There were 24 Races on Monday 17th February 2025 across 3 meetings. There was 8 races at Carlisle, 7 races at Southwell, 9 races at Wolverhampton, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Monday 17th February 2025
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(3) C'est Different 15/2, Lightly-raced maiden hurdler who came in seventh of 10 in novice hurdle at Sandown (16f, soft) 24 days ago. Up in trip with more required on his handicap hurdle debut. Soundly beaten thus far but now goes h'capping; Welsh yard is 3-6 at Carlisle; interesting.
5
2nd (5) (9/1 +73%) Wee Alki
9
9/1(+73%)
(5) Wee Alki 9/1, Low-mileage sort who posted his best effort when fifth of 8 in novice hurdle at Kelso (22.7f, good to soft) 50 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time for his handicap hurdle debut. Much respected. Improvement needed on handicap debut but at least it's a first realistic opportunity.
11
3rd (11) (15/2 +73%) Atlanticexpress
7.5
15/2(+73%)
(11) Atlanticexpress 15/2, Respectable ninth of 16 in handicap hurdle at Wetherby (24.1f, soft, 66/1) 52 days ago. Back down in trip. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Wears 1st-time cheekpieces and drops back in trip, but 0-8 and others are more compelling.
6
4th (6) (66/1 -200%) Fancy Nancy Pants
66
66/1(-200%)
(6) Fancy Nancy Pants 66/1, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. 300/1, sixth of 7 in novice hurdle at Catterick (19.3f, good) 26 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut with more required. Has shown little but now goes handicapping off a lowly mark; one to watch in the betting.
1
5th (1) (9/2 -64%) Bishbashbosh
4.5
9/2(-64%)
(1) Bishbashbosh 9/2, Arrives in good nick, fourth of 16 in handicap hurdle at Down Royal (17.2f, soft) 27 days ago when left poorly placed. This Irish challenger can go well again. Irish raider; in good form the last twice; time looks right for the step back up in trip.
9
6th (9) (22/1 +33%) Catcha Flight
22
22/1(+33%)
(9) Catcha Flight 22/1, Modest maiden hurdler. 125/1, below-form eleventh of 18 in handicap hurdle at Ayr (20.4f, soft) 46 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time with work to do. Well beaten at 125-1 at Ayr on h'cap debut; transformation needed in first-time tongue-tie.
4
7th (4) (11/2 +45%) My Lady Elektra
5.5
11/2(+45%)
(4) My Lady Elektra 11/2, Fair ex-French maiden hurdler but yet to fire here, only fifth of 7 in handicap hurdle at Kelso (18.1f, good to soft) 50 days ago. Tongue strap/cheekpieces go on now on the back of a wind op and she needs to step forward. Has had wind op but needs to improve upon her British form to pose a threat.
10
8th (10) (7/2 -27%) Kingston Rock
3.5
7/2(-27%)
(10) Kingston Rock 7/2, Yet to score but he comes here on the back of a good fifth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Newcastle (16.9f, good to soft) 65 days ago. That form has been franked so a bold showing is on the cards off a falling mark. Hasn't run badly on his two starts for this yard but now 0-12 and needs something extra.
8
|PU| (8) (18/1 +78%) Gold Ring
18
18/1(+78%)
(8) Gold Ring 18/1, Arrives out of sorts, tenth of 16 in handicap hurdle at Wetherby (19.7f, heavy) 25 days ago. Others appeal more. Lost his way on the Flat last year and has struggled over hurdles the last twice.
7
|PU| (7) (40/1 -627%) Derracrin
40
40/1(-627%)
(7) Derracrin 40/1, Won over fences at Hexham in May but off since pulled up in handicap chase there following month. Needs to hit the ground running back in this sphere after an absence. Pulled up in June 2023 and absent since but won off this mark over fences that May.
The Irish raider BISHBASHBOSH remains a maiden but her recent efforts in defeat suggest that she could prove to be a class above this moderate field. C'est Different has shown some promise in novice hurdles and should not be discounted on his handicap debut, although he will need to improve to beat the selection. Others to note are Always A Reason and Kingston Rock.
Not as competitive as the numbers suggest and KINGSTON ROCK is taken to build on a good Newcastle fifth last time out to get off the mark. Always A Reason could emerge as the chief threat now handicapping, with in-form Irish raider Bishbashbosh also firmly in the picture. Wee Alki completes the shortlist.
Sam Thomas is 3-6 at Carlisle and C'EST DIFFERENT is taken to make a winning handicap debut, having travelled from South Wales.
(2) How And Ever 11/1, Lightly-raced 7-y-o who made a successful handicap bow over hurdles at Fontwell (21.8f, heavy) a year ago. Pulled up all 3 starts since, however, including both starts over fences this term. Has pulled up in both his chase runs on either side of wind surgery.
1
2nd (1) (4/1 -33%) Ali Star Bert
4
4/1(-33%)
(1) Ali Star Bert 4/1, Two of his 3 wins last season came over this C&D and confirmed his effectiveness around here with 3 good placed efforts this season (below par elsewhere this term). Should go well again. Enhanced his solid record here when a rallying third over this trip two weeks ago.
10
3rd (10) (28/1 +15%) Miami Jim
28
28/1(+15%)
(10) Miami Jim 28/1, Failed to complete in a couple of points and shaped with little promise in a trio of maiden hurdles/handicap chase bow. Pulled up on chase debut; had wind surgery since but much to prove on a few counts.
5
4th (5) (8/1 -7%) Kapamazov
8
8/1(-7%)
(5) Kapamazov 8/1, Modest maiden over hurdles and has run to a similar level all 5 starts over fences, tried in headgear when remote third at Huntingdon latest. Others preferred. Didn't show any improvement when beaten 22l in the new cheekpieces at Huntingdon.
4
5th (4) (4/1 +60%) Big Bee Hive
4
4/1(+60%)
(4) Big Bee Hive 4/1, Won here and Cartmel in the spring. Arrives here on the back of 2 poor efforts but is back on a winning mark now. Usual headgear left off. Started well over fences but has lost his way of late; the handicapper is helping.
3
6th (3) (7/1 -17%) Pearl Island
7
7/1(-17%)
(3) Pearl Island 7/1, Maiden over hurdles but improved with first-time blinkers enlisted when striking at the second attempt in this sphere at Uttoxeter (3m, heavy). Not in same form at Huntingdon since, however, and needs to bounce back. Won in new blinkers at Uttoxeter (3m) and got competitive too far out the last time.
7
7th (7) (50/1 -100%) Archie Brown
50
50/1(-100%)
(7) Archie Brown 50/1, Landed a 3m Market Rasen handicap chase in February 2021 but seen out just 5 times since, well below form each time. Of minimal interest these days. Potentially well handicapped and positives to take from latest 10l defeat at Catterick.
6
|PU| (6) (4/1 -20%) Illogical Logic
4
4/1(-20%)
(6) Illogical Logic 4/1, Fair maiden hurdler/chaser who arrives in good nick, not beaten far in a better race than this at Doncaster last time. Can make his presence felt once more. There are races in him off this mark as he confirmed when a close fourth at Doncaster.
8
|PU| (8) (8/1 +20%) Boleyn Boy
8
8/1(+20%)
(8) Boleyn Boy 8/1, Modest winning hurdler (at 25f) but not matched that level over fences this winter. Mark is easing all the time but he needs to show more before becoming of interest. Headgear applied. Capable hurdler off higher marks but so far not as good over fences; tries cheekpieces.
9
|PU| (9) (12/1 +14%) The Skiffle King
12
12/1(+14%)
(9) The Skiffle King 12/1, Sole win over hurdles came here and just held off Ali Star Bert to make a winning chase debut here (25.8f, soft) in December 2023. Off since and has left Charles & Adam Pogson. Market should reveal expectations. On a competitive mark if as good as he was now kicking off for a new yard.
ALI STAR BERT finished a good third in a deeper event over track and trip earlier in the month and he was kindly dropped 2lb for that performance. Shaun Harris' nine-year-old has two previous C&D victories to his name and has lots in his favour as he bids to record a third. Kapamazov made the frame in first-time cheekpieces at Huntingdon last month and is likely to be on the premises off a 2lb lower rating, while Pearl Island is another to note.
ILLOGICAL LOGIC is taken to finally break his duck having been beaten just over a length in a better race that this at Doncaster last month. Ali Star Bert might not be so consistent as he used to be but it's hard to crab his record at this venue so he rates the main threat.
Henry Daly's PEARL ISLAND got competitive too far out last time so forget that and he's only 3lb higher than for his Uttoxeter win.
(3) Shomen Uchi 9/2, Bumper winner who confirmed abundant promise of his hurdles debut near-miss when landing a maiden at Chepstow (23.6f, good to soft) in good style. That was back in March 2023 and subsequent absence is naturally a concern, but he remains with potential and is one to note now switched to fences. Useful winning hurdler who retains potential but the long absence is an obvious concern.
4
2nd (4) (4/1 +43%) Lunar Discovery
4
4/1(+43%)
(4) Lunar Discovery 4/1, Dual bumper winner who also won a pair of novice hurdles last season. Bettered what she showed on debut in this sphere when second in a 4-runner Ayr handicapr (20.5f, soft) last month, but that form still leaves her some way short of what'll be required to topple Butch on these terms. Capable mare but would appear to be relying on the favourite being off his game.
1
3rd (1) (2/5 +25%) Butch
0.4
2/5(+25%)
(1) Butch 2/5, Progressed into a useful performer over hurdles last term and promises to make an even better chaser, a theory backed up by his successful debut in this sphere at Leicester (2½m, soft). Didn't have much to beat that day but created a fine impression all the same and he's clearly a smart prospect. Useful hurdler who made the most of a straightforward opening on his chase debut.
2
|PU| (2) (80/1 -567%) Barrowdale
80
80/1(-567%)
(2) Barrowdale 80/1, Wide-margin winner of 23f Uttoxeter maiden hurdle in February 2022 and has the look of a real chasing type. However, his jumping looked pretty shaky on debut in this sphere following a mammoth absence at Haydock in December and he has a bit to prove for now. Tailed off in a match on his chase debut and belated return at Haydock two months ago.
LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,
BUTCH readily outclassed his rivals when making a winning start over fences at Leicester in December and Olly Murphy's eight-year-old is hard to oppose once again, despite a 7lb penalty. Lunar Discovery may prove to be the main threat after filling second place at Ayr last month, although Shomen Uchi showed ability over hurdles and could have a say on his return from a 701-day break.
Having impressed with his accurate jumping on chase debut at Leicester, BUTCH should have little trouble following up here before going on to better things. Shomen Uchi has been absent for the best part of two years, but he looked promising in bumpers/over hurdles and it'll be interesting to see how he gets on now tackling the larger obstacles. Lunar Discovery didn't do much wrong on her second chase start at Ayr but she lacks the potential of the aforementioned rivals.
It's difficult to see past Cheltenham entrant BUTCH, a smart hurdler who passed his first test over fences with ease.
(3) Immortal Fame 9/2, Multiple winner over hurdles for Tom Lacey and, on second start for current yard, opened chase account at Ayr in November. Built on that effort when also scoring at Uttoxeter (20f, soft) 23 days ago, showing a good attitude, and he can make another bold bid. Front two were clear last time (under Cameron Iles) so a 6lb rise could be manageable..
8
2nd (8) (5/1 +38%) Militaire
5
5/1(+38%)
(8) Militaire 5/1, Fair maiden hurdler who was prominent in the betting after almost 2 years off (had wind surgery) but pulled up at Lingfield in December. Merely closed up late when fourth of 8 in handicap at Doncaster (19.1f, good to soft) on chase debut, but he could yet do better. Beaten about 7l by Salt Rock last time but he has an 8lb pull with the winner.
4
3rd (4) (22/1 -22%) William Cody
22
22/1(-22%)
(4) William Cody 22/1, Took advantage of a drop back in grade when successful at Huntingdon (19.9f) in November. However, hasn't been able to repeat that effort in 2 subsequent outings, well held at Leicester (20.1f, soft) when last seen 51 days ago. Nowhere near his best the last twice but has bounced back before.
6
4th (6) (14/1 -75%) Doyouknowwhatimean
14
14/1(-75%)
(6) Doyouknowwhatimean 14/1, Scored in the mud on final 2 starts last season and creditable third at Newton Abbot (21f) on return. However, pulled up next time and promised more than he delivered when fourth of 7 at Exeter (17.5f, heavy) last time. Cheekpieces now reached for. Capable chaser; cheekpieces could shake him up and he can cope with this mark.
1
5th (1) (5/1 -150%) Salt Rock
5
5/1(-150%)
(1) Salt Rock 5/1, Point winner who showed promise in 3 starts over hurdles. Quickly sent chasing, made a successful handicap debut at Hereford (16f) in December and followed up at Doncaster (19.1f, good to soft) last month, form which has been boosted since. Leading contender. Has another 6lb rise to deal with but he's 2-2 over fences and clearly progressing.
9
6th (9) (10/1 +70%) Fever Dream
10
10/1(+70%)
(9) Fever Dream 10/1, Winner over hurdles at Perth (23.9f) last summer and shaped well in defeat next 2 outings. Built for chasing but hasn't gone on as hoped over fences so far, never a threat when fifth of 7 in handicap at this C&D (soft) a fortnight ago. More needed. Well treated on hurdling best but he's been very up and down in five chase starts.
7
7th (7) (4/1 +27%) Kayce Dutton
4
4/1(+27%)
(7) Kayce Dutton 4/1, Hurdles winner for Margaret Mullins and best effort for present connections when runner-up in handicap at Huntingdon (19.7f) on second chase start. Again ran well when second at the same course (16.5f, soft) 25 days ago and he could be thereabouts. Won his maiden hurdle over 3m; good chase runs the last twice at 2m4f and 2m.
5
8th (5) (13/2 +28%) Kaituna River
6.5
13/2(+28%)
(5) Kaituna River 13/2, Point winner and fair winning hurdler who matched that level on chase debut when runner-up in handicap at this C&D in December. Wasn't in the same form last time, though, fourth of 5 at Huntingdon (23.6f, soft) 46 days ago. Needs to get back on the up. Never travelling last time but his previous 10l second over C&D makes him a player.
2
|F| (2) (17/2 +39%) Ostend
8.5
17/2(+39%)
(2) Ostend 17/2, Maiden hurdle winner for Peter Croke in Ireland and wasn't disgraced in an Ascot handicap on debut for new yard a year ago. After 9 months off, mid-field at Bangor (20.3f, soft) on chase debut in November, but took a backward step at Uttoxeter last time. Poor latest run but had made a respectable start for this yard; possibilities.
SALT ROCK is unbeaten in two starts over fences, with his latest victory coming in convincing fashion at Doncaster last month. The seven-year-old could have plenty more improvement in him and can defy a 6lb rise to continue his rise in the ranks. Immortal Fame went in by half a length at Uttoxeter on his most recent start and should mount a bold bid in his attempt to complete a hat-trick, despite a 6lb higher mark today. Of the remainder, Doyouknowwhatimean makes the most appeal in first-time cheekpieces.
SALT ROCK has made an encouraging start to his chasing career, jumping accurately and well on top at the finish when scoring at Hereford last time, and he can continue his progress to make it 3 from 3 in this sphere. Immortal Fame also arrives bidding for a hat-trick and is feared most, ahead of Kayce Dutton.
A few with chances but SALT ROCK (nap) could be a chaser on the upgrade and he's taken to concede weight all round.
(3) Malicash 5/4, Fair form in bumpers for Ewan Whillans and made a positive start over hurdles for new connections when second of 10 in 17f course novice in October. Two lesser efforts followed in November but claims if a subsequent wind operation sparks a return to form. Hasn't kicked on from hurdle debut 2nd here, but wind op could help him get back on track.
8
2nd (8) (9/2 +44%) See A Stride
4.5
9/2(+44%)
(8) See A Stride 9/2, Ex-Irish mare who has performed respectably in a couple of Musselburgh handicap hurdles for her new yard this winter. Ought to be competitive back in a maiden. 0-12 and limited, but respectable runs in handicaps the last twice; can give good account.
5
3rd (5) (9/4 -64%) Saint Malinas
2.25
9/4(-64%)
(5) Saint Malinas 9/4, £60,000 point recruit who made an encouraging start to his hurdle career when 6 lengths second at Hexham (2½m, soft) in December. Big player with improvement on the cards. Point winner who was runner-up on hurdle debut at Hexham and has leading claims.
7
4th (7) (66/1 -267%) Merry Shuil
66
66/1(-267%)
(7) Merry Shuil 66/1, 100/1 when well held in a Punchestown bumper for Leonard Flynn last January. Joined an in-form stable for his hurdle career but would need to see market support to consider. Wears a first-time hood. Well beaten at 100-1 in sole Irish bumper but in a hot race; check betting on stable debut.
2
5th (2) (13/2 -8%) Ki Woo
6.5
13/2(-8%)
(2) Ki Woo 13/2, Fair maiden hurdler in France but ran below that level when sixth of 11 in 2m Uttoxeter maiden for new yard in December. The tongue tie he wore on all starts goes back on now. Went close in France last April; soundly beaten the next twice but not written off.
1
6th (1) (12/1 -33%) Jomig Des Bois
12
12/1(-33%)
(1) Jomig Des Bois 12/1, £45,000 buy after winning point in Ireland in October 2021 but not seen again until finishing seventh of 12 in a 17f course novice hurdle last February. More than hinted at ability on that occasion but absent again since. 8yo who has raced just twice; won a 3m point on debut and each-way possibilities today.
6
7th (6) (125/1 -25%) Uncertain Terms
125
125/1(-25%)
(6) Uncertain Terms 125/1, Maiden pointer who was well beaten in a couple of maiden hurdles last month. Likely booked for another struggle. Displayed ability in points but tailed off at big odds last month on first two hurdle runs.
4
|PU| (4) (250/1 -67%) Present For Me
250
250/1(-67%)
(4) Present For Me 250/1, Offered little in 3 bumpers in 2023. Has a hood added now hurdling after an absence. Outsider. Tailed off in three bumpers in 2023; absent since; now goes hurdling.
SAINT MALINAS was purchased for 60,000 pounds after winning between the flags in Ireland last year and the six-year-old showed promise when second on his Rules debut at Hexham in December. With the benefit of that outing, he could take plenty of stopping in a weak event. Malicash has not built on a promising hurdling bow over 2m1f here in October but may improve for a recent wind operation. See A Stride is next best.
This looks a decent chance for SAINT MALINAS to build on his promising hurdle debut second at Hexham in December. If a recent breathing operation helps Malicash to recapture the form he showed when second here in the autumn he could pose the main threat ahead of See A Stride.
Point winner SAINT MALINAS was second on his hurdle debut at Hexham in December and this looks a good opportunity to go one better.
(7) Unjeu Royal 10/3, €52,000 Jeu St Eloi gelding. Half-brother to French chasers Koriste and Gue du Loup. Dam French hurdler/chaser (17f -21f winner). The Lacey yard has had a few winners over the years but is 0-10 this season. 52,000euros 3yo; has a French jumps pedigree; sole newcomer in the field.
2
2nd (2) (9/4 +0%) Nazare
2.25
9/4(+0%)
(2) Nazare 9/4, Second on C&D debut in December before going one better at Huntingdon at the turn of the year. Should go well again. Won going away at Huntingdon, building on his C&D effort; leading contender.
1
3rd (1) (15/8 -25%) In The Age
1.875
15/8(-25%)
(1) In The Age 15/8, £100,000 Irish point recruit who made a winning start for new connections in a C&D bumper in December. Likely to make a bold bid to defy the penalty with improvement on the cards. Two from two, having justified favouritism in Irish point and C&D contest; respected.
6
4th (6) (7/1 -40%) Top Jimmy
7
7/1(-40%)
(6) Top Jimmy 7/1, From a stable which does well in bumpers and offered something to work on when fourth of 8 on his Market Rasen debut in November, the fact he went off a 15/8 favourite suggesting even better was expected. It'll be interesting to see whether his supporters' return. Out of a bumper winner for his connections; should build on his Market Rasen effort.
3
5th (3) (40/1 -300%) Barry Fife
40
40/1(-300%)
(3) Barry Fife 40/1, £25,000 buy after placing in both Irish points. 13/2, showed a bit when fifth of 9 in Wetherby bumper for new connections 16 days ago. May do better. Solid effort in his second Irish point then showed promise at Wetherby; not ruled out.
4
6th (4) (50/1 -52%) Cuillin Ridge
50
50/1(-52%)
(4) Cuillin Ridge 50/1, Useful pedigree but no short-term promise on Hereford debut in December. Bottom on bare figures but is nicely bred and may improve.
5
7th (5) (18/1 +10%) Hairy Potter
18
18/1(+10%)
(5) Hairy Potter 18/1, 22/1, needed the experience when fifth of 12 on Warwick debut at the end of December. Will need to step up on that form to get heavily involved here. Showed ability in Warwick event won by a Champion Bumper hope; open to improvement.
Point-to-point winner In The Age made a successful start under Rules over C&D in December and is likely to have plenty more to offer. However, he might find it tough giving his 7lb penalty away to TOP JIMMY. Fergal O'Brien's five-year-old failed to live up to market expectations when only fourth on his debut at Market Rasen in November, but that was still a promising effort. He could take a step forward to strike, while last-time-out Huntingdon scorer Nazare is another to consider.
Previous winners IN THE AGE and Nazare may be the pair to focus on, with narrow preference for the latter on the back of his C&D debut success in January. Best of the rest is Top Jimmy, who went off favourite on his debut in November.
Most of the runners can be viewed positively. The percentage call goes to C&D winner IN THE AGE, narrowly ahead of Nazare.
(4) Tanganyika 11/4, Won twice in handicap hurdles last season and has already bettered that form over fences, opening his chase account at the third attempt when scoring at Market Rasen (23.9f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Major player with better still to come. Led close home at Market Rasen and today's stiffer test should be right up his street.
6
2nd (6) (10/1 +17%) Not Sure
10
10/1(+17%)
(6) Not Sure 10/1, Three time winner in handicap chases, but went backwards from this season's reappearance when well held at Windsor (28.7f, good to soft) last month. Has dropped below his last winning mark, though he has a bit to prove at present. Well handicapped on last season's best efforts but a major turnaround is required.
3
3rd (3) (5/2 -33%) Fortunate Man
2.5
5/2(-33%)
(3) Fortunate Man 5/2, Won 2 of 4 races over hurdles and made third start over fences a winning one when landing an Aintree handicap (25f, soft) on Boxing Day. Ran at least as well when second at Windsor (28.7f, good to soft) last month and he's not taken lightly. 6yo novice who has been showing strong and progressive form, and he's a key player.
1
4th (1) (9/1 -100%) The Wolf
9
9/1(-100%)
(1) The Wolf 9/1, Not straightforward but arrives chasing a hat-trick after taking small-field handicaps at Huntingdon (23.6f, good) and Leicester (22.7f, good to firm) in November. Remains feasibly treated on old form but this is a tougher contest than of late. Two quick wins in November and remains well treated on his old form; respected.
7
5th (7) (10/3 +52%) Raceview Road
3.333333
10/3(+52%)
(7) Raceview Road 10/3, Made a winning chase debut at Kelso (21.6f) in April last year and ran well next 3 starts, runner-up at this C&D in November. Shaped better than pulling up would suggest at Kelso (32.4f, soft) last time, so he could bounce back with cheekpieces applied. Didn't see out 4m last time but good second over C&D previously in a hot contest.
2
6th (2) (40/1 -21%) Lieutenant Command
40
40/1(-21%)
(2) Lieutenant Command 40/1, Useful handicap chaser at best for Noel Meade. Making second start back after a 16-month absence, runner-up at this course (20.9f, soft) in December, but failed to repeat that effort when pulled up at Musselburgh 16 days ago. Has since left Tim Reed. 125-1 second here in December but pulled up at Musselburgh since and stamina is a doubt.
5
7th (5) (8/1 -45%) Geryville
8
8/1(-45%)
(5) Geryville 8/1, With blinkers refitted, ended a lengthy losing run at this course (20f) last March and suited by return to more positive tactics when also successful at Wetherby (19.4f, heavy) 25 days ago. Step back up in trip no problem and and he could be in the mix. Course winner who scored over 2m3f at Wetherby latest; lots of good form at staying trips.
The Wolf is attempting to complete a hat-trick after justifying favouritism in good style at Leicester in November and he holds an obvious chance off 4lb higher. However, it may pay to side with FORTUNATE MAN, who took the silver medal home in this grade over an extended 3m4f at Windsor last month and only has a 1lb higher mark to contend with today. The six-year-old might only need to reproduce that level of form in order to make it two wins out of his last three starts. Geryville completes the shortlist.
TANGANYIKA built on the promise of his chasing debut effort at the second attempt when winning readily at Market Rasen 13 days ago, getting the better of a progressive type, and he can follow up with further improvement to come. Fortunate Man has also made a positive start to his chasing career and is respected, with Geryville the pick of the remainder.
Stamina looked a strong suit for TANGANYIKA (nap) when he won at Market Rasen recently and today's stiffer track should prove ideal.
(14) Jeremy's Pet 50/1, €25,000 3-y-o, Elusive Pimpernel mare. Sister to dual bumper winner/fairly useful 2m hurdle winner Weseekhimhere and fair hurdler Weseekherthere. Market can guide on her first run. 25,000euros 3yo; sister to two bumper/hurdle winners; market helpful.
11
1st (11) (1/1 +38%) Wolf Moon
1
1/1(+38%)
(11) Wolf Moon 1/1, Pether's Moon gelding belied his 50/1 odds in making a promising start under Rules when second in 10-runner novice hurdle at Huntingdon (15.8f) last month. The form has been franked so big shout with more to come. Big player provided his Huntingdon effort (behind highly notable rival) is backed up.
3
2nd (3) (7/4 -17%) Beau Quali
1.75
7/4(-17%)
(3) Beau Quali 7/4, Runner-up in a juvenile hurdle in France last March (sole start for David Cottin) and has made the frame all 3 completed starts for present yard. Still firmly on the bridle when falling 3 out at Newcastle last time and he's a player. In the lead and going best when falling three out at Newcastle last time; major player.
4
3rd (4) (9/2 +25%) Buckna
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(4) Buckna 9/2, Irish points winner and he came in a good second of 9 in novice hurdle at Hereford (21.7f, good to soft) 33 days ago. Holds solid form claims. Irish point winner; rules form includes a couple of second-place finishes; in the mix.
1
4th (1) (17/2 -13%) Absolutely Doyen
8.5
17/2(-13%)
(1) Absolutely Doyen 17/2, 11/2, promising second of 14 in novice hurdle at Kempton (16f, soft) on his NH debut 10 days ago, though no match for winner. Open to improvement and in the mix. Second behind wide-margin winner at Kempton on rules debut; frame possibilities.
5
5th (5) (66/1 -500%) Champagne Fortune
66
66/1(-500%)
(5) Champagne Fortune 66/1, Placed twice in Irish points but tenth of 11 in bumper (9/1) at Huntingdon on NH debut 11 days ago. In excellent hands so remains with potential on his hurdles debut. Down the field in Huntingdon bumper on rules debut; others preferred.
9
6th (9) (300/1 -500%) Snitterfield
300
300/1(-500%)
(9) Snitterfield 300/1, Fifth on bumper debut for Olly Murphy but only sixth of 7 in similar event 117 days ago. Needs plenty more on his hurdles debut. Hurdles debutant who needs to improve sharply on his bumper form.
8
7th (8) (250/1 -150%) River Rider
250
250/1(-150%)
(8) River Rider 250/1, Hooded for 1st time, seventh of 8 in novice hurdle (200/1) at Doncaster (16.6f, good to soft) on his hurdles bow 24 days ago. Needs to take a major step forward. Lacked fluency and made no impact switched to hurdles last time.
10
8th (10) (200/1 -203%) Thickthorn Tom
200
200/1(-203%)
(10) Thickthorn Tom 200/1, 50/1, seventh of 9 in novice hurdle at Huntingdon (15.8f, soft) on his hurdles bow 25 days ago. In top hands and the sort to do better in the longer term. Plenty to find; yard has a much stronger chance with Beau Quali.
2
9th (2) (250/1 -525%) Barleythorpe
250
250/1(-525%)
(2) Barleythorpe 250/1, Well held both starts in bumpers last spring for Pam Sly and on his hurdling debut for new yard in C&D novice two weeks ago. Hard to warm to. Lacked fluency and never figured over C&D two weeks ago.
6
10th (6) (200/1 -300%) Mexican Stan
200
200/1(-300%)
(6) Mexican Stan 200/1, Fourteenth of 16 in bumper at Doncaster (16.6f, good to soft, 25/1) on NH debut 24 days ago. Makes hurdles debut with more needed. Didn't show enough in Doncaster bumper to think he's an imminent winner.
7
11th (7) (80/1 +20%) Peerless Percy
80
80/1(+20%)
(7) Peerless Percy 80/1, Modest handicapper on the Flat and this 8-y-o is opposable now switched to hurdles for new yard following a 22-month absence. Two Flat wins in 2021; absent since April 2023; best watched.
12
|PU| (12) (300/1 -809%) You Moved On
300
300/1(-809%)
(12) You Moved On 300/1, Seventh of 9 in bumper at Market Rasen in July on his sole run for Olly Murphy. Lots more needed on his yard/hurdling bow. Unconvincing claims on his bumper effort for Olly Murphy.
Absolutely Doyen shaped with promise on his hurdling bow recently and although he should be a factor, that effort suggested he will need further to be seen to best effect. Beau Quali looked the most likely winner when coming to grief three from home at Newcastle last month and he won't be far away if none the worse for that tumble, but the vote goes to WOLF MOON. Beaten just two lengths when conceding 13lb to Triumph Hurdle hopeful Palladium at Huntingdon recently, that is perhaps the best form on offer and he can go one better.
WOLF MOON shaped well when a debut second at Huntingdon last month and with that form having been franked since Ben Pauling's son of Pether's Moon is fancied to go one better. Beau Quali also has better days ahead of him and appeals as the main danger, although Buckna and Absolutely Doyen also have the form to play a part in a fairly useful maiden.
Consistent BEAU QUALI might well have won at Newcastle with a clear round. Wolf Moon is feared most on bare form.
(5) Joltin N Jiving 1/1, £40,000 Irish point winner who shaped well when second on his Bangor hurdle debut (17f, soft) in November. Should have more to offer and leading claims. Point winner who was runner-up at Bangor on hurdle debut and could have major part to play.
2
2nd (2) (6/1 -100%) Kahavari
6
6/1(-100%)
(2) Kahavari 6/1, Fair hurdle winner in France. Respected on first outing for new stable, particularly if the betting vibes are positive. Showed promise in France and has joined good yard for British career; one to consider.
1
3rd (1) (2/1 -7%) Pigeon House
2
2/1(-7%)
(1) Pigeon House 2/1, Dual handicap hurdle winner for Jessie Harrington in Ireland in the first half of the season. Creditable second in novices on first 3 outings for Jennie Candlish and can be excused latest run over 3m. Should go well back over a more suitable trip with a first-time visor replacing cheekpieces. Soundly beaten last time but in hot Musselburgh novice; leading claims on earlier form.
4
4th (4) (80/1 +20%) Caramelo Rapido
80
80/1(+20%)
(4) Caramelo Rapido 80/1, Third in a bumper for Max Young in the autumn but beaten a long way in 2 hurdles since joining Mark Walford. Outsider again. Third in point/bumper but well beaten at big odds this year on first two hurdle starts.
8
5th (8) (25/1 +24%) Sovereign Star
25
25/1(+24%)
(8) Sovereign Star 25/1, Placed in Irish points back in 2022 but no real promise in a bumper and 2 hurdles in the first half of 2024. Has had wind surgery ahead of return. Joltin N Jiving looks very much the yard number one. Point runner-up but unable to reproduce that promise on his three rules starts.
6
6th (6) (18/1 +28%) Little Roger
18
18/1(+28%)
(6) Little Roger 18/1, From a family which has served connections very well. Showed ability when fourth on Newcastle bumper debut in December but has run poorly in another bumper there since. Hurdle debut. Hurdle debut; improvement needed but stable has done very well with his family.
3
7th (3) (14/1 +65%) Buzz Iceclear
14
14/1(+65%)
(3) Buzz Iceclear 14/1, Point recruit who looks more one for handicaps over longer trips based on his 2 hurdle runs in recent weeks. Has shown some ability but not enough to suggest he's the one to be on today.
7
8th (7) (28/1 +44%) Rogue Sea
28
28/1(+44%)
(7) Rogue Sea 28/1, Fairly useful at best on the Flat in 2023 but struggled in 2 outings in that sphere last year and always behind after virtually refusing to race on last month's hurdle debut. Pigeon House surely the stable first string. Lost his way on the Flat and reluctant to race when tailed off on recent hurdle debut.
Pigeon House sports a first-time visor and sets a fair standard with a rating of 125, but his fifth-placed effort in a better race at Musselburgh earlier in the month tempers enthusiasm . With that in mind, JOLTIN N JIVING get the nod. Donald McCain's five-year-old ran a debut full of promise when only finding Junker d'Allier, who is now rated 127, too good. With the likelihood of more to come, he may be the one to beat. Kahavari is the pick of the remainder.
JOLTIN N JIVING can make the most of the 12 lb he receives from Pigeon House and strike at the second time of asking over hurdles. French-recruit Kahavari could also play a prominent role on his British debut.
Preference is for PIGEON HOUSE, who has shown some solid form since joining Jennie Candlish and drops back in trip today.
(2) Jackpot Cash 3/1, Showed promise in maiden/novice hurdles when trained by Evan Williams but didn't convince as a chaser in three spins over fences this season. Has joined a yard who are excellent with new recruits and he could improve now stepping up in trip on handicap hurdle debut. Interesting contender. Return to hurdles and new trip are possible sources of improvement; new yard.
3
2nd (3) (9/2 -13%) Born In The West
4.5
9/2(-13%)
(3) Born In The West 9/2, Very creditable placed effort on final qualifying run and improved for longer trip/step into handicap company when second at Sedgefield (19.8, soft) 12 days ago. Lightly-raced and open to further progress racing over an extra furlong. Finished second at Sedgefield (handicap debut) last time; enters the reckoning.
8
3rd (8) (11/4 -69%) Owl Of Athens
2.75
11/4(-69%)
(8) Owl Of Athens 11/4, Lightly-raced sort left previous form well behind when landing significant gamble last month, showing marked improvement to land an 11-runner handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (19.9f, soft, 85/40) 23 days ago. Up 11 lb for that win, but he remains unexposed and could still be ahead of his handicap mark. Landed a gamble at Uttoxeter last month; has evidently turned a corner; respected.
5
4th (5) (11/1 +31%) Faded Fantasy
11
11/1(+31%)
(5) Faded Fantasy 11/1, Not won since June 2023 and although went close on first try over fences at Hereford (25f) in November, he's looked a difficult ride on three occasions since (raced with and without various pieces of headgear). Only wears tongue strap now and difficult to fancy on the back of most recent efforts. 0-19 in handicap hurdles but record of 1-1 over C&D gives cause for optimism.
10
5th (10) (12/1 +52%) Inchester D'amsyl
12
12/1(+52%)
(10) Inchester D'amsyl 12/1, Hinted at promise in novice hurdles but made no real progress switched to handicaps last season. Down in trip on first run for 11 months but others preferred. Maiden who makes belated reappearance; market may prove a useful guide.
6
6th (6) (11/1 -175%) Mokoro
11
11/1(-175%)
(6) Mokoro 11/1, In top hands but well held in novice/maiden hurdles in May and June of last year. Looks one of the stable lesser lights but could improve on reappearance for step up in trip/switch to handicap company and any market support would be significant. Skelton runner who looks the type to improve now handicapping; interesting.
7
7th (7) (16/1 +60%) Illico De Montave
16
16/1(+60%)
(7) Illico De Montave 16/1, Unplaced in sole point but displayed some ability in 2 bumpers for Tom Weston. Confirmed promise when reaching the frame in a pair of 2m novice hurdles for current yard but has proved disappointing in three starts in handicaps and has something to prove returning from 104 day absence. Chance depends on whether he derives benefit from this drop in class.
11
8th (11) (250/1 -150%) No Guarantee
250
250/1(-150%)
(11) No Guarantee 250/1, Remains with little form over hurdles, pulled-up at Wincanton last month and faces an uphill task from 7 lb out of the handicap. Has easily the worst chance on form.
9
9th (9) (125/1 -89%) Pop The Question
125
125/1(-89%)
(9) Pop The Question 125/1, Winning pointer who caused something of a surprise when making a successful debut under Rules in 2½m Hexham maiden in June last year. However, that was a weak race and she's had her limitations exposed since. Opposable. Scored on rules debut; mostly a long way below that form since.
This isn't a particularly deep contest and preference is for OWL OF ATHENS. Evan Williams' charge landed a gamble in impressive fashion at Uttoxeter recently and an 11lb higher mark is unlikely to be beyond him on that evidence. Mokoro makes his handicap bow following an absence and he needs to be monitored in the betting, while Born In The West is most appealing of the remainder.
OWL OF ATHENS landed quite the gamble when winning decisively at Uttoxeter last month and despite an 11 lb hike, this unexposed type may still be ahead of his handicap mark. James Owen is a master with new recruits, and it would be no surprise to see Jackpot Cash take a step forward on handicap/stable debut. Born In The West can hit the frame again, while any market support for Dan Skelton's handicap debutant Mokoro should be noted.
The shortlist is headed by OWL OF ATHENS and completed by Born In The West, Jackpot Cash and Mokoro.
(4) Lady Babs 9/2, All four hurdle wins have been at Market Rasen including latest victory in a 10-runner handicap hurdle 13 days ago. Quick turnaround should be no issue but needs to prove she can follow up that performance away from her favourite track. Won at Market Rasen recently but that course brings out the best in her.
7
2nd (7) (6/1 +73%) Breadalbane Lass
6
6/1(+73%)
(7) Breadalbane Lass 6/1, Showed little in maiden/novice hurdles but showed a bit more promise on handicap debut, shaping better than her finishing position (seventh of 12) when not ideally placed in a slowly-run affair. However, needs to improve for this slightly longer trip if she's to trouble the best of these. Lightly raced but soundly beaten at 33-1 on last month's handicap debut at Ayr.
5
3rd (5) (9/2 +50%) Kellie's Dream
4.5
9/2(+50%)
(5) Kellie's Dream 9/2, Dual hurdles winner when campaigned in Ireland (at up to 18f) and ran to a fairly consistent level for this yard last season, without managing to finish in the places. Should strip fitter for reappearance run last month and not ruled out from falling handicap mark. Reduced mark appeals on best efforts last spring; didn't run badly at Catterick on return.
6
4th (6) (25/1 +11%) Mullins Cross
25
25/1(+11%)
(6) Mullins Cross 25/1, Dual winner for John Joseph Hanlon (latest victory at Bangor over 16.6f in December 2023). Unable to match that form since and although probably needed the run when down the field in a Sedgefield handicap on first run for current yard, she needs a significant step forward from that effort. Tailed off on recent comeback at Sedgefield when 50-1 and it's hard to be confident.
2
5th (2) (11/4 -47%) Mavis Pike
2.75
11/4(-47%)
(2) Mavis Pike 11/4, Made all on handicap debut at Fakenham in October and doubled her tally over hurdles when victorious at the same venue 29 days ago, held up and found plenty for pressure to deny a well-backed favourite. No surprise to see a return to more positive tactics today and holds a good chance. Made it 2-4 in handicaps at Fakenham last month and could continue to progress; key player.
1
6th (1) (11/2 -144%) Reel Rosie
5.5
11/2(-144%)
(1) Reel Rosie 11/2, Fairly useful handicapper on Flat and off mark over hurdles at second attempt (Sedgefield, 19.9f, good) but below that form when third over same C&D last month, stamina likely stretched on softer ground. Few miles on the clock in this sphere and respected on handicap debut with yard among winners. Won Sedgefield maiden in November; soft going may not have been ideal back there last time.
3
7th (3) (12/1 0%) O'faolains Glory
12
12/1(0%)
(3) O'faolains Glory 12/1, Twice a winner for Ian Patrick Donoghue (sole hurdles win came over 19.8f at Downpatrick) but went off the boil in final two starts of last year, latest when down the field in a chase on Boxing Day. Starts life over the smaller obstacles for new yard but has a bit to find off current handicap mark. Stable debut; case can be made on form as recent as November but well beaten twice since.
MAVIS PIKE beat a well-fancied rival by just under a length at Fakenham last month and the handicapper might have been kind to only put her up 5lb for that display. If the daughter of Pether's Moon remains in similar form, she could prove very tough to beat. Lady Babs produced an 18/1 surprise when victorious at Market Rasen last time and should be thereabouts off 3lb higher, while Reel Rosie needs considering on her handicap debut in this sphere.
Not the strongest of contests and MAVIS PIKE looks the most solid option, having knuckled down to defeat a well-fancied rival on her latest outing. She can follow up that victory at the expense of handicap debutante Reel Rosie, whose yard is in great form. Lady Babs may have to settle for minor honours away from Market Rasen.
A chance is taken on KELLIE'S DREAM, who is on a handy mark on form as recent as last spring and could improve for her recent comeback.
(2) Asa 11/4, In good heart over fences of late, successful at Market Rasen on Boxing Day and added to her tally with a fine display at Catterick (25.2f, good to soft) last week. This 5 lb higher mark may well be within reach back hurdling and she's a key player. Leading contender provided her recent chase form is transferred back to hurdles.
4
2nd (4) (12/1 +14%) Superior Glance
12
12/1(+14%)
(4) Superior Glance 12/1, Won her sole start in point bumpers in 2020 but has made little impact in 3 starts in this sphere to date. Sizeable step forward needed now pitched into a handicap. Meagre RPRs under rules but may do better now handicapping.
6
3rd (6) (5/1 -11%) Our Pink Lady
5
5/1(-11%)
(6) Our Pink Lady 5/1, Back-to-back winner of 20.4f handicaps here last March and, though yet to fire on all cylinders so far this season, she's now 4 lb below last winning mark and is interesting back here with Harry Cobden booked. Could prove resurgent back at Southwell; completed a double here last March.
10
4th (10) (28/1 +44%) Horizon Dove
28
28/1(+44%)
(10) Horizon Dove 28/1, Showed ability in bumpers but it's all been pretty low-key since switched to hurdles and it's easy enough to look elsewhere. Has weak claims on her two performances this season.
1
5th (1) (10/1 +75%) Mattie Ross
10
10/1(+75%)
(1) Mattie Ross 10/1, Gained reward for some creditable efforts last season when winning 23f Market Rasen last summer. However, he has followed that with a couple of lacklustre performances (pulled up on both occasions) and now has a point to prove. Won at Market Rasen last June; has failed to back up that form in two runs since.
3
|PU| (3) (9/1 -50%) Roccos Inspiration
9
9/1(-50%)
(3) Roccos Inspiration 9/1, Hasn't fired so far this season but has dropped to a good mark judged on the pick of her form. Now tried in blinkers and this step up in trip is worth a go, so there is cause for optimism. Last two efforts suggest this combination of new trip and new headgear may help.
8
|PU| (8) (11/4 +0%) Ocean Legacy
2.75
11/4(+0%)
(8) Ocean Legacy 11/4, Dual chase winner who finally got the job done over hurdles (and snapped a losing run stretching back to May 2023 in the process) when landing a Sedgefield handicap (27f, soft) 12 days ago. Headgear retained here and she's a player up 8 lb. Took well to blinkers at Sedgefield this month, opening her hurdles account.
7
|PU| (7) (15/2 -7%) Mobile Mamma
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(7) Mobile Mamma 15/2, Irish point winner who has failed to trouble the judge in a trip of novice hurdles at up to 2¾m. Entirely possible that she will be seen in a bettern light now upped in trip for this handicap debut, but others are more appealing all the same. Showed some promise last time; possibilities on handicap debut.
9
|PU| (9) (16/1 +52%) Instant De Bonheur
16
16/1(+52%)
(9) Instant De Bonheur 16/1, Went close in a mares' handicap chase at Worcester back in October 2022, but that is very much a standout effort and took hurdles record to 0-9 when well held at Exeter on New Year's Day. Maiden who has achieved little since returning from layoff.
ASA arrives here having won two of her last three starts, filling second place on the other occasion, and that includes an 11-length success over fences at Catterick last time. She is only 5lb higher here and the switch to hurdles should not be a problem. Ocean Legacy also won well on her most recent outing and is likely to be the main threat, ahead of Roccos Inspiration.
Though OUR PINK LADY's efforts so far this season have lacked spark, the handicapper has reacted accordingly and the return to this trip and booking of Harry Cobden could be the catalysts for a return to form. It will certainly look significant if she's strong in the betting. Asa has been in great heart over fences recently and is feared most ahead of Roccos Inspiration and Ocean Legacy.
The vote goes to OCEAN LEGACY in the retained blinkers. Our Pink Lady and Asa complete the shortlist.
(6) Charlie's Choice 18/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 13 runs last year. Sixth of 7 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f, 5/1) 9 days ago, left poorly placed. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals. Excuses last time and would be a danger to all if getting a solid pace to chase.
1
2nd (1) (5/2 0%) King's Code
2.5
5/2(0%)
(1) King's Code 5/2, Three-time C&D winner. Four wins from 19 runs last year. Respectable fourth of 10 in handicap at this C&D (5/1) 16 days ago. Has to be taken seriously. Closing fourth here 16 days ago (behind Eagle Day) and he remains in good form.
4
3rd (4) (8/1 -7%) Helm Rock
8
8/1(-7%)
(4) Helm Rock 8/1, Course winner. Latest win at Southwell in November. 7/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (8f, AW) 30 days ago. Opposable from a win point of view. Hasn't been at his best the last twice and faces some in-form opposition here.
7
4th (7) (14/1 +22%) Caramay
14
14/1(+22%)
(7) Caramay 14/1, C&D winner. Four wins from 10 runs last year. Creditable 2½ lengths fourth of 9 to Charlie's Choice in handicap at Southwell (12.1f, 16/1) 18 days ago, not ideally placed. Back down in trip and she looks vulnerable. Up in grade but has been in terrific form for a while now on the Tapeta.
2
5th (2) (2/1 +0%) Fast Society
2
2/1(+0%)
(2) Fast Society 2/1, Lightly-raced winner. One win from 2 runs last year. 6/1, good second of 9 in handicap at this course (8.6f) 20 days ago, sticking to task. Should make his presence felt. Second here 20 days ago and might well improve again for this longer distance.
3
6th (3) (5/1 +17%) Eagle Day
5
5/1(+17%)
(3) Eagle Day 5/1, Four-time course winner. Four wins from 17 runs last year. Latest win here in December. Creditable second of 10 in handicap at this C&D (12/1) 16 days ago, no match for winner. Contender. It took a well-handicapped rival to reel him in over C&D 16 days ago; every chance.
5
7th (5) (10/1 +9%) Way Of Life
10
10/1(+9%)
(5) Way Of Life 10/1, Course winner. Twenty-nine runs since last win in 2022. 12/1, creditable fifth of 11 in handicap at this course (12.2f) 88 days ago. Back down in trip and he's likely to again find a few too good. Stuck on a losing run and he's done all his winning at a lower level.
FAST SOCIETY produced a career-best effort when beaten a length into second at this level over an extended mile here last month and is only 3lb higher now. Andrew Balding's four-year-old could have more to offer on only his third handicap start and may prove tough to beat. Eagle Day is a four-time course winner who only found one too good over track and trip at the start of the month and should go well again, while King's Code is another to take seriously.
The vote goes to KING'S CODE, who wasn't disgraced when bidding for the hat-trick over this C&D recently and he is taken to reverse the placings with the re-opposing runner-up that day, Eagle Day, and resume winning ways. The latter should again be on the premises but King's Code may have most to fear from lightly-raced 4-y-o Fast Society.
Still lightly raced and with today's extra yardage promising to suit, recent course runner-up FAST SOCIETY is preferred in a tight race.
(6) Hello Judge 7/1, Successful 3 times over the larger obstacles last season, including this race off 5 lb lower, and made a positive return when fourth at Hexham. Well held next 2 starts, however, so needs to bounce back. Below par elsewhere the last twice but this two-time C&D winner could bounce back.
2
2nd (2) (10/1 +29%) Indian Louis
10
10/1(+29%)
(2) Indian Louis 10/1, Better chaser than hurdler and back on track when doubling his tally over fences at Perth (21f, soft) in September. Good second over C&D next time before stiff task from out of the handicap at Musselburgh. Respected back off his proper mark. Progressive form in the autumn (including C&D); tough task last time; could bounce back.
11
3rd (11) (8/1 +64%) Nights In Venice
8
8/1(+64%)
(11) Nights In Venice 8/1, Got off the mark over fences at Ayr (20.5f) a year ago. Better for return when third here (3m) 2 weeks ago but needs to take another step forward. 2m4f winner who was third of 15 over 3m here recently and might not be far away.
8
4th (8) (7/2 -27%) Tommy Combats
3.5
7/2(-27%)
(8) Tommy Combats 7/2, Showed plenty over hurdles last season and stepped up on his encouraging reappearance/chase debut when landing a 10-runner Hexham handicap (15.6f, soft) in December. Good second at Ayr since and return to further here will suit. More to come and tops the shortlist. Has run well over 1m7f/2m the last twice and this step back up in trip could be a plus.
3
5th (3) (33/1 -32%) Trac
33
33/1(-32%)
(3) Trac 33/1, A 3-time winner last season but yet to fire this time around, pulled up in handicap chase at Haydock (19.9f, soft) 49 days ago. Needs a big step forward. Pulled up last time but 3 wins last term; shouldn't be written off after just one poor run.
9
6th (9) (16/1 -60%) Kuzco
16
16/1(-60%)
(9) Kuzco 16/1, Showed ability without troubling the judge over hurdles and matched form in that sphere when second of 4 on handicap chase debut at Market Rasen (17.2f). However, ran poorly at Doncaster since and headgear now applied. Disappointing last time but promising chase debut previously & this 5yo is not written off.
10
7th (10) (14/1 +0%) Leitrim Chief
14
14/1(+0%)
(10) Leitrim Chief 14/1, Showed ability over hurdles and stepped up on his chase debut when third of 12 in a Hexham handicap (15.6f, heavy) in April. Not in same form both starts this season, however, and headgear now given a whirl. On a handy mark but twice soundly beaten this winter and needs to raise his game.
4
|F| (4) (8/1 -14%) Catch Catchfire
8
8/1(-14%)
(4) Catch Catchfire 8/1, From a good jumping family and left his uneventful hurdles exploits well behind in first-time headgear when scoring at Leicester on chase/handicap bow. Built on that at the second attempt when resuming winning ways at Sedgefield 3 weeks ago and he remains unexposed. Progressive 6yo who is 2-3 over fences and could take latest 7lb rise in his stride.
7
|F| (7) (14/1 -17%) Whoshotthesheriff
14
14/1(-17%)
(7) Whoshotthesheriff 14/1, Useful chaser in his prime. Lost his way for Phil Kirby and ran poorly last time after some initial promise for this yard. Tongue strap on 1st time and headgear back on. 11yo who continues to drop down the weights but was well beaten at Catterick recently.
1
|U| (1) (5/2 +25%) Diamond Dice
2.5
5/2(+25%)
(1) Diamond Dice 5/2, Winner of a Ludlow maiden hurdle a year ago and held form pretty well since. Chase debut brought about some improvement when second at Wincanton 18 days ago, clear of rest, and big shout off similar mark. Clear second on last month's chase debut at Wincanton and is in with a chance.
5
|PU| (5) (125/1 -213%) Hermes Boy
125
125/1(-213%)
(5) Hermes Boy 125/1, Hard to catch right nowadays and best watched after a low-key start/return for this yard at Ayr last month. Well beaten on last month's stable and seasonal debut at Ayr and others have less to prove.
CATCH CATCHFIRE has improved markedly since being sent chasing, recording wins at Leicester and Sedgefield either side of a below-par Catterick display, where conditions were perhaps too quick for him. A 7lb rise for his latest win ought to be no barrier to success here with further progress likely and he is preferred to Diamond Dice, who shaped with considerable promise on his fencing bow at Wincanton last month. Tommy Combats should appreciate a step up in trip and he is another to consider.
The progressive TOMMY COMBATS will be suited by this longer trip over fences and can resume winning ways. Catch Catchfire is also on the upgrade and rates a big threat, with Diamond Dice also feared having pulled clear of the rest when a good second on his chase debut at Wincanton.
The step up in trip looks a likely plus for the unexposed 6yo TOMMY COMBATS, who is taken to add to his win at Hexham in December.
(3) Almuhit 15/2, Fairly useful maiden hurdler at his best but proving disappointing for this yard and will need to improve the wind op he underwent last month in order to make an impact here. 0-13 over hurdles; physical tweak (wind surgery since last run) needs to help.
9
2nd (9) (6/1 +33%) Passengerontheship
6
6/1(+33%)
(9) Passengerontheship 6/1, Placed in an Irish point and while he didn't show much initally over hurdles early last season, there was more encouraging signs on his reappearance/handicap bow at Wetherby (19.7f, heavy). That was his first run for 14 months, so he's entitled to come on for it. Each-way shout. Showed promise at Wetherby on handicap/seasonal debut; interesting contender.
7
3rd (7) (10/1 +38%) Trevor's Lad
10
10/1(+38%)
(7) Trevor's Lad 10/1, Lightly-raced maiden hurdler who took a step back in the right direction when fifth of 15 in handicap at Ffos Las in Novermber. However, failed to build on that at Plumpton the following month and he's opposable. Not particularly solid on his handicap form; poor effort last time.
5
4th (5) (13/2 -160%) Mount Washington
6.5
13/2(-160%)
(5) Mount Washington 13/2, Showed a fair level of ability on first of 2 starts in bumpers and produced much his best effort in this sphere to date when scoring at Plumpton (2m, soft) 3 weeks ago. 5 lb rise looks manageable on that evidence and he's high on the shortlist. The only runner who has winning hurdles form, having opened his account last time.
2
5th (2) (11/4 +8%) Gotthereintheend
2.75
11/4(+8%)
(2) Gotthereintheend 11/4, Showed a bit in bumpers runner-up on 2 of her last 3 starts over hurdles, including in a C&D handicap a fortnight ago. 2 lb rise tolerable given that she pulled clear of the rest that day and likely to make a bold bid to go one better. Ran well in mares' handicap over C&D this month on second start for new yard; solid.
6
6th (6) (66/1 -65%) Leader Wing
66
66/1(-65%)
(6) Leader Wing 66/1, Fair bumper winner for Tom Weston but yet to match that form in this sphere, no show tried in cheekpieces the last twice. Connections now roll the dice with first-time blinkers. Chance depends on how well he responds to new headgear.
4
7th (4) (13/2 +54%) Jack Hoola
6.5
13/2(+54%)
(4) Jack Hoola 13/2, Runner-up in an Irish point but little impact in novice/maiden hurdles. Didn't fare much better on handicap here (15.8f, heavy) on New Year's Day and while this step up in trip may help, there are several others with more appealing claims. Only fourth of five over C&D last time but could still improve at this level.
10
|PU| (10) (8/1 +20%) Nothinelsematters
8
8/1(+20%)
(10) Nothinelsematters 8/1, Maiden who posted one of his better efforts when fifth in an 11-runner C&D handicap (good to soft) in December. However, will need to raise his game another notch in order to play a leading role in this contest. Still a maiden; first-time headgear needs to prompt improvement.
8
|PU| (8) (12/1 -85%) Ballydangan
12
12/1(-85%)
(8) Ballydangan 12/1, Maiden who hasn't shown an immediate benefit for the switch to the Dan Skelton yard, again safely held over 3m at Wetherby last time. Hopes now pinned on this drop back in trip and, moreover, fitting of blinkers sparking some improvement. Longstanding maiden; first-time blinkers need to make a difference.
1
|PU| (1) (28/1 -56%) Strong As Steel
28
28/1(-56%)
(1) Strong As Steel 28/1, Signs of ability in bumpers but no show 3 starts over hurdles and needs to raise his game considerably now upped in trip for this handicap debut. Handicap debutant whose opening mark looks workable judged on best bumper effort.
11
|PU| (11) (100/1 -150%) Onnaroll
100
100/1(-150%)
(11) Onnaroll 100/1, Remains a maiden after 22 runs overall (0-20 in this sphere) and looks set for another struggle from 5 lb out of the handicap proper. Longstanding maiden who has a poor chance on recent form.
MOUNT WASHINGTON got off the mark in impressive fashion over 2m at Plumpton three weeks ago and Evan Williams' gelding tops the shortlist off just a 5lb higher mark. Gotthereintheend has been runner-up twice in her last three starts and could repeat that here, although Passengerontheship showed some promise on his handicap debut recently and could also be in the mix.
GOTTHEREINTHEEND left the strong impression that her turn is near when finding just one too good over this C&D and she is taken to deservedly get her head in front this time. Mount Washington opened his account in decisive fashion at Plumpton and will be a threat if coping with this step back up in trip, while Passengerontheship could also have a part to play if able to build on his Wetherby effort.
Solid-looking GOTTHEREINTHEEND is taken to build on her C&D effort and go one better. Mount Washington is second choice.
(12) Paradoxical 11/2, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at this course (9.5f, 10/3) 7 days ago, better placed than most. Merits consideration. In fine form and avoids a penalty for latest win; high on list if getting a good pace.
10
2nd (10) (10/1 +17%) Calanthe
10
10/1(+17%)
(10) Calanthe 10/1, Blinkered for 1st time, creditable fourth of 10 in handicap (7/2) at this C&D 9 days ago. Others more persuasive. Just 1lb above sole winning mark and fourth over C&D the last twice; frame material again.
2
3rd (2) (9/2 +18%) Straight A
4.5
9/2(+18%)
(2) Straight A 9/2, C&D winner. Latest win here in January. Good second of 8 in handicap at Kempton (7f, 3/1) 12 days ago, running on. Back up in trip. In good form lately including a C&D win; major player back under these conditions.
8
4th (8) (7/2 +46%) Tea Sea
3.5
7/2(+46%)
(8) Tea Sea 7/2, Course winner. Didn't need to be at best when winning 8-runner handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 8/11) 18 days ago. Up in trip. Can make presence felt again. Only does the minimum and just 2lb higher in his bid for the four-timer; much respected.
11
5th (11) (12/1 +0%) Berkshire Phantom
12
12/1(+0%)
(11) Berkshire Phantom 12/1, Course winner. Sixth of 8 in handicap at this course (7.2f, 7/2) 28 days ago. Back up in trip. Cheekpieces back on. Two C&D wins early last year; 4lb below last winning mark, but twice held since returning.
5
6th (5) (12/1 +0%) Ciotog
12
12/1(+0%)
(5) Ciotog 12/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in January. Creditable third of 7 in handicap (7/2) at Kempton (8f) 19 days ago, very slowly away. Dual C&D winner including last month; fair third at Kempton last time; a player back here.
3
7th (3) (50/1 +0%) Cosmos Raj
50
50/1(+0%)
(3) Cosmos Raj 50/1, C&D winner. 66/1, last of 11 in handicap at this C&D 30 days ago. Dual C&D winner this time last year but has finished last in both starts since returning.
6
8th (6) (7/2 -75%) Overnight Oats
3.5
7/2(-75%)
(6) Overnight Oats 7/2, C&D winner. Four wins from 16 runs last year. Won 8-runner handicap (11/4) at Southwell (8.1f) 3 days ago, last to first. Has to be taken seriously. Has won six of his last ten starts including on Friday; drawn wide but still respected.
1
9th (1) (22/1 +12%) Caelan
22
22/1(+12%)
(1) Caelan 22/1, Course winner. First run since leaving Marco Botti when sixth of 8 in handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW, 28/1) 10 days ago. May need this again. 2-7 for Marco Botti but well held on stable debut at Lingfield ten days ago.
4
10th (4) (11/1 +56%) Dawn Of Liberation
11
11/1(+56%)
(4) Dawn Of Liberation 11/1, Twenty one runs since last win in 2022. 14/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 17 days ago. Losing run up to 21 despite a plummeting mark; doesn't look a winner waiting to happen.
Tea Sea justified short odds over 7f at Southwell on his latest outing to complete a hat-trick, but a 2lb rise makes life tougher. With that in mind, PARADOXICAL gets the vote. The son of Saxon Warrior appreciated the application of cheekpieces when scoring over an extended 1m1f here last week and can cope with this slight drop in trip to record a double. Straight A also arrives in good form and isn't out of it either.
OVERNIGHT OATS has been a serial winner for this yard and he remains on the upgrade judged on his stylish win at Southwell on Friday. He's likely to make another bold bid off a similar mark and is preferred to the thriving Tea Sea. Paradoxical may prove best of the others.
This can go to STRAIGHT A who is 2-4 at this track and who ran really well when narrowly beaten at Kempton last time.
(1) Portnacoo 3/1, Consistent sort landed hat-trick at Downpatrick this season and has been running as well as ever in two starts since, hitting usual flat spot when fourth of 20 in handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (20f, soft) last month. Solid claims. Engaged 4.40 Punchestown Sunday. Has run well on first two starts for this yard; in the mix; declared Punchestown yesterday.
5
2nd (5) (9/2 -35%) Ruby Island
4.5
9/2(-35%)
(5) Ruby Island 9/2, Fairly useful in bumpers and won first 2 starts over hurdles in 2022/23. Very lightly raced since but has run creditably in two starts for new stable, latest when suited by step up in trip second of 7 at Ayr (20.4f, soft). This test should be stiff enough and makes appeal off this sort of mark. Solid efforts on first two starts for this yard and can give another good account today.
2
3rd (2) (4/6 +62%) Broughshane
0.666667
4/6(+62%)
(2) Broughshane 4/6, Progressive, lightly-raced sort is 2 from 3 in handicap hurdles this season and beat a subsequent two-time winner when landing an 8-runner contest at Southwell (20.4f, good) in November. Off since but has run well fresh before and holds leading claims. Made it 2-3 in handicaps at Southwell and the clear runner-up has firmly boosted that form.
4
4th (4) (25/1 -108%) Dollar Collar
25
25/1(-108%)
(4) Dollar Collar 25/1, Irish point winner quickly reached a fair level over hurdles last year but has regressed this season, pulled up on first two starts over fences/hurdles this winter. Minor improvement when managing to complete (a well-beaten fifth of 7) at Ayr last month but best to look elsewhere for win purposes. Won maiden hurdle at Hexham last March but has struggled this season.
3
5th (3) (22/1 -83%) Singapore Trip
22
22/1(-83%)
(3) Singapore Trip 22/1, Returned to the pick of his French form to open his account on British soil in 10-runner handicap hurdle at Perth (20.2f) in May but disappointing in two runs this season, latest after 3-months off when trailing the field at Wetherby 16 days ago. Shouldn't lack for fitness but others preferred. Won at Perth last May but well beaten at Wetherby the last twice; has to get back on track.
BROUGHSHANE defeated a progressive rival at Southwell in November and although he's 9lb higher today, he appears to hold every chance of following up. His biggest threat might arrive in the form of Ruby Island, who has posted two creditable efforts in defeat this season, for all that more will be needed to topple the selection. Big Storm Brewing hasn't show much so far, but the switch to handicaps could spark an improved performance.
Having defeated an improving rival under a positive ride last time, BROUGHSHANE may be able to dictate this race from the front and make it 3 wins from 4 starts in handicap hurdles. Ruby Island seemingly retains plenty of ability and could be a threat from her current mark, while Irish-raider Portnacoo has been a model of consistency this season.
The progressive 7yo BROUGHSHANE made it 2-3 in handicaps when winning at Southwell and the clear runner-up has won his next two.
(6) Maaz 14/1, €41,000 yearling, €72,000 2-y-o, Galiway gelding. Dam 2-y-o 6f winner from family of 1000 Guineas/Coronation Stakes winner Ghanaati. Has speed and stamina in pedigree and market should guide on debut.
3
2nd (3) (30/100 +67%) Bryant
0.3
30/100(+67%)
(3) Bryant 30/100, 220,000 gns yearling, Wootton Bassett colt. Half-brother to 1m winner Evergreen. Dam, winner up to 1m (2-y-o 7f winner) who stayed 1¼m. 9/1, fourth of 7 in maiden at York (7.9f, heavy) on debut, not knocked about. Off 128 days. Up in trip. Sets a fair standard and should progress. Shaped with promise behind some useful prospects at Yarmouth; key player on his return.
8
3rd (8) (10/1 -100%) Kintbury
10
10/1(-100%)
(8) Kintbury 10/1, Saxon Warrior filly. Half-sister to useful winner up to 1½m Galactic Jack. Dam winner up to 9.4f (2-y-o 7f/1m winner) who stayed 1½m (runner-up in Irish Oaks). Well-bred filly and she needs watching in the market on debut.
4
4th (4) (6/1 +14%) El Ghaawy
6
6/1(+14%)
(4) El Ghaawy 6/1, 90,000 gns foal, Ghaiyyath gelding. Closely related to 3 winners, including useful 7f-1¼m winner Song of Life and 11f/1½m winner Allowed and half-brother to 9f-11f winner Avec Laura. Dam lightly raced. 90,000gns foal; plenty to like on paper and he's an interesting newcomer.
5
5th (5) (200/1 -100%) Itsgottobefun
200
200/1(-100%)
(5) Itsgottobefun 200/1, Twice-raced gelding. Seventh of 9 in maiden at Lingfield (8f, AW, 200/1) 45 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time. Tailed off at 200-1 in his two runs over 1m this winter; headgear is now added.
2
6th (2) (9/1 -38%) Big Take
9
9/1(-38%)
(2) Big Take 9/1, €20,000 foal, 24,000 gns yearling, Australia colt. Brother to useful US winner around 5f Just A Care and half-brother to winner in Italy by Ten Sovereigns. Dam Australian 6f winner out of US 2-y-o Grade 3 6f winner Necessary Evil. Yard 19% in maidens last year and he needs a close look on debut.
7
7th (7) (28/1 -133%) Blu Chic
28
28/1(-133%)
(7) Blu Chic 28/1, Ghaiyyath filly. Closely related to 1m winner Superb Force and half-sister to 3 winners, including high-class winner up to 1½m Best Solution. Dam maiden (stayed 8.3f). Yard 1-31 in maidens last year and is best watched unless market is persuasive.
1
8th (1) (50/1 -25%) All About George
50
50/1(-25%)
(1) All About George 50/1, Tasleet gelding. Half-brother to 1m winner Emerald Fox and useful 1m-1¼m winner Whitcombe Rockstar. Dam 1m winner. Already been gelded and he could be a longer-term prospect.
LTO Selection:hiden content,
With hardly any form to go off, a tentative vote goes to EL GHAAWY, who changed hands for 90,000gns and is related to plenty of winners. The son of Ghaiyyath might be able to make an instant impression, with his main threat possibly being Bryant, who could only manage fourth on his debut at Yarmouth in October. However, it would be no surprise to see him take a big step forward to go close, while any market confidence behind newcomer Kintbury would be interesting.
BRYANT made a very encouraging start to his career when fourth in a maiden at York in October and this smartly-bred colt can take this en route to better things (holds Group 1 entry). All but one of his opponents are newcomers with Kintbury and El Ghaawy making the most appeal on paper.
220,000gns colt BRYANT is one of only two runners with experience in the line-up and he ran well for a long way at Yarmouth in October.
(6) Blinky 13/2, 9/4 and cheekpieces on first time, creditable second of 7 in handicap at Southwell (5f) 25 days ago, with a couple of today's rivals in behind. First run for yard after leaving Ed Walker. Record of 1-11 but was runner-up at Southwell latest; each-way claims again for new yard.
1
2nd (1) (6/4 +25%) Layla Liz
1.5
6/4(+25%)
(1) Layla Liz 6/4, Progressive in novices, winning twice, latterly comfortably over C&D on Boxing Day, looking well suited by the drop to 5f. Leading claims on handicap debut. Made it 2-3 with easy win over C&D on Boxing Day; interesting contender on handicap debut.
4
3rd (4) (20/1 -150%) Neytiri Te Tskaha
20
20/1(-150%)
(4) Neytiri Te Tskaha 20/1, Much improved to win a Thirsk novice (5f, good to firm) in August, her final start for Karl Burke. Has an opening handicap mark which demands improvement now setting out for a new yard after 6 months off. Won at Thirsk on final run for Karl Burke; market informative on handicap/stable debut.
7
4th (7) (5/1 +29%) Fallen Soldier
5
5/1(+29%)
(7) Fallen Soldier 5/1, Creditable third of 7 in handicap at Southwell (5f, 7/1) 25 days ago, with Blinky ahead in second. 0-11 but he went very close at Newcastle before a third at Southwell latest; not ruled out.
5
5th (5) (9/4 +50%) Winchurch
2.25
9/4(+50%)
(5) Winchurch 9/4, AW debut winner last spring who added to his tally at Musselburgh (5f) in August. Good second in a Southwell handicap just after Christmas. Disappointing at Newcastle next time but looked back in form when fifth back at Southwell since, keeping on when not clear run. Player having been eased 2 lb. Exposed colt but he was an eyecatcher at Southwell latest; dangerous if he gets some luck.
3
6th (3) (11/1 +21%) Kinetic Force
11
11/1(+21%)
(3) Kinetic Force 11/1, Debut winner on turf last June. Also a good second in a novice at Lingfield in July but not seen again until last of 7 in Southwell handicap last month. Needs to have come on a lot. Lingfield winner but he struggled on handicap debut at Southwell last month.
There a few in with a chance here, so only a tentative vote can go to NEYTIRI TE TSKAHA. The daughter of Cotai Glory opened her account when trained by Karl Burke at Thirsk in August and now in the care of Stuart Williams, she could be feasibly handicapped from an opening mark of 77. Blinky hit the woodwork from 1lb lower at Southwell last month and he looks a real threat with Alex Jary taking off a handy 5lb. Top-weight Layla Liz, who won over C&D on Boxing Day, heads the remainder.
LAYLA LIZ looked useful when readily defying a penalty in a C&D novice over Christmas and might be able to dominate again. Winchurch met trouble when behind Blinky at Southwell last time and could be the one to give Archie Watson's charge most to think about.
Top of list is the unexposed LAYLA LIZ, who has won two of her three starts and is open to more progress on this switch to a handicap.
(1) Marioento 5/2, Unexposed sort from a good stable. Good fourth of 9 in handicap at this course (8.6f, 10/1) 7 days ago, needing stiffer test. Much respected up in trip. Close fourth over C&D in both his handicaps; still has potential and he's respected.
4
2nd (4) (11/4 -38%) Enzos Angel
2.75
11/4(-38%)
(4) Enzos Angel 11/4, Improved on recent efforts to win 9-runner classified event over C&D (5/2) 21 days ago, well on top finish. Looks on a workable mark back in a handicap. Comfortable win over C&D last time; up 5lb but he's a big player again back in a handicap.
9
3rd (9) (9/1 +0%) City Escape
9
9/1(+0%)
(9) City Escape 9/1, Three-time C&D winner. Eyecover on first time, creditable third of 8 in C&D handicap C&D 20 days ago. Eyeshields back on. Back from a break with eyecatching third over C&D last month; possibilities off 1lb lower.
7
4th (7) (13/2 -30%) Pessoa
6.5
13/2(-30%)
(7) Pessoa 13/2, Four-time course winner. Thirteen runs since last win in 2024. 9/2, seventh of 10 in handicap at this course (8.6f) 21 days ago, left poorly placed. Enters calculations. Runner-up here in first two starts this year and had an excuse latest; in the mix.
8
5th (8) (16/1 +36%) Mykonos St John
16
16/1(+36%)
(8) Mykonos St John 16/1, Course winner. Three wins from 20 runs last year. Respectable sixth of 10 in handicap at Southwell (1m, 25/1) 11 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. Won off 3lb higher here in October but he's not made an impact since; needs to step up.
5
6th (5) (17/2 +6%) Cryptos Dream
8.5
17/2(+6%)
(5) Cryptos Dream 17/2, C&D winner in November but only sixth of 8 back here since. Bounced back with a C&D win in November but she failed to back that up here last time.
6
7th (6) (15/2 +25%) Naughty Niall
7.5
15/2(+25%)
(6) Naughty Niall 15/2, Winner at Southwell (1m) in December and something surely not right when tailed off at Lingfield since. Off the mark at Southwell but was beaten out of sight at Lingfield next time; risky.
3
8th (3) (16/1 -14%) Mostly Mozart
16
16/1(-14%)
(3) Mostly Mozart 16/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Things didn't go his way when fifth of 7 over C&D last month and better judged on his C&D handicap debut third before that. Third here penultimate run but that is his standout effort and others are more convincing.
10
9th (10) (50/1 -100%) Break Point
50
50/1(-100%)
(10) Break Point 50/1, 17/2, sixth of 9 in C&D classified event 6 days ago. Something to find on form. 13-race maiden who has generally struggled and he makes no appeal.
It looks best to side with ENZOS ANGEL, who recorded a comfortable C&D triumph three weeks ago. Neil Mulholland's gelding is 5lb higher today but Millie Wonnacot negates the rise with her claim, so this looks an excellent opportunity to follow up. Marioento kept on into fourth over the extended mile here last Monday and a step up in trip could suit on that evidence. City Escape shaped with promise on her return from a 152-day absence last time out and she is of interest from 1lb lower.
MARIOENTO should prove suited by this slightly longer trip and is taken to improve past some largely much more exposed rivals, best of whom may be recent C&D classified winner Enzos Angel and course regular Pessoa.
Preference is for ENZOS ANGEL, who was a clearcut winner over C&D last month and is a major player again if he can back that up.
(6) Heartrate 7/2, Seventeen runs since last win in 2023. Creditable fifth of 11 in minor event at Chelmsford City (6f, 14/1) 18 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Place possibilities. Losing run is up to 17 but is on a dangerous mark and was a close up at Chelmsford latest.
3
2nd (3) (2/1 -33%) Neptune Legend
2
2/1(-33%)
(3) Neptune Legend 2/1, C&D winner. Three wins from 19 runs last year. 15/8, respectable third of 10 in minor event at Southwell (6.1f) 3 days ago. Visor back on and expected to be bang there. In-form 6yo who went close at Southwell on Friday; respected back in a handicap.
5
3rd (5) (5/1 +9%) Nordic Glory
5
5/1(+9%)
(5) Nordic Glory 5/1, 17/2, respectable third of 11 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 10 days ago. That represented a step back in the right direction and he's shortlisted. All of his AW wins have been at Lingfield; has tough draw here and others look stronger.
4
4th (4) (10/3 +5%) Rogue Thunder
3.333333
10/3(+5%)
(4) Rogue Thunder 10/3, C&D winner. 11/2, creditable 2¼ lengths fourth of 9 to Piperstown in handicap at this C&D 6 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Looks vulnerable for win purposes. Defied this mark over C&D in December and some creditable efforts since; in the mix.
2
5th (2) (15/2 +38%) Eldeyaar
7.5
15/2(+38%)
(2) Eldeyaar 15/2, Three-time C&D winner. Sixth of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (6f, 22/1) 38 days ago. Now 2 lb below last winning mark and he needs a second look. Generally struggled since his last win in September and needs to get back on track.
9
6th (9) (66/1 -100%) Sacred Melody
66
66/1(-100%)
(9) Sacred Melody 66/1, 28/1, ninth of 10 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) 16 days ago and she looks set for another struggle. Unplaced in all 14 starts and she beat only one rival at Newcastle last time; opposable.
10
7th (10) (80/1 -21%) Moorgate
80
80/1(-21%)
(10) Moorgate 80/1, One win from 27 Flat runs. Visored for 1st time, seventh of 11 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW, 66/1) 10 days ago, merely passing beaten rivals. Makes tapeta debut. Readily passed over. Out of sorts this winter and slow starts have been an issue; plenty of prove.
8
8th (8) (50/1 -150%) Rockley Point
50
50/1(-150%)
(8) Rockley Point 50/1, Thirty-six runs since last win in 2023. 16/1, eleventh of 12 in minor event at Newcastle (5f) 9 days ago. Back up in trip and others make more appeal. 12yo who has not won since March 2023 and he struggled at Newcastle last time.
7
9th (7) (28/1 +15%) Jumira Bridge
28
28/1(+15%)
(7) Jumira Bridge 28/1, Three-time C&D winner. 33/1, eighth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 6 days ago. Probably best to look elsewhere. Won over C&D last February but has form figures of 970068 since; down the list.
NEPTUNE LEGEND has been in good form at classified level of late, most recently when finishing a close-up third at Southwell on Friday. The gelded son of Invincible Spirit returns to handicaps on a workable mark and he shades preference over Nordic Glory, who finished a creditable third from 3lb higher at Lingfield recently. Rogue Thunder is another to consider.
Having taken a step back in the right direction at Lingfield recently, NORDIC GLORY could be the answer. He's effectively 3 lb lower in the weights here (eased 1 lb since and was 2 lb 'wrong' at Lingfield) and shades preference ahead of Neptune Legend, who has been in good form in classified events in recent weeks. Eldeyaar has slipped to a dangerous mark and is third choice.
The vote goes to NEPTUNE LEGEND, who has form figures of 32213 since November and that latest third was a close call on Friday.
(5) Under Curfew 6/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2024. Respectable third of 9 in handicap (9/1) at Lingfield (5f, AW) 15 days ago, needing stiffer test. Back up in trip and in the mix. 1-37 on AW but he was placed at Lingfield latest and has each-way claims again.
4
2nd (4) (3/1 +0%) Due Date
3
3/1(+0%)
(4) Due Date 3/1, C&D winner. Improved on recent efforts to win 11-runner minor event at Chelmsford City (6f, 14/1) 18 days ago. Not taken lightly. Dual C&D winner who won at Chelmsford latest; up 2lb but he's respected back in a handicap.
1
3rd (1) (4/1 +20%) Back Tomorrow
4
4/1(+20%)
(1) Back Tomorrow 4/1, 3-time C&D winner. Latest win here in January. 9/1, sixth of 9 in handicap at this C&D 6 days ago, left poorly placed. Weighted to go well. Held in bid for a four-timer here last week but things didn't go her way; dangerous.
9
4th (9) (7/1 +72%) Available Angel
7
7/1(+72%)
(9) Available Angel 7/1, Two wins from 47 Flat runs. 18/1, eighth of 10 in minor event at this course (7.2f) 7 days ago. Visor on 1st time with more needed. Last win was in 2022 and she's not run over this trip for a long time; passed over.
2
5th (2) (8/1 +60%) Vitalline
8
8/1(+60%)
(2) Vitalline 8/1, 15/2, last of 10 in handicap at Bath (5.7f, good). Off 8 months. Others more persuasive. On last winning mark but has something to prove after 269 days off.
6
6th (6) (15/2 -15%) My Boy Jack
7.5
15/2(-15%)
(6) My Boy Jack 15/2, 3-time C&D winner. 4/1, below form fourth of 9 in minor event at Southwell (6.1f) 10 days ago, never nearer. Sixteen runs since last win in 2024. On workable mark but he's hard to win with and has not threatened the last twice.
3
7th (3) (18/1 -125%) Starsong
18
18/1(-125%)
(3) Starsong 18/1, C&D winner. 15/2, sixth of 8 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 11 days ago so needs to bounce back. Went close at Lingfield in December but she's been disappointing since; others preferred.
8
8th (8) (20/1 -67%) Warminster
20
20/1(-67%)
(8) Warminster 20/1, Eleven runs since last win in 2024. Sixth of 10 in handicap (16/1) at Newcastle (6f) 16 days ago. Has work to do. Infrequent winner and he's finished down the field in his last six starts; down the list.
7
9th (7) (9/1 +18%) Glory Call
9
9/1(+18%)
(7) Glory Call 9/1, C&D winner. 8/1, creditable fourth of 12 in minor event at Newcastle (5f) 9 days ago. Back up in trip and needs considering. Triple course winner who has run respectably in classified events last twice; in the mix.
Due Date has to be respected following his win at Chelmsford last time but this is tougher and preference is for UNDER CURFEW. The veteran was third at Lingfield earlier in the month and is likely to play a leading role off a 1lb lower mark here. My Boy Jack edges out Glory Call and Back Tomorrow to be best of the rest.
A tight-knit handicap in which marginal preference is for BACK TOMORROW who didn't enjoy the rub of the green when sixth over C&D recently and can now capitalise on a lenient-looking mark. Recent Chelmsford City scorer Due Date rates a big danger though, with Under Curfew and Glory Call also in the picture.
Preference is for dual C&D winner DUE DATE, who battled well to defy a tough draw in a classified event at Chelmsford last time.
(8) One More Dream 9/2, Fourteen runs since his last win in 2024 but he got back on track when third of 9 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f) 5 days ago. Expected to be bang there off a 2 lb lower mark. Eight-time AW winner; on very dangerous mark but he needs to find some extra spark.
5
2nd (5) (9/2 -13%) Rosenpur
4.5
9/2(-13%)
(5) Rosenpur 9/2, 4/1, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at this course (5.1f) 14 days ago, just holding on. Can make his presence felt. Two 5f wins here this year and latest was off 2lb lower; needs a close look back up to 6f.
2
3rd (2) (6/1 +8%) Muscika
6
6/1(+8%)
(2) Muscika 6/1, 3-time C&D winner. Latest win at Newcastle in January. 15/2, solid third of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (6f) 17 days ago. Ought to be in the shake-up. Recorded his 17th win when scoring at Newcastle and was placed there last time; respected.
1
4th (1) (7/2 +13%) Mumayaz
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(1) Mumayaz 7/2, C&D winner. Career best when winning 9-runner handicap (13/2) at Southwell (6.1f) 5 days ago. Carries 5 lb penalty but not taken lightly. Has finished well to win his last two starts and is a big player again in hat-trick bid.
6
5th (6) (40/1 -60%) Lihou
40
40/1(-60%)
(6) Lihou 40/1, Course winner. Latest win at Leicester in August. 16/1, below form third of 6 in handicap at Southwell (5f) 24 days ago. Back up in trip with more required. 12-time winner who showed signs of a revival at Southwell; dangerous back up in trip.
4
6th (4) (10/1 -25%) Bill Plumb
10
10/1(-25%)
(4) Bill Plumb 10/1, C&D winner. 18/1, below-par fourth of 11 in handicap at this C&D 21 days ago. Others appeal more. Back from long absence last month but he wasn't beaten far over C&D latest; not ruled out.
7
7th (7) (15/2 +0%) Tyke
7.5
15/2(+0%)
(7) Tyke 15/2, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, fair fourth of 7 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 12/1) 10 days ago. Visor on 1st time. No forlorn hope. Could go well in new headgear but he's not easy to predict and losing run is mounting up.
3
8th (3) (4/1 +11%) Angel Of England
4
4/1(+11%)
(3) Angel Of England 4/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2023. Creditable second of 11 in handicap (11/1) at this C&D 21 days ago. Can give a good account. Record of 1-16 but was good second over C&D latest and he's well drawn to attack.
ANGEL OF ENGLAND bounced back to form when second over C&D three weeks ago and the four-year-old has every chance of going one better off the same mark here. The hat-trick seeking Mumayaz is a big danger but a 5lb penalty for his latest win at Southwell will make life tougher for him, while Tyke is another to consider in a first-time visor.
ONE MORE DREAM signalled he is ready to go in again when a resurgent third at Southwell recently so looks the way to go off a 2 lb lower mark here. In-form C&D scorer Muscika is next on the list ahead of in-form pair Angel of England and Mumayaz.
This looks competitive but it might be worth sticking with MUMAYAZ, who has won on Tapeta the last twice and is as good as ever.
(2) Whenthedealinsdone 11/4, Won 7-runner handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW, 5/2) 26 days ago (second past the post but subsequently promoted). Needs considering. Awarded a Lingfield race last month after Hierarchy was disqualified; respected up 1lb.
4
2nd (4) (7/1 +7%) Brian The Snail
7
7/1(+7%)
(4) Brian The Snail 7/1, Latest win at Newcastle in December. Respectable fourth of 10 in handicap (9/2) at Newcastle (5f) 3 days ago, slowly away. Back up in trip. Ought to be thereabouts. Veteran who won at Newcastle in December and was an eyecatcher there latest; in the mix.
3
3rd (3) (10/3 -11%) Charlie Mason
3.333333
10/3(-11%)
(3) Charlie Mason 10/3, 4/1, career best when winning 11-runner handicap at this C&D 21 days ago. Can give another good account despite a 3 lb rise. Generally reliable 4yo who won over C&D last time; in the mix again from good draw.
5
4th (5) (25/1 -79%) First Company
25
25/1(-79%)
(5) First Company 25/1, Latest win at Kempton in November. Creditable fifth of 11 in handicap at Kempton (6f, 25/1) 40 days ago. One for the shortlist. Made all at Kempton in November but down the field in last two runs; others preferred.
1
5th (1) (2/1 +33%) Hierarchy
2
2/1(+33%)
(1) Hierarchy 2/1, C&D winner. Good second of 9 in handicap (5/2) at Southwell (6.1f) 5 days ago, no match for winner. A likely player once more. Has been in good form this year and was runner-up at Kempton last week; key player.
7
6th (7) (10/1 -43%) Macanudo
10
10/1(-43%)
(7) Macanudo 10/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2024 but he shaped well when fourth of 8 in handicap over C&D 16 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Interesting off an easing mark. Record of 1-23 but he often runs well and shouldn't be far away.
6
7th (6) (80/1 -220%) Ten Club
80
80/1(-220%)
(6) Ten Club 80/1, Latest win at Kempton in September. 28/1, tenth of 11 in handicap at this C&D. Off 119 days. First run for yard after leaving Jamie Osborne. Something to find on form. 25-1 win at Kempton in September but struggled in next two runs; now returns for new yard.
8
8th (8) (22/1 -120%) Prince Of Bel Lir
22
22/1(-120%)
(8) Prince Of Bel Lir 22/1, C&D winner. Latest win here in January. Last of 8 in handicap at this C&D (11/2) 16 days ago so needs to take a big step forward. C&D win last month but he was disappointing back here last time; needs to bounce back.
A 3lb rise for winning over C&D last month should not stop Charlie Mason from going well once again but marginal preference is for HIERARCHY. Jamie Osborne's gelding has been knocking on the door in recent weeks and a race of this nature can go his way soon enough. The shortlist is completed by Whenthedealinsdone, Brian The Snail and First Company.
A few with chances but this could go the way of MACANUDO who caught the eye when a recent fourth over C&D and can race off a 1 lb lower mark now. Hierarchy is knocking on the door but might have to settle for runner-up spot once more, with Charlie Mason and First Company also warranting plenty of respect.
This looks competitive but the vote goes to CHARLIE MASON, who justified support with something in hand over C&D last time.
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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.
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