There were 37 Races on Thursday 23rd January 2025 across 5 meetings. There was 8 races at Huntingdon, 7 races at Wetherby, 7 races at Newcastle, 7 races at Gowran Park, 8 races at Southwell, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Thursday 23rd January 2025
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(9) La Pinsonniere 8/15, Useful maiden hurdler in France for Francois Nicolle last season and made an encouraging start for her new yard after 9 months off when second of 11 in 2m novice hurdle at Windsor 39 days ago. Merits serious consideration. Ex-French 5yo who was runner-up on British debut behind a promising type; key player.
6
2nd (6) (5/2 -82%) Nap Hand
2.5
5/2(-82%)
(6) Nap Hand 5/2, Fairly useful winner at 10f on Flat who was considerately handled when third of 9 in novice hurdle at Kempton (16f, good to soft) on NH debut 28 days ago. Open to plenty of progress. Likely player. Useful on the Flat & promising 3rd on last month's hurdle debut at Kempton; leading claims.
8
3rd (8) (12/1 +40%) Walden
12
12/1(+40%)
(8) Walden 12/1, Fair maiden hurdler who advanced his form when third of 7 in novice hurdle (25/1) at Leicester (15.5f, heavy) 53 days ago. Not ruled out. 11l third at Leicester; others have much stronger form but he's not ruled out each-way.
4
4th (4) (12/1 -33%) Ilitch
12
12/1(-33%)
(4) Ilitch 12/1, 9/4, first run since leaving Stuart Crawford when fourth of 9 in novice hurdle at Fakenham (16f, soft) on hurdles bow 22 days ago. Likely to improve. Place claims, at best, judged on his hurdle debut fourth at Fakenham on New Year's Day.
10
5th (10) (250/1 -67%) Ramaah
250
250/1(-67%)
(10) Ramaah 250/1, Modest winner at 13f on Flat but yet to match that form in two runs in this sphere, a well-held fourth of 5 in juvenile hurdle at Market Rasen (16.6f, soft) 49 days ago. A big step forward is needed. 1m5f Flat winner but at modest level and well beaten at big odds on both hurdle starts.
2
6th (2) (50/1 -25%) Diskatek
50
50/1(-25%)
(2) Diskatek 50/1, Last of 16 in novice hurdle (18/1) at Warwick (16f, soft) 63 days ago. Lots more is required. Promising second on debut at Southwell last February but two backwards steps have followed.
7
7th (7) (50/1 -150%) Thickthorn Tom
50
50/1(-150%)
(7) Thickthorn Tom 50/1, Seventh of 10 in bumper (18/1) at Sandown (16f, good) on NH debut 74 days ago. In excellent hands so remains with potential on his hurdles debut. In top hands but well beaten at 18-1 in Sandown bumper and considerable improvement needed.
3
8th (3) (200/1 -300%) Dynamic Talent
200
200/1(-300%)
(3) Dynamic Talent 200/1, Last of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 50 days ago on his final run for Darryll Holland. Tongue strap on for 1st time in this code with more needed now going hurdling. Five-time 7f AW Flat winner; unproven on turf; stamina also a doubt on hurdle/stable debut.
1
|F| (1) (10/1 -25%) Dinofromberlais
10
10/1(-25%)
(1) Dinofromberlais 10/1, Encouraging fourth of 8 in novice hurdle at Southwell (15.8f, good, 11/2) on hurdles bow 58 days ago. Open to improvement. May be of greater interest when up in trip but still has each-way shout for in-form yard.
NAP HAND is rated 86 on the level and didn't do a lot wrong when third in a good maiden hurdle on his jumping bow at Kempton on Boxing Day. With the experience under his belt, he should take the necessary step forward in order to land this prize. La Pinsonniere was turned over at odds-on on her UK debut at Windsor, but that performance is probably better than it first appeared because the winner has gone in again since. Thickthorn Tom might be best of the rest.
NAP HAND brings lots of potential to this sphere (a fairly useful Flat scorer) and is fancied to take a sizeable step forward from his hurdling debut Kempton third and get off the mark. Nicky Henderson's useful French recruit La Pinsonniere rates a big threat though with Dinofromberlais, Ilitch and Thickthorn Tom all worthy of consideration for minor honours.
This should be between NAP HAND and La Pinsonniere. Useful Flat winner Nap Hand is taken to build on his promising hurdle debut.
(4) Melon 4/1, Lightly raced improver on Flat (14f winner) and had fair bit in hand when taking 7-runner juvenile on hurdles bow at Doncaster (16.6f) in December. Found graded company too much at Chepstow next time but he remains with potential back in calmer waters. Found Grade 2 too hot last time but made bright start to hurdling career two starts ago.
6
2nd (6) (11/8 +45%) Narragansett
1.375
11/8(+45%)
(6) Narragansett 11/8, Fairly useful (and lightly-raced) winner on the Flat and showed plenty to work on sent hurdling when runner-up at Market Rasen 7 weeks ago, pulling long way clear of the rest. Should improve. Flat winner; solid start to hurdling career when clear second to warm favourite last month.
1
3rd (1) (9/2 +10%) Bust A Move
4.5
9/2(+10%)
(1) Bust A Move 9/2, Didn't kick on in the expected manner on the Flat as a 3-y-o but looked a good prospect in making a successful hurdles debut in a juvenile at Catterick (15.7f) 37 days ago, quickening clear. Looks sure to progress. Far too good for a well-backed subsequent winner when scoring on last month's hurdle debut.
3
4th (3) (12/1 -71%) Inappropriate
12
12/1(-71%)
(3) Inappropriate 12/1, Fairly useful on Flat (stays 1¼m) and fair form when winning 4-runner Newcastle juvenile hurdle on yard debut in November. Couldn't build on that under a penalty when fifth at Kempton (2m) last month but it remains early days. Comfortable winner on hurdle debut; next run was slightly disappointing; still considered.
2
5th (2) (4/1 +47%) Cruden
4
4/1(+47%)
(2) Cruden 4/1, Fairly useful on Flat (stays 11.5f) and ended time with Jessica Harrington in juvenile maiden at Cork (2m) in October. Changed hands for 25,000 gns and showed improved form when second of 11 in a C&D juvenile 4 weeks ago. A repeat gives him sound claims of being involved. Won in Ireland in the autumn and ran big race in defeat over C&D on stable debut.
8
6th (8) (150/1 -200%) Scotland The Brave
150
150/1(-200%)
(8) Scotland The Brave 150/1, Fair form at best in trio of starts on Flat but labouring badly from an early stage when well-beaten fifth on C&D hurdles debut over Christmas. Passed over. Has shown some ability on the Flat but was well beaten over C&D on hurdling debut.
5
7th (5) (100/1 -400%) Livano Bello
100
100/1(-400%)
(5) Livano Bello 100/1, Showed fair form when third in a French claimer in September. Joined new yard for €30,600 and may have needed the run when sixth of 11 in a C&D juvenile on UK debut 4 weeks ago, weakening home turn. Should do better. Placed on debut in France in September but tailed off over C&D on British debut.
7
8th (7) (16/1 +36%) Rukaana
16
16/1(+36%)
(7) Rukaana 16/1, Fairly useful 1m scorer on Flat for Charles Hills this summer. Sold for 46,000 gns and some promise (modest form) in pair of juvenile hurdles during second half of last year. Appeals as the type to do better, particularly in handicaps. Won on the Flat last spring and has shown significant hurdling promise; could have a say.
There were plenty of positives to be taken from NARRAGANSETT's hurdles bow when runner-up at Market Rasen last month. Neil Mulholland's gelding finished 30 lengths clear of the third and any improvement could make the four-year-old tough to beat. Penalised Cork winner Cruden lost little in defeat when touched off on his stable debut over C&D and he may mount the biggest challenge to the selection, ahead of the down-in-grade Melon.
Plenty of these boast potential including NARRAGANSETT. A lightly-raced winner on the level, he shaped with definite promise when runner-up in a Market Rasen juvenile 7 weeks ago (pulled clear of the remainder) and he's very much the type to improve. Melon, Cruden and Bust A Move are others who can play their part.
Triumph entry NARRAGANSETT pestered the odds-on winner all the way to the line when second on last month's hurdling debut.
(5) Federated 11/10, Course winner. Two wins from 6 runs last year. Good second of 9 in handicap (5/6) at this course (10.2f) 42 days ago, finishing well. Back up in trip and should make his presence felt. Two wins and a close second since upped to middle distances; leading player.
1
2nd (1) (6/4 +100%) Humble Spark
1.5
6/4(+100%)
(1) Humble Spark 6/4, Four-time course winner. Four wins from 15 runs last year. Career best when winning 4-runner handicap at this C&D (10/11) 15 days ago, easily. May well complete the hat-trick. Bids for Newcastle hat-trick; had plenty in hand last time; respected.
2
3rd (2) (10/1 +17%) Percy Willis
10
10/1(+17%)
(2) Percy Willis 10/1, Three-time C&D winner. Latest win at Wolverhampton in November. 14¼ lengths third of 4 to Humble Spark in handicap (5/2) at this C&D 15 days ago. Clearly has work to do if he's to topple Humble Spark. Six-time AW scorer but finished behind Humble Spark twice recently.
3
4th (3) (15/2 +6%) Elemental Eye
7.5
15/2(+6%)
(3) Elemental Eye 15/2, Creditable sixth of 10 in handicap at Haydock (11.6f, good, 5/1), missing break. Off 139 days ahead of this tapeta debut. Likely to find one or two too good. Chance of opening his account depends on how well he takes to AW.
6
5th (6) (80/1 -220%) Wanderlust
80
80/1(-220%)
(6) Wanderlust 80/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Last of 12 in handicap (9/4) at Nottingham (14f, heavy) 78 days ago. Makes tapeta debut on first run for yard after leaving Sir Michael Stoute and cheekpieces on 1st time. 0-5 for Sir Michael Stoute; sold for 1,000gns since last run.
4
6th (4) (50/1 -100%) Ashington
50
50/1(-100%)
(4) Ashington 50/1, Eleven runs since last win in 2018. Last of 7 in handicap hurdle at Hexham (16.2f, good, 8/1) 111 days ago. Latest effort in this sphere was solid but looks vulnerable nonetheless. Two hurdles wins in 2024; hasn't scored on the Flat since 2018.
FEDERATED and Humble Spark are readily suggested as the pair to focus on, with the former shading preference given he narrowly edged out his rival when scoring over 1m2f here last April. Both are considerably higher in the weights, but John Butler's gelding has more scope for progression and there is a lot to like about his chance. Percy Willis and Elemental Eye can fight it out as the best of the rest.
HUMBLE SPARK is clearly in good heart and he is taken to complete the hat-trick. The one most likely to make a race of it with Jim Goldie's in-form charge is Federated, who actually got the better of the selection at this course last spring and went close back here following a break last month. Percy Willis was well adrift of Humble Spark over C&D recently and minor place money looks his best hope.
Lightly raced FEDERATED is taken to show further progress and confirm April placings with Humble Spark.
(10) Palladium 8/15, Useful on Flat (stays 1½m) in Germany, successful twice in 2024, including Deutsches Derby. Left Henk Grewe €1,400,000 in October. Arrives with a big reputation and is fully expected to make a winning start. Last year's German Derby winner who fetched 1,400,000euros in October.
7
2nd (7) (50/1 +50%) Wolf Moon
50
50/1(+50%)
(7) Wolf Moon 50/1, Pether's Moon gelding. Half-brother to smart bumper winner Redemption Day and fairly useful hurdler Big Bresil, stays 3m. Unplaced sole start in points (May 2024). Tailed off in British maiden point (2m4f, good to soft) last May but worth a market check.
3
3rd (3) (3/1 +63%) Jack Hyde
3
3/1(+63%)
(3) Jack Hyde 3/1, Won a Newcastle bumper for Thomas Gallagher in January 2023. First start since when fourth in a novice at Kempton on stable/hurdling debut and entitled to better that. Nearly two years off before Kempton 4th (2m, good); has the best bumper and hurdles form.
4
4th (4) (14/1 -40%) Karton Plein
14
14/1(-40%)
(4) Karton Plein 14/1, Runner-up in a point before disappointing (10/11) when only fifth in a bumper at Sedgefield 95 days ago. Attentions are turned to hurdling now and can't be completely ruled out. Second in Irish point; 17l fifth of ten in bumper at Sedgefield (good) when 10-11.
5
5th (5) (10/1 +55%) Pure Carbon
10
10/1(+55%)
(5) Pure Carbon 10/1, Stepped up on his bumper debut when third of 12 in one at Huntingdon in April. Further progress when second to odds-on shot Captain Marvellous on return/handicap debut at Warwick but needs to put a blip at Newbury behind him. Warwick second; heavy defeat at Newbury in November last time when he bled from the nose.
1
6th (1) (50/1 +50%) George Darling
50
50/1(+50%)
(1) George Darling 50/1, €45,000 3-y-o, Order of St George gelding. Half-brother to bumper winner/fair hurdler Seelotmorebusiness. Unplaced both starts in points (latest Dec 15). Well-beaten favourite in two points, so best watched for now.
9
7th (9) (9/1 +36%) Taxus Baccata
9
9/1(+36%)
(9) Taxus Baccata 9/1, Califet mare who was successful on last of 4 starts in points and excellent start under Rules when making all in a Uttoxeter bumper (15.8f) back in April. Not disgraced when third in a novice at Uttoxeter on hurdling debut and should benefit from it. Point and Uttoxeter bumper winner; 16l third on hurdling debut there was not so hot.
8
8th (8) (40/1 -60%) Manala
40
40/1(-60%)
(8) Manala 40/1, From quite a good family and made a solid start when runner-up in a bumper at Newton Abbot 20 months ago. Has left Nicky Henderson since but joined another top outfit. 4-1, close second of nine in bumper at Newton Abbot (good) in May 2023 for Nicky Henderson.
6
9th (6) (125/1 +38%) Sgian Dubh
125
125/1(+38%)
(6) Sgian Dubh 125/1, Fair on the Flat but below form in that sphere and his only hurdling outing (in July 2023) lacked promise, so others make more appeal. Modest on hurdles debut at Newton Abbot in July 2023 and in two Flat runs last month.
2
10th (2) (80/1 +0%) Idamix
80
80/1(+0%)
(2) Idamix 80/1, Related to winners and showed signs of ability in a bumper at Taunton for Kim Bailey 21 months ago. Not seen since, however, so best watched on return/hurdling debut. 14l sixth of 13 in bumper at Taunton (good to soft) in April 2023 for Kim Bailey.
All eyes will be on PALLADIUM, who won the German Derby last summer and was purchased for an eye-watering 1.4m euros at Arqana in October. If he lives up to the hype on his timber debut, he should be able to book his Triumph Hurdle ticket and tighten Nicky Henderson's grip on the juvenile championship. Excuses emerged for Pure Carbon's Newbury flop and he is better judged on his previous Warwick second. Jack Hyde might be the one who gets closest to the selection, though, after an encouraging Kempton fourth.
German Derby winner PALLADIUM has been well touted as a juvenile to follow and, now making his belated start in this sphere, he's likely to account for some average rivals. Jack Hyde could feature if he builds on his hurdling debut and Karton Plein's point form gives him some hope despite an underwhelming start under Rules in a bumper.
Nicky Henderson runs last year's German Derby winner PALLADIUM, a 1,400,000euros purchase in October.
(1) Chart Topper 1/1, Some promise in bumpers but proved a different proposition sent hurdling when winning 13-runner maiden at Downpatrick (17.8f, good) when last seen 5 months ago. That form is nothing special, but he did the job with the minimum of fuss and is clearly a decent prospect. Won easily by 25l on hurdle debut at Downpatrick last summer and commands respect.
3
2nd (3) (2/1 -7%) Peso
2
2/1(-7%)
(3) Peso 2/1, Third sole start in Irish points and was much improved from his hurdling debut after 11 weeks off when winning 11-runner introductory event at Newbury (16.3f, good to soft) last month, really strong in the closing stages and promising more to come. Sure to be in the mix. Reeled in clear leader to win stylishly at Newbury last month; obvious contender here.
6
3rd (6) (25/1 -25%) He's Bresilian
25
25/1(-25%)
(6) He's Bresilian 25/1, Failed to complete in 2 points but has shaped with a little more encouragement in a couple of bumpers, latest when fifth of 8 at Market Rasen (16.6f, soft) just over 8 weeks ago. This looks a stiff task on hurdles bow with some powerful yards in opposition. Not beaten far in two autumn bumpers but has tough standard to reach on hurdling debut.
10
4th (10) (8/1 +43%) Rumoursareflying
8
8/1(+43%)
(10) Rumoursareflying 8/1, Fair maiden hurdler who made the frame on 4 occasions last season and has already hit the crossbar twice this term, running as well as could've been expected behind an unexposed one at this C&D (heavy) last month. Each-way claims once again but chasing may well prove his game. Sound effort when second over C&D last month but 0-9 over hurdles now.
2
5th (2) (33/1 -106%) Galidam
33
33/1(-106%)
(2) Galidam 33/1, Fair hurdler in France who opened his account in 10-runner claimer at Moulins (17.4f, good to soft, by 14 lengths from Hargnar) back in September. Claimed from A. Chaille-Chaille after for €18,106 and interesting to see what the market makes of him on his British debut. Easy winner of claiming hurdle in France in September; faces tougher task on British debut.
7
6th (7) (200/1 -100%) Jersey Stream
200
200/1(-100%)
(7) Jersey Stream 200/1, Well held only start in bumpers but hinted at ability following 9 months when fifth of 12 in novice hurdle (250/1) at Carlisle (17f, soft) on hurdles bow just under 6 weeks ago. Still, he's probably a longer-term project. Made some late headway on hurdling debut but faces a very tall order here.
9
7th (9) (150/1 -127%) Monticello
150
150/1(-127%)
(9) Monticello 150/1, Offered little when last of 7 in a Ffos Las bumper (15.8f, heavy) just over 9 weeks ago. Watching brief advised sent hurdling unless the betting suggests otherwise. Raced too freely before finishing last of seven on bumper debut at Ffos Las in November.
4
8th (4) (250/1 -150%) Big Storm Brewing
250
250/1(-150%)
(4) Big Storm Brewing 250/1, Failed to beat a rival only start in bumpers and well held in 3 novice hurdles last month. He'll be of more appeal in handicaps. Has shown promise in novice hurdles but will probably be of greater interest in handicaps.
5
|PU| (5) (5/1 -25%) Get The Beat
5
5/1(-25%)
(5) Get The Beat 5/1, Is being brought along steadily, caught out by the drop back in trip when second of 14 in maiden hurdle at Uttoxeter (15.8f, heavy) just under 5 weeks ago, taking time to hit full stride. He will benefit from a return to at least 2½m but is open to further improvement, nonetheless. Placed twice over hurdles; has a bit to find here but can still make his presence felt.
8
|PU| (8) (150/1 -50%) Midnight Phantom
150
150/1(-50%)
(8) Midnight Phantom 150/1, No show in a bumper on debut in February 2023 and was already beating a retreat when falling at the fifth flight sent hurdling on the back of a lengthy absence at Newcastle last month. Well beaten at Market Rasen since and looks one for handicaps after this. Showed only a tiny glimmer of promise when last of five at Market Rasen on Boxing Day.
CHART TOPPER came home in splendid isolation on his opening bid over hurdles at Downpatrick in August and a subsequent Grade 3 declaration at Tipperary showed how highly regarded he is. Although the Willie Mullins-trained six-year-old missed that engagement due to coughing, he looks more than capable of defying a 6lb penalty. The 125-rated Peso merits respect after last month's ready victory at Newbury and he isn't taken lightly. Get The Beat may fare best of the remainder.
CHART TOPPER couldn't have been any more impressive when making a winning hurdling debut at Downpatrick 5 months ago and, with further progress on the cards, he can give Willie Mullins a first winner at this track with just his second runner. Peso stepped up markedly on his debut effort when scoring at Newbury recently, so he can provide most resistance, with Get The Beat taken to edge out the consistent Rumoursareflying for third.
Chart Topper is respected but PESO kept on stoutly for a clearcut success at Newbury just after Christmas and might be the answer.
(6) Coral River 11/2, Runner-up on 3 of 4 starts in bumpers (fairly useful form) but ran below that level sent hurdling after 11 weeks off when tailed-off eleventh of 21 in maiden at Naas (16f, heavy) 18 days ago. Will need to leave that effort behind but can do so. 2nd in 3 bumpers; didn't jump well on hurdle bow this month; needs to leave that behind.
4
2nd (4) (11/4 +21%) Kish Bank
2.75
11/4(+21%)
(4) Kish Bank 11/4, Easy winner only start in points and justified good support to make a winning Rules debut in 8-runner Punchestown bumper (16.7f) in December 2023. Lost his unbeaten record with a bit of whimper sent hurdling at Galway 3 months ago and he should be capable of much better. Point winner; landed the odds on rules debut; beaten fav since but can bounce back.
7
3rd (7) (20/1 +20%) Gillane
20
20/1(+20%)
(7) Gillane 20/1, Runner-up completed start in points. 14/1, sixth of 13 in bumper at Limerick (18f, soft) on NH debut 26 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. 2nd in a point; showed ability when 6th in a bumper but drop in trip may not help.
5
4th (5) (33/1 +0%) Reliable Prince
33
33/1(+0%)
(5) Reliable Prince 33/1, €24,000 3-y-o, Reliable Man gelding. Dam unraced. Likely outsider on debut. Reliable Man gelding; dam unraced half-sister to French Flat winner; best watched on debut.
10
5th (10) (20/1 +0%) Stretchemout
20
20/1(+0%)
(10) Stretchemout 20/1, Winning pointer. Tailed-off fourth of 14 in maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse (18.4f, good to soft, 33/1) on NH debut 12 days ago, left in frame last. Looks one for the longer term. Point winner who shaped okay on rules debut 12 days ago; might not appreciate shorter trip.
8
6th (8) (9/4 -147%) Belle The Tigress
2.25
9/4(-147%)
(8) Belle The Tigress 9/4, Shaped well again when never-nearer third of 20 in maiden hurdle (14/1) at Naas (16.2f, good to soft) 38 days ago, outpaced early in straight but finishing strongly. Open to further progress and may well prove tough to beat. Showed ability when 40-1 5th on debut and built on that when beaten 2l since.
9
7th (9) (66/1 -164%) Great Bird
66
66/1(-164%)
(9) Great Bird 66/1, €28,000 3-y-o, Westerner mare. Half-sister to unbeaten bumper winner/useful 2m/19f hurdle winner Credrojava. Dam unraced half-sister to bumper winner up to 2½m winner Eilise's A Lady. Westerner mare; half-sister to Credrojava; may need further.
3
8th (3) (3/1 +45%) Journey So Far
3
3/1(+45%)
(3) Journey So Far 3/1, €26,000 3-y-o, Jet Away gelding. Brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Ryan's Rocket, and half-brother to 3 winners, including fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser Powerstown Park. Dam unraced. Still going well when fell 3 out sole start in points (Mar 2024). Fell when still firmly involved in a point won by a well bred rival; worth a market check.
1
9th (1) (50/1 -100%) Ennell Shadow
50
50/1(-100%)
(1) Ennell Shadow 50/1, €38,000 3-y-o, My Dream Boat gelding. Half-brother to numerous winners, including useful hurdler/fair chaser Shadow Eile and fairly useful hurdler/fair chaser Corskeagh Royale. Dam unraced. Unplaced sole start in points (Dec 8). Brother to point/bumper winner Dream Shadow; well held in a point last month; tough ask.
2
10th (2) (20/1 +70%) Scodar
20
20/1(+70%)
(2) Scodar 20/1, £30,000 3-y-o, Gentlewave gelding. Dam unraced. Pulled up sole start in points (Mar 2024). Cost £30,000 as a 3yo; dam related to winners over further; pulled up sole point start.
BELLE THE TIGRESS has shown nice ability and looks capable of further progression. She showed promise on debut in November and given the way she finished so well at Naas last month, can be counted upon to again run well and might also improve. Kish Bank easily won his point-to-point before landing a bumper in December 2023 but was absent for 319 days prior to returning at Galway in October. He disappointed then and while capable of better, nonetheless returns following another layoff. Coral River also showed good bumper form, finishing second at the Punchestown Festival, and while he dropped away tamely on hurdling debut last month, that was his first run for 72 days.
It's hard to look beyond BELLE THE TIGRESS, who again shaped well when finishing a never-nearer third at Naas last month so Henry de Bromhead's mare can make it third time lucky with further progress in the pipeline. Kish Bank lost his unbeaten record with a bit of whimper sent hurdling at Galway 3 months ago, but he should be capable of much better so heads up the dangers, with Journey So Far and Coral River another couple worth keeping a close eye on, too.
After two promising runs in maiden hurdles and her latest third at Naas working out okay, BELLE THE TIGRESS (nap) sets a solid standard
(3) Beneficiary 3/1, Course winner. Latest win at Southwell in January. Creditable second of 7 in handicap at this course (6f, 7/2) 9 days ago. Expected to be bang there. Comes here in top form and there's no obvious reason why he wouldn't make another bold bid.
5
2nd (5) (10/3 +39%) Lady Of The Garr
3.333333
10/3(+39%)
(5) Lady Of The Garr 10/3, Running consistently well in defeat prior to deservedly shedding maiden tag in C&D minor event 12 days ago, leading final 1f and keeping on. Mark has crept up ahead of this return to handicaps but she's likely to remain competitive. Off the mark over C&D 12 days ago; more needed back in a handicap but not ruled out.
4
3rd (4) (4/1 +67%) The Gay Blade
4
4/1(+67%)
(4) The Gay Blade 4/1, Course winner. Four wins from 19 runs last year. 12/1, bit below form fourth of 9 in handicap at this course (6f) 13 days ago, no extra last ½f. Handicapper has relinquished his grip a little more. Multiple winner over further; perhaps vulnerable back at 5f though.
6
4th (6) (15/2 -7%) Phoenix Star
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(6) Phoenix Star 15/2, 5-time C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2024 but he did take a step back in right direction when 2½ lengths third of 10 to Beaumadier in handicap at this C&D (7/1) 13 days ago. Rider takes off a handy 5 lb if he can build on that here. Conditions ideal; fair 3rd to Beaumadier here two weeks ago; in the mix once more.
1
5th (1) (2/1 +33%) Beaumadier
2
2/1(+33%)
(1) Beaumadier 2/1, Justified good support when making a winning stable debut over C&D in January. Not in same form when fifth of 6 in handicap (4/1) at Southwell (5f) 6 days ago but he's still lightly raced on all weather and could yet have more to offer. C&D win on his stable debut two weeks ago; laboured effort since; now gets cheekpieces.
7
6th (7) (66/1 -89%) Hard Nut
66
66/1(-89%)
(7) Hard Nut 66/1, Latest win at Musselburgh in August. 25/1, last of 9 in handicap at this C&D 22 days ago. Must improve. Infrequent winner and didn't offer enough on his reappearance to earn him the nod.
Beaumadier got the better of the consistent BENEFICIARY when they met over C&D 13 days ago, but was disappointing when attempting to follow up under a penalty at Southwell last week and the latter may be able to reverse the form now he is armed with a 6lb pull at the weights. Lady Of The Garr also scored over track and trip last time out and rates another key player.
Successful at Southwell in December, BENEFICIARY gets a handy weight pull for his 1¾-length defeat by re-opposing Beaumadier on his penultimate start, and he could be up to reversing those placings here. The latter-named is an obvious threat provided he dispels a lesser run at Southwell 6 days ago. Tickets is another on the shortlist.
Beaumadier beat BENEFICIARY here two weeks ago but the placings can be reversed this time.
(6) Flamelco 11/1, Gained a first win over fences for his new yard in 9-runner handicap chase at Catterick (15.6f) last month but simply not on a going day when well-beaten last of 3 back at that venue 22 days ago. Needs to shrug that off. Flopped at Catterick on New Year's Day but won by 9l there last month & could bounce back.
7
2nd (7) (10/3 +49%) Kayce Dutton
3.333333
10/3(+49%)
(7) Kayce Dutton 10/3, Hurdles winner for Margaret Mullins in Ireland and posted easily his best effort for present connections when second of 7 in handicap chase (10/1) at this course (19.9f, soft) 21 days ago. Fact he gave trouble at the start needs monitoring, but it remains early days with him. Clear with improving winner when runner-up here on second chase start; chance.
5
3rd (5) (11/2 +8%) Lucky Lugger
5.5
11/2(+8%)
(5) Lucky Lugger 11/2, Finished runner-up on first 2 starts over fences in November and, returned to Chepstow, in process of running well when falling 3 out over 2m 27 days ago. Has a race in him from this sort of mark. Remains a maiden but some good form at Chepstow this season and could be in the mix.
1
4th (1) (6/1 -118%) Koenigsstern
6
6/1(-118%)
(1) Koenigsstern 6/1, Dual winning pointer who confirmed the promise of his opening pair of runner-up efforts in this sphere when winning 6-runner handicap chase at Fontwell (17.7f) 4 weeks ago, value for extra given he was idling. Big shout again up 6 lb. Convincing win at Fontwell on third chase start and he's respected up 6lb.
2
5th (2) (11/4 +21%) Tommy Cullen
2.75
11/4(+21%)
(2) Tommy Cullen 11/4, Fair winner at 19f over hurdles. 9/2 and hooded for 1st time, first run since leaving Charlie Longsdon when very good second of 9 in handicap chase at Doncaster (16.4f, good to soft) 40 days ago. Returned from a year off with good 2nd at Doncaster and winner has followed up; key player.
4
6th (4) (9/2 +55%) Wise Guy
4.5
9/2(+55%)
(4) Wise Guy 9/2, Improver in handicaps over hurdles last season, winning slow-ground handicaps at Lingfield and Carlisle. Better than bare form figures would suggest in 3 runs this term (set stiff task latest) and he's one to monitor in the betting now making his chasing bow. Mixed form over hurdles this season but this 6yo may be suited by the switch to fences.
9
7th (9) (10/1 +29%) Iskar D'airy
10
10/1(+29%)
(9) Iskar D'airy 10/1, French bumper winner who was well placed when opening his account in maiden hurdle at Plumpton (15.9f) in 2023. Easy to back after 20 months off, offered little making debut in this sphere when pulled up at Lingfield (2m) last month, but this should reveal more. Check betting on second start back from long absence, but pulled up on chase debut latest.
10
8th (10) (100/1 -400%) Solid Fuel
100
100/1(-400%)
(10) Solid Fuel 100/1, Clearly fitter for his reappearance run when springing a surprise from out of the weights at Worcester (16.5f) in June. Seemed to find conditions too testing when pulled up at Uttoxeter a month later but he's again 8 lb "wrong" at the weights back from 6 months off. Won last June but pulled up in July and absent since; 8lb wrong at weights on return.
3
9th (3) (14/1 +0%) Doc Mccoy
14
14/1(+0%)
(3) Doc Mccoy 14/1, Impressive winner on sole start in points and successful start to hurdle career here (19.6f) on return last season. Struggled under a penalty next 2 starts, however, and he's offered little both chase tries so far this winter. Won maiden hurdle here in October 2023 but well beaten this winter on both chase starts.
8
|PU| (8) (66/1 -164%) Time To Dazzle
66
66/1(-164%)
(8) Time To Dazzle 66/1, Modest winner at 19f over hurdles who readily surpassed previous efforts in this discipline (following a wind op) when runner-up at Ludlow (2m) in December. Pulled his way to front and had chance ended by a mistake 3 out at Leicester since. Percentage call to look elsewhere. Encouraging second at Ludlow last month but tailed off at Leicester since.
Koenigsstern built on a couple of seconds to get off the mark on British soil at Fontwell over Christmas and there should be more to come from him. Any follow-up ambitions could be scuppered by TOMMY CULLEN, who is also open to plenty of improvement and got closest to a subsequent winner on his return from the sidelines at Doncaster. Lucky Lugger was still in contention when coming down at Chepstow, while Kayce Dutton took a step in the right direction when runner-up at Huntingdon.
TOMMY CULLEN ran a cracker starting out for a new yard after a year off when chasing home a subsequent winner at Doncaster and, given 6 weeks to get over those exertions, he's fancied to make another bold bid from a 2 lb higher mark. Fontwell winner Koenigsstern has made a really sound start over the larger obstacles and he's an obvious threat. Lucky Lugger also makes some appeal.
The lightly raced TOMMY CULLEN returned from a year off with a good second at Doncaster last month and can go one better.
(9) Geryville 12/1, With blinkers refitted, ended a lengthy losing run at Carlisle last March and ran well when second at Perth the following month. Took a step forward from return when fourth of 7 at this course (24.2f, heavy) in December, though will need to find more again. Not at best on either appearance this season and might find this race too competitive.
7
2nd (7) (9/4 +44%) Cerendipity
2.25
9/4(+44%)
(7) Cerendipity 9/4, Produced a better round of jumping when doubling his tally over fences at Bangor on final outing in 2023/24. Stepped up on this season's reappearance when second at Haydock (16.3f, heavy) in December and he could be in the mix back up in trip. No match for winner when second over 2m last time but this trip probably suits him better.
6
3rd (6) (11/4 +39%) Eaton Collina
2.75
11/4(+39%)
(6) Eaton Collina 11/4, Likeable sort who showed improved form when recording back-to-back wins at this C&D last season. Has returned in decent heart, chasing a strong pace when third at Southwell (20.4f, good to soft) on latest outing, and he can make his present felt back here. Dual C&D winner last February and returned from layoff with two good efforts in autumn.
4
4th (4) (5/1 +0%) Genois
5
5/1(+0%)
(4) Genois 5/1, Useful chaser who opened account in this sphere on second start for current yard in 4-runner handicap at this C&D (good) in November, despite having not always been fluent. Lesser effort next time, but he's capable of getting involved back down in grade. Disappointed on latest outing but has strong claims if judged on C&D win in November.
5
5th (5) (7/2 +13%) No Risk Des Flos
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(5) No Risk Des Flos 7/2, After 5 months off (had wind op), shaped as if as good as ever when second behind the exciting L'Eau du Sud at Stratford (19.4f, good to soft) in October. Unseated at the fifth at Southwell last time, but he's respected back at this venue (last 4 wins here). Four-time course winner who returns here on a very good mark.
8
6th (8) (25/1 0%) Arthur's Quay
25
25/1(0%)
(8) Arthur's Quay 25/1, Successful in back-to-back handicaps in 2023 but struggled for form at the end of last year, faring no better dropped in grade when fifth of 7 at this C&D (good) in November. Mark continues to slide, though he has enough to prove at present. Lost his way last year and has a lot more to prove than some of these.
3
|PU| (3) (16/1 -45%) Mackenberg
16
16/1(-45%)
(3) Mackenberg 16/1, Without a win since November 2022, but after 5 months off he shaped better than for a while when third at Doncaster (19.1f, good) 55 days ago, left with a lot to do. Has eased further in the weights, so he's on a handy mark if building on latest effort. Not very consistent and jumping is often an issue but he's too well handicapped to ignore.
1
|PU| (1) (50/1 -127%) Into Overdrive
50
50/1(-127%)
(1) Into Overdrive 50/1, Five-time winner in 2022 (including the Rowland Meyrick at this course) but lightly raced since and has gone the wrong way, pulled up after a further 4 months off at Aintree when last seen in May. First run for yard after leaving Mark Walford. Lightly raced and disappointing over last two years; now with new stable.
Dual C&D winner EATON COLLINA is an appealing option from just 2lb above the latest of those two successes and he can make the most of returning to this venue with ground conditions very much in his favour. Haydock runner-up Cerendipity should appreciate going back up in trip, while No Risk Des Flos won this a couple of years ago. Mackenberg also commands respect from a competitive mark.
After a promising reappearance, SHAN BLUE wasn't in the same form at Cheltenham last time, but he's well worth another chance as he drops in grade. He could be ready to take advantage of his reduced mark, though the 2023 winner of this race No Risk des Flos isn't taken lightly as he bids for a fifth course success, with Eaton Collina also considered.
Multiple course winner NO RISK DES FLOS (nap) faced an impossible task against a high-class novice in the autumn. He gets the vote here.
(5) Aspurofthemoment 4/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Thirteenth of 14 in handicap hurdle (18/1) at Killarney (20.2f, good to soft) 152 days ago. First run after leaving Eugene M. O'Sullivan. Capable of better having joined in-form yard. Minor promise under rules before winning a point; trip likely to be too short.
3
2nd (3) (6/1 -20%) Falcon Park
6
6/1(-20%)
(3) Falcon Park 6/1, 3 wins from 7 runs this season. Improved to win 15-runner handicap hurdle at Clonmel (16.9f, soft, 9/1) 8 days ago. Enters calculations. Arrives bidding for a hat-trick and good value for the winning margin at Clonmel latest.
7
3rd (7) (5/1 +58%) Aclass
5
5/1(+58%)
(7) Aclass 5/1, Solid third of 9 in handicap hurdle (12/1) at Tramore (16.8f, heavy) 22 days ago. Merits consideration. Bumper promise; left maiden hurdle form behind when 8l 3rd on h'cap debut; dropped 1lb.
17
4th (17) (10/1 +50%) Cramers Valley
10
10/1(+50%)
(17) Cramers Valley 10/1, 4/1, tenth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (22f, soft) 10 days ago. Back down in trip. Blinkers on 1st time. 2nd in Dec' 23 at Naas (soft, 2m); lost his way recently, inc' when well backed latest.
16
5th (16) (50/1 -52%) Raby Mere
50
50/1(-52%)
(16) Raby Mere 50/1, 300/1, twelfth of 21 in novice hurdle at Naas (16f, heavy) 18 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Promise in 2 bumper runs before 4 lesser efforts; cheekpieces on for h'cap debut.
18
6th (18) (8/1 +33%) Ar Nos Na Gaoithe
8
8/1(+33%)
(18) Ar Nos Na Gaoithe 8/1, 11/1, creditable 10½ lengths fourth of 18 to Falcon Park in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (16.4f, heavy) 23 days ago, faring best of those ridden prominently. 0-10 but hinting her turn may be near lately; dropped another 1lb.
11
7th (11) (14/1 +30%) Thats All
14
14/1(+30%)
(11) Thats All 14/1, Remains a maiden after 21 NH runs. 20/1, good 6 lengths third of 18 to Falcon Park in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (16.4f, heavy) 23 days ago. Others more persuasive. 0-21; one of her better efforts when 3rd at Punchestown latest; not sure to build on that.
10
8th (10) (20/1 +39%) Marine Ranger
20
20/1(+39%)
(10) Marine Ranger 20/1, Eleventh of 15 in novice hurdle at Limerick (19f, soft, 50/1) 25 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut with more required. Promising 5th on bumper debut; poor since but workable mark for h'cap debut.
14
9th (14) (14/1 +36%) Eikonix
14
14/1(+36%)
(14) Eikonix 14/1, Untrustworthy individual. Respectable 19¼ lengths ninth of 15 to Falcon Park in handicap hurdle (17/2) at Clonmel (16.9f, soft) 8 days ago. Others more persuasive. Has refused to race 3 times; encouraging return from break but not as good last week.
4
|U| (4) (25/1 -56%) Sheer Raz
25
25/1(-56%)
(4) Sheer Raz 25/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Seventeenth of 23 in novice hurdle (250/1) at Leopardstown (16f, good) 28 days ago. Yard in good form. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Possibilities. 2nd in a point but tailed off in trio of maiden hurdles since.
8
10th (8) (9/1 +64%) Beeverstown Place
9
9/1(+64%)
(8) Beeverstown Place 9/1, Off 8 months before a fading eighth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (19f, soft, 20/1) 25 days ago. Expected to be bang there off a good mark with that run under his belt. Promise at back end of last season; should come on for his return and rain would help.
13
11th (13) (25/1 +50%) Drum Roll
25
25/1(+50%)
(13) Drum Roll 25/1, 100/1, ninth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Navan (16f, good to soft) 39 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Maiden on the Flat in France and shown very little over timber for new yard; cheekpieces.
12
12th (12) (40/1 -100%) Flier
40
40/1(-100%)
(12) Flier 40/1, Respectable eleventh of 20 in novice hurdle at Naas (16.2f, good to soft, 150/1) 38 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Open to progress. 0-11 on Flat and hasn't shown enough on 4 hurdle runs so far; best form on sound surface.
1
|PU| (1) (11/2 +15%) The Big Cloud
5.5
11/2(+15%)
(1) The Big Cloud 11/2, Creditable third of 12 in handicap hurdle (7/1) at Limerick (20f, soft) 28 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time and in the mix. Won over 2m at Limerick last season and good reappearance run back there last month.
2
|PU| (2) (28/1 -75%) The Reel Martello
28
28/1(-75%)
(2) The Reel Martello 28/1, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. 28/1, below form ninth of 15 in novice hurdle at Limerick (19f, soft) 25 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Should still progress. Only minor promise in bumpers/maiden hurdles; looks up against it from this opening mark.
15
|PU| (15) (33/1 -18%) Petit Dejeuner
33
33/1(-18%)
(15) Petit Dejeuner 33/1, Tailed-off sixteenth of 18 to Falcon Park in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (16.4f, heavy, 12/1) 23 days ago. Back to form with Thurles 3rd; brought down before poor run latest; may need rain.
ASPUROFTHEMOMENT debuts for new connections and might be a step ahead of the handicapper following a recent point-to-point win. His initial pointing form and hurdle efforts were unexciting but he showed improvement in recent months, finishing ahead of a subsequent UK bumper winner at Castletown-Geoghegan in October before winning at Dromahane. He was bought for 25,000 euros following that success and is interesting. Nine-year-old Falcon Park has come good in recent times but competes from a career-high rating, while The Big Cloud relishes testing conditions and should go well in a first-time tongue-tie.
Plenty are in with a shout but PRINCE QUATTRO is fancied to follow up Tuesday's win at Down Royal. Beeverstown Place could emerge as the main danger off a handy-looking mark with Tingarran Express, Falcon Park and The Big Cloud all in the picture too.
THE BIG CLOUD shades the vote after a promising return at Limerick last month and there's a suspicion she's not fully exposed
(2) Cloch Nua 1/1, Modest gelding who barely had to improve on form shown in 2024 when winning 8-runner minor event (13/8) at this C&D 21 days ago by ¾ length from Martin's Brig, overcoming positional bias. Shortlist material. Beat three of today's rivals when winning over C&D three weeks ago; contender.
6
2nd (6) (11/1 +8%) Jems Bond
11
11/1(+8%)
(6) Jems Bond 11/1, 5-time course winner. Twenty runs since last win in 2023. 16/1, good fourth of 11 in minor event at this course (7.1f) 13 days ago, rallying. Application of a first-time visor could well sharpen him up here. Six AW wins, latest over 6f in 2023; stays 1m; has been in fair form; new headgear tried.
8
3rd (8) (10/1 0%) Martin's Brig
10
10/1(0%)
(8) Martin's Brig 10/1, Modest gelding. C&D winner. Creditable fifth of 11 in minor event (18/1) at this C&D 13 days ago, fading final 100 yds. Merits consideration. 2nd to Cluch Nua two runs back; not so good last time but could bounce back.
5
4th (5) (5/1 +38%) Gemini Man
5
5/1(+38%)
(5) Gemini Man 5/1, Modest maiden. Respectable fifth of 9 in handicap at this course (10.2f, 4/1) 42 days ago. Down in trip. Others more persuasive. Ex-Irish; 0-19; fair runs over 1m2f for this yard and may do better now down to 1m.
3
5th (3) (12/1 -33%) Coramento
12
12/1(-33%)
(3) Coramento 12/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 20/1, showed more than previously when 1¼ lengths third of 8 to Cloch Nua in minor event at this C&D 21 days ago, running on. Less exposed than most if he can build on that here. Unexposed; good third to Cloch Nua last time; should come on for that; chance.
9
6th (9) (25/1 -108%) Pop Favorite
25
25/1(-108%)
(9) Pop Favorite 25/1, Modest gelding. 6-time C&D winner. 16/1, seventh of 11 in minor event at this C&D 13 days ago. Needs to bounce back but that is certainly not out of the question. C&D fourth two runs ago but fared less well last time; not totally out of it..
1
7th (1) (12/1 -118%) Aspire To Glory
12
12/1(-118%)
(1) Aspire To Glory 12/1, Losing run is mounting up but best effort for a while without any headgear combination when second of 11 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f, 11/1) 8 days ago. Task is to back that up but definite claims if doing so. Engaged 3.55 Lingfield Wednesday. Best form for a while when second over 7f last time; stays 1m; could go well again.
7
8th (7) (12/1 +0%) Marcello Si
12
12/1(+0%)
(7) Marcello Si 12/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 10 runs last year. Eighth of 10 in handicap (40/1) at this course (7.1f) 15 days ago, headed soon after halfway and weakening. Hard to warm to at present. 7f winner in May; then off for 186 days and well beaten all starts since.
10
9th (10) (11/1 -10%) Top Gun Tina
11
11/1(-10%)
(10) Top Gun Tina 11/1, Modest mare. 66/1, confirmed she retains ability when creditable fourth of 11 in minor event at this C&D 13 days ago, having to pick way through and losing a place close home. Each-way possibilities with a repeat. 11-race maiden; best run since 329-day break when 4th over C&D last time; a possible.
11
10th (11) (80/1 -21%) Wath Court
80
80/1(-21%)
(11) Wath Court 80/1, 80/1, eleventh of 12 in minor event at this course (12.4f) 21 days ago. Significantly back down in trip. Hard to make a case for. Has shown modest form and is hard to fancy..
4
11th (4) (80/1 -60%) Foshan
80
80/1(-60%)
(4) Foshan 80/1, Poor gelding. 66/1, good fifth of 9 in minor event at Southwell (11.1f) 9 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Back down in trip. Maiden under all codes; well beaten back on Flat latest; drop to 1m is not sure to suit.
The pick at the weights, CLOCH NUA has a live chance of backing up his C&D victory from three weeks ago in what appears to be an even weaker classified stakes. Jems Bond is a multiple course winner over shorter trips, but has been placed over 1m here twice before and appeals from an each-way perspective. Martin's Brig and Pop Favorite are a couple of other track-and-trip winners to monitor in betting.
CLOCH NUA justified good support and overcame a pace bias to boot when ending a long losing run over C&D 3 weeks ago and he makes most appeal with a repeat. Aspire To Glory and Coramento are others holding claims, along with Martin's Brig.
This can go to the unexposed CORAMENTO who showed his best form when third over C&D after a break last time.
(11) Gold For Alec 9/2, Improved model in handicaps this autumn, scoring here in October and a good third of 14 at Chepstow (16f, good to soft) 27 days ago. That form is working out well so he's a likely player eased 1 lb and now going up in trip. Second-season hurdler, progressive at 1m7f/2m under 7lb claimer all three starts this term.
8
2nd (8) (5/1 +55%) Salley Gardens
5
5/1(+55%)
(8) Salley Gardens 5/1, C&D winner who wasn't disgraced when fourth of 7 in handicap hurdle at Market Rasen (18.6f, good to soft) 28 days ago. In the mix with cheekpieces back on. Peak efforts earlier in career were over 2m4f+, so he looks interesting back up in trip.
4
3rd (4) (18/1 -29%) Masked Dance
18
18/1(-29%)
(4) Masked Dance 18/1, Landed 2m4f Aintree handicap in May but only ninth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Cheltenham (20.2f, good to soft) 40 days ago. Needs to get back on track. Weakened late on in both her starts this winter; will probably return to form before long.
15
4th (15) (12/1 +64%) Royal King
12
12/1(+64%)
(15) Royal King 12/1, A fairly useful ex-French hurdler but he came in only eleventh of 14 in handicap hurdle at Chepstow (16f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Back up in trip with more required. The step back up in trip might help but he needs marked improvement; others preferred.
9
5th (9) (40/1 +0%) Colonial Empire
40
40/1(+0%)
(9) Colonial Empire 40/1, A three-time 2m winner in 2022/23 but off for 13 months since a below-par seventh in handicap hurdle at Lingfield. Has his fitness to prove. Ran creditably only once from three starts late in 2023; now back from 409 days off.
3
6th (3) (16/1 +20%) Thunderclap
16
16/1(+20%)
(3) Thunderclap 16/1, Off for 9 months since falling 5 out in handicap hurdle at Ffos Las (23.9f, soft). Needs to hit the ground running. 2m5f win at Kempton (soft) in February was last season's clear highlight; 6lb higher today.
13
7th (13) (14/1 -75%) Through The Ages
14
14/1(-75%)
(13) Through The Ages 14/1, Looked in good nick until pulled up (badly hampered 3 out) in handicap hurdle at Plumpton (20.5f, soft) 52 days ago. Weighted to go well after a break. 11lb lower than on handicap debut, having started off a tough mark; case can be made.
6
8th (6) (4/1 +60%) Soldierofthestorm
4
4/1(+60%)
(6) Soldierofthestorm 4/1, Not disgraced when eighth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Ascot (15.7f, good to soft) 34 days ago. A dual winner last season so he's one to consider now back up in trip. Never dangerous in big field at Ascot latest; possibilities if strong in the market.
14
9th (14) (13/2 +7%) Golden Ambition
6.5
13/2(+7%)
(14) Golden Ambition 13/2, Landed handicaps (up to 3m) at Fontwell and Lingfield this winter before posting a good second of 6 in handicap at Ascot (23.5f, good to soft) 33 days ago. Can go well again. On an upward curve over longer trips but this reduced stamina test is a nagging worry.
5
|PU| (5) (10/1 -33%) Kintail
10
10/1(-33%)
(5) Kintail 10/1, Failed to go in two runs over fences, pulled up in handicap chase (7/2) at Newbury (23.4f, good to soft) 36 days ago. Not ruled out though now back in this sphere. Reverts to hurdling off what should be a competitive mark if he's on song.
1
|PU| (1) (16/1 -78%) Teorie
16
16/1(-78%)
(1) Teorie 16/1, Fairly useful Flat/hurdles winner but only eighth of 10 in handicap at Nottingham in November. Since had a wind op and needs to bounce back reverted to this sphere. Tailed off Flat latest; wind op since; needs improvement but new trip could be interesting.
2
|PU| (2) (17/2 -42%) Jazz King
8.5
17/2(-42%)
(2) Jazz King 17/2, Scored at Hereford in November and a good second of 9 in handicap hurdle (11/2) at Wetherby (19.7f, soft) 28 days ago. Cheekpieces back on and needs considering. Won for Murray Dodd at Hereford; they were beaten a nose at Wetherby (2m4f) on Boxing Day.
7
|PU| (7) (20/1 +9%) Windsurfer
20
20/1(+9%)
(7) Windsurfer 20/1, Got off the mark at Uttoxeter in October but raced too freely on his handicap debut when sixth of 8 at Doncaster (2m3f) last time. No forlorn hope. Moving up to an extended 2m3f for handicap debut at Doncaster did not work out; early days.
10
|PU| (10) (50/1 -25%) No But I Will
50
50/1(-25%)
(10) No But I Will 50/1, Yet to fire in two runs for his current yard, pulled up in handicap hurdle at Fontwell (25.8f, soft) 28 days ago. Something to prove now. Ended his time for old yard on a low note; has not revived in two runs for new connections.
It looks best to side with JAZZ KING, who won at Hereford in November before finding only a progressive rival too strong at Wetherby on Boxing Day. Alastair Ralph's gelding tackles an extra furlong here, which should suit, and he is expected to go one place better. Another that should relish this longer trip is Soldierofthestorm, who plugged on over 2m at Ascot last month without ever looking like he would play a part in the finish. Golden Ambition came up short in his hat-trick bid last time out, but remains of interest.
This could go the way of GOLD FOR ALEC who arrives at the top of his game and can resume winning ways on the back of a good Chepstow third (form been franked). Golden Ambition is also enjoying a productive season and heads the list of dangers, although the likes of Through The Ages, Jazz King and Salley Gardens also need factoring into this very open handicap.
A right puzzle. Jazz King, Gold For Alec and Kintail need a mention but the vote goes to SALLEY GARDENS.
(11) Aire Spray 9/2, Took his form up a notch when making a winning handicap debut upped to 19.3f at Carlisle last month. Has to take a 6 lb rise on the chin but that looks manageable, particularly given that, as a low-mileage 5-y-o, he may well have more to offer. Improved to make winning handicap debut at Carlisle last month; may still have potential.
1
2nd (1) (25/1 +69%) Balking
25
25/1(+69%)
(1) Balking 25/1, Showed ability when fourth only start in bumpers and there have been signs of encouragement over hurdles, albeit without suggesting that he'll be up to making a winning handicap debut off this mark. Has undergone a wind op since latest start. Showed promise in a maiden in November; improvement possible if wind op proves successful.
7
3rd (7) (9/4 +0%) Forest Blaze
2.25
9/4(+0%)
(7) Forest Blaze 9/4, Improved for step up to 2½m when making second handicap start a winning one at Hexham last month. 6 lb rise easy to swallow and this 6-y-o is high on the shortlist with further progress entirely possible. Came good at Hexham (2m4f) last month and could easily have more to offer.
14
4th (14) (28/1 +65%) Passengerontheship
28
28/1(+65%)
(14) Passengerontheship 28/1, Placed in an Irish point but low-key start under Rules in maiden/novice hurdles during October/November. Big step forward needed now handicapping. Makes handicap debut after a long absence but is worth a glance in the betting.
6
5th (6) (17/2 -21%) Elle Est Beau
8.5
17/2(-21%)
(6) Elle Est Beau 17/2, Maiden who looked set to win when falling at the last at Sandown last January and reappearance second in first-time cheekpieces at Southwell (20.4f, good) was a creditable effort. However, she proved disappointing when sent off favourite (not for the first time) at Warwick subsequently. Good second in new cheekpieces two starts ago but held since and now 0-9 over hurdles.
9
6th (9) (66/1 +34%) Good Bye
66
66/1(+34%)
(9) Good Bye 66/1, Proved a model of consistency during 2022/23 campaign for this yard but hasn't shown much spark in 4 starts since returning from a 17-month absence in June. Easy enough to look elsewhere. Ended last year in very poor form and needs to stage a revival.
2
7th (2) (12/1 +14%) Manowest
12
12/1(+14%)
(2) Manowest 12/1, Winning pointer and shaped pretty well in a trio of maiden hurdles last summer. Hasn't kicked on since venturing down the handicap route but his mark is on the slide as a result and he represents an up-and-coming yard in fine form. Not yet fully exposed but has made a disappointing start to his handicap career.
5
8th (5) (12/1 +0%) Pottersjetamay
12
12/1(+0%)
(5) Pottersjetamay 12/1, Signs of ability in maiden/novice hurdles for Charlie Longsdon last spring and left his handicap/yard debut form well behind when finding just one too good at Southwell (20.4f, good to soft) in December. 2 lb rise fair enough and should be in the mix if able to build on that. Made low-key stable/handicap debut but last month's Southwell second was much better.
10
9th (10) (33/1 -50%) Rioja Alta
33
33/1(-50%)
(10) Rioja Alta 33/1, Fair maiden on the Flat for Gavin Cromwell and showed aptitude for hurdling for this yard when placed in novice company last season. Considerately handled and likely needed the run on handicap debut in this sphere following a break in December, so he's worth another chance. Never on terms over 2m on handicap hurdle debut; new trip may unlock improvement.
16
10th (16) (80/1 +20%) Gold Ring
80
80/1(+20%)
(16) Gold Ring 80/1, Lost his way on the Flat last year and hasn't shown much spark over hurdles so far. Badly lost his way on the Flat last year and was pulled up on last month's hurdle return.
8
11th (8) (14/1 +13%) Dublin To Milan
14
14/1(+13%)
(8) Dublin To Milan 14/1, Hasn't cut much ice 4 novice hurdles at around 2m but he appeals as the type to do better now moving up in trip for this handicap debut. Interesting to see how he shapes up in the betting. Did not show a great deal in four 2m novice hurdles; up in trip for handicap debut.
12
12th (12) (20/1 -43%) Montana Golden
20
20/1(-43%)
(12) Montana Golden 20/1, Promising start to his career when second in a Worcester bumper last summer. Hasn't come close to matching that level of form in 3 starts since switched to hurdles but he wouldn't be the first from his respected yard to take a significant step forward now pitched into a handicap. Second in a bumper; has made quiet start to hurdling career but remains unexposed.
3
|PU| (3) (11/2 +50%) Maxiboy Dagrostis
5.5
11/2(+50%)
(3) Maxiboy Dagrostis 11/2, Placed both starts between the flags and posted much his best effort yet under Rules when a 66/1-third of 8 in novice hurdle at Doncaster (19.4f, good to soft) last time. Needs considering now going into handicaps. Form of last month's Doncaster third has worked out well in recent days; handicap debut.
17
|PU| (17) (14/1 +72%) Swift Reply
14
14/1(+72%)
(17) Swift Reply 14/1, Poor maiden who continues below his best, failing by a long way to match the form of his good Kelso second in October in 3 subsequent appearances. Others preferred. 0-11 over hurdles and needs help from the first-time cheekpieces today.
13
|PU| (13) (18/1 +28%) Ismael
18
18/1(+28%)
(13) Ismael 18/1, Got the job done at Uttoxeter last January and has slipped back to that winning mark, albeit with good reason having offered little in half-a-dozen subsequent starts (in this sphere and over fences). Hopes now pinned on the first-time blinkers helping to spark a return to form. Won off this mark a year ago but not much has gone to plan since; blinkers added today.
15
|PU| (15) (100/1 +0%) Monklaw
100
100/1(+0%)
(15) Monklaw 100/1, Fell both starts in points and yet to show much over hurdles. Tongue tied now but hard to make a strong case for this 8-y-o on handicap debut. A well-beaten outsider in three maiden/novice hurdles; considered only if market speaks.
Now that the penny has dropped for AIRE SPRAY after a success on his handicap debut at Carlisle last month, there is likely to be plenty more to come. He can follow up off 6lb higher, with Hexham winner Forest Blaze looking a key threat, as does Pottersjetamay, who was a promising second at Southwell last time out. Elle Est Beau and Maxiboy Dagrostis are capable of being in the shake-up too.
Last-time-out winners FOREST BLAZE and Aire Spray may have more to offer and could be the pair to concentrate on. Marginal preference is for the former, who did the job well enough when opening his account at Hexham to suggest that this 6 lb higher mark should be within reach. Maxiboy Dagrostis and Pottersjetamay should both be on the premises if able to build on their latest efforts, while Montana Golden is a potential improver now that his attention is turned to handicap company.
Preference is for FOREST BLAZE, who looked very well suited by the move back up to this sort of trip when winning at Hexham last month.
(8) Rocky's Diamond 13/2, Lightly-raced winner over hurdles. C&D winner. 1 win from 3 runs this season. Excellent 9¼ lengths third of 8 to Home By The Lee in Christmas Hurdle (66/1) at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 26 days ago. Made it 2-4 with C&D success before Gr 1 3rd at Leopardstown and more upside than most.
10
2nd (10) (28/1 -155%) Thedevilscoachman
28
28/1(-155%)
(10) Thedevilscoachman 28/1, Smart hurdler. Tongue strap on for 1st time, well-beaten third of 4 to Brewin'upastorm in Ballybin Hurdle (5/2) at Fairyhouse (20.2f, heavy). Off 9 months. Back up in trip. Others more persuasive. Struggled in this race last year and similar story on only start since; off 297 days.
5
3rd (5) (12/1 -9%) Franciscan Rock
12
12/1(-9%)
(5) Franciscan Rock 12/1, Useful hurdler. 11/4, didn't need to improve to win 4-runner minor event hurdle at Clonmel (24f, soft) 51 days ago by 3½ lengths from Sandor Clegane. This demands another jolt of improvement upped in class. Won twice over 3m recently with 2 career bests but more required again against these.
9
4th (9) (11/2 +50%) Sandor Clegane
5.5
11/2(+50%)
(9) Sandor Clegane 11/2, Smart chaser. 8/1 and blinkered for 1st time, creditable 13½ lengths fourth of 8 to Home By The Lee in Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 26 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Needs to pull out more. In behind some of these on last couple of starts and he'll need a career best to land this.
3
5th (3) (5/1 +0%) Asterion Forlonge
5
5/1(+0%)
(3) Asterion Forlonge 5/1, Very smart chaser who ran well when second in Grade 1 Stayers' Hurdle at Punchestown in May. Looked after when chance had gone when sixth of 8 to Home By The Lee in Christmas Hurdle on return at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 26 days ago and better showing anticipated here. Veteran; talented on his day but patchy form over the last 18 months and opposable.
7
6th (7) (9/1 +44%) Maxxum
9
9/1(+44%)
(7) Maxxum 9/1, Smart hurdler who bounced back to best when good fourth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (19.8f, good, 40/1) 25 days ago. Back up in trip. Progressing recently. Won 3m h'cap hurdle at DRF last term and dangerous when allowed to dominate but tough ask.
2
7th (2) (7/4 +30%) Hiddenvalley Lake
1.75
7/4(+30%)
(2) Hiddenvalley Lake 7/4, Lightly-raced hurdler (smart form) who was placed in Grade 1 company at Aintree in the spring and repeated the feat when runner-up in the Long Walk at Ascot (24.4f) 33 days ago, that despite run of the race not really going his way. High on shortlist here. Progressive having placed in Gr 1s in Britain on last 2 starts and may come on for latest.
6
8th (6) (100/1 -100%) Kalanisi Star
100
100/1(-100%)
(6) Kalanisi Star 100/1, Lightly-raced winner under NH rules. 50/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time, very good 19¾ lengths fifth of 9 to Gaelic Warrior in War of Attrition Novices' Hurdle at Punchestown (23.8f, good to soft) in spring 2023. This looks a tough ask back from 21 months off. Would need a career best here and has been off 638 days.
4
|PU| (4) (11/1 -175%) Buddy One
11
11/1(-175%)
(4) Buddy One 11/1, Smart hurdler. 11/1, 19 lengths third of 4 to Croke Park in Fort Leney Novices' Chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Not discounted returned to these smaller obstacles. 2nd ahead of Hiddenvalley Lake at Aintree; not at same level over fences this term.
HIDDENVALLEY LAKE is a thorough stayer and ran really well on his reappearance run last month. Generally a very dependable type, he won a similar Grade 2 race at Navan last February and, having shown up well in top-level races at Aintree and more recently at Ascot last month, he should go very close. Buddy One finished ahead of the selection in the aforementioned Aintree race and while his chase form recently fizzled out, he now reverts to hurdles over which he operated so well last term. Rocky's Diamond is just a five-year-old and has already shown real potential.
Third in Grade 1 company at Aintree in the spring, HIDDENVALLEY LAKE ran right up to his best after 8 months off when runner-up in the Long Walk at Ascot, that despite the race not really going his way. Still low-mileage as an 8-y-o, he can confirm the promise of that run and come out on top, with veteran Asterion Forlonge and Buddy One fancied to pose the chief threats.
It may be worth taking a flyer on ROCKY'S DIAMOND who ran with credit when dropped into a Gr 1 last time and he's entirely unxposed
(3) Bellagio Man 4/1, 3-time C&D winner. Latest win here in December. Fifth of 8 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 7/2) 8 days ago, a very slow start not helping his cause. More than capable of getting involved if putting it all together. Two fair runs since gaining third C&D win last month; 3lb higher; a possible.
8
1st (8) (4/1 +60%) Captain Vallo
4
4/1(+60%)
(8) Captain Vallo 4/1, Latest win here in December. Below form fourth of 8 in handicap at this C&D (9/4) 13 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Consistency has largely been hard to knock in recent months however, and he's not out of things. Below his best last time; in good form before that (won over C&D in December); contender.
4
2nd (4) (5/1 -25%) Bella Kopella
5
5/1(-25%)
(4) Bella Kopella 5/1, 4-time course winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2024. 4/1, creditable second of 7 in handicap at this C&D 12 days ago, bumping into a thriving rival. Handicapped to win. 4-16 on AW; good second over C&D last time to a subsequent winner; a possible.
5
3rd (5) (5/2 +29%) Wee Fat Mac
2.5
5/2(+29%)
(5) Wee Fat Mac 5/2, C&D winner. Nineteen runs since last win in 2023. Continued run of solid efforts when second of 6 in handicap at this C&D (4/1) 12 days ago. In the mix once again back in class 6 company. Not easy to win with these days; good C&D runs on last three starts; each-way chance.
2
4th (2) (17/2 +23%) Biplane
8.5
17/2(+23%)
(2) Biplane 17/2, Course winner. Latest win at Ayr in July. 16/1, stepped up with a recent run under his belt when third of 7 in handicap at this C&D 12 days ago, outpaced before staying on final 1f. Respected now operating back on last winning mark. Turf winner over 6f in July; best run since when third over C&D last time; each-way chance.
11
5th (11) (18/1 -50%) Blackcurrent
18
18/1(-50%)
(11) Blackcurrent 18/1, 6-time course winner. Eighteen runs since last win in 2023. Seventh of 11 in minor event at this course (5f, 7/1) 12 days ago. Visor on 1st time. Good C&D 4th two runs back; not so good last time (5f); new headgear; 6f will suit.
10
6th (10) (11/1 +31%) Spartan Fighter
11
11/1(+31%)
(10) Spartan Fighter 11/1, 6-time C&D winner. Bit below form 5 lengths fifth of 9 to Sir Maxi in handicap (9/1) at this C&D 13 days ago, never threatening. Handicapper has given him a chance though, so not one to dismiss out of hand. Two AW wins last year but he has a bit to find with Sir Maxi on C&D form two weeks ago.
7
7th (7) (4/1 +20%) Sir Maxi
4
4/1(+20%)
(7) Sir Maxi 4/1, Eased a little in the weights and confirmed promise of previous start when ending long losing run in 9-runner C&D handicap 2 weeks ago, getting on top final 50 yds. Well treated on old form if he can replicate that. In good form at present, last time beating subsequent winner over C&D; the one to beat.
1
8th (1) (25/1 -39%) Howzak
25
25/1(-39%)
(1) Howzak 25/1, Latest win here in November. Cheekpieces on for 1st time, last of 12 in handicap at this C&D (40/1) 22 days ago, folding tamely. Needs a couple of these to falter. Six AW wins, latest over C&D in November; has finish tailed off on both starts since.
9
9th (9) (22/1 -22%) Nights Over Egypt
22
22/1(-22%)
(9) Nights Over Egypt 22/1, Three wins from 15 runs last year. Latest win at Leicester in October. 6/1, seventh of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 19 days ago. Something to find on form. Won over 6f on AW and over 7f on turf in the autumn; lesser runs since; could bounce back.
Wee Fat Mac hasn't finished out of the top three on each of his last three starts at this venue and should remain competitive off an unchanged mark. However, it may pay to side with SIR MAXI, who beat a subsequent winner by a head over C&D earlier in the month and only has a 3lb higher rating to contend with. If the seven-year-old remains in the same form, he will prove tough to beat. Biplane looks best of the rest.
WEE FAT MAC has highlighted he could well be ready to capitalise on his reduced mark, finishing a good second in a class 5 C&D handicap 12 days ago, and he edges the vote to go one place better. Bella Kopella and Sir Maxi can provide chief resistance.
The form of the race SIR MAXI (nap) won here last time has worked out well and he is taken to follow up off this 3lb higher mark.
(8) Super Survivor 3/1, Built on his reappearance to win his first race for 2 years in 6-runner handicap hurdle at Doncaster (24.4f, good to soft) 25 days ago. Did well to overcome a steady pace there and of interest again. Won at Doncaster last month; tougher task today but in good form, unlike most of these.
6
2nd (6) (10/3 +0%) Shanagh Bob
3.333333
10/3(+0%)
(6) Shanagh Bob 10/3, Has been disappointing so far over fences but he looked promising as a novice hurdler, winning 2 of his 3 starts, so can't be taken lightly back in this sphere. Hasn't shone over fences but cheekpieces and return to hurdles could prompt a revival.
10
3rd (10) (12/1 +0%) Malaita
12
12/1(+0%)
(10) Malaita 12/1, Dual chaser winner who produced a rare-below par effort when seventh of 13 in handicap at Cheltenham (20.6f, good to soft) 40 days ago. Tries a longer trip back over hurdles from 2 lb out of the weights. Below par over fences last time but on a handy mark on best chase form and not ruled out.
7
4th (7) (5/1 +38%) Zain Nights
5
5/1(+38%)
(7) Zain Nights 5/1, Useful stayer on Flat for Harry & Roger Charlton and much improved over hurdles last spring, completing a handicap hat-trick in a big-field contest at Haydock in May. Returned with a good third at Cheltenham in October and excuses both starts since. Not ruled out for in-form yard. Completed hat-trick last spring but has struggled the last twice; has to get back on track.
9
5th (9) (20/1 +39%) Billy Boi Blue
20
20/1(+39%)
(9) Billy Boi Blue 20/1, Took a step forward on just his second handicap start when bagging 11-runner event at Wetherby in October. However, came in last of 3 on his Doncaster chase debut and ran no sort of race reverted to hurdling at Wincanton last week. Enough to prove. Won in good style at Wetherby in October but has struggled the next twice (fences/hurdles).
3
6th (3) (25/1 -79%) Itchy Feet
25
25/1(-79%)
(3) Itchy Feet 25/1, Veteran who took advantage of a slipping mark at Market Rasen (23f) in November 2023 but only seventh in this corresponding event 2 months later and offered little on his return at Cheltenham. Has same mark as when winning this two years ago and may have needed recent comeback run.
2
7th (2) (14/1 -17%) No Ordinary Joe
14
14/1(-17%)
(2) No Ordinary Joe 14/1, Lightly raced 8-y-o who ended last term in good form, shaping much better than distance beaten suggests when seventh in Martin Pipe at the Festival in March. Weak in the betting and shaped as if needing the run at Newbury on reappearance but it's hard to be confident this step up in trip will suit. Doubts regarding stamina and current form but he's not written off for his top trainer.
5
8th (5) (20/1 -43%) Springtime Promise
20
20/1(-43%)
(5) Springtime Promise 20/1, Showed useful form when completing hat-trick over hurdles in February. However, has been a little disappointing since and it was disconcerting she bled on her most recent start over fences. Grade 2 mares' novice hurdle win last February; now back hurdling but needs return to form.
4
9th (4) (13/2 -30%) Champagne Twist
6.5
13/2(-30%)
(4) Champagne Twist 13/2, Career best when collaring stablemate late in competitive EBF Final handicap at Sandown (19.8f) in March and has had excuses since, not looking over his Cheltenham fall from the way he shaped at Ascot last time. Not dismissed. Flopped at Ascot last time but major player if tapping back into previous promise.
1
10th (1) (7/1 -100%) Staffordshire Knot
7
7/1(-100%)
(1) Staffordshire Knot 7/1, Went backwards from his Fairyhouse chasing debut when only sixth of 12 at Naas in December but shaped encouragingly back over hurdles when fifth in 20-runner handicap at Leopardstown (23.4f) 12 days later. Interesting contender. Kept on for good 5th of 20 in Leopardstown Pertemps Qualifier last time and he's a player.
Chasing hasn't really gone to plan for SHANAGH BOB but Nicky Henderson's charge, a Grade 2 winner over timber last season, looks to hold excellent credentials here. Back hurdling from a mark of 129 and with cheekpieces applied for the first time, it would come as no surprise were he to make a return to form. Gordon Elliott opts to send Staffordshire Knot over and the lightly-raced seven-year-old makes plenty of appeal, while others to note include Super Survivor and Itchy Feet.
SUPER SURVIVOR was value for extra over the result in overcoming an unsuitably steady pace at Doncaster 25 days ago, so a 3 lb rise in the weights doesn't look enough to prevent him from following up. Shanagh Bob has made a disappointing start to his chasing career, but he looked a useful prospect when winning his first 2 starts over hurdles, so can't be taken lightly reverting to this sphere, with Staffordshire Knot completing the shortlist after a promising run at Leopardstown last time.
Irish challenger STAFFORDSHIRE KNOT (nap) stayed on for a promising 5th of 20 at Leopardstown and could have more to offer as a stayer.
(4) Micks Jet 4/1, Bumper/hurdles winner who took to chasing when runner-up at Fakenham last time. Cheekpieces could eke out a bit more, so she's not one to rule out. Very respectable second of five on recent chasing debut; cheekpieces may help today.
9
2nd (9) (6/1 +40%) Celestial Fashion
6
6/1(+40%)
(9) Celestial Fashion 6/1, Likeable type who has made a solid start to chasing, posting another good effort when second over C&D last month. That form has been let down by the winner but she's still of interest. Runner-up in her first two chases, the latter over C&D last month; up in grade; a possible.
8
3rd (8) (11/1 +78%) Fay Ce Que Voudras
11
11/1(+78%)
(8) Fay Ce Que Voudras 11/1, Fair hurdler who was off 21 months prior to return and hasn't really taken to chasing, so something to prove. Well handicapped on old hurdling form but did not jump well enough in her first two chases.
7
4th (7) (7/1 +13%) It's Maisy
7
7/1(+13%)
(7) It's Maisy 7/1, Landed a trio of handicap hurdles last season, signing off with victory at Uttoxeter in April. Better for return when good third at Haydock last time and no reason why she won't make a chaser. In good form over hurdles; makes chase debut today; may be better suited by 3m.
1
5th (1) (9/1 -100%) Disco Annie
9
9/1(-100%)
(1) Disco Annie 9/1, Latest win in hurdle at Carlisle in November. Second of 7 in handicap chase (11/2) at Carlisle (15.9f, soft) on debut over fences 39 days ago. Back up in trip. Should go well again. Won twice over hurdles in November and ran well in defeat on last month's chasing debut.
6
|B| (6) (5/1 +0%) Largy Force
5
5/1(+0%)
(6) Largy Force 5/1, Point winner. Placed in bumper/hurdles last season and has made a mildly encouraging start to chasing career, again third at Taunton last time. Longer trip should pose no issue, so one to note. In the frame all six rules starts, including two good thirds in 2m chases this winter.
3
|F| (3) (12/1 -20%) Millie Supreme
12
12/1(-20%)
(3) Millie Supreme 12/1, £30,000 purchase after winning 3 of 6 starts in Irish points. Found only one too good first two starts over hurdles then faced a stiff task in listed event at Haydock last time. Should take to this discipline and warrants consideration. 3-6 in Irish points; promising over hurdles this autumn; makes chase/handicap debut today.
5
|PU| (5) (12/1 -336%) Heva Rose
12
12/1(-336%)
(5) Heva Rose 12/1, Back on track following a second wind op, scoring on return at Lingfield last winter. Good second back there next time and best effort yet on these shores when resuming winning ways at Hereford (25.2f) 13 months ago. Absent since but fact she's gone well fresh previously bodes well. Absent since collecting a good prize in December 2023 but only 3lb higher today.
2
|PU| (2) (25/1 -79%) Trapista
25
25/1(-79%)
(2) Trapista 25/1, Completed a hat-trick at Ludlow (20f) in May but off 4 months before beating only one in 2m4f Kempton handicap chase on penultimate outing and fell at Cheltenham last time. Others preferred. Won three in a row last spring but returned from break with two disappointing autumn runs.
DISCO ANNIE has been giving the impression that stepping back up in trip could eke out further improvement and her most recent second at Carlisle was more evidence, as she rallied well for second having been outpaced two out. Rebecca Menzies' charge may have too much for Heva Rose, who was in flying form when last seen, although dropping back from 3m1f may not be ideal on her comeback. Third on both starts in this sphere, Largy Force remains unexposed and is another open to improvement over further.
HEVA ROSE hasn't been seen since scoring at Hereford over a year ago but that form has worked out well and her stable's excellent season continues, so she gets the nod over Disco Annie, who arrives on the back of a promising chasing debut. Largy Force is also considered.
Triple Irish point winner MILLIE SURPREME made a promising start to her rules career over hurdles and looks a good chasing prospect.
(2) Nick Rockett 9/2, 25/1, creditable fourth of 27 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Shapes like he has one of these big pots in him. Preferred by Townend, strip fitter for comeback at Leopardstown, up 2lb but can go well.
7
2nd (7) (22/1 -10%) Velvet Elvis
22
22/1(-10%)
(7) Velvet Elvis 22/1, 25/1, fifteenth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 26 days ago. Switches from hurdles to chase. Cheekpieces on and should strip fitter for return. Three-time chase winner, sharpener over hurdles last month, looks the yard's second string.
3
3rd (3) (16/1 -60%) Favori De Champdou
16
16/1(-60%)
(3) Favori De Champdou 16/1, Six wins from 16 NH runs. 33/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, respectable eighth of 27 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Not ruled out. 2-7 over fences, shaped okay after break at Leopardstown, improve for that, chance.
6
4th (6) (9/2 +18%) Yeah Man
4.5
9/2(+18%)
(6) Yeah Man 9/2, 16/1, good 3¾ lengths third of 18 to Stuzzikini in handicap chase at Navan (24.2f, good to soft) 67 days ago. Probably saved for this and looks a big player. Gr 3 h'cap winner at Haydock last February, up 2lb for fine run in the Troytown, claims.
17
5th (17) (22/1 -38%) Bushmans Pass
22
22/1(-38%)
(17) Bushmans Pass 22/1, Career best when winning 10-runner handicap chase (7/1) at Navan (23.4f, heavy), suited by increase in trip. Off 10 months. Absence is a concern. Won a nice pot at Navan when last seen in March, up 12lb and this much tougher, watch.
18
6th (18) (13/2 +41%) Will Do
6.5
13/2(+41%)
(18) Will Do 13/2, 5/1 and blinkered for 1st time, respectable fifth of 27 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Trainer going well. Expected to be bang there. 0-4 over fences, good effort on handicap debut at Leopardstown, same mark here, chance.
11
7th (11) (16/1 +20%) Spanish Harlem
16
16/1(+20%)
(11) Spanish Harlem 16/1, 40/1, bit below form thirteenth of 27 in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Bounce back required. 0-6 over fences, creditable effort in the Scottish National, poor since, needs revival.
12
8th (12) (22/1 -10%) Macs Charm
22
22/1(-10%)
(12) Macs Charm 22/1, Ninth of 14 in handicap chase at Limerick (19.4f, soft, 28/1) 26 days ago. Back up in trip. Others are more persuasive. 5th in this last year, 6lb lower and course form figures of 1225, could go well at a price.
16
9th (16) (40/1 +39%) Klarc Kent
40
40/1(+39%)
(16) Klarc Kent 40/1, 50/1, pulled up in handicap chase at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Has a bit to prove at present. Lost form since good run in Scottish National, pulled up latest, others make more appeal.
5
|U| (5) (14/1 -27%) Glengouly
14
14/1(-27%)
(5) Glengouly 14/1, 12/1, below form sixth of 14 in handicap chase at Limerick (19.4f, soft) 26 days ago. Back up in trip. Risky proposition at present but is on a handy mark. Runner up in this last year, is effectively 6lb lower thanks to jockey's claim, chance.
8
|U| (8) (28/1 +15%) Macdermott
28
28/1(+15%)
(8) Macdermott 28/1, Twentieth of 27 in handicap chase (33/1) at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Won the Scottish National last season, poor both starts this term, revival needed.
4
10th (4) (14/1 +13%) Grandero Bello
14
14/1(+13%)
(4) Grandero Bello 14/1, Course winner. 1 win from 2 runs this season. Respectable eighth of 13 in handicap chase at Newbury (26f, good to soft, 33/1) 54 days ago. Can't be discounted. Course winner, won off 137 at Galway in October, ground too quick latest, can't discount.
15
11th (15) (9/1 +55%) My Immortal
9
9/1(+55%)
(15) My Immortal 9/1, Visored for 1st time, bit below form seventh of 13 in handicap chase (7/2) at Fairyhouse (29.7f, good) 53 days ago. Yard in good form. Cheekpieces back on. Stayed on well over 22.5f at Galway, poor on latest, place chance on his Galway effort.
14
12th (14) (33/1 +18%) Largy Debut
33
33/1(+18%)
(14) Largy Debut 33/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2021. 10/1, brought down in handicap chase at Navan (24f, heavy) won by Coko Beach. Off 14 months. Worth a market check. 0-9 over fences, runner up in the Munster National on penultimate, big ask after layoff.
10
13th (10) (20/1 -11%) Stuzzikini
20
20/1(-11%)
(10) Stuzzikini 20/1, 20/1, career best when winning 18-runner handicap chase at Navan (24.2f, good to soft) 67 days ago. Should continue to give a good account. Dour stayer, won the Troytown off 9lb lower on latest, could be more to come, considered.
1
14th (1) (50/1 -178%) Coko Beach
50
50/1(-178%)
(1) Coko Beach 50/1, C&D winner. Tenth of 15 in handicap chase at Cheltenham (29.2f, good to soft, 16/1) 41 days ago. Blinkers back on. Won this in 2021, won the Troytown off this mark in 2023, likes it here, don't discount.
13
15th (13) (14/1 -100%) Where It All Began
14
14/1(-100%)
(13) Where It All Began 14/1, 10/1 and blinkered for 1st time, pulled up in handicap chase at Chepstow (30.6f, good to soft) 27 days ago, closing in third when making a bad mistake 4 out. Worthy of interest. Won at Punchestown off 123 last year, no impact off revised mark since, chance if at best.
9
|PU| (9) (9/1 -29%) Shannon Royale
9
9/1(-29%)
(9) Shannon Royale 9/1, 2/1, career best when winning 7-runner novice chase at Punchestown (24f, soft) 23 days ago, responding well. Makes handicap chase debut. Another bold show likely. Unexposed sort, won a 3m beginners' at Punchestown latest, lacks handicap experience.
YEAH MAN has been competitive in similar races in recent times and might turn Troytown form with Stuzzikini. Ground-versatile, the selection is a strong stayer and while he disappointed in the Irish National, his form is generally consistent. He can jump left in the closing stages of his races, which isn't ideal, but is 7lb better off with Stuzzikini than at Navan. Stuzzikini is himself a stout stayer who should also compete. Nick Rockett is well handicapped and finished third at Sandown last April but is 2lb higher following his Paddy Power fourth at Leopardstown. Will Do finished fifth, wearing first-time blinkers, in that race and is another to take seriously.
NICK ROCKETT took another step forward when an excellent fourth in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown on return and he may have come on for that, so he gets the nod ahead of Shannon Royale, who took a novice in likeable fashion at Punchestown and probably has even more to offer. Yeah Man completes the shortlist.
Preference is for YEAH MAN who shaped nicely in the Troytown and with improvement likely to be forthcoming, he can go close.
(7) William Dewhirst 10/3, Four-time course winner. Six wins from 21 Flat runs. 6/4, career best when winning 7-runner handicap at this course (7.1f) 9 days ago. Major player under a penalty. Won 4 of his last five races, all over 7f here; could go well but drop to 6f is a concern.
5
2nd (5) (7/2 +0%) Pals Battalion
3.5
7/2(+0%)
(5) Pals Battalion 7/2, C&D winner. Three wins from 14 runs last year. Latest win here in December. Creditable neck second of 8 to Mondammej in handicap at this C&D (11/4) 9 days ago. Likely to be in the mix. Two C&D wins in December; close 2nd to Mondammej (who's now 3lb worse off) latest; player.
4
3rd (4) (5/1 +38%) Flying Fletcher
5
5/1(+38%)
(4) Flying Fletcher 5/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in November. Ninth of 13 in handicap at this C&D (10/1) 45 days ago. Needs to bounce back. C&D winner off a 5lb lower mark in November; hasn't run quite as well since.
8
4th (8) (12/1 -20%) Modern Times
12
12/1(-20%)
(8) Modern Times 12/1, Creditable neck second of 11 to Pals Battalion in handicap (40/1) at this C&D 26 days ago, running on. Record stands at 0-12 and he looks vulnerable for win purposes. 12-race maiden; career best when 2nd to Pal Battalion over C&D last time; a possible.
2
5th (2) (17/2 -55%) Alzahir
8.5
17/2(-55%)
(2) Alzahir 17/2, 12/1, eleventh of 16 in handicap at Chelmsford City (8f) 12 days ago, having hopeless task from position. Down in trip and this 5-y-o will be a serious player if he puts his best foot forward. Formerly classy; not as good these days; hard to know how he will fare on first run at 6f.
1
6th (1) (6/1 +8%) Mondammej
6
6/1(+8%)
(1) Mondammej 6/1, Five-time course winner. Didn't need to improve to win 8-runner handicap (3/1) at this C&D 9 days ago by neck from Pals Battalion, always holding on. This is more demanding under a penalty. Has won four of his last six races, all here; effective at 5f and 6f; should go well again.
6
7th (6) (100/1 -52%) Neapolitan
100
100/1(-52%)
(6) Neapolitan 100/1, Last of 12 in handicap (100/1) at this course (7.1f) 61 days ago and yard saddles a stronger candidate in Mondammej. Ex-Simon and Ed Crisford; well beaten both starts for this yard (7f); others stronger..
3
8th (3) (9/2 +0%) Bright
4.5
9/2(+0%)
(3) Bright 9/2, C&D winner. Four wins from 11 runs last year. 5/1, good ½-length third of 8 to Mondammej in handicap at this C&D 9 days ago. Place possibilities. 4 wins last year; close 3rd to Mondammej (who's now 3lb worse off) here last time; chance.
William Dewhirst has improved at a rapid rate of knots since November, recording four wins out of his last five starts at this track, and he holds an obvious chance. However, the drop in trip might open the door for MONDAMMEJ, who had Pals Battalion (second) and Bright (third) behind when completing a double over C&D last week. With a reproduction of that display, he can confirm the form to go in again.
WILLIAM DEWHIRST has proved to be nothing short of a revelation here in recent months, making it 4-5 over here at this course when seeing off six rivals with plenty left in the tank last week. This drop back in trip is unlikely to be an issue and he will take plenty of stopping under a penalty. It would be something of an understatement to say things didn't go Alzahir's way at Chelmsford last time and he is next on the list ahead of Bright.
Despite the claims of the hat-trick seeking pair Mondammej and William Dewhirst, PALS BATTALION gets the vote this time.
(9) Express Surprise 4/1, Reacted well to a tongue tie when an improved second in Stratford handicap in June but not in quite the same form at Wincanton 4 months later. Back on track with first-time cheekpieces added when equal-third at Hereford in November and now attentions are turned to chasing. Placed in handicap hurdles and this point runner-up could improve now tackling fences.
6
2nd (6) (7/2 +30%) Celtic Fortune
3.5
7/2(+30%)
(6) Celtic Fortune 7/2, Fair maiden hurdler who has made an encouraging start over fences, beaten under a length by a progressive type at Wincanton (25f, soft) last time. Remains feasibly treated nudged up 4 lb and may well have a part to play here, too, provided the first-time blinkers have the desired effect. Needs to prove he can get the job done but he went close at Wincanton last month.
8
3rd (8) (13/2 +54%) Kapamazov
6.5
13/2(+54%)
(8) Kapamazov 13/2, Modest form over hurdles and has run to a similar level all 4 starts over fences, travelling better than most under a patient ride here until a bad mistake 4 out stopped him in his tracks at Uttoxeter (24f, heavy) just under 5 weeks ago. Cheekpieces applied and more needed to break his duck. Hasn't run badly the last twice but now 0-12 & needs something extra from the cheekpieces.
3
4th (3) (11/2 -38%) Pearl Island
5.5
11/2(-38%)
(3) Pearl Island 11/2, Seven-race maiden over hurdles but improved with first-time blinkers enlisted when striking at the second attempt in this sphere at Uttoxeter (3m, heavy) just under 5 weeks ago, rallying to lead again run-in. Major player from 3 lb higher provided he is able to build on that. Won in 1st-time blinkers at Uttoxeter; strong claims if the headgear maintains its effect.
5
5th (5) (11/2 +50%) Get Cracking
5.5
11/2(+50%)
(5) Get Cracking 11/2, Successful in points and left hurdles form behind sent chasing when fifth of 13 to Mister Upton in handicap at Hereford (20.9f, good to soft) just over 6 weeks ago. Moving back up in trip will help and he's a live each-way contender. Kept on for fifth on handicap/chase debut and firmly in calculations now back up in trip.
7
|PU| (7) (12/1 -140%) Mister Upton
12
12/1(-140%)
(7) Mister Upton 12/1, Better chaser than hurdler and doubled his tally in this sphere in 13-runner event at Hereford last month. Possibly found the race coming too soon 8 days later at Exeter and given a 5-week break to recover. Heads back up in distance. Won at Hereford last month; flopped at Exeter 8 days later but that may have come too soon.
2
|PU| (2) (15/2 -7%) Brother Boris
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(2) Brother Boris 15/2, Showed ability in a bumper and similar story in maiden hurdles. Is a chaser on looks and bettered his chasing debut form in first-time cheekpieces when runner-up at Fakenham (21.2f, soft) just over 3 weeks ago. Can progress again. Fair second at Fakenham and pedigree suggests this longer trip can prompt further progress.
4
|PU| (4) (16/1 -146%) Knocknagappagh
16
16/1(-146%)
(4) Knocknagappagh 16/1, Long-standing maiden who was seemingly fitter for reappearance/stable debut when fourth of 9 in handicap chase at Leicester (20.1f, soft) last month, likely to have won had she not made a shuddering mistake at the last. Every chance she can make amends with a clear round. Longstanding maiden but she may well have got off the mark last time but for bad mistake.
1
|PU| (1) (20/1 -82%) Anytrixwilldo
20
20/1(-82%)
(1) Anytrixwilldo 20/1, Fair maiden hurdler/chaser but he was pulled up in handicap chase at Market Rasen (23.9f, soft) in November and is opposable on the back of that. Close 4th at Hereford in November in his second chase but pulled up at Market Rasen since.
10
|PU| (10) (80/1 -21%) Killomeroe
80
80/1(-21%)
(10) Killomeroe 80/1, Placed in points but didn't show much in 3 maiden hurdles (latest after 7 months off recently). Needs the switch to fences to spark some major improvement. Showed very little over hurdles but there was ability in points; could improve now chasing.
PEARL ISLAND was reported to have never been travelling when pulled up on his chasing bow at Leicester, but it was a different story when successful at Uttoxeter next time. Henry Daly's gelding was only nudged up 3lb in the handicap for that performance and given that he is open to further improvement, it could prove lenient. Celtic Fortune went close to getting off the mark when second to an in-form rival at Wincanton last month, and first-time blinkers could eke out more. Brother Boris is also noted.
Plenty in with a squeak but the suggestion is KNOCKNAGAPPAGH, who looked the most likely winner before attempting to take the last home with her at Leicester last month. Pearl Island showed his battling qualities when scoring at Uttoxeter recently and nudged up just 3 lb, he can give the selection most to think about provided the blinkers have the same effect. Brother Boris can edge out Get Cracking for minor honours.
The mare KNOCKNAGAPPAGH may have finally got off the mark last month but for a bad late mistake and is taken to make amends.
(6) The Big Breac 11/10, Lightly-raced and off the mark over hurdles last month, winning 16-runner C&D handicap, looking all stamina, dropped to third between final flights before rallying to lead late on (form has been boosted, close 4th won at Fakenham on Sunday). Could easily improve again. Second on his handicap debut and won 16-runner race over C&D (good to soft) four weeks ago.
4
2nd (4) (20/1 +50%) Wearelongterm
20
20/1(+50%)
(4) Wearelongterm 20/1, Winning pointer who showed ability on chase bow and over hurdles after. Given a considerate return after 18 months off on just his second outing over fences at Carlisle and possibly still needed the run at Musselburgh last month. Returns to hurdling and not ruled out. Off 540 days before two modest chase efforts this term, last time with cheekpieces back on.
7
3rd (7) (11/1 -22%) Boolamore Classic
11
11/1(-22%)
(7) Boolamore Classic 11/1, Well-supported when off the mark over hurdles, first-time visor seemingly doing the trick when winning a 7-runner handicap hurdle at Ayr (21.4f, heavy) 17 days ago. Should stay 3m and not discounted on his first attempt at this trip, although worth noting he did have a tough race last time. Breakthrough win at Ayr (2m5f, soft) latest, with visor; more to prove now back up in trip.
5
4th (5) (10/1 -67%) Glory Hights
10
10/1(-67%)
(5) Glory Hights 10/1, Off the mark in 3m Carlisle handicap in November and backed it up with a good second of 16 in handicap hurdle at Newcastle (20.3f, good to soft) 40 days ago. Should give another good account of himself back at 3m. 1st and 2nd this winter; should give his running but needs extra if he's to win again.
2
5th (2) (9/2 +10%) Entity Of Substanz
4.5
9/2(+10%)
(2) Entity Of Substanz 9/2, Lightly-raced sort ran best race so far under a positive ride in first-time cheekpieces, second of 8 in a handicap hurdle at Market Rasen (23.1f, soft) 49 days ago, albeit it was a pretty modest contest. Extra furlong should help and one to consider. Up to an extended 2m7f when 2nd of eight at Market Rasen (good to soft) in first headgear.
10
6th (10) (10/1 0%) Lady's Present
10
10/1(0%)
(10) Lady's Present 10/1, Shaped better than the beaten distance when second of 7 in a handicap hurdle at Fakenham (23.4f, soft) 22 days ago, made a fast-forward move on final circuit and paid the price for those efforts late on. Should be a decent pace on here and she can run well with the benefit of a more patient ride. Beaten 13l when second at Fakenham (upped to 3m) last time and needs to see it out better.
12
7th (12) (33/1 -65%) Walk My Way
33
33/1(-65%)
(12) Walk My Way 33/1, Should have won when second in a 7-runner handicap hurdle at Hexham (20.1f heavy) in March, in lead when lost momentum last. Pulled up on reappearance, likely needing the run after 9-months off. Should come on for that and no surprise to see a better effort here. Pulled up on reappearance (showed signs of post-race ataxia); 5lb out of the handicap.
11
|PU| (11) (12/1 +25%) Teddy Mac
12
12/1(+25%)
(11) Teddy Mac 12/1, Still a maiden and has been a bit in and out this season. Recorded a creditable fifth of 16 at Hexham last month but failed to build on that when 16 lengths fourth to Boolamore Classic at Ayr (21.4f, heavy) 17 days ago. Place claims if on a going day despite lining up from 2 lb out of the handicap. Close fourth at Ayr (3m, good to soft) in October but well held in his three starts since.
1
|PU| (1) (17/2 -6%) Atreides
8.5
17/2(-6%)
(1) Atreides 17/2, Remains a maiden but ran a career-best when second at Ffos Las in November, followed up with creditable fourth of 8 in a handicap hurdle at Bangor (19.6f, heavy) 41 days ago (made a few jumping errors). Proving quite difficult to win with but step up in trip could prove the key. 2nd in two of his five starts this season, latterly at Ffos Las (2m4f, soft) two runs back.
8
|PU| (8) (33/1 -106%) Molly Mason
33
33/1(-106%)
(8) Molly Mason 33/1, Related to winners but she hasn't offered any short-term encouragement so far. Cheekpieces added for first try at 3m on handicap debut and although stable continue in good form, she could only be of interest if market support comes her way. Up from 2m5f (her dam won at up to 3m) and has first-time headgear for this handicap debut.
3
|PU| (3) (40/1 -60%) Alltalknoaction
40
40/1(-60%)
(3) Alltalknoaction 40/1, Not achieved a great deal in maiden hurdles, although he was tenderly handled when third of 6 in a novice at Sedgefield (19.8f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Better expected now up in trip on handicap debut. Should be suited by this greater test of stamina and can raise his game on handicap debut.
Entity Of Substanz was promising with cheekpieces added at Market Rasen last month and should have a big say if the retained headgear draws more improvement, while a first-time visor was instrumental in Boolamore Classic's win at Ayr and he is feared off just 5lb higher. However, preference is for THE BIG BREAC, whose C&D triumph over Christmas was a gallant effort and a 3lb rise should be well within his compass on just his third start in a handicap.
This looks competitive and with a few forward-goers in here, it could set-up nicely for LADY'S PRESENT. She shaped much better than beaten distance suggests last-time out and looks capable of taking this with a more patient ride. Atreides will also be taking his time on his first try at 3m and can hit the frame again along with the lightly-raced The Big Breac, who scored over C&D last month.
Plenty have each-way claims but preference is for THE BIG BREAC who saw it out so well to score over C&D four weeks ago.
(9) Quai De Bourbon 5/6, Promising type. Useful winner at 20f over hurdles. 8/11, third of 7 in novice chase at Leopardstown (21.3f, good to soft) on debut over fences 26 days ago. Big player. 3-4 over timber for new yard and only beaten 1l on chase debut; Townend keeps the faith.
4
2nd (4) (11/2 -10%) Chapeau De Soleil
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(4) Chapeau De Soleil 11/2, Promising sort. Second of 7 in novice chase (9/1) at Leopardstown (21.3f, good to soft) on debut over fences 26 days ago, having run of race. Shortlist material. Won Listed h'cap at Punchestown festival and likeable chase debut; Townend on stablemate.
3
3rd (3) (9/2 +10%) Blizzard Of Oz
4.5
9/2(+10%)
(3) Blizzard Of Oz 9/2, Useful chaser. Third of 12 in novice chase (10/1) at Naas (20.1f, good to soft) on debut over fences 38 days ago. One of 5 for top yard, with Quai de Bourbon the pick of Paul Townend. Progressive sort who produced solid chase debut but retained jockeys prefer stablemates.
10
4th (10) (50/1 -100%) Union Station
50
50/1(-100%)
(10) Union Station 50/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 5/1, creditable fourth of 8 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (16.8f, good to soft) 60 days ago. Makes chase debut. Promise without winning in maiden hurdles; may have needed return; tough ask on chase bow.
8
5th (8) (7/1 +30%) Ocastle Des Mottes
7
7/1(+30%)
(8) Ocastle Des Mottes 7/1, Promising individual. Second of 12 in novice chase at Punchestown (18.9f, soft, 12/1) on debut over fences 61 days ago. Likely to improve and he needs considering. Smart form in France; didn't kick on last year but 2nd to Ballyburn on chase bow.
11
6th (11) (12/1 -9%) Western Diego
12
12/1(-9%)
(11) Western Diego 12/1, Useful chaser. Fourth of 13 in novice chase at Leopardstown (17f, good to soft, 16/1) on debut over fences 27 days ago. Open to progress. Point/bumper/maiden hurdle winner; respectable chase debut but much more required.
6
7th (6) (28/1 -100%) Cleatus Poolaw
28
28/1(-100%)
(6) Cleatus Poolaw 28/1, Useful hurdler. 4/1, fourth of 9 in novice chase at Fairyhouse (21.5f, soft) 22 days ago. Likely to find one or two too good. Maiden hurdle winner; hasn't looked a natural chaser and plenty to find here.
2
8th (2) (50/1 -52%) Black Bamboo
50
50/1(-52%)
(2) Black Bamboo 50/1, Useful hurdler. 18/1, last of 7 in novice chase at Leopardstown (21.3f, good to soft) on debut over fences 26 days ago. Likely to find a few too strong here, too. Good runs at the big festivals last term but recent chase debut was low key; may need time.
5
9th (5) (18/1 -100%) Chigorin
18
18/1(-100%)
(5) Chigorin 18/1, Lightly-raced winner under Rules. 9/1, second of 9 in novice chase at Fairyhouse (21.5f, soft) on debut over fences 22 days ago, no match for winner. Should progress. Maiden hurdle winner before blowing out at Cheltenham; 11l 2nd to Champ Kiely on chase bow.
7
10th (7) (200/1 -150%) Musta Lovea Lovea
200
200/1(-150%)
(7) Musta Lovea Lovea 200/1, Fair hurdler. Remains a maiden after 20 NH runs. 7/1, eleventh of 13 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) 27 days ago. Looks up against it now switched to fences. 20-race maiden under rules and has a massive task on chase debut here.
1
11th (1) (125/1 -89%) Beau Walking
125
125/1(-89%)
(1) Beau Walking 125/1, Fair hurdler. Cheekpieces on for 1st time, brought down in novice chase (14/1) at Down Royal (20.6f, good to soft) 28 days ago. Others preferred. 0-9 under rules; has shown ability; keen when brought down last time; this is a huge ask.
14
12th (14) (100/1 -150%) Lady Bresil
100
100/1(-150%)
(14) Lady Bresil 100/1, Lightly-raced winner under Rules. 11/2, respectable seventh of 13 in handicap hurdle at Navan (16f, good to soft) 39 days ago. Goes up in trip for this chase debut Maiden hurdle winner and not disgraced this term but huge ask on chase debut.
12
13th (12) (250/1 -25%) Spinning Web
250
250/1(-25%)
(12) Spinning Web 250/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Modest winner at 12f on the Flat. Bit below form eighth of 14 in handicap at Dundalk (12f, 15/2) 34 days ago. Switches from Flat to chase and tongue strap on for 1st time. Won Tipperary maiden hurdle 2 seasons ago; Flat winner since but this is tough.
13
14th (13) (200/1 +0%) Implicit
200
200/1(+0%)
(13) Implicit 200/1, 100/1, pulled up in Grade 2 chase at Limerick (22.6f, soft) won by Bioluminescence 27 days ago , weakening before home turn. Sights lowered here but she's hard to warm to all the same. Failed to complete in 5 of 6 starts since latest win and tailed off on the other occasion.
Willie Mullins obviously has a strong hand in this with five runners and Paul Townend sticks with QUAI DE BOURBON in the two-and-a-half mile contest. He rode the Ivanhowe gelding on his chase debut at Leopardstown when he was a close third in a tight finish behind Dee Capo. With that run under his belt he's entitled to improve and may turn the tables now on stablemate Chapeau De Soleil, who was just half-a-length in front of him then. Blizzard Of Oz is another Closutton runner with a big shout after a fine run to finish third to stablemate Lecky Watson on his chase debut at Naas.
The five saddled by Willie Mullins are all promising novices, with QUAI DE BOURBON very much the pick of the quintet. A winner of three of his six starts over hurdles, he shaped well when a close third on his chase debut at Leopardstown, finishing just adrift of re-opposing stablemate Chapeau de Soleil, who rates the main danger. Chigorin's chase debut second at Fairyhouse was promising and he could be the pick of the non-Mullins-trained candidates.
Chapeau De Soleil had QUAI DE BOURBON behind at Leopardstown but the latter can reverse form with a better round of jumping here
(1) Rebel's Gamble Evens, Promising type. 11/4, won 11-runner novice at Southwell (6.1f) on debut 20 days ago. Open to improvement and he's high on the shortlist. Created a positive impression at Southwell 3 weeks ago; strong contender under a penalty.
5
2nd (5) (13/8 +19%) Rainbow Nebula
1.625
13/8(+19%)
(5) Rainbow Nebula 13/8, Once-raced maiden. Visored, third of 11 in novice at this C&D (9/2) on debut 26 days ago. May well do better with that experience under his belt. Green on C&D debut but finished race off well for third; open to improvement; good claims.
3
3rd (3) (33/1 -18%) Ardaddy
33
33/1(-18%)
(3) Ardaddy 33/1, Twice-raced maiden. 16/1, fourth of 7 in novice at this C&D 22 days ago. Probably more one for handicaps in due course. Some promise in two runs here this winter but others have achieved more.
2
4th (2) (9/2 +44%) Arabian Cobra
4.5
9/2(+44%)
(2) Arabian Cobra 9/2, Fair gelding. 3/1, creditable seventh of 12 in nursery at Southwell (6.1f) 40 days ago. Looks vulnerable. His best 2yo efforts bring him right into the picture but he's vulnerable to improvers.
8
5th (8) (200/1 -100%) Sandinyourshoes
200
200/1(-100%)
(8) Sandinyourshoes 200/1, Twice-raced maiden. 200/1, fifth of 8 in maiden at Southwell (7.1f) 9 days ago, never nearer. Hard to fancy. Big prices and well held in two 7f Tapeta runs this winter; minor handicaps beckon.
4
6th (4) (125/1 -25%) Nave Force
125
125/1(-25%)
(4) Nave Force 125/1, Twice-raced maiden. 80/1, fifth of 11 in novice at this C&D 26 days ago, never nearer. Best to look elsewhere. Down the field in two Tapeta runs this winter; lots to find with Rainbow Nebula on latest.
7
7th (7) (22/1 -83%) Highfield Artist
22
22/1(-83%)
(7) Highfield Artist 22/1, €21,000 yearling, €38,000 2-y-o, Sands of Mali filly. Half-sister to several winners, including 2-y-o 5f-6.5f winner Andhesontherun and 6f winner Prince of Bel Lir. Lots to like on paper and she needs close attention in the betting. 38,000euros breeze-up 2yo; half-sister to six winners; one of two newcomers for the stable.
6
8th (6) (66/1 -136%) Spirit Of Newlife
66
66/1(-136%)
(6) Spirit Of Newlife 66/1, 9,000 gns foal, 9,000 gns yearling, Expert Eye gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to smart multiple 5f winner Ornate and Richmond Stakes winner Saayerr. Highfield Artist is presumably the stable No 1. 9,000gns yearling; unraced dam from a good sprinting family; stable runs two newcomers.
9
9th (9) (40/1 -21%) South Road
40
40/1(-21%)
(9) South Road 40/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Fifth of 7 in novice at this C&D (33/1) 22 days ago. Hood on 1st time and she's another who will be of greater interest when handicapping in due course. Raced freely over C&D last time and now tried in a hood; improvement is required.
A well-bred son of Dark Angel, REBEL'S GAMBLE impressed when scoring on debut at Southwell and a 7lb penalty may not be enough to stop him from going in again. Karl Burke's colt gets the vote ahead of Rainbow Nebula, who was a promising third on his introduction over C&D after being slowly away. Related to plenty of sprinters, Highfield Artist could be one to monitor for market support first time out, while Arabian Cobra completes the shortlist.
There should be better to come from RAINBOW NEBULA, who shaped well when third behind a couple of potentially decent types in a C&D novice during the Christmas period. He gets the nod. Rebel's Gamble looked promising when making a winning start to his career at Southwell and he is greatly respected, despite carrying a penalty, while newcomer Highfield Artist is appealing on paper and it'll be interesting to see how she shapes up in the betting.
Rebel's Gamble is promising but RAINBOW NEBULA also shaped well on debut and should be more professional with that behind him.
(2) Space Voyage 7/1, Returned to form when winning over hurdles at Perth (20.2f) on final outing last season and made a respectable return from 6 months off at Wincanton in November. However, pulled up at Southwell last time, so bounce back called for on only her second chase start. On handy mark on best hurdle form but pulled up latest & tailed off in sole previous chase.
8
2nd (8) (8/1 -14%) Ede'iffs Rock
8
8/1(-14%)
(8) Ede'iffs Rock 8/1, Fair hurdler and left behind her chase debut when scoring in mares' handicap at Fakenham (21.2f, good to soft) in December. Just held on from Kosasiempre last time having edged right late, but she can give another good account with cheekpieces added. Two wins from last three starts; pedigree provides optimism regarding this longer trip.
3
3rd (3) (9/1 -100%) Mighty Moth
9
9/1(-100%)
(3) Mighty Moth 9/1, Placed twice in bumpers and off the mark at third attempt over hurdles at Hereford last season. Departed early at Kempton on chase debut, but beaten only a neck by Another Day Out in mares' handicap at Wincanton (20.2f, soft) last time. Could be in the mix. Unexposed over fences and went close at Wincanton last month; she's one to consider.
6
4th (6) (9/2 -13%) Another Day Out
4.5
9/2(-13%)
(6) Another Day Out 9/2, Back over fences, successful at this C&D in May but blotted her copybook when refusing to race in November. However, refitted with a hood she has bounced back with victories at Ludlow and Wincanton (20.2f, soft) on last 2 starts. Enters calculations. C&D winner who arrives on a hat-trick and is firmly in calculations.
5
5th (5) (3/1 +45%) Moonlit Potter
3
3/1(+45%)
(5) Moonlit Potter 3/1, Successful on second of 3 starts over hurdles and shaped well on chasing debut when edged out on the line in mares' handicap at this C&D (soft) in November. Possibly amiss when pulled up last time, but she's worth another chance given her previous promise. Went very close over C&D on chase debut but flopped at Hereford subsequently.
7
|PU| (7) (10/1 +50%) Anti Bridgie
10
10/1(+50%)
(7) Anti Bridgie 10/1, Won first 2 starts over hurdles last season and opened account over fences in 5-runner mares' novice at Warwick (20f) in March. Wasn't disgraced at Uttoxeter next time but has offered little when pulled up both starts this season. Has work to do. Dropping down weights but pulled up on both runs this season; major turnaround needed.
4
|PU| (4) (11/4 +8%) Kosasiempre
2.75
11/4(+8%)
(4) Kosasiempre 11/4, Dual hurdles winner and bettered that form on first start over fences when scoring in mares' handicap at Leicester (22.7f) in December. Only narrowly denied despite meeting trouble at Fakenham (21.2f, good to soft) last time and she's a major player. May well be 2-2 over fences but for having momentum checked at Fakenham last time.
9
|PU| (9) (25/1 -108%) Sweet Street
25
25/1(-108%)
(9) Sweet Street 25/1, With recent run behind her, got back to winning ways in mares' handicap chase at Worcester (20f) in July. Probably needed the outing after 5 months off when down the field over hurdles in December, so she could fare better back over fences. Chase winner last July and may have needed the run over hurdles last month; not discounted.
A drop to 2m4f wasn't enough to prevent ANOTHER DAY OUT from following up a Ludlow success in November at Wincanton on Boxing Day and she makes plenty of appeal back up in trip. Mighty Moth was only a neck behind the selection on that occasion, although the daughter of Champs Elysees isn't certain to stay this far. With that in mind, a bigger threat may emerge from unexposed chaser Kosasiempre.
KOSASIEMPRE went close to making it 2 from 2 over fences when beaten a short head at Fakenham in December, just failing having met trouble, so she is taken to resume winning ways with the potential of more still to offer. She can get the better of the hat-trick seeking Another Day Out, with Mighty Moth also considered on only her third chase start.
The progressive ANOTHER DAY OUT earns the vote in her hat-trick bid, ahead of her old rival Mighty Moth.
(4) Paddy O'mahler 5/1, Still a maiden but ran well over C&D in cheekpieces last month, unfortunate to be hampered 4 out and finishing fifth of 16. Fourth-placed horse has given the form a boost (won at Fakenham on Sunday) and should go well again, racing without headgear today, Beaten just over 2l latest after interference three out in C&D race won by The Big Breac.
9
2nd (9) (25/1 -56%) Take A Hike
25
25/1(-56%)
(9) Take A Hike 25/1, Runner-up both completed starts in Irish points. Tongue-tie on and up in trip when producing better effort on fourth hurdles start, third of 12 in a handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (19.9f, heavy) 34 days ago, plugged on. No surprise to see her stepped up in distance again today. 3rd on handicap debut (2m4f, soft); needs better and this further step up in trip may help.
3
3rd (3) (12/1 +0%) The Questioner
12
12/1(+0%)
(3) The Questioner 12/1, C&D winner who shaped well when second at Huntingdon (25f) 14 months ago. Easy to back and probably needed the run when down the field over C&D (raced without headgear) 27 days ago. Would be a player on last season's form and interesting if market speaks in his favour with cheekpieces back on. 444 days off before tailed off over C&D (22-1) four weeks ago; well treated on old form.
10
4th (10) (28/1 -250%) So Ladylike
28
28/1(-250%)
(10) So Ladylike 28/1, Off the mark under Rules from bottom weight in a poor race on second start for this yard, winning 6-runner handicap hurdle at Hexham (23.3f, soft). Returns from 7-month absence and this is a tougher race. Breakthrough win under rules last June on second run for connections; peak form bit better.
5
5th (5) (9/1 +0%) Dexperado
9
9/1(+0%)
(5) Dexperado 9/1, Runner-up at Market Rasen on final 2 starts of last season, chasing home decent sorts. Quieter start to this campaign, sent off favourite when fifth of 8 at Market Rasen (went without headgear), possibly still finding his fitness. Cheekpieces on for first try at 3m and should strip fitter here. More like it last time and gave some encouragement for this longer trip; headgear back.
6
6th (6) (6/1 +0%) Ballydangan
6
6/1(+0%)
(6) Ballydangan 6/1, Maiden who hasn't shown an immediate benefit for the switch to the Dan Skelton yard, prominent in the betting but disappointing when sixth of 11 at Southwell (20.4f, good to soft) 38 days ago. Up in trip again but no surprise to see stable get a better tune out of him sooner rather than later. Should be a lot more potent with today's return to 3m+; needs a market check.
2
7th (2) (15/2 -36%) Snowrocco
7.5
15/2(-36%)
(2) Snowrocco 15/2, Placed in an Irish point and back to form when creditable fourth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Ayr (20.4f, soft) 21 days ago, led 2 out and one pace late on. Lightly-raced contender has to be of interest now tackling 3m for the first time. Fourth of 18 at Ayr (extended 2m4f, soft) in her second handicap, sticking to her task.
1
8th (1) (10/3 -21%) Adveram
3.333333
10/3(-21%)
(1) Adveram 10/3, Ran well in a higher grade last-time when third of 10 in a handicap hurdle at Ayr (24.3f, soft) 21 days ago, running from out of the handicap. Back down in grade to a 0-100 event here and merits serious consideration. Running well over about 3m and looks set for another prominent finish.
7
|PU| (7) (22/1 +37%) Westerdale
22
22/1(+37%)
(7) Westerdale 22/1, Out of a winning pointer and minor promise to glean from all 3 runs over hurdles. Could up her game now handicapping and isn't without hope. Starts life in handicaps off a lowly mark and seemingly with stamina in the pedigree.
8
|PU| (8) (125/1 -213%) Stress Reaction
125
125/1(-213%)
(8) Stress Reaction 125/1, Runner-up sole outing in point bumpers but has offered little in a course bumper and 3 maiden hurdles. Tough to fancy upped in trip for handicap debut. No form claims but there's some class and stamina in his pedigree and he goes handicapping.
ADVERAM fared well to finish third in a class 3 handicap at Ayr three weeks ago and must have every chance of making the most of dropping back down in grade. There are dangers aplenty, however, and the likes of the returning So Ladylike, a winner over the extended 2m7f at Hexham when last seen, Paddy O'Mahler and Take A Hike all have scope to improve over the trip and warrant betting checks on that basis.
It wasn't the smoothest of passages for PADDY O'MAHLER when a close fifth over C&D last month and a repeat of that effort might be enough to take this. The lightly-raced Snowrocco has shown enough to suggest she can go close in a race of this nature while Adveram is very much respected having run well in a higher grade on his last two starts.
Adveram can go well with his drop back in class but SNOWROCCO could thwart him stepping up in trip. Ballydangan must be noted.
(6) Dancingondaceiling 11/4, Promising type. Shaped well on first outing since leaving Alexander Ott (after 8 months off) when 7½ lengths third of 17 in a handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, soft) 26 days ago, led approaching 2 out, weakened. Entitled to strip fitter for that and leading player for in-form, top yard. 3m maiden winner, decent effort after break on handicap bow, will strip fitter now, chance.
7
2nd (7) (14/1 +30%) Heliko Conti
14
14/1(+30%)
(7) Heliko Conti 14/1, Step in the right direction when respectable seventh of 23 a in handicap hurdle (16/1) at Leopardstown (19.8f, good) 26 days ago. Up in trip today and each-way possibilities. 1-15 over timber, winless since March 2023, shaped like this trip might suit on latest.
13
3rd (13) (25/1 -25%) Therellbguddaysyet
25
25/1(-25%)
(13) Therellbguddaysyet 25/1, Winner in hurdle at Thurles in November. Creditable 13 lengths fourth of 17 to Doitforjane Sid in a handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, soft, 16/1) 26 days ago. Worth another try at this trip but finds himself in another competitive race. Points and maiden winner, shaped well behind a couple of these latest, each-way shout.
2
4th (2) (10/1 -54%) Machismo
10
10/1(-54%)
(2) Machismo 10/1, 16/5, career best when winning 10-runner novice hurdle at Tramore (21.6f, heavy) 22 days ago, keeping on well, winning distance exaggerated by conditions. Cheekpieces on first time and up in trip for handicap debut. Open to improvement. Won a Tramore maiden hurdle easily on latest, opening mark looks fair; cheekpieces on.
11
5th (11) (10/1 -11%) Krabat
10
10/1(-11%)
(11) Krabat 10/1, Nineteen runs since last win in 2022 but steps in the right direction on last couple of outings, latest a creditable second of 17 in a handicap hurdle at Naas (18.9f, heavy) 18 days ago, keeping on. Looks worth another go at this trip over the smaller obstacles. Rated 11lb higher over fences, course form figures of 222, trip a worry, chance if stays.
9
6th (9) (16/1 -14%) So They Tell Me
16
16/1(-14%)
(9) So They Tell Me 16/1, 1 win from 3 runs this season. 11/4, fifth of 8 in a handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (24f, good to soft) 12 days ago, looked rusty after 5 months off. Should come on for that. Won off 106 in June, failed to justify market support latest, needs more with hood removed.
5
7th (5) (66/1 -65%) Drop The Anchor
66
66/1(-65%)
(5) Drop The Anchor 66/1, Fairly useful winner at 16f on flat. Pulled up in handicap chase (28/1) at Limerick (22.6f, soft) 25 days ago, mistake at second. Switches from fences to hurdles today and races in first-time visor but hard to make a strong case for. Veteran; no win since November 2022, struggled in a chase latest, hard to fancy; visor.
18
8th (18) (10/1 +60%) Spatman De Cerisy
10
10/1(+60%)
(18) Spatman De Cerisy 10/1, 10/1 and blinkered for first time when creditable fifth of 18 in a handicap hurdle at Limerick (19f, soft) 25 days ago, shaping better than beaten distance after 7-month absence. Back up in trip may find a couple too good in here. 0-7 over hurdles, ran well over 3m in May, strip fitter for latest, 2lb wrong, may go well.
4
9th (4) (12/1 +14%) Tranquil Sea
12
12/1(+14%)
(4) Tranquil Sea 12/1, 10/1, bit below form thirteenth of 20 in a handicap hurdle at Leopardstown (23.4f, good) 26 days ago, not suited by the run of the race on that occasion. Capable of better. Maiden hurdle winner, struggled at Leopardstown latest but this is easier, shortlisted.
8
10th (8) (50/1 -52%) Lep Around
50
50/1(-52%)
(8) Lep Around 50/1, Lightly-raced winner under NH rules. Tenth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Limerick (20f, soft, 16/1) 28 days ago, may have needed the run. Up in trip and hood back on today but needs more. Mares' maiden winner, struggled on h'cap debut, up in trip, hood returns, watch.
12
11th (12) (9/1 +18%) Jeriko De Baune
9
9/1(+18%)
(12) Jeriko De Baune 9/1, Well-backed but bit below form sixth of 17 to Doitforjane Sid in a handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, soft, 7/2) 26 days ago, not ideally placed given how race unfolded. Cheekpieces on for the first time and could improve on last run today. Respectable efforts last three starts, cheekpieces could elicit improvement, place claims.
14
12th (14) (22/1 -10%) Galon De Vauzelle
22
22/1(-10%)
(14) Galon De Vauzelle 22/1, Respectable tenth of 27 in handicap chase (50/1) at Leopardstown (24.4f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Switches from fences to hurdles but has a bit to find in this sphere. Struggled over fences the last twice, reverts to hurdles off lower mark, not dismissed.
1
13th (1) (20/1 -208%) Doitforjane Sid
20
20/1(-208%)
(1) Doitforjane Sid 20/1, 3 wins from 8 runs this season. 22/1, career best when winning 17-runner handicap hurdle at Limerick (24f, soft) 26 days ago, staying on well. Remains of interest here. Won three of last five, won off 9lb lower on latest, this is harder but can't discount.
17
|PU| (17) (7/1 +0%) Big Debates
7
7/1(+0%)
(17) Big Debates 7/1, Career best when winning a 6-runner handicap chase at Limerick (22.6f, soft, 7/2) 27 days ago, race fell apart but won easily. Interesting contender now back over hurdles in good heart. Won a chase off 125 latest, lower mark over timber but winless over hurdles since Dec 2021.
16
|PU| (16) (10/1 +75%) Kells Priory
10
10/1(+75%)
(16) Kells Priory 10/1, Course winner. Latest win in hurdle at Killarney in July. 33/1 and tongue strap on for first time, below form fourteenth of 24 in a handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (20.2f, good) 54 days ago, well held. Up in trip but others have a more convincing profile. Surprise winner after long absence at Killarney, poor form since, tongue tie discarded.
10
|PU| (10) (16/1 -100%) Diamboy Des Carres
16
16/1(-100%)
(10) Diamboy Des Carres 16/1, Has improved with each run over hurdles, beating all bar a promising newcomer trained by Willie Mullins when good second of 13 in novice hurdle (11/8) at Thurles (16.2f, soft). Off 14 months since and significantly up in trip on handicap debut. Player if ready to roll on return. Bumper winner, ability in 2m maidens, up in trip and off 427 days, probably best watched.
15
|PU| (15) (18/1 +45%) Cosmo Renfro
18
18/1(+45%)
(15) Cosmo Renfro 18/1, 18/1, creditable fifth of 13 in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown (22f, soft) 10 days ago, a step in the right direction back over smaller obstacles. Needs to build on that. Won at Limerick off 6lb lower, decent effort latest but handicapper may be in charge.
3
|PU| (3) (80/1 -142%) Getaway Charlie
80
80/1(-142%)
(3) Getaway Charlie 80/1, Attracted some support at longer odds when ninth of 12 in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown (19f, heavy, 14/1) 23 days ago. Back up in trip today but others preferred. Failed to complete two of last three, beaten 33l latest, up in trip but others preferred.
BIG DEBATES has a nice weight in this and may be able to exploit his lower mark over hurdles. The 12-year-old has been in fine form over fences of late, winning a veterans contest easily at Limerick over Christmas on his last outing. He is now rated a massive 32lb lower over timber. Machismo opened his hurdling account in fine style at Tramore on New Year's Day and doesn't look harshly treated on his handicap debut. Stamina appears to be his forte and there may be room for further improvement up at three miles. Doitforjane Sid was an easy winner at a big price in Limerick and is another that has to come into calculations.
DANCINGONDACEILING is in excellent hands and can improve on his encouraging placed effort following a 253-day absence and come out on top. Diamboy des Carres is a fascinating contender now significantly up in trip on handicap debut. He would be a big danger if ready to roll on his comeback and is worth monitoring in the market. Big Debates will be in good heart following a facile success over fences and is respected returning to the smaller obstacles.
Narrow preference is for Paul Nolan's TRANQUIL SEA who will appreciate the drop in class after struggling at Leopardstown last time
(11) Stroxx 12/1, Modest gelding. One win from 56 Flat runs. 16/1, second of 11 in minor event at Southwell (5f) 8 days ago, clear of rest. Live each-way chance. Bumped into an interesting sort for the grade last week but has a strike-rate of 1-56.
8
2nd (8) (9/2 +50%) Shatin Venture
4.5
9/2(+50%)
(8) Shatin Venture 9/2, Poor gelding. Fifth of 8 in handicap (17/2) at this C&D 22 days ago. Likely to find a few too good. Unexposed maiden; this race is weak and P Mulrennan booked; needs improvement.
6
3rd (6) (28/1 -75%) John Kirkup
28
28/1(-75%)
(6) John Kirkup 28/1, Modest gelding. Nineteen runs since last win in 2023. Last of 10 in handicap at Redcar (6f, soft, 10/1) 79 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Poor strike-rate in recent years and out of sorts when last seen; others look safer.
12
4th (12) (10/1 +38%) The Princes Poet
10
10/1(+38%)
(12) The Princes Poet 10/1, Modest gelding. Twenty-three runs since last win in 2023. 22/1, respectable fifth of 10 in handicap at this C&D 13 days ago, never nearer. Dangerous if scaling a revival but looks vulnerable nonetheless. Latest handicap fifth wasn't a bad run but others look stronger for win purposes.
5
5th (5) (18/5 +55%) Henery Hawk
3.6
18/5(+55%)
(5) Henery Hawk 18/5, Three-time C&D winner. Thirteen runs since last win in 2024. Tenth of 11 in handicap (12/1) at this C&D 37 days ago. Others preferred. Below par last time but may have needed it after an 11-week break; dangerous at this level.
1
6th (1) (4/1 +0%) Arlington
4
4/1(+0%)
(1) Arlington 4/1, Modest gelding. Course winner. Latest win here in August. Creditable second of 11 in minor event at this C&D (16/1) 12 days ago. Enters calculations. Second in a similar event over C&D 12 days ago; dangerous with a repeat.
9
7th (9) (5/1 -43%) Spanish Angel
5
5/1(-43%)
(9) Spanish Angel 5/1, Modest gelding. C&D winner. 13/2, bit below form fifth of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 5 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. Has good chance on pick of form. Should be a big force at this level but recent efforts need bettering.
10
8th (10) (12/1 +0%) Stallone
12
12/1(+0%)
(10) Stallone 12/1, Modest gelding. 3-time C&D winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2024. Ninth of 11 in minor event (18/1) at this C&D 12 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Two C&D wins in 2024, including this race; sharper for recent run; contender.
2
9th (2) (16/1 +20%) Ben Dikduk
16
16/1(+20%)
(2) Ben Dikduk 16/1, One win from 22 Flat runs. Sixth of 9 in handicap at this course (6f, 40/1) 13 days ago. Opposable. Recent efforts none too inspiring and dropping back to 5f isn't sure to suit.
4
10th (4) (18/1 +18%) Borough
18
18/1(+18%)
(4) Borough 18/1, Poor gelding. Fifteen runs since last win in 2023. Eighth of 11 in minor event (66/1) at this C&D 12 days ago, merely closing up late. Easy to look elsewhere. Should be making a big impact at this level but slow starts are a recurring theme.
3
11th (3) (33/1 -32%) Birdie Bowers
33
33/1(-32%)
(3) Birdie Bowers 33/1, Modest gelding. Two wins from 41 Flat runs. Twenty runs since last win in 2022. Twelfth of 14 in handicap at Redcar (6f, good to firm, 20/1). Off 6 months and he's probably worth taking on. Losing run stands at 20 and ran poorly when last seen six months ago; risky.
7
12th (7) (18/1 -80%) Rockley Point
18
18/1(-80%)
(7) Rockley Point 18/1, Modest gelding. 4-time course winner. Creditable fifth of 11 in minor event (33/1) at this C&D 12 days ago. Visor back on. Each-way shout. Veteran who should give his running but doesn't look in the form required to win.
ARLINGTON was only worn down late in the piece when going from the front and finishing second over C&D last time out, and his good record at this track is a big plus as he looks to notch up a third career success. That may be at the main expense of Spanish Angel and Stroxx, who was a highly creditable second at Southwell last week. Others to note include Henery Hawk, Rockley Point and Stallone.
SPANISH ANGEL is the pick at the weights and didn't perform at all badly when fifth at Wolverhampton recently. He gets the nod ahead of Arlington, who put in a good shift in a similar event over this C&D earlier in the month, while Rockley Point may also have a part to play.
Last year's winner STALLONE can reverse recent C&D placings with Arlington. Henery Hawk is feared most.
(5) Philippa's Choice 13/2, Fell on her only start in points but showed ability in a bumper at Chepstow on Rules debut in November. Entitled to come on for that run and she's a plausible each-way candidate. 4th on bumper debut at Chepstow and that form has worked out very well; a possible.
10
2nd (10) (9/1 +25%) Slack Alice
9
9/1(+25%)
(10) Slack Alice 9/1, Bred to improve with age and has looked a work in progress so far, albeit her latest effort at Stratford was a step forward from her debut. Likely to benefit from a stiffer test in due course. Ran okay when fourth on second start but needs to take another step forward.
2
3rd (2) (10/3 +100%) Diamonds Galore
3.333333
10/3(+100%)
(2) Diamonds Galore 10/3, Could finish only sixth of 11 on debut at Warwick in November but wasn't knocked about that day and she showed the benefit of that experience when runner-up at Uttoxeter on New Year's Eve. Likely to make a bold bid to go one better here. Runner-up at Uttoxeter on second start and holds leading claims for top yard.
3
4th (3) (10/3 +58%) Dramatic Encore
3.333333
10/3(+58%)
(3) Dramatic Encore 10/3, Purchased for £65,000 after reaching the frame both starts in Irish points. Beaten 17 lengths when fourth of 9 on Rules debut in a Southwell bumper but was left with plenty to do and wasn't given a hard time. Likely to leave that well behind in time. Well-beaten fourth on bumper debut but took on males in what looked a warm race; chance.
6
5th (6) (28/1 -12%) Polkaface
28
28/1(-12%)
(6) Polkaface 28/1, Half-sister to numerous winners, including smart 2m hurdler Cockney Sparrow and fairly useful hurdler Dino Mite. Hasn't pulled up any trees in a couple of runs so far and she's opposable. Improvement when 5th at Wetherby; bred to do better still but others have stronger claims.
8
6th (8) (8/1 -23%) Walkingtheline
8
8/1(-23%)
(8) Walkingtheline 8/1, From the family of a useful chaser and has shown ability in making the frame in a couple of Uttoxeter bumpers. Will need to raise her game if she's to make it third time lucky but minor place money is a distinct possibility. In the frame at Uttoxeter on both starts and may not be far away.
1
7th (1) (11/1 -38%) Barford Groover
11
11/1(-38%)
(1) Barford Groover 11/1, Left inauspicious debut well behind when ¾-length second to Push The Button in a bumper at Bangor in April 2023. Subsequent absence has to be a concern ahead of this yard debut but the horse that beat her at Bangor has subsequently made up into a pretty useful hurdler. Not discounted. Went close when 150-1 at Bangor in April 2023 but absent since; watch the betting.
9
8th (9) (12/1 +33%) Astra Luna
12
12/1(+33%)
(9) Astra Luna 12/1, Half-sister to 3 winners and hinted at ability when seventh in an 11-runner Ludlow bumper on debut last month. Will be more street-wise this time but others make more appeal for win purposes all the same. From in-form Flat yard but failed to threaten on debut at Ludlow; improvement is needed.
DIAMONDS GALORE built on her sixth-placed debut at Warwick when second at Uttoxeter last month. The five-year-old is heading in the right direction and she's taken to further enhance Nicky Henderson's decent strike-rate in bumpers. Philippa's Choice offered something to work with when fourth on her Rules bow at Chepstow in November and the five-year-old may serve the most resistance to the selection, ahead of Walkingtheline.
This represents a good opportunity for DIAMONDS GALORE, who stepped up on what she showed first time out when finding just one too strong at Uttoxeter and should prove hard to beat. Dramatic Encore's introduction at Southwell was encouraging and, with improvement on the cards, she is preferred to Barford Groover and Walkingtheline for forecast purposes.
With the form of her bumper debut fourth at Chepstow having worked out very well, PHILIPPA'S CHOICE is the selection.
(6) Carrigmoorna Beech 7/4, Blue Bresil filly. Half-sister to bumper winner/fairly useful 2½m hurdle winner Carrigmoorna Queen and bumper winner Carrigmoornaspruce. Likely type on paper and one to take seriously on debut. Daughter of Blue Bresil, related to bumper winners, in good hands, interesting.
1
2nd (1) (11/2 +54%) Answer That
5.5
11/2(+54%)
(1) Answer That 11/2, Holy Roman Emperor gelding. Dam 1¼m winner. 14,000 euros 2yo, dam 1m2f winner, yard 10-65 in bumpers last five seasons, check market.
5
3rd (5) (33/1 -32%) Tradonthebay
33
33/1(-32%)
(5) Tradonthebay 33/1, Snow Sky gelding. Dam unraced. Snow Sky gelding, yard is 0-25 in bumpers in the last five seasons, others appeal more.
3
4th (3) (11/8 -141%) Reckless
1.375
11/8(-141%)
(3) Reckless 11/8, €160,000 3-y-o, Doctor Dino gelding. Half-brother to numerous winners on Flat. Dam French 1¼m/10.5f winner. Yard among the winners in bumpers and he's got to be the starting point. 160,000 euros 3yo, half-brother to five Flat winners, top yard, likely type on debut.
4
5th (4) (8/1 +27%) Silly Mongoose
8
8/1(+27%)
(4) Silly Mongoose 8/1, Decorated Knight gelding. Dam lightly raced on Flat. Decorated Knight gelding, doesn't make much appeal on paper, best watched on debut.
2
6th (2) (16/1 -14%) Eastern Blue Bird
16
16/1(-14%)
(2) Eastern Blue Bird 16/1, Retirement Plan gelding. Brother to bumper winner/fair 2½m hurdle winner Lady Bluebird. Brother to bumper winner, yard has poor strike rate in this sphere, probably best watched.
LTO Selection:
No form to go on here and RECKLESS may prove the pick for leading connections. The Gordon Elliott-trained Doctor Dino gelding cost 165,000 euro at the Arkle sale last year and is a half-brother to a Listed winner on the Flat in France. Carrigmoorna Beech appeals on pedigree and is another to note. Declan Queally has won two bumpers this season with her half-sister Carrigmoornaspruce. Eastern Blue Bird is a full-brother to a bumper winner, Lady Bluebird, and is another of interest on breeding.
No form to go on and the betting might be revealing, RECKLESS and Carrigmoorna Beech the two obvious ones on paper.
The well-bred CARRIGMOORNA BEECH makes plenty of appeal on paper and it would be no surprise were she to make a winning debut
(2) Blast The Dream 8/15, Twice-raced maiden. Second of 8 in novice at Lingfield (8f, AW, 8/13) 50 days ago. Sets the standard and should be able to open her account. Turned over at short odds last time but did enough to set the standard in this field.
6
2nd (6) (9/1 +18%) Oceans Charm
9
9/1(+18%)
(6) Oceans Charm 9/1, Once-raced maiden. 20/1, fifth of 7 in novice at Wolverhampton (6.1f) on debut. Off 122 days. Significantly up in trip. More needed. Seemed to find 6f too sharp at Wolverhampton; open to improvement upped in trip.
5
3rd (5) (12/1 -9%) Kubey
12
12/1(-9%)
(5) Kubey 12/1, Once-raced maiden. 12/1 and hooded, seventh of 9 in novice at Wolverhampton (7.2f) on debut 34 days ago, held back by inexperience. Bred to do better. Ruined her chance by blowing the start at Wolverhampton; bred to do much better.
4
4th (4) (7/2 -5%) Florida Dawn
3.5
7/2(-5%)
(4) Florida Dawn 7/2, Raven's Pass filly. Dam, 7f-1m winner, half-sister to smart 1m-1¼m winner Dark Orchid. From a good family and is a notable newcomer in a weak race. Newcomer by Raven's Pass out of a Listed-placed 7f/1m AW winner; interesting.
1
5th (1) (12/1 +14%) Astral Sea
12
12/1(+14%)
(1) Astral Sea 12/1, Twice-raced maiden. 15/2, eighth of 9 in novice at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 34 days ago. Others make more appeal. Needs improvement to get off the mark; more interesting in handicaps soon.
8
6th (8) (80/1 -100%) Time For Dessert
80
80/1(-100%)
(8) Time For Dessert 80/1, 11,000 gns foal, Time Test filly. Half-sister to 3 winners, including useful 2-y-o 6f winner St Barths and 17f winner Havisham. Dam unraced. Mixed pedigree but worth a market check. 11,000gns foal; by Time Test; stable not noted for debut scorers.
3
7th (3) (80/1 -60%) Ejuna
80
80/1(-60%)
(3) Ejuna 80/1, Once-raced maiden. 150/1, last of 6 in conditions stakes at Salisbury (6f, good to soft) on debut. Off 112 days. Significantly up in trip. Hooded for 1st time. Fitting of hood needs to have a major calming effect.
This doesn't look the deepest race and BLAST THE DREAM looks well capable of taking advantage. Roger Varian's well-bred filly found only one rival too good over a mile at Lingfield last month and she could prove tough to stop. Florida Dawn, a daughter of Raven's Pass, is an interesting newcomer, while Kubey and Oceans Charm should step forward from their first outings.
BLAST THE DREAM improved when runner-up at Lingfield last time and connections appear to have found a weak event for her. Newcomer Florida Dawn might be the danger.
The pick of the runners with experience is Lingfield runner-up BLAST THE DREAM. Interesting newcomer Florida Dawn is feared most.
(5) Spirit Of Jura 7/2, Lightly-raced winner. 10/3, career best when winning 8-runner novice at Chelmsford City (8f) 12 days ago. Longer trip is in her facour and she's the type to do better again, so big player. Could well build on her Chelmsford novice win; bred to be suited by this new trip.
3
2nd (3) (9/4 +55%) Hippocratic Oath
2.25
9/4(+55%)
(3) Hippocratic Oath 9/4, Course winner. Three wins from 7 runs last year. Latest win at Wolverhampton in December. 11/4, third of 4 in handicap at Kempton (8f) 15 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Not dismissed. 3-3 on Tapeta but looks a doubtful stayer on breeding over this new trip.
1
3rd (1) (6/4 +75%) Edge Ofthe Unknown
1.5
6/4(+75%)
(1) Edge Ofthe Unknown 6/4, Twice-raced winner. Third of 8 in novice (10/3) at this course (8.1f) 40 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Looked promising on debut and isn't one to write off. Twice-raced colt who remains open to progress; interesting, even off top weight.
4
4th (4) (5/1 +0%) Magna Gee Gee
5
5/1(+0%)
(4) Magna Gee Gee 5/1, Lightly-raced winner. Career best when winning 7-runner nursery at Wolverhampton (9.5f, 14/1) 33 days ago, well positioned. Going the right way and merits respect. Narrow win at Wolverhampton last month on handicap debut; may have more to offer.
MANARA was doing her best work late on when coming clear of her rivals over an extended 1m1f at Wolverhampton recently and, upped 7lb with her stamina drawn out further, she gets the vote to bring up a four-timer. Hippocratic Oath was last seen finishing third over a mile at Kempton and he merits respect, while the unexposed Edge Ofthe Unknown also commands attention making his handicap debut.
MANARA has been on a steep upward curve since switched to nurseries/handicaps and, having been well on top at the finish when completing the hat-trick at Wolverhampton recently, she's well fancied to add to her sequence. Spirit of Jura is also progressing and looks the main danger ahead of Magna Gee Gee.
Most of the runners are still open to further improvement. The percentage call goes to SPIRIT OF JURA, ahead of Edge Ofthe Unknown.
(1) Ash Wednesday 4/9, Career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 4/7) 5 days ago. Thriving at present and will be hard to beat in his hat-trick bid under a penalty. Unlucky at Wolverhampton on Boxing Day; two easy wins there since; 5lb higher in future.
3
2nd (3) (11/1 +8%) Billy Mcgarry
11
11/1(+8%)
(3) Billy Mcgarry 11/1, Course winner. Three wins from 11 runs last year. Seventh of 10 in handicap at this course (8.1f, 28/1) 20 days ago. Must improve on recent efforts. Three wins in the first half of 2024; not in the same form of late.
7
3rd (7) (40/1 -100%) Vivency
40
40/1(-100%)
(7) Vivency 40/1, Sixteen runs since last win in 2022. Seventh of 11 in handicap (66/1) at Chelmsford City (7f) 75 days ago. Form has gone weak and her long losing spell continues.
2
4th (2) (33/1 +0%) Vixey
33
33/1(+0%)
(2) Vixey 33/1, 28/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 26 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Others make more appeal. Chance depends on how well she responds to first-time tongue-tie.
5
5th (5) (5/1 +44%) Flash The Dash
5
5/1(+44%)
(5) Flash The Dash 5/1, Bit below form sixth of 12 in handicap (17/2) at Newcastle (7.1f) 37 days ago. Should strip fitter for latest effort and has slipped to a handy mark, so not ruled out with hood back on. Ran well over C&D a year ago on last Southwell attempt; fighting chance.
6
6th (6) (16/1 -60%) Laura's Breeze
16
16/1(-60%)
(6) Laura's Breeze 16/1, C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2024. 14/1, below form sixth of 10 in handicap at this course (6.1f) 19 days ago. Needs to get back on track. Scored off 11lb higher over C&D last March; solid record under Billy Loughnane.
4
7th (4) (13/2 -18%) King Of York
6.5
13/2(-18%)
(4) King Of York 13/2, C&D winner. Two wins from 42 Flat runs. 12/1, good third of 11 in handicap at this C&D 9 days ago. Worthy of interest. Encouraging effort last week; possibilities off a stone below last winning mark.
8
8th (8) (150/1 -200%) Queen For Adaay
150
150/1(-200%)
(8) Queen For Adaay 150/1, Visored for 1st time, seventh of 11 in handicap at this course (6.1f, 80/1), slowly away. Off 150 days. Hard to make a case for. 0-8 and yet to finish in the first five.
ASH WEDNESDAY completed a double in ready fashion at Wolverhampton last week and the suspicion is that a 5lb penalty may not be enough to anchor him here. King Of York showed signs of a revival when finishing third over C&D recently and, off an unchanged mark, he could put up the most resistance, while Flash The Dash is another to consider.
ASH WEDNESDAY is progressing fast and had plenty in hand at Wolverhampton 5 days ago, so he's hard to oppose under a penalty as he bids for a quick hat-trick. King of York looks the main threat and Flash The Dash is expected to be back on his game with a recent run under his belt.
Provided he takes to Southwell, ASH WEDNESDAY should be capable of adding to his Wolverhampton wins. Laura's Breeze is second pick.
(5) Reginald Charles 7/2, Remains a maiden after 16 Flat runs. 16/1, last of 11 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f). Off 12 months. Significantly down in trip. First run for yard after leaving Bryan Smart. Inconsistent maiden for Bryan Smart; absent since last January; market can guide.
3
2nd (3) (6/4 +25%) Portoro
1.5
6/4(+25%)
(3) Portoro 6/4, Latest win at Kempton in December. 9/2, good third of 12 in handicap at this course (6.1f) 26 days ago. Weighted to go well back up to 7f. Currently in a consistent vein of form; registered a solid 7f win on penultimate start.
8
3rd (8) (18/1 -29%) Fistral Beach
18
18/1(-29%)
(8) Fistral Beach 18/1, 80/1, fair fifth of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 80 days ago. Can give a good account. Seemed to post one of her better efforts last time but isn't sure to back it up.
7
4th (7) (12/1 +14%) Available Angel
12
12/1(+14%)
(7) Available Angel 12/1, Twenty three runs since last win in 2022. 10/1, ninth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 28 days ago. Others more persuasive. Made the frame twice in November; lesser efforts since, taking AW record to 0-22.
1
5th (1) (7/2 -56%) Valadero
3.5
7/2(-56%)
(1) Valadero 7/2, Remains a maiden after 20 Flat runs. Solid fifth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 11/2) 34 days ago. Blinkers back on. Not taken lightly. Still a maiden but has several pieces of respectable AW form; possibilities off this mark.
2
6th (2) (18/1 +10%) War Memorial
18
18/1(+10%)
(2) War Memorial 18/1, 50/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at this course (8.1f) 20 days ago so has work to do. Form has dipped sharply since joining current stable and switched to AW.
4
7th (4) (6/1 -50%) Angel Of The Bay
6
6/1(-50%)
(4) Angel Of The Bay 6/1, Below form fifth of 10 in handicap (7/2) at Redcar (7f, soft). Off 97 days. Cheekpieces back on. Needs a couple of these to falter. Disappointing in retained blinkers the last twice; could rebound in refitted cheekpieces.
6
8th (6) (100/1 -100%) Devilwala
100
100/1(-100%)
(6) Devilwala 100/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. Tenth of 11 in handicap (80/1) at Wolverhampton (6.1f) 24 days ago. Has a string of duck eggs next to his name; difficult to support.
In a moderate event, PORTORO stands out having won over 7f off just 2lb lower at Kempton in December and he was only beaten a couple of lengths when third over an inadequate 6f here on his sole subsequent start. That form gives him the edge over Valadero, who has been running well enough in defeat of late to suggest that he can go well in a race of this nature. Angel Of The Bay is the pick of the remainder.
PORTORO rates the pick of the weights and with this return to 7f likely to suit he looks the way to go. In-form maiden Valadero appeals as the one to chase him home ahead of fellow maiden Fistral Beach.
Solid recent winner PORTORO (nap) holds the strongest chance. Valadero, who brings some positives, is feared most.
(8) Bajan Bandit 11/1, Eleven runs since last win in 2023. 9/4, last of 9 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 83 days ago. Others more persuasive. Remains well handicapped on best turf form; second AW attempt.
3
2nd (3) (17/2 -21%) Lerwick
8.5
17/2(-21%)
(3) Lerwick 17/2, Latest win at Beverley in August. Hooded for 1st time, seventh of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f, 3/1) 12 days ago. Back down in trip. Blinkers on 1st time now. Close second over C&D in October; good chance if he takes to blinkers.
4
3rd (4) (3/1 +14%) Hitched
3
3/1(+14%)
(4) Hitched 3/1, Three wins from 10 runs last year. Latest win at Lingfield in January. 3/1, very good second of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 5 days ago. Big shout off an unchanged mark. Form figures of 1113212 since November; due to go up 2lb in future.
6
4th (6) (5/1 +38%) Cavalry Call
5
5/1(+38%)
(6) Cavalry Call 5/1, Winner at Yarmouth in September. 9/1, eighth of 11 in handicap at Newcastle (8f) 48 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Best AW form when close second on two occasions; could go well.
12
5th (12) (18/1 -13%) Flag Of St George
18
18/1(-13%)
(12) Flag Of St George 18/1, Finished 2-y-o campaign out of form and below best confined to just 2 outings last year, off 8 months before finishing tenth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 28 days ago. Others stronger. Has enough to prove upped further in distance.
9
6th (9) (16/1 +20%) Chuzzlewit
16
16/1(+20%)
(9) Chuzzlewit 16/1, Eleven runs since last win in 2024. 11/1, seventh of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f) 42 days ago. Back down in trip. Something to find on form. On a handy mark but has a doubt over current form.
2
7th (2) (40/1 -60%) Encourageable
40
40/1(-60%)
(2) Encourageable 40/1, 33/1, tenth of 11 in handicap at this course (7.1f) 8 days ago. Blinkers on 1st time. Chance depends on how well he responds to first-time blinkers.
10
8th (10) (10/1 0%) King's School
10
10/1(0%)
(10) King's School 10/1, Latest win at Newcastle in December. 9/2, below form third of 7 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f) 9 days ago, slowly away. Can give a good account if shrugging off latest effort. Consistent at Newcastle (mostly over 7f) since September.
11
9th (11) (17/2 +15%) Gincident
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(11) Gincident 17/2, Fifteen runs since last win in 2023. 5/2, bit below form fifth of 10 in handicap at this C&D 25 days ago, racing off the pace and never dangerous. Has fallen to a workable mark but he's not been shaping like a winner in waiting. No win since 2023 but remains attractively treated on best form.
5
10th (5) (11/1 -120%) Grabajabba
11
11/1(-120%)
(5) Grabajabba 11/1, Course winner. Two wins from 3 runs last year. Won 5-runner novice (1/3) at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 24 days ago, slowly away. Makes handicap debut and not taken lightly. Record is 2-3; interesting handicap debutant, assuming he stays new trip.
1
11th (1) (7/2 +50%) Bowood
3.5
7/2(+50%)
(1) Bowood 7/2, Three wins from 14 runs last year. Latest win at Nottingham in August. 5/2, fourth of 6 in handicap at Lingfield (8f, AW) 14 days ago, not ideally placed. Enters calculations. 0-13 on AW but went close twice over C&D in December; fighting chance.
7
12th (7) (66/1 -164%) First Kiss
66
66/1(-164%)
(7) First Kiss 66/1, Lightly-raced winner. 33/1, first run since leaving John & Thady Gosden when eighth of 10 in handicap at this C&D 25 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Won her final start for the Gosdens; not so good over C&D since.
Grabajabba arrives here following two victories in novice company last month and has to be respected. That said, a mark of 77 on his handicap bow is stiff enough and preference is for HITCHED, who scored at Lingfield two starts ago and only found one too good off this mark at Wolverhampton last Saturday. The five-year-old is 2lb well-in here and that could prove to be vital. Others to note are Bowood and Cavalry Call.
HITCHED arrives at the top of his game so is fancied to quickly resume winning ways off the same mark as when a very good recent Wolverhampton second. Handicap debutant Grabajabba is feared most in his hat-trick bid, with Bowood also weighted to have a say.
The return to Southwell looks a plus for BOWOOD and Lerwick. Also shortlisted are Hitched and Grabajabba.
(4) Master Of My Fate 13/8, C&D winner. 5/2, career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Lingfield (5f, AW) 5 days ago, well on top finish. Carries penalty. Thriving and looks the one to beat. Has won three of his last four races; well treated under a penalty (5lb higher in future).
6
2nd (6) (7/2 +46%) Dark Kestrel
3.5
7/2(+46%)
(6) Dark Kestrel 7/2, Latest win at Newcastle in October. Below form third of 7 in handicap (3/1) at Newcastle (5f) 15 days ago. Had been shaping up quite well prior to latest effort, so not one to write off. Raced mainly at a lower level but is in a consistent vein of form; could go well.
1
3rd (1) (9/2 +31%) Hiya Maite
4.5
9/2(+31%)
(1) Hiya Maite 9/2, C&D winner. 11/2, sixth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 44 days ago. Hasn't quite been firing but is a danger if allowed his own way in front. Below best here the last twice, so doesn't look as if he's likely to defy top weight.
3
4th (3) (4/1 -14%) Jumbeau
4
4/1(-14%)
(3) Jumbeau 4/1, Creditable fifth of 10 in handicap at Haydock (5f, good, 15/2). Off 138 days. Makes tapeta debut. Had plenty of solid form in the summer and makes appeal returning from a break. Ran creditably in notable turf handicap on last appearance; interesting back down in grade.
2
4th (2) (9/1 -125%) Blind Beggar
9
9/1(-125%)
(2) Blind Beggar 9/1, Course winner. 15/2, creditable third of 9 in handicap at Chelmsford City (6f) 12 days ago. Should give another good account but others look slightly better treated. Ran creditably over 6f the last twice; solid claims with the drop back to 5f no issue.
5
6th (5) (33/1 -65%) Dashing Harry
33
33/1(-65%)
(5) Dashing Harry 33/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in November. Last of 7 in handicap at this C&D (15/2) 6 days ago. Others are more appealing. All wins in Class 5; unconvincing results in Class 4 of late; something to prove.
The progressive MASTER OF MY FATE appeared to have plenty in hand when winning over 5f at Lingfield last Saturday and the four-year-old is 5lb well-in here, despite having to carry a 5lb penalty. With that in mind, he tops the shortlist ahead of the recent Chelmsford third Blind Beggar. Jumbeau edges out Dark Kestrel to be best of the rest.
MASTER OF MY FATE is a thriving sprinter who had something up his sleeve when scoring in uncomplicated fashion at Lingfield 5 days ago and he makes most appeal as he bids to make it four wins from five starts. Jumbeau is an interesting opponent back from a break and another solid showing is expected from Blind Beggar.
Progressive MASTER OF MY FATE is ahead of the assessor and may well win again. Jumbeau is feared most.
(5) Star Chorus 15/2, Lightly-raced maiden. Seventh of 8 in handicap (3/1) at Newcastle (5f) 15 days ago, slowly away. Needs a couple of these to falter. Related to winners for his connections; may yet hit the target.
4
2nd (4) (9/4 +65%) Blinky
2.25
9/4(+65%)
(4) Blinky 9/4, Raced too freely when last of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (5f, 11/4) 15 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time and not written off at these weights. Disappointing last time; could rebound if he takes well to headgear.
7
3rd (7) (7/1 -133%) Fallen Soldier
7
7/1(-133%)
(7) Fallen Soldier 7/1, Still a maiden but he posted a very good second of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (5f) 15 days ago, just failing. Merits serious consideration. Still a maiden but went very close at Newcastle most recently.
6
4th (6) (18/1 -227%) Kiss Me My Love
18
18/1(-227%)
(6) Kiss Me My Love 18/1, Good third of 8 in nursery at Lingfield (6f, AW, 7/2) 23 days ago, having run of race. Much respected on her tapeta debut. Ran creditably switched to AW last time and could build on that effort.
2
5th (2) (15/8 +77%) Winchurch
1.875
15/8(+77%)
(2) Winchurch 15/8, C&D winner. Latest win at Musselburgh in August. Seventh of 9 in handicap at Newcastle (6f, 20/1) 6 days ago so needs to bounce back. Solid second at this course in most recent 5f start; not ruled out.
3
6th (3) (7/1 -75%) Em Four
7
7/1(-75%)
(3) Em Four 7/1, Thrice-raced winner. 12/1, won 7-runner maiden at Chelmsford City (6f) 14 days ago, having run of race. Makes handicap debut and needs considering. Thrice-raced colt who won last time and is open to further improvement.
1
7th (1) (12/1 -71%) Kinetic Force
12
12/1(-71%)
(1) Kinetic Force 12/1, Lightly-raced winner. 9/2, creditable second of 11 in novice at Lingfield (5f, good to firm). Off 6 months. Makes tapeta/handicap debut with more needed. May be one to catch fresh (won on debut); interesting on reappearance.
FALLEN SOLDIER produced a better effort to only be denied by a nose into second at Newcastle earlier in the month and the handicapper might have been kind to only put him up 1lb. The son of Soldier's Call may only need to repeat that level of performance in order to go one better. Kiss Me My Love made the frame at Lingfield on New Year's Eve and is likely to be on the premises, along with Star Chorus.
FALLEN SOLDIER has yet to get his head in front but comes here on the back of a very good Newcastle second last time out, so edges the vote in this open-looking sprint. In-form Kiss Me My Love could emerge as the main danger on her tapeta bow with the handily-weighted Blinky another to consider now fitted with cheekpieces.
There could well be more to come from EM FOUR, who gets the vote ahead of fellow handicap debutant Kinetic Force.
(5) Further Measure 13/2, Latest win at Lingfield in January. Good fourth of 7 to Two Plus Two in handicap (2/1) at Wolverhampton (14f) 10 days ago, caught further back than ideal. Merits consideration. Recent Lingfield winner and the race didn't pan out for him at Wolverhampton.
2
2nd (2) (4/1 +56%) Addosh
4
4/1(+56%)
(2) Addosh 4/1, 14/1, respectable fifth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Fakenham (20f, good to soft) 4 days ago. Can give a good account. Well held over hurdles four days ago but she's a capable staying mare at this level.
7
3rd (7) (4/1 +56%) Arch Legend
4
4/1(+56%)
(7) Arch Legend 4/1, 7/2 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, only eighth of 10 to Further Measure in handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 20 days ago. Others more persuasive. Dual 1m4f winner who stays this far; cheekpieces tried last time are dispensed with.
6
4th (6) (40/1 -21%) Edna E Mode
40
40/1(-21%)
(6) Edna E Mode 40/1, Lightly-raced maiden on Flat. First run since leaving Stuart Edmunds when respectable sixth of 10 in handicap (66/1) at Wolverhampton (14f) 33 days ago. One to consider. Struggled over 1m6f at Wolverhampton last month on debut for this yard.
8
5th (8) (13/2 +54%) Sir Joseph Swan
6.5
13/2(+54%)
(8) Sir Joseph Swan 13/2, C&D winner. 14/1, creditable fifth of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (16.6f) 5 days ago, needing stiffer test. Not ruled out. Infrequent winner and was never that threatening at Wolverhampton last weekend.
9
6th (9) (14/1 -155%) Two Plus Two
14
14/1(-155%)
(9) Two Plus Two 14/1, Career best when winning 7-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (14f, 16/1) 10 days ago, well positioned. Not taken lightly. Escapes a penalty for his Wolverhampton win when always in the right place.
3
7th (3) (20/1 -43%) Dark Agent
20
20/1(-43%)
(3) Dark Agent 20/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 14/1, good fourth of 9 in handicap at Newcastle (16.2f) 13 days ago. Ought to be in the shake-up. His handicap debut was better but he still didn't convince over this longer distance.
1
|PU| (1) (3/1 -33%) Forge Valley Lad
3
3/1(-33%)
(1) Forge Valley Lad 3/1, Improved on recent efforts to win 7-runner handicap (2/1) at Lingfield (12f, AW) 10 days ago. Scored with a bit in hand there so big shout under a 4 lb penalty stepped up in trip. Bang in form after two 1m4f wins but his stamina for 2m is unproven.
4
|PU| (4) (7/1 +50%) Young Endless
7
7/1(+50%)
(4) Young Endless 7/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 8 runs last year. Seventh of 9 in handicap (22/1) at this course (12.1f) 20 days ago. Significantly back up in trip. Visor back on. Goes well here but struggled 20 days after a break, albeit over 1m4f.
Forge Valley Lad successfully recorded a double at Lingfield on his most recent start and has a 4lb penalty to contend with. However, the step back up in trip is a slight concern and, with that in mind, TWO PLUS TWO gets the nod. The five-year-old shed his maiden tag in an apprentice handicap over 1m6f at Wolverhampton last time and might be able to kick on now. Further Measure completes the shortlist.
Hat-trick seeking FORGE VALLEY LAD looks the way to go under a 4 lb penalty for his smooth Lingfield success with this longer trip likely to prove within his compass. Further Measure wasn't seen to best effect when fourth behind Two Plus Two at Wolverhampton last time and heads the list of dangers, with Addosh and Dark Agent also in the picture.
This month's Lingfield winner FURTHER MEASURE wasn't seen to best effort when behind Two Plus Two at Wolverhampton.
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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