's surely more to come this campaign. Off since April and back in trip but has run well fresh and should be a big player.
9 3rd (9) (5/2 +82%) Milo Miller	2.5 5/2(+82%)	(9) Milo Miller 5/2, Winning pointer who finished second of 7 in bumper at Fairyhouse on his Rules debut back in November. Flattered by his proximity to the winner on that occasion though, and the betting can likely prove a useful guide now starting out over hurdles for new stable. Fairyhouse bumper second worth a market check but likely improver on whatever he does here.
8 4th (8) (7/1 +50%) Kir	7 7/1(+50%)	(8) Kir 7/1, Muhtathir gelding. Shaped as if better for the run when ninth of 16 in novice hurdle at Navan (16f, soft, 9/1) on NH debut 45 days ago. In good hands and he's a likely type to improve. Quite well beaten in a Navan maiden hurdle last month; should be capable of better.
7 5th (7) (11/1 +73%) Jerrari	11 11/1(+73%)	(7) Jerrari 11/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Ninth of 18 in novice hurdle at Naas (19.5f, good to soft, 50/1) 36 days ago, weakening from 3 out. Has shown a little ability in two completed maiden hurdles; needs this for a handicap mark.
6 6th (6) (50/1 -25%) Instinct D'ainay	50 50/1(-25%)	(6) Instinct D'ainay 50/1, Last of 6 finishers in a point but offered something to work on equipped with a hood/tongue tie when sixth of 15 in novice hurdle at this course (20.1f, good to soft) on NH debut 26 days ago. Still, he could be one more for handicaps further down the line. Hood discarded. Not devoid of promise on his debut over 2m4f here last month; much more needed though.
10 7th (10) (200/1 -100%) Prince Inger	200 200/1(-100%)	(10) Prince Inger 200/1, Racinger gelding. Dam 2m hurdle winner. 20/1, last of 5 in bumper at Leopardstown (16.2f, good) on NH debut 24 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. Tailed off in a Leopardstown bumper last month; makes no appeal on that evidence.
12 8th (12) (25/1 +11%) Spitfire Fighter	25 25/1(+11%)	(12) Spitfire Fighter 25/1, Fair maiden on the Flat and bit better than distance beaten suggests when seventh of 16 in juvenile hurdle at Killarney (17f, good to soft) on jumps debut back in May. Rates the type to do better. Soundly beaten in a Killarney maiden hurdle in May when last seen; others preferred.
16 9th (16) (250/1 -25%) Tubberfinn Lady	250 250/1(-25%)	(16) Tubberfinn Lady 250/1, Offered little in trio of quick-fire maiden hurdle runs last month and she can only be watched. Not disgraced at Leopardstown; likely to be more effective with a mark after today.
2 10th (2) (125/1 +17%) Weston	125 125/1(+17%)	(2) Weston 125/1, Useful Flat winner but offered little both starts in maiden hurdles in recent weeks. Passed over until tackling handicaps in due course. Not much to be gleaned from two maiden hurdles and will probably be better with a mark.
17 11th (17) (125/1 -150%) Western Opera	125 125/1(-150%)	(17) Western Opera 125/1, Westerner mare. Half-sister to modest hurdlers Barney From Tyanee and Ez Tiger. Dam unraced half-sister to useful hurdler/smart chaser (stayed 3m) Woodland Opera. Wears hood. Nice staying pedigree; wears a hood for her debut; best watched this time.
15 12th (15) (150/1 -50%) Lisnacurra Star	150 150/1(-50%)	(15) Lisnacurra Star 150/1, Doyen filly. Half-sister to fair hurdler Saddle Her Up. Raced off the pace and never figured when eighth of 10 in bumper at Fairyhouse (16.5f, good to soft) on NH debut 38 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. Down the field in a Fairyhouse bumper last month; best watched here.
5 13th (5) (150/1 +0%) Brohatna	150 150/1(+0%)	(5) Brohatna 150/1, Famous Name gelding. Dam unplaced in points. Probably best watched on hurdles debut. Stoutly bred newcomer and best watched this time.
13 \|PU\| (13) (200/1 -400%) Thecosyman	200 200/1(-400%)	(13) Thecosyman 200/1, Axxos gelding. Dam (h84), placed once over hurdles, 1¾m winner on Flat. Bred to stay well and probably best watched unless the market says otherwise.
14 \|PU\| (14) (200/1 -100%) Victor Tango	200 200/1(-100%)	(14) Victor Tango 200/1, Twice-raced maiden under NH rules. Twelfth of 15 in novice hurdle (50/1) at this course (20.1f, good to soft) on hurdles bow 26 days ago. Point winner; beaten long way in a maiden hurdle here last month; hard to make a case for.

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

KAROLINE BANBOU wasn't able to justify short odds on her hurdling debut last month, finishing second, but the winner is potentially useful and she looks to hold every chance of going one place better today. Pour Les Filles hasn't been seen since April but his earlier form suggests he will not be far away, while Milo Miller, who filled the runner-up spot in a Fairyhouse bumper in November, must be of interest now sent over hurdles.

KAROLINE BANBOU failed to justify strong support but produced a promising effort nevertheless when runner-up on yard/hurdles debut at Naas 5 weeks ago. Looking sure to improve with that under her belt, Willie Mullins' mare is fancied to go one place better, possibly at the chief expense of fellow promising Pour les Filles. Kir and Amber Point are another pair to note.

Despite a few absences, preference is for POUR LES FILLES who has the more substantial bumper and maiden hurdle form

13:00 Ayr Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 24f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (5/6 +44%) Ayiko	0.833333 5/6(+44%)	(1) Ayiko 5/6, Bumper winner who has shown progressive form in maiden hurdles, finishing second in14-runner event at Fairyhouse (23.2f, good to soft) last time. Sets the standard. C&D bumper winner; quite useful novice from 2m1f-2m7f over hurdles; obvious contender.
11 2nd (11) (20/1 -208%) Visual Impact	20 20/1(-208%)	(11) Visual Impact 20/1, £100,000 after finishing runner-up in a maiden point. Only fourth in an course bumper in February but has offered plenty more both starts over hurdles, including when third in 2m4f maiden at Hexham latterly. Upped further in trip. Irish point second; promise in bumpers and in two races over hurdles; this looks tougher.
5 3rd (5) (10/3 +5%) Jo Coko	3.333333 10/3(+5%)	(5) Jo Coko 10/3, Purchased for £105,000 after winning his only start in Irish points and shaped with plenty of encouragement switched to Rules when second in a Haydock maiden 7 weeks ago, staying on. Open to improvement. Irish point winner; £105,000 buy; promising 2nd in Haydock maiden on hurdles debut; chance.
7 4th (7) (13/2 +19%) Orkney Blue	6.5 13/2(+19%)	(7) Orkney Blue 13/2, Promising start when runner-up in a Hexham bumper in April and sold from Toby Lawes for £35,000 after. Kept on for fourth on hurdles debut at Carlisle (20f) and took a step forward when second at Hexham (20.1f) last month, pulling clear of rest. Likely to progress further now upped to 3m. Progressive novice; good second to a useful sort over 2m4f latest; 3m should suit; chance.
10 5th (10) (150/1 -650%) Wholly Boley	150 150/1(-650%)	(10) Wholly Boley 150/1, Mid-division all 4 starts in bumpers (for Gerald Stephen Quinn) but easily off the mark in points at the second attempt in May. Ex-Irish; some promise in bumpers; point winner since; stiff task on hurdles debut.
9 \|PU\| (9) (6/1 +25%) Tommys Law	6 6/1(+25%)	(9) Tommys Law 6/1, Placed in points but is proving consistent rather than progressive over hurdles, runner-up on 6 of 7 starts. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Runner-up in two points and in six races over hurdles; headgear now tried; each-way chance.
2 \|PU\| (2) (16/1 +0%) Big Zouk	16 16/1(+0%)	(2) Big Zouk 16/1, £160,000 5-y-o, Milan gelding. Successful sole outing in Irish points in February but ran below expectations when only fourth of 8 in a 2m Wetherby novice just over 6 weeks ago. Could prove a different proposition over this markedly longer trip. Irish point winner; £160,000 buy; fair 4th over 2m on hurdles debut; 3m should suit better.
6 \|PU\| (6) (66/1 -371%) Knightphase	66 66/1(-371%)	(6) Knightphase 66/1, Won sole start in Irish points (Jan 2024) and needs a market check now setting out over hurdles. Off since Irish point win in January 2024; stays well; interesting on hurdles debut.
4 \|PU\| (4) (80/1 -300%) Flawless Clarity	80 80/1(-300%)	(4) Flawless Clarity 80/1, £30,000 5-y-o, Diamond Boy gelding. Dam, unraced, closely related to useful hurdler/chaser (stayed 3m) Drumacoo. Runner-up completed start in Irish points in April and market should offer up some clues on this switch to Rules. Second in a decent maiden point last April; sold £30,000 in May; worth a market check.

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

AYIKO split a talented pair trained by Willie Mullins when finishing second over 2m7f at Fairyhouse last month and a repeat of that form may well be good enough to see him go one better here. That said, Jo Coko displayed plenty of promise when also filling the runner-up spot on his Rules debut and he could give the selection plenty to think about. Others to note are Knightphase, Tommys Law and Orkney Blue.

AYIKO is going the right way as a hurdler and a reproduction of the form shown on his latest start could be enough to see him open his account in this sphere. This is a deeper maiden that tends to be the case for the track however, and both Jo Coko and Orkney Blue are interesting rivals.

In a competitive maiden hurdle a chance is taken on the progressive ORKNEY BLUE getting off the mark on his first try at 3m.

13:10 Down Royal Maiden Hurdle 17f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (5/2 -11%) Disco Dancer	2.5 5/2(-11%)	(3) Disco Dancer 5/2, Fairly useful hurdler. Running creditably when fell last in listed hurdle (17/2) at Taunton (16.5f, good to soft) 22 days ago. Pick of form gives her good claims in this line-up. Much more exposed than any of these but has proven form and shouldn't be far away.
2 2nd (2) (6/5 +40%) Blue Mosque	1.2 6/5(+40%)	(2) Blue Mosque 6/5, Successful only start in bumpers in the spring and, following 7 months off, made a winning start in this sphere in 14-runner mares' maiden at Cork (20f) in November. Struggled to land a blow in Grade 3 at Navan (20f) later that month but this more suitable back from a break. Disappointing at Navan; back in trip but looks to have been found a decent opportunity.
1 3rd (1) (9/2 -50%) Rockymountainbleu	4.5 9/2(-50%)	(1) Rockymountainbleu 9/2, Twice-raced winner over hurdles. Third of 8 in minor event in this sphere at Punchestown (16.6f, soft, 40/1) 42 days ago. Rider takes off a handy 7 lb but this demands more. Punchestown maiden winner; tough task to give weight here and probably better over further.
4 4th (4) (5/1 -11%) Half A Chance	5 5/1(-11%)	(4) Half A Chance 5/1, Fair form on first of 2 starts in bumpers and improved when winning 9-runner novice hurdle (25/1) at Limerick (16.4f, soft) in May. Looks sure to improve from that and this low-mileage sort is respected back from 7 months off. Not seen since May but an interesting runner here with ground to suit.

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

Connections opted to pitch BLUE MOSQUE in at the deep end having made a sparkling hurdles bow at Cork in November. Grade 3 company might have proved tough just 14 days later, but it would come as no surprise were Noel Meade's mare to bounce back in these much calmer waters. Rockymountainbleu faced a stiff task at Punchestown last month and this should see him in a better light, while Disco Dancer is most appealing of the remaining duo.

This looks trappy but HALF A CHANCE impressed when making a winning hurdles debut at Limerick back in May and, in receipt of weight all round, he's given the nod to come out on top with progress anticipated. Blue Mosque shades things for the forecast spot ahead of Disco Dancer.

This should be a good opportunity for BLUE MOSQUE to get back to winning ways after disappointing at Navan when last seen

13:20 Leicester Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 20f - 11 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (8/1 0%) Our Bill's Aunt	8 8/1(0%)	(1) Our Bill's Aunt 8/1, Fair winner at 19f over hurdles who posted solid placed efforts over fences in May. Below form on comeback in November, struggled on final circuit. Should strip fitter on return to smaller obstacles today and place claims now dropping into a 0-100 handicap. May have needed the run in November and she's not ruled out off a competitive mark.
7 2nd (7) (9/2 +25%) Alexandra Larose	4.5 9/2(+25%)	(7) Alexandra Larose 9/2, Sister to bumper winner/useful 2¾m hurdle winner Shannon Royale. Some promise in bumpers for Georgina Nicholls but never dangerous on hurdles starts for current yard, although was sympathetically handled once beaten. Looks the type to improve now up in trip/handicapping for excellent yard. Makes handicap debut off lowly mark and useful pedigree suggests this new trip will suit.
5 3rd (5) (7/2 +71%) After Many Days	3.5 7/2(+71%)	(5) After Many Days 7/2, Made the frame in a handicap of 9 lb higher mark last campaign but has struggled this season and although she regressed in first-time cheekpieces when eighth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (19.9f, soft) 42 days ago, she's not totally dismissed in this kind of company. On a reduced mark but she's struggled on her last two outings.
8 4th (8) (7/1 +13%) Shesupincourt	7 7/1(+13%)	(8) Shesupincourt 7/1, Inconsistent type. Won twice over hurdles last season but hit and miss since, pulled up in a handicap chase at Uttoxeter (24f, heavy) 21 days ago. Reverts to hurdles and chance if on a going day. Just 2-31 and pulled up over fences last time, but in fair form in chases previously.
3 5th (3) (11/1 -83%) Coco Brave	11 11/1(-83%)	(3) Coco Brave 11/1, Shaped as if better for the run switched to a handicap after 8 months off at Southwell (20.4f) 42 days ago, leading until the home straight, and could have more to offer in first time tongue-tie in a weaker race than she contested last time. Lightly raced 6yo who has shown glimpses of promise and could benefit from the tongue-tie.
4 6th (4) (14/1 -211%) Barra Blue	14 14/1(-211%)	(4) Barra Blue 14/1, Left her maiden form in this sphere well behind when making a winning handicap debut here (20.5f, heavy) at the start of December, although that was a notably weak race. Possibly amiss when pulled up at Fakenham (23.4f, soft) 20 days ago and should be seen in a better light back over C&D today. Won in fine style over C&D on handicap debut; flopped since but remains of interest.
10 7th (10) (15/2 -88%) Call Blue	7.5 15/2(-88%)	(10) Call Blue 15/2, Remains a maiden, third of 9 in a handicap hurdle at Huntingdon (20.7f, soft) 19 days ago, outpaced in back-straight and shaping as if the addition of headgear would help. Did at least make the frame on most recent outing and should be in the shake up in first-time cheekpieces. Runner-up twice in a row last August/September but below par since and now 0-16.
11 \|PU\| (11) (4/1 +71%) My Granny Lily	4 4/1(+71%)	(11) My Granny Lily 4/1, Got off the mark in 2m handicap hurdle at Ffos Las in February and ended the season in good form over hurdles. May have needed comeback run, before pulling up on second chase outing 48 days ago. Returns to smaller obstacles today and each way claims despite racing from 1 lb out of the handicap. Won on heavy ground at Ffos Las last February but struggled on her two runs in the autumn.
2 \|PU\| (2) (12/1 +14%) Perculator	12 12/1(+14%)	(2) Perculator 12/1, Latest win in hurdle at Wetherby in November. Posted a good third of 11 in handicap hurdle at Carlisle (19.3f in December but decent run of form came to a halt later that month when twelfth of 16 in a handicap hurdle at Wetherby (24.1f, soft). No surprise to see her bounce back in a weak race. Disappointing at Wetherby last month but in good form previously and could bounce back.
9 \|PU\| (9) (18/1 -13%) Sadie Hill	18 18/1(-13%)	(9) Sadie Hill 18/1, Generally struggled last season but third of 6 behind two very well-handicapped rivals over 2½m at Fakenham back in March an obvious bright spot. Failed to back that up on final run for Alastair Ralph. Inconsistent but returns from 9-month absence on debut for new yard in a modest enough contest. Just 1-17 and tailed off at Fakenham last April when last seen; makes stable debut.
6 \|PU\| (6) (40/1 -100%) Confidential Gosip	40 40/1(-100%)	(6) Confidential Gosip 40/1, Fair maiden hurdler for Jessica Harrington but well held in runs for Laura Horsfall, losing ground when fell at the last at Fakenham (16f) 30 days ago. Tongue-tie on and considerably up in trip but others look more persuasive. Showed ability in Ireland but yet to threaten in handicaps and has to raise her game.

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

BARRA BLUE disappointed at Fakenham recently having bolted up over C&D in December. That effort might raise concerns, but the daughter of Blue Bresil has less to prove than many and it would come as no surprise were she to bounce back at a venue that clearly suits. Coco Brave showed enough on her reappearance to suggest she can be a force today, while Call Blue, who sports cheekpieces for the first time, is also noted.

This could be a decent opportunity for ALEXANDRA LAROSE to get off the mark on handicap debut and she'd be a more confident selection if market vibes are positive. Having shown glimpses of ability in bumpers/novice hurdles, she wouldn't need to be anything special to take this on her first attempt over this sort of distance. In a moderate contest, Call Blue could do better in first-time headgear while Barra Blue has at least won over C&D in similar conditions.

Handicap newcomer ALEXANDRA LAROSE is bred to be suited by the step up in trip and can provide the in-form Olly Murphy with another win.

13:30 Ayr Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 1st (8) (13/8 0%) That'll Do Moss	1.625 13/8(0%)	(8) That'll Do Moss 13/8, Point winner who did the job well starting out under Rules in a Uttoxeter bumper last summer before running to a similar level back from a break up in grade at Cheltenham in November. Has a slightly awkward head carriage but has to be respected starting out over hurdles at an ordinary level. Point/bumper winner who was 7th in Cheltenham Listed bumper latest; player now hurdling.
7 2nd (7) (11/8 +39%) My Kiwi Girl	1.375 11/8(+39%)	(7) My Kiwi Girl 11/8, Cosily won sole start in Irish points and improved a little on her hurdling debut form when third of 5 in a listed event at Haydock (18.9f) last month. Good chance back in calmer waters. Fair form when in the frame over C&D and in Haydock Listed event; she holds solid claims.
1 3rd (1) (4/1 +0%) Audacious Annie	4 4/1(+0%)	(1) Audacious Annie 4/1, Fair bumper winner who shaped better than the distance beaten suggests sent hurdling when 26 lengths second of 7 in a mares maiden at Ffos Las (15.8f) 33 days ago, bad mistake 3 out. Will improve. Promising hurdling debut second at Ffos Las; seems sure to do better so big shout.
5 4th (5) (8/1 -23%) Lizzie Luna	8 8/1(-23%)	(5) Lizzie Luna 8/1, Modest form in bumpers and seemed to show more than previously over hurdles in a first-time hood when second of 10 in a C&D maiden (soft, 20/1) 19 days ago. That form is a little suspect, however. Appeared to advance form when 2nd in steadily run C&D novice latest; needs to back it up.
6 5th (6) (11/1 +8%) Mountain Molly	11 11/1(+8%)	(6) Mountain Molly 11/1, Won sole start in Irish points (Nov 2023) and having been sent off favourite, she found a slowly-run race no use when fifth of 8 in a Newcastle bumper on Rules debut in March. No surprise to see a better showing now hurdling after 10 months off. Winning Irish pointer; fifth in Newcastle bumper but remains with potential now hurdling.
4 6th (4) (28/1 -12%) Jet Far	28 28/1(-12%)	(4) Jet Far 28/1, Jet Away mare. Half-sister to a point winner. Dam dual point winner. Last of 8 finishers sole start in points (Apr 27). Wears tongue strap. Last in Irish point in April so significantly more is needed on her hurdling debut.
2 7th (2) (80/1 -142%) Bennys Jenny	80 80/1(-142%)	(2) Bennys Jenny 80/1, Easy point winner in Ireland from successful jumps family. £37,000 buy for these connections but finished well held in an Aintree bumper on Rules debut back in October. Irish point scorer but she beat only one in bumper at Aintree on her debut under rules.
3 8th (3) (33/1 -32%) Chalk That Down	33 33/1(-32%)	(3) Chalk That Down 33/1, Runner-up on the first of her 2 starts in bumpers but only reached the second flight on hurdles debut following 22 months at Wetherby. Just poor form tried in a hood at Catterick subsequently. Failed to offer much in a pair of 2m novice hurdles at Wetherby and Catterick (hooded).

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

LIZZIE LUNA took a big step forwards when second over C&D earlier in the month and the daughter of Telescope has to be of interest on the back of that performance. My Kiwi Girl was well held when third in Listed company at Haydock last time but she should not be underestimated in this company, while That'll Do Moss edges out Audacious Annie to be best of the rest.

AUDACIOUS ANNIE had just got herself into contention when a bad error knocked the stuffing out of her on her hurdling debut at Ffos Las last month and, open to plenty of improvement providing she cuts out the mistakes, she's taken to make it second time lucky in this sphere. My Kiwi Girl and That'll Do Moss are a couple of obvious threats.

Jame Snowden's AUDACIOUS ANNIE shaped well when second at Ffos Las on her hurdling debut and is taken to build on that and go one better

13:40 Down Royal Handicap Hurdle 17f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
5 1st (5) (9/2 +44%) Thisistheway	4.5 9/2(+44%)	(5) Thisistheway 9/2, Latest win in hurdle at Cork in October but found it tougher going when only seventh of 11 on handicap debut at Wexford (16.4f, heavy, 7/2) 85 days ago. Down 1lb from Wexford but the return to better ground will enhance her chance here.
6 2nd (6) (5/2 -11%) Albatala	2.5 5/2(-11%)	(6) Albatala 5/2, Showed improved form when excellent second of 15 in handicap hurdle at this course (17.2f, good to soft) 26 days ago, running on. Has to be taken seriously. Strong finishing second over C&D last month; repeat of that would make her hard to beat.
9 3rd (9) (8/1 +20%) Miss Gitana	8 8/1(+20%)	(9) Miss Gitana 8/1, Well held completed starts in juvenile maiden hurdles, though fair on Flat and capable of better now switched to a handicap. No impression in three juvenile maiden hurdles; others preferred on her handicap debut.
7 4th (7) (8/1 +43%) French Hill	8 8/1(+43%)	(7) French Hill 8/1, Shaped as if amiss when pulled up in handicap hurdle (14/1) at Limerick (19f, soft) 23 days ago, weakening soon after 3 out. Yard in good form but has work to do. Soundly beaten last twice including over 2m3f at Limerick last month; capable of better.
3 5th (3) (16/1 +0%) Katherine	16 16/1(+0%)	(3) Katherine 16/1, Latest win in hurdle at Fairyhouse in October. Below form ninth of 18 in handicap chase at Naas (16f, good to soft, 11/1) 36 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Has climbed the ratings; could be more of a proposition back on good ground here though.
8 6th (8) (10/3 +39%) Mayos Vendangeur	3.333333 10/3(+39%)	(8) Mayos Vendangeur 10/3, 8/1, shaped as if still in good form when fifth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (16.5f, good to soft) 38 days ago. Enters calculations. Good second in a handicap hurdle at Clonmel last month; won't be far away at his best.
2 7th (2) (14/1 +44%) Doctor Nightingale	14 14/1(+44%)	(2) Doctor Nightingale 14/1, Failed to come on for recent run when sixth of 9 in handicap hurdle (22/1) at Tramore (16.8f, heavy) 20 days ago. Others more persuasive. Suspected in season after being beaten out of sight at Tramore latest; others preferred.
4 8th (4) (8/1 +11%) Lady Rose Hackett	8 8/1(+11%)	(4) Lady Rose Hackett 8/1, Made the frame in a trio of maiden hurdles prior to shaping as if amiss in a first-time tongue strap on handicap debut at Leopardstown last time. Worth another chance. Way too bad to be true on her handicap debut at Leopardstown; should do much better here.
1 \|PU\| (1) (33/1 -450%) Aurora Princess	33 33/1(-450%)	(1) Aurora Princess 33/1, Ninth of 12 in handicap (33/1) at Dundalk (12f). Off 15 months. Switches from Flat to hurdles. First run for yard after leaving Emmet Mullins. Good second on last hurdle outing. Five-time Flat winner; best watched on debut for a new yard after 15 months off.

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

ALBATALA finished the race in a taking manner when she was a respectable second in a deeper-looking event over C&D at the St Stephen's Day fixture and could go one better today if she builds on that from just a 4lb higher mark. Lady Rose Hackett and Thisistheway also have something to recommend them in this company, while Katherine reverts to hurdles on a fair mark and is another to consider.

ALBATALA showed significant improvement when runner-up to a well-treated sort here last month and a reproduction of that form could be enough to see her go one better. Mayos Vendangeur is proving consistent and should make her presence felt once more, with Lady Rose Hackett worth another chance having shown promise prior to shaping as if amiss on her handicap debut.

The selection is ALBATALA (nap), a fast finishing second over C&D last month. A repeat might just be good enough

13:50 Leicester Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (10/3 +39%) Pleasington	3.333333 10/3(+39%)	(4) Pleasington 10/3, €72,000 3-y-o, Shantou gelding. Failed to justify support in a Uttoxeter bumper last winter and not without promise when fifth of 10 in novice hurdle at Kempton (16f, good to soft) on hurdles bow 12 months ago. Open to improvement this term, particularly when stamina is tested further. Has shown some ability and returns from absence with trainer in fine form; possible player.
1 2nd (1) (8/15 +72%) Atlantic Lad	0.533333 8/15(+72%)	(1) Atlantic Lad 8/15, 5-y-o gelding who made a promising Rules debut when third in a Bangor novice in October and he stepped up on that when finishing one place better over that track/trip 6 weeks ago. Big shout with a repeat with forecast conditions holding no fears. Went close at Bangor on second rules start and holds strong claims.
8 3rd (8) (9/1 -227%) Irisante	9 9/1(-227%)	(8) Irisante 9/1, Displayed fairly useful form in France, best effort when third in 6-runner Group 3 at Auteuil in May. Left Hugo Merienne (€80,000 in July) and stepped forward on stable debut run without being near her best when second in juvenile hurdle at Doncaster (16.6f) 23 days ago. Claims if stepping up again. Has reproduced her best French form in Britain but today's softer ground could help.
5 4th (5) (11/1 -47%) Romeo Foxtrot	11 11/1(-47%)	(5) Romeo Foxtrot 11/1, Solid start when third in a Bangor bumper back in April and he improved after 5 months off when winning 8-runner bumper at Worcester (2m) in September. Seen to very good effect on that occasion but he ought to have a future in this sphere. Won Worcester bumper; his form may not be strong but he brings potential to hurdle debut.
3 5th (3) (25/1 -25%) Jack The Nipper	25 25/1(-25%)	(3) Jack The Nipper 25/1, Jack Hobbs gelding. 17/2, who was outpaced gradually up the straight when finishing eighth of 13 in bumper at Southwell (15.8f) 5 weeks ago. Goes hurdling now but he may well be one for further down the line. First foal of useful mare but soundly beaten in mid-division on debut in Southwell bumper.
2 6th (2) (18/1 -260%) Graham	18 18/1(-260%)	(2) Graham 18/1, A fairly useful 1m4f Flat winner for Richard Hannon but off since a good second in 1m4f handicap at Newbury 7 months ago. Since change hands for 40,000 gns and considered on his hurdling/yard bow. Useful two-time 1m4f winner on the Flat; no surprise to see a big run on hurdle debut.
7 7th (7) (50/1 +24%) Inion Tiogair	50 50/1(+24%)	(7) Inion Tiogair 50/1, Bumper winner but has yet to reach that level over hurdles and no better on the back of a 9-month absence when ninth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Lingfield (16f, soft) 43 days ago. First-time blinkers need to spark major improvement. Bumper winner in January 2023 but 0-9 since and she struggled on her four starts in 2024.
6 8th (6) (150/1 +0%) Too Cool Forshrule	150 150/1(+0%)	(6) Too Cool Forshrule 150/1, Down the field in novice/maiden hurdles at Wetherby/Uttoxeter last month and low-grade handicaps will be more his bag on the back of this. Point runner-up; watch betting, but pulled up/tailed off last month on first 2 hurdle runs.

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The vote goes to ATLANTIC LAD, who was able to build on a promising hurdles debut when filling the runner-up spot next time out. This isn't the deepest of contests, so any further improvement might be enough for Donald McCain's gelding to score. That said, Graham was no slouch on the Flat and he would be a real danger if taking to this new discipline. Irisante heads the remainder.

ATLANTIC LAD stepped forward from his Rules debut effort when a very good second in a Bangor novice 39 days ago. He's a lead player on that evidence and earns the vote with conditions holding no fears. Irisante is a player on the pick of her form in France and can figure in receipt of weight all round. Hurdles debutant Graham is another to note, along with the returning Pleasington.

Having been a clear second at Bangor last month behind the odds-on winner, ATLANTIC LAD is taken to go one better.

14:00 Ayr Handicap Chase (Class 4) 16f - 6 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (11/2 +54%) Lively Citizen	5.5 11/2(+54%)	(4) Lively Citizen 11/2, Successful on chase debut at Perth in spring 2023 and added to his hurdles tally at Ffos Las (2m, heavy) back in March. Not firing on all cylinders in trio of starts upon returning this winter and return to chasing needs to have positive effect. Best at 2m and on soft/heavy ground; below par over hurdles this term; chance back chasing.
3 2nd (3) (11/4 -57%) Chapel Green	2.75 11/4(-57%)	(3) Chapel Green 11/4, Back down in grade and ridden by Alan Doyle, doubled his tally for the season when scoring at Musselburgh (good to soft) in November. However, his form hasn't been the most consistent, so task is now to build on his latest effort. Three wins over fences, last two with headgear in 2024; career-high mark but a chance.
5 3rd (5) (11/4 +50%) Dunnet Head	2.75 11/4(+50%)	(5) Dunnet Head 11/4, Bumper/hurdles winner who wasn't disgraced on chase debut at Kelso (in first-time tongue tie) still in contention when error 2 out ended his chance in December. Probably best excused his subsequent hurdles run back there 23 days ago and he remains with a bigger effort in his locker in this sphere. Bumper/hurdle winner; tried at up to 2m7f recently; best at this sort of trip; interesting.
6 4th (6) (10/1 +60%) Captain Ivan	10 10/1(+60%)	(6) Captain Ivan 10/1, Won back-to-back handicap chases in June 2023 when trained by L J Morgan, but after 16 months off he hasn't offered much in 2 starts for current trainer this season, well-beaten fifth of 9 at Doncaster 38 days ago. Goes without the hood again here. Two h'cap chase wins in 2023; below par both runs for new yard this season after absence.
7 5th (7) (15/8 +53%) Fia Fuinidh	1.875 15/8(+53%)	(7) Fia Fuinidh 15/8, Yet to score over fences but not for the first time went close to bucking that trend when second at Kelso (17f) on penultimate start in November. Latest Carlisle fifth 37 days ago was one of his lesser efforts and cheekpieces are now employed. Below par last time but two sound runs before that; could bounce back with headgear tried.
1 6th (1) (66/1 -371%) Gua Du Large	66 66/1(-371%)	(1) Gua Du Large 66/1, Useful at his best in Ireland for Henry de Bromhead but form has gone the wrong way this season, making second start for current yard when pulled up at Kelso on his latest outing. Dropped in grade but has enough to prove at present. Ex-Irish; quite useful hurdler/novice chaser; bought for £6,000; below par for new yard.

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Most of these have questions to answer, but not CHAPEL GREEN following his impressive success over 2m at Musselburgh in November. A 6lb rise for that win appears to be fair and the eight-year-old tops the shortlist. The main threat is likely to be Cold Sobar, who was not disgraced on his return from a lengthy break at Carlisle last month. Fia Fuinidh failed to fire last time but is a player based on his previous form.

COLD SOBAR is seemingly hard to train, yet he produced a promising first effort in this sphere on the back of a lengthy absence when third at Carlisle 37 days ago and, with progress anticipated, he's selected to build on that run here. Musselburgh scorer Chapel Green and Dunnet Head are fancied to pose the chief threats.

A chance is taken on LIVELY CITIZEN who has his ideal conditions and looked unlucky the last time he ran over fences.

14:10 Down Royal Handicap Hurdle 17f - 16 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
12 1st (12) (4/1 +47%) Prince Quattro	4 4/1(+47%)	(12) Prince Quattro 4/1, Winner in hurdle at Limerick in November. Respectable fifth of 13 in handicap hurdle (5/1) at Navan (16f, good to soft) 37 days ago. Not discounted. Two solid runs since Limerick win but handicapper could just have his measure now.
14 2nd (14) (12/1 -71%) Sights Unseen	12 12/1(-71%)	(14) Sights Unseen 12/1, 17/2 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, creditable fifth of 15 in novice hurdle at Tramore (21f, good to soft) 158 days ago. Runner-up in a couple of points since and is one to note starting out for new stable. Points' runner-up switched to Cromwell's yard since and potential improver on handicap bow.
11 3rd (11) (9/2 +50%) Kp's Ladyofknock	4.5 9/2(+50%)	(11) Kp's Ladyofknock 9/2, Winner in hurdle at Clonmel in December. Carried out in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (16.5f, good to soft, 13/2) 38 days ago. Not dismissed. Clonmel winner carried out at Fairyhouse; has to be respected.
10 4th (10) (7/2 +0%) Bishbashbosh	3.5 7/2(+0%)	(10) Bishbashbosh 7/2, 10/3, good second of 18 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (16.4f, heavy) 21 days ago. Should give another good account. Two good runs for this yard, at Naas (good-to-yielding) and Punchestown; major claims.
4 5th (4) (11/1 -57%) Le Bugiste	11 11/1(-57%)	(4) Le Bugiste 11/1, Fairly useful Flat winner. Thrice-raced maiden. Fifteenth of 16 in novice hurdle at Navan (16f, soft, 40/1) 45 days ago. Likely improver switched to handicaps after a short break. Maiden form none too encouraging but has to be respected coming from this yard.
1 6th (1) (14/1 +0%) Darkened	14 14/1(+0%)	(1) Darkened 14/1, Eleven runs since last win in 2022. 20/1, creditable fourth of 15 in handicap hurdle at this course (17.2f, good to soft) 26 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Losing losing run over hurdles but Christmas C&D fourth encouraging.
6 7th (6) (25/1 -317%) Fort Randall	25 25/1(-317%)	(6) Fort Randall 25/1, Good third of 16 in handicap hurdle at Tramore (16.6f, good to soft, 10/1) 156 days ago. First run for yard after leaving John Joseph Hanlon. Visor on 1st time. Can make presence felt. Tramore third for Shark Hanlon; one to consider, especially if strong in the market.
9 8th (9) (9/1 +55%) Imadpour	9 9/1(+55%)	(9) Imadpour 9/1, 16/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, below form eighth of 13 in claimer at Dundalk (12f) 41 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. First run for yard after leaving Andrew McNamara. 2yo winner but 0-7 hurdling; tongue-tie added to cheekpieces on yard debut.
3 9th (3) (25/1 0%) Aine's Lad	25 25/1(0%)	(3) Aine's Lad 25/1, 14/1, below form seventh of 17 in handicap hurdle at Naas (18.9f, heavy) 16 days ago. Yet to feature in handicap company and opposable despite declining mark.
13 \|U\| (13) (33/1 +0%) Another Challenge	33 33/1(+0%)	(13) Another Challenge 33/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 250/1, tenth of 12 in minor event hurdle at Leopardstown (19.8f, good) 24 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Handicap debutant hard to make a case for on limited maiden form.
2 \|U\| (2) (50/1 -25%) Peckham Springs	50 50/1(-25%)	(2) Peckham Springs 50/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2022. 28/1, twelfth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (16f, good) 101 days ago. Long losing run and questions to answer on returning from a short break.
15 10th (15) (25/1 +29%) Chemdawg	25 25/1(+29%)	(15) Chemdawg 25/1, Thirteenth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Clonmel (19.4f, soft, 28/1) 49 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time in this code. Entitled to come on for last month's hurdles comeback run but others preferred.
7 11th (7) (18/1 -157%) Diamond Dollar	18 18/1(-157%)	(7) Diamond Dollar 18/1, Ninth of 11 in handicap hurdle (4/1) at Wexford (17.2f, heavy), not ideally placed. Off 8 months. Worth a market check. Some okay runs in handicaps without troubling the judge; good bit more needed.
5 12th (5) (33/1 0%) Monty's Way	33 33/1(0%)	(5) Monty's Way 33/1, 1 win from 2 runs this season. Winner in hurdle at Ballinrobe in May. Pulled up in handicap hurdle at Tramore (20.3f, good to soft, 18/1) 103 days ago. Others preferred. Ballinrobe winner ran no sort of race at Tramore in October; not one to rule out entirely.
8 \|PU\| (8) (10/1 +50%) Del Girl	10 10/1(+50%)	(8) Del Girl 10/1, Nineteenth of 22 in handicap hurdle at Cork (20f, soft, 12/1) 44 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Punchestown second back on better ground here so respected.
16 \|PU\| (16) (100/1 +0%) Nancy Miles	100 100/1(+0%)	(16) Nancy Miles 100/1, 300/1, last of 12 in novice chase at Fairyhouse (17.2f, soft) on debut over fences 10 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Precious little to take from recent form over both hurdles and fences.

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BISHBASHBOSH and Kp's Ladyofknock are suggested as the pair to focus on, with the former shading preference on the back of a return to form with a good second off just 1lb lower at Punchestown on New Year's Eve. The latter was still in contention when she was carried out at Fairyhouse last month and cannot be ruled out from adding to her tally with better luck on just her third start for Mark Fahey. The well-handicapped Darkened and Aine's Lad complete the shortlist.

LE BUGISTE has only shown a glimmer of promise over hurdles to date but a mark of 98 could look lenient based on his fairly useful Flat form, so a chance is taken on him back from a short break. Bishbashbosh and Fort Randall should both put up another solid showing.

Back on better ground it could pay to take a chance on DEL GIRL, just 2lb higher than when touched off at Punchestown in the summer

14:20 Leicester Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 20f - 6 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (13/8 +35%) Kepler's Law	1.625 13/8(+35%)	(4) Kepler's Law 13/8, Won his sole start in Irish points and shaped with a good deal of encouragement switched to Rules when third of 9 in an Aintree novice (20f) in October. Still in need of experience when filling same spot at Newcastle (22f) and remains open to improvement. Irish point winner; third behind respected opposition in both his novice hurdles.
1 2nd (1) (5/4 +29%) Barlovento	1.25 5/4(+29%)	(1) Barlovento 5/4, Bumper winner who made no mistake on his first outing over hurdles when landing a 14-runner novice at Carlisle (20f) in October, finishing well after conceding first run. Faced a stiff task attempting to concede 7-lb to a promising type at Warwick (21f) and remains with potential. Dual winner and ran perfectly well under a penalty at Warwick (the winner is smart).
3 3rd (3) (28/1 +30%) Grangeclare Diego	28 28/1(+30%)	(3) Grangeclare Diego 28/1, Mount Nelson gelding. Dam, unraced, closely related to fairly useful hurdler/smart chaser (Welsh Grand National winner, stayed 4¼m) Potters Corner. Won twice in points in 2024, third last time (May 5). Starts out under Rules in a tongue strap. Has won two of eight points but likely up against in a race of this nature on rules debut.
5 4th (5) (250/1 -150%) Kicks And Ale	250 250/1(-150%)	(5) Kicks And Ale 250/1, Successful on second of 2 starts in Irish points, though that was back in May 2021 and he has been well held in a bumper/novice hurdle 20 months apart. Two long absences in his profile; 300-1 when tailed off at Warwick.
2 5th (2) (10/3 -85%) Land Afar	3.333333 10/3(-85%)	(2) Land Afar 10/3, Has clearly had his problems since showing fairly useful form in bumpers for Anthony McCann but retains plenty of ability based on what he's done over hurdles, scoring readily in a novice claiming event at Ludlow in December. Showed similar form behind a useful prospect at Huntingdon since. Player. Recent win came in a claimer but he's better than that level; bumped into one last time.
6 \|PU\| (6) (20/1 -67%) Tech That	20 20/1(-67%)	(6) Tech That 20/1, Runner-up in a point in May and has shown promise in making the frame in a bumper/novice hurdle under Rules. Step up in trip will suit and open to improvement. Can win something soon but others in here have superior form.

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Land Afar was no match for a short-priced winner at Huntingdon recently and though the son of Kalinisi sets the standard, the 10-year-old could prove vulnerable to younger legs and BARLOVENTO is preferred. Olly Murphy's charge flattered to receive at Warwick last time having won at Carlisle on his hurdling debut, but the break should have done him some good and he can get back on track. Kepler's Law might be booked for third.

KEPLERS'S LAW has shaped with a good deal of encouragement on both starts over hurdles to date and it's unlikely we've seen the best of him yet, so he's narrowly preferred to penalised pair Barlovento and Land Afar in an intriguing small-field maiden.

The 6yo BARLOVENTO was very much up against it last time in attempting to concede 7lb to one who looks very progressive.

14:30 Ayr Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 24f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (9/2 +0%) Chasingouttheblues	4.5 9/2(+0%)	(2) Chasingouttheblues 9/2, Improved plenty for stiffer test of stamina (20f) when making second hurdles start a winning one at Hexham in November, Resumed winning ways on handicap debut at Wetherby on Boxing Day, did well in the circumstances, again looking like a stayer. Gets the step up in trip today and looks a big player. Progressive and made it 2-4 at Wetherby last month; more to offer up in trip; big shout.
1 2nd (1) (3/1 +14%) Gaillimh A Stor	3 3/1(+14%)	(1) Gaillimh A Stor 3/1, Course novice hurdle winner back in 2022. Off 21 months, shaped as if retaining all his ability when third of 10 at Kelso last month. Followed that up with decent second over C&D (soft) 19 days ago, beaten a head having held every chance at the last. One for the shortlist. Good C&D second 19 days ago; ought to be in the shake-up despite 3lb weights rise.
8 3rd (8) (10/1 +29%) Piaff Bubbles	10 10/1(+29%)	(8) Piaff Bubbles 10/1, Resumed from 21 months off with a solid fifth of 11 in handicap hurdle at Hexham (20.1f, soft) 24 days ago, not ideally placed. Merits consideration with that run under his belt. Not disgraced after 21 months off when fifth at Uttoxeter 41 days ago; can build on it now.
7 4th (7) (5/1 +17%) Guernesey	5 5/1(+17%)	(7) Guernesey 5/1, Has run his best races in a while on last two outings, third of 11 in handicap hurdle at Hexham (20.1f, soft) in December (didn't jump fluently) and backed up that effort with a creditable fourth in a handicap hurdle at Kelso (22.7f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Capable of hitting the frame again. On a long losing run but a solid fourth at Kelso 23 days ago; shortlisted off same mark.
4 5th (4) (4/1 +53%) Lady In The Park	4 4/1(+53%)	(4) Lady In The Park 4/1, Second on both starts here over hurdles. Mixed bag over fenced but ran well on return to smaller obstacles when second of 8 in a handicap hurdle at Haydock (24.3f, soft) 22 days ago, deserving extra credit having met trouble in running. Should run well again. Failed to go on over fences but good second back hurdling at Haydock latest; considered.
5 6th (5) (15/2 +12%) Shoeshine Boy	7.5 15/2(+12%)	(5) Shoeshine Boy 15/2, Two-time C&D winner. Scored at Hexham in October on comeback (23.3f, soft) but no in same form since, fifth of 9 in handicap hurdle at Carlisle (25f, soft) 37 days ago. Seems to be all about stamina and should be running on late. Dual C&D scorer but below-par fifth at Carlisle last month; needs to bounce back.
3 7th (3) (33/1 -1220%) Buy Some Time	33 33/1(-1220%)	(3) Buy Some Time 33/1, Lightly-raced. Finished last term with a double at Perth, latest a good effort (23.9f, good) ridden patiently, made headway 3 out and stayed on. Looked very progressive then and although we haven't seen him for 6-months, it would be no surprise to see him resume progress if ready to roll on return. Bagged a pair of 3m Perth handicaps in July; needs considering despite his layoff.
6 \|PU\| (6) (8/1 +33%) Artic Mann	8 8/1(+33%)	(6) Artic Mann 8/1, Has hit the frame on two occasions at this venue. Very consistent last season and creditable return after 5 months off when third of 6 at Kelso and ran to a similar level when fifth of 10 in a handicap hurdle at Haydock (24.3f, soft) 48 days ago. Might just be in the grip of the handicapper. Not discredited when fifth in Haydock h'cap last month; this veteran can't be ruled out.
9 \|PU\| (9) (66/1 -65%) Arctic Ambition	66 66/1(-65%)	(9) Arctic Ambition 66/1, Blinkered for first time when pulled up in handicap chase at Cartmel (21.2f, soft) 150 days ago, reported to have an irregular heartbeat. Switches to hurdles on return from 150-day break and others preferred. Blinkered when pulled up in 2m5f Cartmel handicap chase in August; others appeal more.

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CHASINGOUTTHEBLUES got up in the nick of time over an extended 2m3f at Wetherby on Boxing Day, and there are plenty of reasons to be hopeful that he can follow up. The unexposed six-year-old was making his handicap debut that day and although a subsequent 5lb rise might seem harsh, he can progress further now upped significantly in trip. Gaillimh A Stor was desperately unlucky when narrowly denied over C&D from 3lb lower earlier this month and he merits respect, along with Lady In The Park.

Plenty in with a chance here and it might pay to side with CHASINGOUTTHEBLUES, the youngest and least exposed of these who is now tackling staying trips for the first time having scored on handicap debut last month. Guernsey ran well in a higher grade last time and has solid claims, while Lady In The Park should not be discounted having returned to form over hurdles. Buy Some Time deserves an honourable mention on his return from an absence, and he's one to keep an eye on in the market.

It's hard to go against Mark Walford's improving CHASINGOUTTHEBLUES (nap) who can take another step forward now his stamina is drawn out

14:42 Down Royal Maiden Chase 16f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (6/1 +50%) Conyers Hill	6 6/1(+50%)	(1) Conyers Hill 6/1, Useful hurdler. Useful winner at 17f over hurdles. 14/1, seventh of 10 in novice chase at Punchestown (16.4f, soft) 42 days ago. Hood back on. Ran okay on chase debut at Wexford but disappointing twice since.
7 2nd (7) (13/2 -44%) One Last Tango	6.5 13/2(-44%)	(7) One Last Tango 13/2, Fairly useful winner at 16f over hurdles. 4/1, creditable fourth of 12 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (17f, good to soft) 26 days ago. Fine handicap effort at Leopardstown makes him a major player.
8 3rd (8) (10/1 -33%) Step Out	10 10/1(-33%)	(8) Step Out 10/1, Winner in hurdle at Downpatrick in August. Unseated rider early in novice chase (15/2) at this course (20.6f, good to soft) 26 days ago. Early casualty here over Christmas in beginners chase; probably needs to improve.
9 4th (9) (8/1 -14%) Someone's Wish	8 8/1(-14%)	(9) Someone's Wish 8/1, Winner in chase at Downpatrick in September. Ninth of 10 in handicap chase at Navan (16f, good to soft, 8/1) 37 days ago. Yard having good spell. Good second in C&D handicap in November; tame recent Navan effort however raises questions.
5 5th (5) (9/2 +18%) Zurich	4.5 9/2(+18%)	(5) Zurich 9/2, 16/1, off a year and first run since leaving N. Paysan when fourth of 10 in novice chase at Punchestown (16.4f, soft) 42 days ago. Should improve. Chase debut at Punchestown encouraging; could well improve enough to feature here.
4 6th (4) (16/1 -129%) Listentillitellyea	16 16/1(-129%)	(4) Listentillitellyea 16/1, Respectable third of 9 in handicap chase at Punchestown (19.7f, soft, 10/1) 21 days ago. One to consider. Didn't quite stay 2m4f latest in handicap; contender back in trip here.
2 7th (2) (14/1 +13%) Nas Na Riogh	14 14/1(+13%)	(2) Nas Na Riogh 14/1, Fairly useful winner at 20f over hurdles. 22/1, eighth of 10 in novice chase at Punchestown (16.4f, soft) 42 days ago. 129-rated hurdler hasn't featured in two runs over fences; may need more time.
3 8th (3) (11/4 +31%) The Big Doyen	2.75 11/4(+31%)	(3) The Big Doyen 11/4, Useful winner at 21f over hurdles. Off 6 months, 28/1, excellent seventh of 13 in novice chase at Leopardstown (17f, good to soft) 25 days ago. Good chance if building on that. Definitely one to consider on favoured ground although ideally wants further.
6 9th (6) (5/1 +58%) Doctor Glide	5 5/1(+58%)	(6) Doctor Glide 5/1, Fairly useful chaser. Excellent eighth of 13 in novice chase at Leopardstown (17f, good to soft, 200/1) 25 days ago. Showed a bit more at Leopardstown over Christmas in a better race; more required.

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Cases can be made for plenty of these, but none more so than ONE LAST TANGO. The eight-year-old was only beaten a length when fourth in a competitive handicap over 2m1f at Leopardstown last month and that form gives him a big chance here. Zurich won over hurdles in France and has to be noted following his encouraging fourth on debut for these connections at Punchestown, while Listentillitellyea and Step Out are others with strong form claims.

Not a novice chase that will take much winning and THE BIG DOYEN could be the way to go after his encouraging comeback in a hot event at Leopardstown over Christmas. Zurich and Listentillitellyea are lead dangers.

A good fourth in a well-contested handicap at Leopardstown over Christmas, ONE LAST TANGO remains nicely treated and gets the vote

14:53 Leicester Handicap Chase (Class 5) 23f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 1st (8) (5/4 +69%) Camulus	1.25 5/4(+69%)	(8) Camulus 5/4, Off 9 months before returning with an encouraging third of 8 in handicap chase at Lingfield (23.5f, good to soft) in November, fading after 2 out (pair that beat him were progressive novices). Eased 2 lb since and should have a part to play if able to build on that. Returned from break with encouraging third in strong race at Lingfield and he's respected.
2 2nd (2) (13/2 -44%) Lazy Sunday	6.5 13/2(-44%)	(2) Lazy Sunday 13/2, Completed hat-trick over fences early-2023 and, though winless since, she has posted solid efforts in defeat both starts so far this season. Pulled clear of the rest when beaten less than a length by a very promising novice at Lingfield (23.5f, good to soft) last time and she needs considering. Went close behind highly progressive winner at Lingfield and she's a key player.
12 3rd (12) (11/1 0%) Faitque De L'isle	11 11/1(0%)	(12) Faitque De L'isle 11/1, Over 2 years since his sole success and while his latest effort in first-time cheekpieces (retained) at Southwell (24.3f, heavy) on New Year's Day was a decent effort, others make more appeal for win purposes. Fair run last time but out of the handicap today and has won just one of his 25 starts.
11 4th (11) (14/1 +44%) Goguenard	14 14/1(+44%)	(11) Goguenard 14/1, Progressed well switched to handicap hurdles last season, again showing a good attitude when scoring for the third time at Stratford (2¾m, heavy) in March. However, there have been very few positives to take from his efforts over fences at Market Rasen and Catterick this season. Three wins over hurdles early last year but below par since, over fences the last twice.
1 5th (1) (33/1 -136%) Haveanothergoflo	33 33/1(-136%)	(1) Haveanothergoflo 33/1, Successful sole start in Irish points and found to have suffered with an irregular heartbeat when pulled up on chase debut in November 2023. Shaped well back from a 12-month absence returned to hurdles at Carlisle but well held next time and he's opposable on this second attempt over fences. Inconsistent and pulled up on sole chase start, but this point winner is not written off.
9 \|PU\| (9) (9/1 -13%) Traveling Soldier	9 9/1(-13%)	(9) Traveling Soldier 9/1, Runner-up sole outing in Irish points and showed a fair bit when second in 7-runner maiden hurdle at Perth on second start under Rules last spring. Has failed to build on that since but perhaps this switch to fences and step up in trip will bring about improvement. Form has gone the wrong way over hurdles but this point runner-up may improve for fences.
3 \|PU\| (3) (11/2 +54%) How And Ever	5.5 11/2(+54%)	(3) How And Ever 11/2, Lightly-raced 7-y-o who made a successful handicap bow over hurdles at Fontwell (21.8f, heavy) last February. Pulled up both subsequent starts, including on return/chase debut at Stratford (since undergone a second wind op), but he's likely to show himself in a better light over fences before long. Pulled up the last twice (chase debut latest) but this point/hurdle winner has had wind op.
7 \|PU\| (7) (14/1 +30%) Cokytho	14 14/1(+30%)	(7) Cokytho 14/1, Finally off the mark in a 3m Uttoxeter handicap chase last May but now has a point to prove having failed to fire both starts so far this season. Won in good style at Uttoxeter last May but a long way below that level last month.
6 \|PU\| (6) (16/1 +20%) Has Troke	16 16/1(+20%)	(6) Has Troke 16/1, Off the mark over fences when taking 5-runner handicap at Newcastle (23.4f, heavy) last March but he has offered little in 3 subsequent starts. Yard also saddles Cokytho. Won off 2lb higher at Newcastle last March but has struggled on both runs this season.
10 \|PU\| (10) (25/1 +50%) Endersen	25 25/1(+50%)	(10) Endersen 25/1, Remains a maiden following 9 appearances in various race-types under Rules (also 0-4 between the flags) and it's easy enough to look elsewhere. He's struggled in his 5 handicaps and a transformation is needed in first-time cheekpieces.

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

Shillanavogy has to be respected having got off the mark over fences at Fontwell last time, although a 6lb rise will make life tougher for him here. As a result, preference is for LAZY SUNDAY, who chased home a progressive rival at Lingfield last month and that form gives her a big chance. Percy Veering also hit the crossbar on his most recent outing and is the pick of the remainder.

PERCY VEERING went down all guns blazing on his seasonal reappearance at Market Rasen and the 8-y-o is taken to resume winning ways. He may have most to fear from the mare Lazy Sunday, who found only the progressive Aworkinprogress too good in a Lingfield handicap last month and a reproduction of that effort would give her every chance. Camulus and Shillanavogy are others with claims.

Warren Greatrex's horses are running well and the unexposed 7yo SHILLANAVOGY (nap) can follow up last month's win at Fontwell.

15:05 Ayr Handicap Chase (Class 3) 20f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (11/4 +0%) El Elefante	2.75 11/4(+0%)	(2) El Elefante 11/4, Fairly useful hurdler who made a winning start to her chasing career in 2½m Worcester novice on return in October. Has failed to build on that in couple of mares' listed events since but she has to enter the reckoning now pitched into a handicap in this sphere. Taken well to fences, winning on debut before good 3rd in Listed company; one to consider.
4 2nd (4) (11/2 +21%) Lunar Discovery	5.5 11/2(+21%)	(4) Lunar Discovery 11/2, Dual bumper winner who also won a pair of novice hurdles last season. Far from disgraced on return/debut in this sphere at Carlisle in November and also performed with credit back hurdling at Aintree on Boxing Day, but this demands a clear career-best. Decent hurdler; few errors on chase debut (behind El Elefante); 4lb wrong; bit to find.
3 3rd (3) (5/6 +44%) Hashtag Boum	0.833333 5/6(+44%)	(3) Hashtag Boum 5/6, Successful twice over hurdles and has already shown herself to be more of a force in this sphere, winning 2 of her 3 starts since switched to fences. Up 7 lb for that and she's 2 lb 'wrong' here, but this consistent, strong-travelling mare looks sure to give it a good shot. Progressive chaser; career-best when winning over C&D latest; 7lb higher today; contender.
1 4th (1) (7/1 -155%) Duffle Coat	7 7/1(-155%)	(1) Duffle Coat 7/1, Several solid efforts in defeat in this sphere prior to opening chase account in a 23.4f listed handicap at Ballinrobe last May. Bettered that when a fine second in the Galway Plate during the summer and will be a big player if able bounce back from a rare poor effort on latest start in September. Smart; two good chase runs last year; obvious contender but best form on better ground.

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

HASHTAG BOUM made it two wins from three over the larger obstacles when on target over this C&D recently and despite being 2lb out of the handicap today, Ruth Jefferson's charge can continue on her upward trajectory. A return to handicaps should benefit El Elefante, though, and she merits respect along with top-weight Duffle Coat. Lunar Discovery will need to find more if she's to upset the apple cart.

Though EL ELEFANTE has failed to go on from her winning chase debut in two subsequent appearances, it would be no surprise whatsoever to see her get back on track now that her sights are lowered. Indeed, she has contested listed events the last twice and this company is not so taxing. Irish raider Duffle Coat will be a big threat, despite conceding lumps of weight all round, if close to his best following a break, while Hashtag Boum has taken really well to fences and she has to be feared, too.

In a tricky race, the class act DUFFLE COAT is taken to win despite reservations about him being at his best on the soft ground.

15:15 Down Royal Handicap Chase 20f - 8 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
6 1st (6) (10/1 +29%) Don't Talk	10 10/1(+29%)	(6) Don't Talk 10/1, Fair winner at 21f over hurdles. 11/1, below form fifth of 12 in handicap chase at Navan (20.6f, good to soft) 37 days ago. Place possibilities. Went close over C&D on final start last season; needs to improve a good bit on recent runs.
1 2nd (1) (6/1 -100%) Doonbeg Don	6 6/1(-100%)	(1) Doonbeg Don 6/1, Winner in chase at Galway in October. Twelfth of 17 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (23.8f, soft, 9/2) 42 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase. Open to progress in this sphere. Clear potential for more over fences and drop back in trip should suit.
7 3rd (7) (14/1 -133%) Le Grand Vert	14 14/1(-133%)	(7) Le Grand Vert 14/1, Winner in chase at Roscommon in August. Unseated rider in handicap chase at Clonmel (20.8f, good to soft, 13/2) 75 days ago. First run for yard after leaving J. P. Dempsey. Each-way chance granted a clear round. Consistent last year until casualty at Clonmel; since changed yards and considered.
8 4th (8) (10/1 +29%) Rideau Canal	10 10/1(+29%)	(8) Rideau Canal 10/1, Remains a maiden after 16 NH runs. 9/1, thirteenth of 19 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (23.8f, soft) 42 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase and makes handicap debut in this sphere. Tailed off on only previous try chasing last summer, hard to fancy entering handicaps.
9 5th (9) (8/1 +20%) School Lane	8 8/1(+20%)	(9) School Lane 8/1, Course winner. 25/1, third of 13 in handicap chase at this course (20.6f, good to soft) 26 days ago, running on late. Not discounted. Encouraging enough C&D comeback run at Christmas but ideally wants softer ground.
5 6th (5) (8/1 -14%) Finnians Row	8 8/1(-14%)	(5) Finnians Row 8/1, Latest win in chase at Gowran in October. Below form seventh of 13 in handicap chase at this course (20.6f, good to soft, 15/2) 26 days ago. Can make presence felt. Probably needed last month's C&D comeback run so don't rule out here with ground to suit.
3 \|F\| (3) (7/4 +50%) Rightfolksplease	1.75 7/4(+50%)	(3) Rightfolksplease 7/4, Respectable third of 18 in handicap chase at Naas (16f, good to soft, 15/2) 36 days ago. Up in trip and expected to be bang there. Standout run over fences when just held in Sligo novice handicap on good ground; claims.
2 \|F\| (2) (8/1 +43%) Quornofamonday	8 8/1(+43%)	(2) Quornofamonday 8/1, Fair winner at 16f over hurdles. 20/1, fifth of 12 in handicap chase at Limerick (22.6f, soft) 23 days ago. Opposable. 2m6f possibly too far last time; back in trip here but ground could be on the quick side.

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

RIGHTFOLKSPLEASE was only beaten a short-head when second over 2m1f at Sligo in October and was third on his sole subsequent start over fences at Naas last month. This step up in trip may bring about the required improvement to see the seven-year-old return to winning ways. Doonbeg Don will make his presence felt if bouncing back to the form that saw him win at Galway two starts ago. Others to note are Le Grand Vert and School Lane.

DOONBEG DON shaped better than the bare result over hurdles last month and is taken to make it 2-2 in this sphere having scored on his chase debut at Galway in October. Rightfolksplease gave it a good shot when third in a big-field Naas handicap last time and he should be on the premises once again, along with Finnians Row and Le Grand Vert.

Rightfolksplease and Finnians Row hold strong claims but the still unexposed top-weight DOONBEG DON is preferred

15:25 Leicester Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 16f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
10 1st (10) (12/1 +14%) The Grey Man	12 12/1(+14%)	(10) The Grey Man 12/1, Runner-up on the second of his 2 starts in bumpers and placed both appearances over hurdles last season. Safely held on return to action at Hereford (19.7f, good to soft) but that run will have blown away the cobwebs and he could do better now handicapping. Placed earlier this year on first two hurdle starts and goes handicapping off a fair mark.
7 2nd (7) (25/1 -150%) Lumi Plugin	25 25/1(-150%)	(7) Lumi Plugin 25/1, Showed ability in bumpers and built on debut promise in this sphere when again finding only one too good in a 21.7f Fontwell maiden last spring, likely to have gone close but for a bad mistake 2 out. No show on return at Wincanton last month but better can be expected here with that under his belt. Tailed off on handicap debut but may have needed it; unexposed and retains potential.
8 3rd (8) (7/2 -5%) Trust House	3.5 7/2(-5%)	(8) Trust House 7/2, Flat winner for Ralph Beckett (bought out of that yard for 58,000 gns last year) and has improved switched to handicap company in this sphere the last twice, scoring over C&D before chasing home Snapius at Lingfield. Enjoys a handy pull at the weights with that rival and bold show anticipated. Has done well since moving into handicaps (including C&D win) and he's one to consider.
2 4th (2) (40/1 -60%) Feel The Pinch	40 40/1(-60%)	(2) Feel The Pinch 40/1, Now 6 lb lower compared to when landing a handicap hurdle at Newton Abbot (16.7f, good) last summer but he hasn't shown much in half-a-dozen subsequent appearances (over fences on last 4 starts). Needs to bounce back. Won off 6lb higher last July but this 11yo lost his form towards the end of last year.
1 5th (1) (9/1 -64%) Achille Des Rocs	9 9/1(-64%)	(1) Achille Des Rocs 9/1, Failed to score from 5 attempts between the flags but he's 2-3 over hurdles, most recently making a winning handicap debut in determined fashion at Catterick (19.3f, good). Drop back in trip shouldn't be an issue on this stiff track and 4 lb rise fair enough, so this unexposed 6-y-o is shortlisted. Arrives on hat-trick after maiden/handicap hurdle wins; could play another leading role.
6 6th (6) (14/1 -40%) Inferno Sacree	14 14/1(-40%)	(6) Inferno Sacree 14/1, Front-runner who hasn't got his head in front for a while but has put in good shifts both starts at Plumpton since returning from a break in November. Found 20.5f too much of a test when third last time and should make his presence felt back down in trip here off a 1 lb lower mark. Fair efforts on both runs towards end of 2024; each-way possible now back down in trip.
4 7th (4) (12/1 -33%) Copper Cove	12 12/1(-33%)	(4) Copper Cove 12/1, Bumper winner who improved when opening his hurdles account at the seventh attempt at Fontwell (17.7f, heavy) last February. However, he was disappointing over fences at the same course when last seen the following month and it could be that he'll come on for this belated seasonal reappearance. Absent since tailed off over fences last March but not ruled out now back hurdling.
5 8th (5) (11/2 +8%) Snapius	5.5 11/2(+8%)	(5) Snapius 11/2, Ex-Irish hurdles/Flat winner who has been right back on track on last two starts for his current yard. Runner-up over this C&D prior to landing a 7-runner handicap hurdle at Lingfield (2m, good to soft) where he proved 1¾ lengths too strong for the re-opposing Trust House. More on his plate up 5 lb. Won at Lingfield and he could have more left in the tank now he's back on song.
11 9th (11) (14/1 0%) Les's Jersey Royal	14 14/1(0%)	(11) Les's Jersey Royal 14/1, Some promise on hurdles debut in November but hasn't shown much in 2 subsequent runs and sizeable step forward needed now pitched into a handicap. Yet to get competitive; goes h'capping off lowly mark; a market move would be interesting.
3 \|PU\| (3) (15/8 +75%) Tommie Gun	1.875 15/8(+75%)	(3) Tommie Gun 15/8, Southwell maiden hurdle winner in December 2023 and has made the frame on several occasions since, including when third over 20.5f here on penultimate start. Drop back to this trip seemingly counted against him at Chepstow last time, though. Has run pretty well in defeat the last twice and might not be far away.

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

ACHILLE DES ROCS confirmed the promise that he displayed when winning a maiden hurdle at Southwell in November by scoring on his handicap debut over 2m3f at Catterick last month. A 4lb rise for that success may still underestimate this progressive six-year-old and he has to be of interest. Snapius (first) and Trust House (second) are closely matched based on their meeting at Lingfield last time and they could both be in the mix once again.

There could be better to come from TRUST HOUSE in this sphere and he is taken to reverse last month's Lingfield placings with Snapius. Olly Murphy's charge is better off at the weights with that rival now and was a very decisive winner over this C&D 13 days earlier. While Snapius is not discounted, the unexposed Achille des Rocs and Inferno Sacree may emerge as the main dangers to Trust House this time. Tommie Gun is on a workable mark but he ideally needs a stiffer test.

Alex Chadwick gave SNAPIUS a good ride to win at Lingfield last month and the pair can follow up. Trust House is feared most.

15:40 Ayr Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 20f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (3/1 -60%) Timmy Tuesday	3 3/1(-60%)	(1) Timmy Tuesday 3/1, Lightly-raced maiden who stepped up on his belated reappearance effort when second of 11 in novice hurdle at Limerick (21f, soft, 16/1) 24 days ago. Makes handicap debut and surprise were he not capable of better for his top yard. Enigmatic but capable on his day, last time finishing 2nd in Limerick maiden; chance.
6 2nd (6) (4/1 -33%) Ruby Island	4 4/1(-33%)	(6) Ruby Island 4/1, Fairly useful in bumpers and won first 2 starts over hurdles in 2022/23. Very lightly raced since but didn't shape badly with a view to stepping back up in trip for new stable when third of 8 in handicap hurdle at Doncaster (16.6f) 39 days ago. Worth a second look. Dual winner for Mark Walford; good 2nd on comeback (2m); return to 2m4f will suit; chance.
4 3rd (4) (9/2 +18%) I Wish You	4.5 9/2(+18%)	(4) I Wish You 9/2, Consistent sort who got off the mark in 10-runner novice hurdle at Carlisle (17.2f, soft) in October. However, handed a stiff-opening mark and never threatened when fourth of 6 on handicap debut at Sandown (2m) 46 days ago. Eased 2 lb ahead of this. Runner-up all starts last term; off the mark in novice in October; interesting up to 2m4f.
5 4th (5) (11/2 -10%) Kinbara Firstdraft	5.5 11/2(-10%)	(5) Kinbara Firstdraft 11/2, Registered a second hurdles victory from a 4 lb lower mark over C&D in November and far from disgraced when sixth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Navan (20f, good to soft) 37 days ago. Not ruled out in an open-looking contest. Two wins on good this term, latest over C&D; below par latest; soft ground not ideal.
2 5th (2) (16/1 +36%) Dollar Collar	16 16/1(+36%)	(2) Dollar Collar 16/1, Irish point winner who quickly reached a fair level over hurdles last season, winning second of 3 starts in a Hexham maiden (16.2f) in March. Rather disconcerting she's been pulled up both starts over fences/hurdles this winter but undergone wind surgery ahead of this. Could bounce back. Winning Irish pointer; quite useful novice hurdler last term; interesting after wind op.
7 6th (7) (10/3 +72%) Follow Charlie	3.333333 10/3(+72%)	(7) Follow Charlie 10/3, Dual C&D winner last winter who stepped up on his comeback when third returned to this venue in November. Subsequent Kelso run was disappointing but a return to this course rates an obvious plus with cheekpieces now reached for. Possibilities. Goes well here; two C&D wins last term and third over C&D in November; each-way chance.
3 \|PU\| (3) (14/1 -75%) Bel Amigo	14 14/1(-75%)	(3) Bel Amigo 14/1, Fairly useful over hurdles and fences in France, winning a claiming chase in March. Too keen when remote third in 2¾m Kelso novice hurdle on British debut 73 days ago but that should have knocked some of the freshness out of him. Refitting of a hood can also help in that regard. Ex-French; winning chaser; well-beaten 3rd in novice hurdle on stable debut; more needed.

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

TIMMY TUESDAY was second to a potentially smart Willie Mullins-trained improver at Limerick last month and, although well held by that rival, it was still an encouraging enough effort to suggest he can take the lead role here. I Wish You, who won a novices' hurdle at Carlisle on his penultimate start, is weighted to have an impact on just his second start in a handicap. Ruby Island is a previous course winner who looks worth another try over this sort of trip.

FOLLOW CHARLIE needs to dispel a lesser effort at Kelso but a return to this venue (both wins gained over C&D) rates an obvious plus with the cheekpieces now reached for and he's given a chance to bounce back. Ruby Island promises to be suited by the step back up in trip and she's feared. Gordon Elliott's Timmy Tuesday on handicap debut is another to note.

The enigmatic TIMMY TUESDAY has yet to win a race but he is capable on his day and looks well treated on his handicap debut.

15:47 Down Royal Handicap Chase 24f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (12/1 +40%) Now Where Or When	12 12/1(+40%)	(1) Now Where Or When 12/1, Course winner. 12/1, seventh of 9 in handicap chase at Punchestown (19.7f, soft) 21 days ago. Back up in trip and he looks vulnerable. Likely needed last month's comeback run and could be approaching a competitive mark.
9 2nd (9) (7/1 +50%) Marronstown	7 7/1(+50%)	(9) Marronstown 7/1, 11/1, bit below form fourth of 9 in handicap chase at Punchestown (19.7f, soft) 21 days ago. Back up in trip and likely to find one or two too good. Punchestown winner last summer; return to 3m should suit as should better ground.
2 3rd (2) (7/1 +13%) Money Heist	7 7/1(+13%)	(2) Money Heist 7/1, 4/1, respectable sixth of 10 in handicap chase at Navan (16f, good to soft) 37 days ago. Stable in good form but this 8-y-o may now be in the grip of the handicapper. Winning form is at 2m; better for recent comeback run but unproven over this far.
5 4th (5) (11/1 -69%) Sea Aster	11 11/1(-69%)	(5) Sea Aster 11/1, Latest win in chase at Clonmel in June. 3/1, pulled up in handicap chase at Perth (23.8f, good to soft) 134 days ago, struggling some way out. Possesses the required ability to play a leading role but improvement is needed in the jumping department. Let down by jumping both recent starts so questions to answer now.
8 5th (8) (7/2 +13%) Read To Return	3.5 7/2(+13%)	(8) Read To Return 7/2, 7/2, creditable third of 21 in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (24.5f, soft) 20 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase and he's high on the shortlist. Solid run early this month off lower hurdles mark at Fairyhouse; one to consider.
10 6th (10) (15/2 -50%) Silver King	7.5 15/2(-50%)	(10) Silver King 15/2, 11/4, creditable second of 7 in handicap chase at Naas (16f, heavy) 16 days ago. Shade more will be needed if he's to open his account in this sphere but this new trip is well worth exploring and he's on a workable mark. Wants softer ground and unproven over this far.
4 7th (4) (16/1 +52%) Clonmeen	16 16/1(+52%)	(4) Clonmeen 16/1, C&D winner. Ninth of 11 in handicap chase (40/1) at Cheltenham (25f, good) 66 days ago. Others preferred. C&D winner two seasons back (off 114); more recent form leaves him with a fair bit to find.
3 8th (3) (17/2 +15%) Shajak	8.5 17/2(+15%)	(3) Shajak 17/2, Twelfth of 17 in handicap chase (17/2) at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 23 days ago. In good form prior to that and definite each-way chance if able to ounce back and keep jumping errors to a minimum. Yard also saddles Sea Aster. Jumping awry at Leopardstown last time but claims if avoiding serious error.
6 \|F\| (6) (6/1 +50%) Prince Palace	6 6/1(+50%)	(6) Prince Palace 6/1, 15/2, below form fifth of 9 in novice chase at this course (20.6f, good to soft) 26 days ago. Makes handicap chase debut and he looks vulnerable. Upped in trip for handicap chase debut off 4lb lower mark than hurdles.
7 \|U\| (7) (7/1 -155%) Whateys Quest	7 7/1(-155%)	(7) Whateys Quest 7/1, Career best when winning 12-runner handicap chase (11/4) at Limerick (22.6f, soft) 23 days ago, pushed out. This is more demanding up 11 lb but he's of strong interest all the same. Limerick winner has good chance of following up if handling better ground.

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

The step up in trip worked the oracle for WHATEYS QUEST as he ran out a taking winner over Limerick's extended 2m6f last month and this extra yardage could spark further progress from the seven-year-old. With that in mind, the Charles Byrnes-trained gelding is fancied to defy an 11lb rise to score again, possibly at the main expense of Read To Return. The latter is back over fences following a promising placed effort over timber at Fairyhouse on New Year's Day, while Silver King is also respected now tackling a longer distance.

READ TO RETURN has yet to add to his maiden chase success at Killarney back in October 2023 but he is appealing on the back of a solid recent effort over hurdles at Fairyhouse. The 8-y-o is preferred to Whateys Quest, who did the job well at Limerick and an 11 lb rise may not be enough to debar another bold show from him. Silver King is an each-way player with this step up in trip unikely to be a bad thing.

Although hit with an 11lb rise for his Christmas Limerick win there could still be more to come from WHATEYS QUEST

15:55 Leicester Handicap Chase (Class 3) 23f - 4 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
3 1st (3) (11/10 +12%) Hunter Legend	1.1 11/10(+12%)	(3) Hunter Legend 11/10, Back to winning ways in emphatic fashion in 2m4f handicap chase here late in December. Reliable type who looks sure to go well again now despite a 7 lb hike. Had plenty in hand here last time and could still be well treated up 7lb.
1 2nd (1) (6/5 +36%) Westerninthepark	1.2 6/5(+36%)	(1) Westerninthepark 6/5, Bumper/dual hurdles winner who made a successful start in this sphere at Stratford (20.9f) in October and has remained in form since. Drops back in grade and deserves respect. Made fine start to chasing career in the autumn and he's better than he showed last time.
4 3rd (4) (22/1 +12%) Russian Ruler	22 22/1(+12%)	(4) Russian Ruler 22/1, Ended last term out of sorts for Nicky Henderson and no better when easy to back and well beaten in Southwell handicap for new yard. Unseated there next time and others are more appealing. Has tumbled down the weights but he's struggled on both starts this season.
2 4th (2) (15/2 -50%) Karuma Grey	7.5 15/2(-50%)	(2) Karuma Grey 15/2, Defied huge odds on the back of another stable switch when making a winning return in 9-runner handicap chase at this course (21.5f, heavy, 100/1) 33 days ago and looks a player if he can build on it. 100-1 win on stable debut at Ffos Las last month; did it nicely; 6lb rise may not stop him.

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

Hunter Legend and Karuma Grey have to be of interest following impressive victories on their most recent outings. That said, this will demand more from both of them and preference is for WESTERNINTHEPARK. Olly Murphy's gelding failed to fire at Aintree last time but is arguably the one to beat based on his second in a competitive event at Cheltenham the time before.

HUNTER LEGEND is a likeable type who put up an impressive display to score readily here last month and he seems to have found a good opportunity to follow up. The class-dropping Westerninthepark is a danger and Karuma Grey should be considered after his shock success on debut for his current stable.

Karuma Grey is respected on the back of last month's 100-1 win but preference is for HUNTER LEGEND, who bolted up here last time.

16:03 Newcastle Handicap (Class 5) 10f - 9 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
5 1st (5) (7/4 +50%) Joolianoss	1.75 7/4(+50%)	(5) Joolianoss 7/4, Lightly-raced winner. 9/2, career best when winning 10-runner handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 18 days ago. Neither this 4 lb higher mark nor the step up in trip are at all off-putting. Lightly raced 4yo with a progressive profile and likely to stay this longer distance.
7 2nd (7) (9/1 -50%) Rainwater	9 9/1(-50%)	(7) Rainwater 9/1, Winner at Wolverhampton in November. Creditable third of 8 in handicap (5/1) at this C&D 24 days ago. Minor place money is probably the best he can hope for on this occasion. 9.4f winner in November and holding his form well; firmly in calculations.
4 3rd (4) (4/1 +11%) Urban Road	4 4/1(+11%)	(4) Urban Road 4/1, Four-time course winner, the latest gained in December. Good second of 8 in handicap (5/1) at this C&D 10 days ago, running on. Likely to be in the thick of things once again. Goes well here and ran another sound race in defeat over C&D ten days ago.
8 4th (8) (12/1 -140%) Annandale	12 12/1(-140%)	(8) Annandale 12/1, 11/2, won 9-runner handicap at this C&D 13 days ago, pushed out. Remains feasibly treated up 4 lb and it's not hard to envisage another bold show from this 7-y-o. Copes well with all sorts of trips and had a bit in hand over this one here 13 days ago.
1 5th (1) (5/1 -11%) Phone Tag	5 5/1(-11%)	(1) Phone Tag 5/1, Won 6-runner handicap (4/1) at Chelmsford City (10f) 12 days ago. 2 lb rise fine but this looks tougher and he will therefore need to raise his game in order to follow up. The hood has had an immediate effect in finishing second here and one better at Chelmsford.
9 6th (9) (11/2 +61%) Rock Armour	5.5 11/2(+61%)	(9) Rock Armour 11/2, 11/2, seventh of 8 in handicap at this C&D 24 days ago and, chances are, he will again find a few too good. 0-9 and had no excuses when behind some of these here 24 days ago.
3 7th (3) (18/1 -177%) Jewel Maker	18 18/1(-177%)	(3) Jewel Maker 18/1, Four-time course winner, the latest gained in November. 9/1, creditable second of 8 in handicap back here over a mile 31 days ago and the return to this trip will be no bad thing. Found all trouble going when bidding for a fifth course win a month ago; player.
6 8th (6) (50/1 +0%) Orange N Blue	50 50/1(+0%)	(6) Orange N Blue 50/1, Tenth of 11 in handicap (40/1) at this C&D 20 days ago and he looks set for another struggle. Has form claims but well beaten in both runs for this yard after a lengthy absence.
2 9th (2) (50/1 -257%) Young Fire	50 50/1(-257%)	(2) Young Fire 50/1, Course winner. 12/1, respectable fourth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 25 days ago. Capable of a bold show off this mark if he puts his best foot forward. Hasn't been that threatening in his recent starts and others look more likely.

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

PHONE TAG landed a similar class 5 handicap at Chelmsford earlier in the month and he can follow up off just 2lb higher. Seemingly more focused with a hood applied on his last two starts, the selection also has nothing to fear from reverting to Tapeta having finished second over C&D on his penultimate start. Urban Road won this race off 3lb lower 12 months ago and commands respect after going close over C&D off this rating 10 days ago. Rainwater and last-time-out winner Annandale complete the shortlist.

JOOLIANOSS and Annandale both arrive here on the back of victories and can be expected to play leading roles once again. The latter is not passed over at all lightly but Joolianoss has low mileage as far as 4-y-os go and he gets the nod on the back of his breakthough success at Southwell where he shaped as though this stiffer test would be no bad thing. Others to consider in this competitive handicap include Jewel Maker, Urban Road and Young Fire.

Phone Tag (second choice) and Rainwater are closely matched and in the mix but JOOLIANOSS is a lightly raced improver.

16:13 Ayr NH Flat Race (Class 5) 16f - 12 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
6 1st (6) (10/3 -11%) They're Chancers	3.333333 10/3(-11%)	(6) They're Chancers 10/3, €70,000 3-y-o, Milan gelding. Closely related to fair hurdle winner/high-class chaser Edwulf, and half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Grand Morning, stayed 3m. Makes plenty of appeal on pedigree/connections. 70,000euros 3yo; Milan gelding appeals on paper so this newcomer enters calculations.
7 2nd (7) (1/1 +71%) Triple Crown Ted	1 1/1(+71%)	(7) Triple Crown Ted 1/1, €40,000 3-y-o, Walk In The Park gelding. Dam unraced sister to useful hurdler/chaser (stayed 3¼m) Some Invitation. Bred to need time and distance. 40,000euros 3yo; Walk In The Park gelding; in good hands and one to consider on debut.
11 3rd (11) (10/3 -11%) Caballo De Guerra	3.333333 10/3(-11%)	(11) Caballo De Guerra 10/3, Soldier of Fortune gelding who shaped promisingly amidst greenness when third of 9 in bumper at Wetherby (16f, heavy) on debut 45 days ago, doing well to last as long in the conditions as he did given the hold he took. Looks the one to beat. Promising debut third at Wetherby; appeals as the sort to do a fair bit better; big player.
2 4th (2) (25/1 +50%) Coylton King	25 25/1(+50%)	(2) Coylton King 25/1, Bred to stay well so, while there was some sign of ability when sixth here on debut earlier in the month, he's likely to come good further down the line. Sixth of 14 in C&D bumper 15 days ago; this son of Jack Hobbs can build on it.
12 5th (12) (100/1 -52%) Moira My Love	100 100/1(-52%)	(12) Moira My Love 100/1, Jack Hobbs filly. Dam modest 3m hurdle winner. Likely to need some time. Jack Hobbs filly; others appeal more on this occasion.
1 6th (1) (9/1 +0%) Count Adhemar	9 9/1(+0%)	(1) Count Adhemar 9/1, €28,000 3-y-o, Westerner gelding. Closely related to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser Uncle Danny. Dam unraced. One to note on paper. Closely related to useful hurdler/chaser Uncle Danny; son of Westerner needs considering.
10 7th (10) (16/1 +20%) Miss Mac	16 16/1(+20%)	(10) Miss Mac 16/1, Kingston Hill mare. Half-sister to bumper winner/useful hurdler Corrieben Reiver, stays 2½m. Dam (b90) lightly raced in bumpers. Interesting on paper. Daughter of Kingston Hill; the betting can prove a good guide on her first run.
8 8th (8) (14/1 -133%) Flamin Court	14 14/1(-133%)	(8) Flamin Court 14/1, Court Cave mare. Dam unraced half-sister to bumper winner/fairly useful hurdler (stayed 2½m) Secret Legacy. Worthy of respect for a stable that does well in this discipline. Irish newcomer can't be dismissed, especially if the market speaks in her favour.
4 9th (4) (20/1 -122%) Littletown Lad	20 20/1(-122%)	(4) Littletown Lad 20/1, €5,800 3-y-o, Casamento gelding. Dam (c106/h82) bumper/2m hurdle winner (stayed 2½m). Third only outing in point bumper (Apr 2024). Not dismissed. Casamento gelding; third in a point bumper in April so can't be discounted.
3 10th (3) (250/1 -279%) Gallus Norman	250 250/1(-279%)	(3) Gallus Norman 250/1, Out of a winning hurdler but not a great deal of promise on debut here recently. Needs to improve markedly. Hooded when only ninth in bumper over C&D 15 days ago; needs to take a big step forward.
9 11th (9) (25/1 -178%) Kanitamay	25 25/1(-178%)	(9) Kanitamay 25/1, £40,000 3-y-o, Kapgarde mare. Dam, maiden over hurdles/fences in France, sister to Aintree Grand National winner Pineau de Re. Worth monitoring in the betting on debut. Kapgarde mare; a debutante to consider, especially if market vibes are positive.
5 12th (5) (250/1 -150%) Lucius Verus	250 250/1(-150%)	(5) Lucius Verus 250/1, Not much appeal on pedigree and showed little over C&D on debut 15 days ago. Beat only one in C&D bumper; significantly more is required from this son of Gladiatorus.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,

CABALLO DE GUERRA was a promising third on debut in a similar event at Wetherby last month and, given he was the market leader on that occasion, similar betting support for the four-year-old would be highly tempting now he has racecourse experience under his belt. The selection's stable companions, Triple Crown Ted and Kanitamay, bolster a potentially strong hand for Lucinda Russell. However, They're Chancers, who cost 70,000 euros as a three-year-old, and the well-bred Count Adhemar tick the right boxes on paper and rate the most intriguing of the debutants.

CABALLO DE GUERRA travelled well for a long way when an encouraging third at Wetherby on debut and, with an experience edge over most, he's fancied to open his account at the second attempt. They're Chancers and Count Adhemar are both notable newcomers for well-respected stables.

Lucinda Russell's CABALLO DE GUERRA made a promising start when third at Wetherby and looks the way to go with improvement on the cards

16:40 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 6f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
8 1st (8) (8/1 +33%) Asadjumeirah	8 8/1(+33%)	(8) Asadjumeirah 8/1, C&D winner. Forty-nine runs since last win in 2022. Eighth of 12 in minor event (12/1) at Southwell (6.1f) 18 days ago, never nearer. Tongue strap back on. Others more persuasive on balance. Losing run now stands at 49; best to look elsewhere.
3 2nd (3) (6/1 -200%) Bungle Bay	6 6/1(-200%)	(3) Bungle Bay 6/1, Three wins from 10 runs last year. Didn't need to improve to win 11-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 8/1) 36 days ago, just holding on. Expected to be bang there nudged up just 2 lb. Five wins at Wolverhampton; might get away with the drop back in trip on this stiff track.
7 3rd (7) (9/1 +10%) Noble Captain	9 9/1(+10%)	(7) Noble Captain 9/1, C&D winner. Good fifth of 12 in minor event (14/1) at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 14 days ago, nearest finish. Lurking on a fair mark and he's worth a second look. 2lb lower than for the latest of two C&D wins early last year; each-way claims.
10 4th (10) (28/1 -12%) Secret Daay	28 28/1(-12%)	(10) Secret Daay 28/1, Remains a maiden after 28 Flat runs. 33/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 69 days ago. Best to look elsewhere. Recent efforts have been moderate and he is now 0-28; hard to fancy.
2 5th (2) (11/4 +66%) Raft Up	2.75 11/4(+66%)	(2) Raft Up 11/4, C&D winner. 11/1, creditable fifth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 17 days ago, not clear run. Not without each-way hope. Sole win came over C&D and not beaten far at Southwell last time when meeting trouble.
9 6th (9) (8/1 -7%) Mr Stanley	8 8/1(-7%)	(9) Mr Stanley 8/1, Remains a maiden after 25 Flat runs. Good fourth of 9 in handicap at this C&D (18/1) 19 days ago. Can give a good account but may again prove vulnerable from a win point of view. Now 0-25 which leaves him with plenty to prove.
11 7th (11) (80/1 -220%) Sacred Melody	80 80/1(-220%)	(11) Sacred Melody 80/1, Last of 9 in handicap (40/1) at this C&D 11 days ago and she's hard to recommend on that evidence. No closer than fifth in 12 starts; makes little appeal.
4 8th (4) (5/1 -25%) She'sashambles	5 5/1(-25%)	(4) She'sashambles 5/1, Good third of 10 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 18/1) 17 days ago, nearest finish. Should be on the premises once more. Only narrowly beaten into third of ten at Southwell this month; should be involved.
5 9th (5) (6/1 -33%) Urban Dandy	6 6/1(-33%)	(5) Urban Dandy 6/1, Course winner. Twenty-three runs since last win in 2023. 15/2, respectable fifth of 11 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f) 7 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Visor back on and he has to enter calculations. Losing run up to 23 and dropping back to 6f is not sure to help.
1 10th (1) (50/1 -52%) Tees Harriet	50 50/1(-52%)	(1) Tees Harriet 50/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Last of 7 in handicap at this C&D (33/1). Off 112 days and she's hard to warm to. Still unexposed but returns from another four months off with plenty to prove.

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

SHE'SASHAMBLES has put together a series of respectable enough efforts to suggest she can finally break her duck on the all-weather in this modest handicap. Noble Captain is closely matched with Phillip Makin's filly based on an encounter over C&D last month and can be a thorn in her side if the low draw isn't a hindrance. From stall 11, Bungle Bay, who won over 7f at Wolverhampton last month, has fared better on that score and can also figure if dropping back a furlong isn't an issue.

BUNGLE BAY just held on over 7.2f at Wolverhampton last time and, with this drop back in trip a potentially good move, the 6-y-o is taken to follow up off just a 2 lb higher mark. She'sashambles and Urban Dandy both performed with credit last time and they can fill the places.

Several have become hard to win with, including SHE'SASHAMBLES but a reproduction of her close last time would give her a solid chance.

17:15 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 6f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
9 1st (9) (14/1 +13%) Tathmeen	14 14/1(+13%)	(9) Tathmeen 14/1, 3-time C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2024. Creditable fifth of 12 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f, 20/1) 17 days ago. Eight wins here, the latest off 3lb higher, but he is hard to predict these days.
5 2nd (5) (17/2 +47%) Hurstwood	8.5 17/2(+47%)	(5) Hurstwood 17/2, C&D winner. Latest win at Redcar in August. Fifth of 8 in handicap (12/1) at this C&D 19 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. C&D winner as a 3yo; 3lb below last winning mark but modest of late.
1 3rd (1) (14/1 -17%) Giselles Izzy	14 14/1(-17%)	(1) Giselles Izzy 14/1, Three wins from 19 runs last year. Sixth of 7 in handicap at this C&D (11/1) 10 days ago, weakening final 1f having again gone freely. Refitting of a hood may enable her to settle better and she's been cut further slack by the assessor. 1-22 on the AW but it's been a while since she raced down at this level; each-way shout.
4 4th (4) (17/2 -13%) Tommytwohoots	8.5 17/2(-13%)	(4) Tommytwohoots 17/2, Latest win at Nottingham in October. Creditable second of 12 in handicap (16/1) at this C&D 35 days ago, well positioned. Each-way possibilities with a repeat. Runner-up over C&D five weeks ago, but is just 3-48 so wouldn't be sure to build on that.
2 5th (2) (11/1 -10%) Athollblair Boy	11 11/1(-10%)	(2) Athollblair Boy 11/1, 9-time C&D winner. Ran best race for a while when fifth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 19 days ago, no extra final 1f. Registered back-to-back victories here this time last year and this veteran campaigner is not dismissed out of hand. 11-time course winner, including this race last year off 10lb higher; hard to rule out.
6 6th (6) (3/1 -71%) Kranjcar	3 3/1(-71%)	(6) Kranjcar 3/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Good third of 11 in minor event (6/4) at this course (7.1f) 11 days ago, unable to sustain effort after 10 weeks off. Remains with some potential at this level now his attentions switch to handicaps. Better effort when third here 11 days ago; return to 6f may suit and he's still unexposed.
7 7th (7) (7/2 +36%) Pockley	3.5 7/2(+36%)	(7) Pockley 7/2, 6-time course winner. Twenty three runs since last win in 2023. Respectable fourth of 8 in handicap at this course (5f, 10/3) 20 days ago, another slow start not helping matters. Basement mark to work from if he can put it all together. All six wins have come here, including two over this trip; losing run of 23 is a concern.
3 8th (3) (10/3 -11%) Fircombe Hall	3.333333 10/3(-11%)	(3) Fircombe Hall 10/3, 6-time C&D winner. Three wins from 21 runs last year. Eleven runs since last win in 2024. Respectable third of 9 in handicap (9/2) at this C&D 11 days ago. Expected to be in the thick of things again. Back off the same mark as when gaining his sixth C&D success last June; major player.
8 9th (8) (33/1 +18%) Too Much Too Young	33 33/1(+18%)	(8) Too Much Too Young 33/1, Winner at Catterick in August. 20/1, ninth of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 14 days ago, going off too hard. May be sharper given that was his first start for 10 weeks but his overall record is a patchy one. 1-20; has not shown enough lately to suggest he will be doubling his tally.
10 10th (10) (150/1 -127%) Zebra Star	150 150/1(-127%)	(10) Zebra Star 150/1, 150/1, last of 11 in handicap at this course (7.1f) 71 days ago, hanging left 2f out and weakening. Blinkered for 1st time but plenty to prove. Poor since winning at Ayr last May; blinkers go on.

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

A respectable second off the same mark in a similar C&D event last month, TOMMYTWOHOOTS has a decent chance of enhancing his reputation with a third career success on Tapeta. The form of that race has been well advertised by the third home winning twice since and another bold showing can be expected. The unexposed Kranjcar is notable back over 6f and is forwarded as the chief threat on just his second start in a handicap. Pockley and Fircombe Hall are others to consider.

KRANJCAR was possibly in need of the run following a 10-week break when third in a 7f Classified contest here 11 days ago and, remaining with potential on handicap debut from a low base, he could be the answer. Fircombe Hall arrives in form and he's feared, along with Pockley and veteran Athollblair Boy.

Preference is for FIRCOMBE HALL (nap), no stranger to the winners' enclosure here and back off the same mark as when last successful.

17:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 8f - 12 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
6 1st (6) (9/1 +55%) Hartswood	9 9/1(+55%)	(6) Hartswood 9/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Doncaster in September. Creditable sixth of 11 in a handicap at this course (10.2f, 20/1) 20 days ago. Back down in trip and ideally needs a strong pace to aim at, which isn't guaranteed here. C&D winner as a 4yo; only one piece of worthwhile form since last summer.
5 2nd (5) (33/1 0%) L'ennemi	33 33/1(0%)	(5) L'ennemi 33/1, Eighth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f, 14/1) 25 days ago. Cheekpieces on first time. but others make more appeal. Yet to fire in handicaps since joining this yard, despite a sliding mark; cheekpieces now.
12 3rd (12) (5/1 +50%) Volenti	5 5/1(+50%)	(12) Volenti 5/1, Fine record here over the autumn/winter, winning three times. Possible excuses for below-par efforts last twice and remains of interest in a race of this nature. Won three times over C&D late last year and may have excuses the last twice.
1 4th (1) (5/2 +29%) Time Tested	2.5 5/2(+29%)	(1) Time Tested 5/2, 5/1, career best when winning a 10-runner handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW) 8 days ago, did well in circumstances considering he explored inner part of track which generally hadn't been favoured. Drops back in trip but still a leading contender under a 5 lb penalty. Form since handicapping reads 12121; has a 5lb penalty to carry but remains unexposed.
2 5th (2) (17/2 -55%) Cusack	8.5 17/2(-55%)	(2) Cusack 17/2, 4-time C&D winner. 7/2, won a 9-runner handicap at this C&D 7 days ago, better placed than most and therefore not a sure thing to follow up under a 4 lb penalty. Seven wins here; 4lb penalty for latest makes things harder but he has to be considered.
9 6th (9) (12/1 -33%) Wyvern	12 12/1(-33%)	(9) Wyvern 12/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in November. Failed to build on second here in December when 3/1, seventh of 10 in a handicap at this course (7.1f) 13 days ago but could bounce back now racing over 1m again. Won narrowly over C&D in November but needs to bounce back from a lesser effort last time.
11 7th (11) (12/1 -50%) Parish Councillor	12 12/1(-50%)	(11) Parish Councillor 12/1, Well-supported in market when fifth of 9 in handicap at this course (10.2f) 13 days ago, possibly not seen to best effect at the trip. Interesting back to a mile in first-time cheekpieces, especially with positive jockey booking. C&D winner as a 3yo but out of the frame in all nine starts since; cheekpieces go on.
8 8th (8) (5/1 -67%) Miners Gamble	5 5/1(-67%)	(8) Miners Gamble 5/1, Winner at Musselburgh in August. Shaped well after 4-month absence when very good ¾-length third of 9 to Cusack in handicap at this C&D 7 days ago, having been caught further back than ideal. Should be in the mix once again. Beaten less than a length by Cusack on return over C&D a week ago and is 4lb better off.
4 9th (4) (14/1 -87%) Electric Avenue	14 14/1(-87%)	(4) Electric Avenue 14/1, First run since leaving George Baker when tongue strap on for 1st time, career best when winning 6-runner handicap at this C&D 31 days ago (second ran well in a better race since) and much respected in bid to follow up. 4lb higher than when making a successful stable debut over C&D last month; shortlisted.
10 10th (10) (22/1 +27%) Yorkstone	22 22/1(+27%)	(10) Yorkstone 22/1, Below form when 22/1, eleventh of 12 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f) 24 days ago, although not helped by blindfold being removed late. Tongue strap on for first-time but others appeal more. Won three times in 2023 but has regressed since; tongue-tie goes on.
7 11th (7) (33/1 -32%) Mariner	33 33/1(-32%)	(7) Mariner 33/1, A fair maiden handicapper on the Flat at up to 1¼m for Jessica Macey. Makes Flat debut for new yard wearing first-time cheekpieces following a couple of spins over hurdles and has a bit to find. 0-14 under rules; first-time cheekpieces need to have a positive effect.
3 12th (3) (11/1 +31%) Breakwater	11 11/1(+31%)	(3) Breakwater 11/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Fifth of 12 in novice (50/1) at Newcastle (10.2f) 22 days ago. Cheekpieces on and may do better now handicapping. Has shown ability in all three AW starts; still open to further progress; cheekpieces on.

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

MINERS GAMBLE shaped well when a close-up third behind Cusack (winner) over C&D a week ago having been off the track for four months, so it would come as no surprise were Brian Ellison's charge able to reverse that form on these revised terms. The improving Time Tested, who won over 1m2f at Lingfield recently, looks to be a real threat, while Wyvern ought to relish a return to further and he is not without a chance either.

MINERS GAMBLE shaped with encouragement on his first run for 4 months when third here in a race that wasn't run to suit. He's marginally preferred to Time Tested who won over 10f last week and can still be a threat back at a mile. Electric Avenue could build on her recent win for new connections while Wyvern can bounce back having not been seen to best effect over 7 furlongs last time.

It may be worth siding with VOLENTI who won three times over C&D late last year. It's possible to make excuses for his recent defeats.

18:15 Newcastle Stakes (Class 5) 8f - 5 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
1 1st (1) (7/2 +42%) Chess Dad	3.5 7/2(+42%)	(1) Chess Dad 7/2, €75,000 yearling whose dam was an unraced half-sister to top-class 1¼m-1½m winner Ulysses. Half-brother won on debut over 6f and no surprise to see him run with credit on debut. 75,000euros yearling; nice pedigree and interesting to see what the market makes of him.
3 2nd (3) (4/7 +100%) Inspired	0.571429 4/7(+100%)	(3) Inspired 4/7, Dubawi Colt cost 300,000 gns as a yearling. Dam 9f-12.5f winner, won Dahlia Stakes. Pedigree jumps off the page and should make a bold bid on debut. 300,000gns yearling; first foal out of a Group-class 1m1f-12.5f winner.
2 3rd (2) (40/1 -264%) City Landscape	40 40/1(-264%)	(2) City Landscape 40/1, Cost 145,000 gns as yearling. Sister to useful winner up to 1m, Magritte. Gelded and wears tongue-tie and blinkers for racecourse bow. Others preferred. Has been gelded and immediate fitting of headgear looks ominous.
5 4th (5) (4/1 -33%) Pride Of Donegal	4 4/1(-33%)	(5) Pride Of Donegal 4/1, 100,000 gns yearling, Saxon Warrior colt. Unable to build on promise of debut when beaten (evens) at Southwell (8f) 61 days ago, hung left and kept on into third, but has experience on his side and comes from a yard who are in great form. Vulnerable to anything with potential but having experience will stand him in good stead.
6 5th (6) (25/1 -150%) Vulcan Way	25 25/1(-150%)	(6) Vulcan Way 25/1, Twice-raced maiden. 50/1, third of 9 in a novice event at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 14 days ago, running on. Could be one for handicaps down the line. Broke better than on his debut when a close third at Wolverhampton; more needed.

LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,

It's not a particularly lofty standard set by Pride Of Donegal and though he can be expected to be thereabouts, newcomer INSPIRED is taken to get off to the perfect start. A 300,000gns purchase, a son of Dubawi and whose dam was a Group 2 winner herself, she looks the part on paper and would not have to be anything out of the ordinary to score here. Fellow debutant City Landscape has to be of interest too, but it is a slight concern that connections already reach for a tongue-tie and blinkers.

INSPIRED is bred in the purple and she can take this on racecourse debut. Pride of Donegal looks the best of those with racecourse experience and he can hit the frame again, while newcomer Chess Dad, whose half-brother won on debut, can run with credit.

It's not hard to take a chance on INSPIRED, who cost 300,000gns and is out of a smart mare. Pride Of Donegal has experience.

18:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 7f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
2 1st (2) (11/4 +50%) Bantz	2.75 11/4(+50%)	(2) Bantz 11/4, Continues to edge down the weights and shaped better than result last time when good third of 8 in a handicap at this C&D 10 days ago, finishing with running left. Player. Third over C&D ten days ago, just over a length behind Penelope Valentine; needs more.
5 2nd (5) (5/1 -11%) A Fine Claret	5 5/1(-11%)	(5) A Fine Claret 5/1, Winner at Southwell in January. Eighth of 12 in handicap (15/8) at Southwell (6.1f) 4 days ago. Possibly not favoured by slightly wide trip and chance here with cheekpieces back on. Disappointing last time but won well the time before; return to 7f no problem; respected.
1 3rd (1) (5/2 -11%) Penelope Valentine	2.5 5/2(-11%)	(1) Penelope Valentine 5/2, Lightly-raced maiden. 6/1, good second of 8 in a handicap at this C&D 10 days ago. That was off the back of a 4-month break and she still looked green under pressure. More to come. Runner-up in both handicaps, the latest over C&D ten days ago; shortlisted off same mark.
7 4th (7) (20/1 +50%) General Gordon	20 20/1(+50%)	(7) General Gordon 20/1, 7 lengths tenth of 12 to A Fine Claret in a handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 22/1) 17 days ago, others preferred. Moderate form, including when behind two of these at Southwell last time.
3 5th (3) (14/1 +0%) Magic Topissima	14 14/1(+0%)	(3) Magic Topissima 14/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Seventh of 10 in a maiden (20/1) at this C&D 31 days ago, below previous form shown and work to do on handicap debut. Third over C&D on second start; open to progress on handicap debut but it will be needed.
4 6th (4) (7/2 +91%) Final Angel	3.5 7/2(+91%)	(4) Final Angel 7/2, Eighth of 10 in a nursery at this course (6f, 33/1) 24 days ago when not seen to best effect. Place claims. Placed a couple of times but makes limited appeal despite another 2lb drop.
6 7th (6) (14/1 +65%) Black Sky	14 14/1(+65%)	(6) Black Sky 14/1, 5½ lengths eighth of 12 to A Fine Claret in a handicap (20/1) at Southwell (6.1f) 17 days ago but shaped better than bare result. Blinkers back on and would be interesting if market spoke in his favour. Caught the eye here in November but twice held since; needs a resurgence back up in trip.

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

Second at Kempton in September before occupying the same position over C&D recently, PENELOPE VALENTINE has far less to prove than many of these and she is taken to go one place better now. Bantz, who was third behind the selection last time out, might be best positioned to make a challenge, while Black Sky would need to improve on what he's shown so far but a step up in trip could work the oracle.

MANTON ROAD has to be of serious interest if taking up this engagement (entered on Monday) having shown much improved form when losing the race in the stewards' room last week. Penelope Valentine is entitled to come on for her recent second here while Bantz should be respected having not enjoyed a smooth passage last time. Any money for Black Sky would be worth noting.

Another chance is given to A FINE CLARET who disappointed at Southwell four days ago having won well there the time before.

19:15 Newcastle Handicap (Class 5) 7f - 10 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
9 1st (9) (7/1 -8%) Tasever	7 7/1(-8%)	(9) Tasever 7/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in January. Respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at this course (8f, 2/1) 7 days ago. Arrives in good order and is likely to be involved. Has won three times here since November; may not face much competition for the lead.
1 2nd (1) (11/2 +66%) Quandary	5.5 11/2(+66%)	(1) Quandary 11/2, 14/1 and blinkered for 1st time, sixteenth of 21 in handicap at York (6f, good to firm). Off 179 days. Cheekpieces back on. Returns on a handy mark and has a good record on this surface, so worth monitoring in the betting. 0-10 in handicaps and enough to prove back from six months off.
3 3rd (3) (6/4 +33%) Brazilian Rose	1.5 6/4(+33%)	(3) Brazilian Rose 6/4, 11/4, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at this course (6f) 4 days ago, comfortably. Absolutely thriving at present and boasts leading claims in her bid for the four-timer. Up a furlong bidding for a four-timer; only 1lb higher and a major player if seeing it out.
10 4th (10) (11/1 -69%) Bobby Joe Leg	11 11/1(-69%)	(10) Bobby Joe Leg 11/1, 7-time C&D winner. Four wins from 14 runs last year. Twelve runs since last win in 2024. 10/1, respectable third of 8 in handicap at this C&D 10 days ago. Not discounted. Behind stablemate Streak Lightning in his last three starts, but capable of a big effort.
8 5th (8) (15/2 -88%) Streak Lightning	7.5 15/2(-88%)	(8) Streak Lightning 15/2, 3-time C&D winner. Creditable second of 8 in handicap at this C&D (9/2) 10 days ago. Likely to be on the premises again. Four-time course winner, capable of a big run if getting a solid pace to aim at.
7 6th (7) (14/1 +13%) Alreet Cha	14 14/1(+13%)	(7) Alreet Cha 14/1, C&D winner. Winner here in October. Eighth of 10 in handicap (9/1) at this C&D 13 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Mixed bag in five starts since returning here in the autumn; not sure what to expect.
6 7th (6) (25/1 -127%) Super Hit	25 25/1(-127%)	(6) Super Hit 25/1, 18/1, first run since leaving Marco Botti when sixth of 7 in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 8 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Could build on that. Two wins at Chelmsford for Marco Botti; possible to forgive his stable debut at Lingfield.
5 8th (5) (100/1 -203%) Petra Celera	100 100/1(-203%)	(5) Petra Celera 100/1, Latest win at Southwell in August. 66/1, last of 10 in handicap at this C&D 13 days ago, weakening quickly. Plenty to prove after finishing tailed off over C&D 13 days ago.
11 9th (11) (5/1 +29%) Ahamoment	5 5/1(+29%)	(11) Ahamoment 5/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Ayr in September. Creditable 3 lengths second of 10 to Tasever in handicap at this C&D (6/1) 13 days ago, no match for winner. Worthy of respect. 3lb lower than when winning a division of this race last year and worth a second look.
2 10th (2) (100/1 -52%) Dream Show	100 100/1(-52%)	(2) Dream Show 100/1, Unreliable individual. Refused to race in handicap (80/1) at this course (6f) 60 days ago. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Hard to make a case for. Lightly raced and has shown little for this yard; refused to race last time; tongue-tie on.

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

BRAZILIAN ROSE arrives here on the back of a hat-trick of victories over 6f at this venue in recent weeks and the daughter of Calyx is hard to oppose off just 1lb higher than the latest of those victories on Friday. Streak Lightning may have to settle for second place once again, while Ahamoment and Bobby Joe Leg are the pick of the remainder.

BRAZILIAN ROSE completed the hat-trick with something up her sleeve at this course at the weekend and she's an obvious choice to go in again if the quick turnaround doesn't scupper her. Streak Lightning and Ahamoment are two of several others who arrive in good order.

The vote goes to AHAMOMENT who is 3lb lower than when winning a division of this race last year.

19:45 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 5f - 7 Run Class & Speed Card

Form	Odds	Runs
4 1st (4) (10/3 -21%) Until Dawn	3.333333 10/3(-21%)	(4) Until Dawn 10/3, Lightly-raced maiden. 8/1, good 2 lengths fourth of 8 to Frankies Dream in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 17 days ago, hanging badly right. Still learning and may have more to offer. Only 2l off Frankies Dream at Wolverhampton last time despite hanging right throughout.
5 2nd (5) (4/5 +36%) Frankies Dream	0.8 4/5(+36%)	(5) Frankies Dream 4/5, Winner at Wolverhampton in January. 11/8, very good second of 8 in handicap at Lingfield (5f, AW) 8 days ago, finishing strongly. Clearly the one to beat. First and second in last two nurseries, finishing well; stiffer track here should benefit.
3 3rd (3) (10/1 +50%) Sun Keeper	10 10/1(+50%)	(3) Sun Keeper 10/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Hooded for 1st time, eighth of 11 in novice at Southwell (6.1f, 150/1) 18 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Makes handicap debut. Others make more appeal. Not a lot to shout about so far and she was tried a hood last time; handicap debut.
2 4th (2) (25/1 -150%) Hardlass	25 25/1(-150%)	(2) Hardlass 25/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Last of 11 in novice at this course (6f, 28/1) 24 days ago. Makes handicap debut. Showed promise on debut but hasn't built on it. Could have some improvement lurking now she's into a handicap back at 5f.
7 5th (7) (9/1 +25%) Cuban Lynx	9 9/1(+25%)	(7) Cuban Lynx 9/1, Seventh of 8 in handicap (12/1) at this course (7.1f) 10 days ago. Back down in trip. Cheekpieces back on. Others preferred. In good form over 5f and it was over 7f when he disappointed here the last time.
8 6th (8) (33/1 -32%) Baby Rover	33 33/1(-32%)	(8) Baby Rover 33/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Ninth of 10 in novice (200/1) at Southwell (6.1f). Off 96 days. Makes handicap debut. Limited promise and she's 8lb wrong for this handicap debut.
1 7th (1) (17/2 -70%) Roselily	8.5 17/2(-70%)	(1) Roselily 17/2, Lightly-raced maiden. 3/1, respectable sixth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 10 days ago, not ideally placed. Worthy of respect dropped in grade. Latest handicap didn't go to plan and improvement could be lurking.

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

In a moderate event, FRANKIES DREAM clearly sets the standard. The son of Belardo scored over 5f at Wolverhampton two starts ago and only found one too good off this mark at Lingfield most recently. That form gives him the edge over Until Dawn, who showed promise when fourth on her handicap debut earlier in the month, while Cuban Lynx completes the shortlist.

FRANKIES DREAM is improving and caught the eye with a strong finish when second at Lingfield recently, so he stands out against some weak opposition. Roselily is dropped in class and looks the chief threat, while Until Dawn could make an impression if she stays straight under pressure.

Frankies Dream is a big player but UNTIL DAWN wasn't far behind him at Wolverhampton despite lugging right throughout.

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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