There were 29 Races on Thursday 13th April 2023 across 4 meetings. There was 7 races at Aintree, 7 races at Taunton, 7 races at Newcastle, 8 races at Chelmsford-City, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Thursday 13th April 2023
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(1) Banbridge 2/1, Landed the Martin Pipe in 2022 and has quickly made up into an even better chaser, winning a Grade 2 at Cheltenham in November. No match for El Fabiolo in Irish Arkle at Leopardstown and missed the Cheltenham Festival last month on account of the ground. Major claims.
2
2nd (2) (3/1 +14%) Saint Roi
3
3/1(+14%)
(2) Saint Roi 3/1, Very smart hurdler who showed he's as good over fences with a Grade 1 success at Leopardstown on Boxing Day. Unseated halfway in the Irish Arkle but back on track at the Cheltenham Festival when third behind 2 very good novices, helped by the run of the race. In the mix back up in trip.
5
3rd (5) (14/1 -17%) Visionarian
14
14/1(-17%)
(5) Visionarian 14/1, Irish raider who won his first couple of starts over fences last July and took a step forward when 2½ lengths to Saint Roi in Grade 1 at Leopardstown on Boxing Day. Failed by a long chalk to repeat that in Irish Arkle since though, so best to look elsewhere.
4
4th (4) (28/1 +30%) Straw Fan Jack
28
28/1(+30%)
(4) Straw Fan Jack 28/1, Built for chasing and left his hurdle form behind when winning novices at Ffos Las (handicap) and Cheltenham in October. Lost unbeaten record over fences in a Newbury handicap next time and rather predictably found things too competitive in the Arkle last month. This another tough ask.
3
5th (3) (1.5/1 +14%) Stage Star
1.5
1.5/1(+14%)
(3) Stage Star 1.5/1, Challow Hurdle winner last term who has excelled over fences this season, taking his form up another notch with victory in Golden Miller Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last month. A bold-jumping front runner, he's in with a serious shout with better still to come.
LTO Selection:
13:45 Aintree Maiden Chase (Class 1)
20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
An intriguing Manifesto Novices' Chase to kick off the famous Grand National meeting with a small, yet relatively competitive field of five lining up. The Paul Nicholls-trained STAGE STAR caught the eye when bolting up in the Turners' at Cheltenham last month and he seems a worthy favourite, at the time of writing, based on the nature of that success. He has barely put a foot wrong since making the switch from timber to fences, with four wins from five chase starts, and he is entitled to add to that tally here. However, Grade 2 chase winner Banbridge was by no means disgraced when filling the runner-up spot in the Irish Arkle in February, despite finishing 10 lengths behind subsequent Arkle hero El Fabiolo, and a stiffer stamina test here can see him sneak even further into contention. Saint Roi finished in third behind his El Fabiolo at Cheltenham last month and is another to consider stepping up in trip.
Just the 5 runners for the Grand National Festival opener but it promises to be a cracker, STAGE STAR selected to take his record to 5-6 over the larger obstacles and add a second success at the top level to his CV following his Cheltenham Festival glory in the Golden Miller last month. The ground went against Banbridge that day, so he's fancied to give the selection most to think about returning from a couple of months off, with Saint Roi seemingly best of the rest.
This looks a good chance for the front-running STAGE STAR (nap), whose jumping is an asset, to add to his Grade 1 win at Cheltenham
(3) Sir Ivan 2.75/1, A regular in veterans' races and wasn't disgraced when sixth in one at Newbury recently. Looks a definite player with his sights lowered.
1
2nd (1) (0.44/1 +23%) Bob And Co
0.44
0.44/1(+23%)
(1) Bob And Co 0.44/1, 2021 Champion Hunters winner at Punchestown for Paul Nicholls. Not always fluent when respectable eighth in Festival Challenge Cup at Cheltenham last time and this is much easier.
2
|PU| (2) (9/1 +59%) Let Me Entertain U
9
9/1(+59%)
(2) Let Me Entertain U 9/1, Bumper/point winner who could only achieve modest form over hurdles. Stiff task on hunter/chasing debut.
LTO Selection:
14:00 Taunton Hunter Chase (Class 5) 23f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
BOB AND CO is decent at his best and won the Champion Hunters Chase at Punchestown in 2021. Although only eighth at the Cheltenham Festival last month, that was a big ask after a year off the track. He should do better now, in which case he may prove too good for Sir Ivan, without a win after four starts this season and unlikely to be improving at the age of 13. Let Me Entertain U appears booked for third barring any mishaps.
This looks like a match between BOB AND CO and Sir Ivan, with the former taken to prevail having been far from disgraced at the Cheltenham Festival last month.
Five-time hunter chase winner BOB AND CO is first choice. Sir Ivan is feared more than Let Me Entertain U.
(8) Ideal Dream 50/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 50/1, 8¾ lengths seventh of 9 to We Still Believe in handicap at this course (10.2f) 20 days ago. Up in trip and she clearly has work to do.
4
2nd (4) (4.5/1 -13%) Amourie
4.5
4.5/1(-13%)
(4) Amourie 4.5/1, Latest win at Southwell in December. Very good second of 14 in handicap (17/2) at Southwell (12.1f) 13 days ago, clear of rest. High on the shortlist.
12
3rd (12) (28/1 -40%) Milltown Lily
28
28/1(-40%)
(12) Milltown Lily 28/1, 80/1, ran out in novice hurdle at Catterick (15.7f, soft) 106 days ago. Tongue strap back on returned to this sphere and she looks vulnerable.
3
4th (3) (9/1 +18%) International Law
9
9/1(+18%)
(3) International Law 9/1, Course winner. Fifth of 8 in handicap (10/1) at this course (10.2f) 35 days ago, slowly away. Back up in trip and not without each-way hope.
2
5th (2) (12/1 +14%) Fire Eyes
12
12/1(+14%)
(2) Fire Eyes 12/1, 7/1, last of 6 in claimer at Leicester (7f, heavy). Off 171 days and significantly up in trip. Probably best to look elsewhere.
9
6th (9) (4/1 +20%) Visitant
4
4/1(+20%)
(9) Visitant 4/1, Unreliable sort. C&D winner. Good second of 13 in handicap at Thirsk (12f, soft, 14/1) 9 days ago. Definite chance if again on-song.
5
7th (5) (11/1 +8%) Selfish Brian
11
11/1(+8%)
(5) Selfish Brian 11/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2022. Fifth of 7 in handicap at Southwell (11.1f, 7/1) 28 days ago, needing stiffer test. Possibilities if he puts his best foot forward.
11
8th (11) (16/1 -14%) Buford
16
16/1(-14%)
(11) Buford 16/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2021. Respectable fourth of 13 in handicap at Southwell (16.5f, 18/1) 13 days ago. Back down in trip and place possibilities.
10
9th (10) (16/1 +36%) John The Pirate
16
16/1(+36%)
(10) John The Pirate 16/1, 33/1, twelfth of 14 in handicap at Southwell (11.1f) 44 days ago, slowly away. Needs to raise his game a notch.
7
10th (7) (9/1 -20%) Lituus
9
9/1(-20%)
(7) Lituus 9/1, 16/1, creditable sixth of 14 in handicap at Southwell (12.1f) 13 days ago, slowly away. Needs a couple of these to falter.
6
11th (6) (2.75/1 +21%) We Still Believe
2.75
2.75/1(+21%)
(6) We Still Believe 2.75/1, 5/2, won 9-runner handicap at this course (10.2f) 20 days ago. Claims if coping with this step back up in trip.
LTO Selection:
14:10 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
WE STILL BELIEVE appears to have appreciated the change of scenery since joining Daragh Bourke and won over 1m2f here last month. He was given a 3lb rise for that victory but with the capable Zak Wheatley able to claim a 3lb allowance, he looks sure to give another good account of himself. Amourie bounced back to form when runner-up at Southwell just under a fortnight ago and is likely to be thereabouts along with Buford, who should welcome this step down in trip.
The vote goes to AMOURIE, who pulled nicely clear of the rest when losing out to a well-handicapped rival at Southwell recently and she again has the assistance of good-value claimer Mark Winn. We Still Believe has to enter calculations on the back of his narrow success here, for which a 3 lb rise looks fair, and Visitant is also likely to be on the premises judged on his solid recent effort at Thirsk.
Amourie ran well last time and is feared but the veteran VISITANT is ready to strike judged on last week's Thirsk second.
(11) Zenta 1.25/1, Made it 2-2 over hurdles despite still looking in need of the experience in Fairyhouse Grade 3 before posting an excellent third in Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham (16.8f), clear of rest. Very much the one to beat on that piece of form.
1
2nd (1) (6/1 +8%) Bo Zenith
6
6/1(+8%)
(1) Bo Zenith 6/1, Winner of a newcomers race on sole start in France last spring and duly left his odds-on Sandown failure well behind when scoring in pretty decisive fashion at Haydock (15.6f). Stood out on form and followed up under a no-nonsense ride up in trip at Stratford (18.7f). Open to further progress.
4
3rd (4) (6/1 +8%) Nusret
6
6/1(+8%)
(4) Nusret 6/1, Fairly useful 1m4f scorer on the level who is 2 from 4 over hurdles, resuming winning ways with a useful effort in the Adonis at Kempton (2m, good to soft) by 1¼ lengths from Perseus Way. Conditions ideal and ought to go well.
6
4th (6) (25/1 +38%) Rightsotom
25
25/1(+38%)
(6) Rightsotom 25/1, Has a fair bit about him physically and stepped up on his hurdling debut form when 19¾ lengths sixth of 15 to Lossiemouth in Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham (16.8f) 27 days ago. May do better again but this is another tough assignment.
8
5th (8) (8.5/1 -13%) Scriptwriter
8.5
8.5/1(-13%)
(8) Scriptwriter 8.5/1, Useful on the Flat and has taken well to hurdles, scoring at Sedgefield and Cheltenham (Grade 2) before an excellent second back at latter venue in Finesse Hurdle. Disappointed in the Adonis (let down by jumping) last time but is clearly better than that and may bounce back. Yard won this last year.
2
6th (2) (40/1 -43%) Chaos Control
40
40/1(-43%)
(2) Chaos Control 40/1, Fairly useful handicapper on Flat who struck at the third time of asking over hurdles in a Market Rasen juvenile (16.6f, good) in February. A lot more needed now upped in grade, though.
5
7th (5) (10/1 +38%) Perseus Way
10
10/1(+38%)
(5) Perseus Way 10/1, Dual winner on the Flat who has quickly reached a useful level in this sphere, notching 2 wins and placing 3 times at Graded level. Bit better than result (badly hampered 3 out) when second to Nusret in the Adonis at Kempton but only midfield in the Fred Winter at Cheltenham last month.
9
8th (9) (16/1 -45%) Greyval
16
16/1(-45%)
(9) Greyval 16/1, Twice a winner over 1½m in France and confirmed the promise of her hurdling debut when landing 9-runner listed event at Doncaster (16.6f, good). Barely came off the bridle when defying a penalty with ease at Huntingdon 16 days ago and she's well worth a crack at this level.
10
9th (10) (16/1 +60%) Pawapuri
16
16/1(+60%)
(10) Pawapuri 16/1, Useful 11f Flat winner for William Haggas. Changed hands for 105,000 gns and shaped with plenty of encouragement under a considerate ride when 16¼ lengths fourth of 8 to Nusret in the Adonis at Kempton (2m). Has plenty to find, but she's open to lots of improvement and shouldn't be overlooked.
7
10th (7) (20/1 +20%) Sarsons Risk
20
20/1(+20%)
(7) Sarsons Risk 20/1, Fairly useful Flat winner for Ian Williams who had a breathing op prior to making an impressive hurdling bow for his new yard at Doncaster. Fell 3 out in a first-time tongue strap in the Adonis and then was given a considerate ride back on the level at Kempton 15 days ago. Remains with potential.
3
11th (3) (40/1 +60%) Jipcot
40
40/1(+60%)
(3) Jipcot 40/1, Showed fairly useful form over hurdles when landing a pair of events at Pau in February, including a listed race (17.4f). However, failed to match that form thrown in the deep end on his British debut at Cheltenham and looks set for another struggle.
LTO Selection:
14:20 Aintree Conditions Hurdle (Class 1) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Milton Harris secured his first ever Grade 1 success in this contest last year, when a dramatic finish saw Knight Salute snatch top honours in a stewards' enquiry from the Gordon Elliott-trained Pied Piper. So, it could be worth siding with the Harris-trained SCRIPTWRITER, even though he finished a disappointing sixth in the Adonis behind Nusret at Kempton in February. He has proven to be capable of much more and could well bounce back. The booking of Harry Cobden has to warrant a lot of respect and the gelded son of Churchill can deliver a bold showing here. Nonetheless, Zenta receives a fillies' allowance and should not be underestimated for powerful connections following a decent third in the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival last month. As well as Joseph O'Brien's inmate, Greyval and Perseus Way add further spice to the mix.
ZENTA ran a cracker for one so inexperienced when third in the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival and very much sets the standard on that run. Of the opposition, Nusret took his form up a notch when landing the Adonis at Kempton last time and should go well again under similar conditions, while Scriptwriter clearly wasn't 100% that day and could easily bounce back for last year's winning yard.
Zenta's Triumph form took a couple of knocks on Monday. BO ZENITH is a solid alternative and Greyval is second choice.
(2) Iliko D'Olivate 1.75/1, Fair form in 2 starts on the Flat and built on his hurdles debut second at Compiegne when going one better in ready fashion here (19f) in January. Creditably efforts at Sandown and Ascot before shaping as if amiss at Newbury. Not written off.
1
2nd (1) (2/1 +33%) Aurigny Mill
2
2/1(+33%)
(1) Aurigny Mill 2/1, Left previous efforts well behind to get off the mark in 14-runner novice over C&D (good to soft) 24 days ag, in command last. Should be competitive under a penalty.
3
3rd (3) (1.25/1 -4%) Mardoof
1.25
1.25/1(-4%)
(3) Mardoof 1.25/1, Fair maiden on the Flat but already better over hurdles, opening his account in dominant fashion in 13-runner maiden over C&D last month. Looks up to defying a penalty.
5
4th (5) (125/1 +38%) Emanate
125
125/1(+38%)
(5) Emanate 125/1, Poor maiden on Flat who makes no appeal on hurdle debut.
10
5th (10) (40/1 +20%) Only Fools
40
40/1(+20%)
(10) Only Fools 40/1, Fair Flat winner in France but looks a handicap project over hurdles.
8
6th (8) (80/1 -21%) Beautiful Surprise
80
80/1(-21%)
(8) Beautiful Surprise 80/1, Fair handicapper on the Flat but well held completed start over hurdles.
6
7th (6) (200/1 -33%) Dark Moon
200
200/1(-33%)
(6) Dark Moon 200/1, Well held in bumpers 12 weeks apart so easily passed over.
4
8th (4) (80/1 +47%) Boolamore Glory
80
80/1(+47%)
(4) Boolamore Glory 80/1, Runner-up sole start in Irish points but looks a handicap project under Rules (needs this for a mark).
7
|F| (7) (200/1 -100%) Tango For Sally
200
200/1(-100%)
(7) Tango For Sally 200/1, Offered little in a Wincanton bumper on debut back in November. Hooded for hurdle debut.
LTO Selection:
14:35 Taunton Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Aurigny Mill showed improved form to win over C&D latest, but the time that day was nothing inspiring and he may struggle to cope with MARDOOF off level weights. Well backed when winning here by 23 lengths eased down after being sent clear three out, a repeat of that performance may prove enough in this field. Iliko D'olivate is also of interest having failed to see it out over further on his last two starts and he might be able to pick up a place.
MARDOOF has done much better over hurdles than might have been expected from his Flat form and he looks up to defying a penalty having opened his account in dominant fashion over C&D last month. Iliko d'Olivate and Aurigny Mill are the obvious threats.
Having impressed over C&D last month, MARDOOF gets the nod ahead of Aurigny Mill then Iliko D'Olivate.
(5) Joyful Act 2.5/1, Showed plenty to work on amidst clear signs of inexperience when fourth of 10 in maiden at Wolverhampton (9.5f) on debut 19 days ago, running on. Sure to improve.
6
2nd (6) (2.25/1 +0%) Sahara Mist
2.25
2.25/1(+0%)
(6) Sahara Mist 2.25/1, Deep Impact filly. Half-sister to several winners, including very smart winner up to 9f Wuheida and useful 2-y-o 7f winner A'shaari. One to take seriously on debut.
3
3rd (3) (3/1 +33%) Corymbosa
3
3/1(+33%)
(3) Corymbosa 3/1, Held back by greenness when seventh of 11 in minor event at Kempton (7f) on debut, slowly away. Off 162 days. Significantly up in trip. Open to improvement.
7
4th (7) (7.5/1 +6%) Silk Bird
7.5
7.5/1(+6%)
(7) Silk Bird 7.5/1, Fair filly. Second of 7 in minor event (17/2) at Wolverhampton (9.5f) on final outing. More needed after 6 months off.
1
5th (1) (400/1 -220%) Wheres The Crumpet
400
400/1(-220%)
(1) Wheres The Crumpet 400/1, Down the field in bumpers and easily passed over on Flat debut.
4
6th (4) (250/1 -100%) Eva Rosie
250
250/1(-100%)
(4) Eva Rosie 250/1, Sixth of 8 in maiden (125/1) at this course (8f) on debut 13 days ago. Up in trip.
2
7th (2) (6/1 +50%) Alpina Express
6
6/1(+50%)
(2) Alpina Express 6/1, Twice-raced filly. 28/1, fifth of 10 in maiden at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 19 days ago. Open to further progress.
LTO Selection:
14:45 Newcastle Maiden (Class 5) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
JOYFUL ACT looked in need of the experience when fourth at Wolverhampton on debut, the daughter of Frankel appears sure to improve with that run under her belt and gets the vote to go in at the second time of asking. The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Corymbosa looks another sure-fire improver having finished mid-division at Kempton in November and he is likely to appreciate this longer trip. Silk Bird went down narrowly on her final two starts last term and is another worthy of consideration.
JOYFUL ACT is bred in the purple and should have derived plenty from her recent debut at Wolverhampton, so she's taken to open her account at the second time of asking. Sahara Mist is a very interesting newcomer on paper from the same stable though, and strong market support for her would put a slightly different slant on matters. Corymbosa is another likely improver now stepping up in trip and can't be dismissed, either.
The vote goes to JOYFUL ACT, although a strong market move for stablemate Sahara Mist would put a different slant on things.
(6) Shishkin 1.75/1, Following another wind op and equipped with a tongue strap, he proved that he's still one of the best in the business when landing the 21f Ascot Chase in February. Mistakes proved costly in the Ryanair next time but obvious chance if cutting out the errors upped in trip here. Tongue strap discarded.
1
2nd (1) (2.75/1 +0%) Ahoy Senor
2.75
2.75/1(+0%)
(1) Ahoy Senor 2.75/1, Cosy winner of the Mildmay Novices' Chase at this meeting last year and back on track after bombing out in the King George when landing the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham in January. Was going great guns when falling 6 out back there in the Gold Cup last time and claims granted a clear round.
2
3rd (2) (3.33/1 -21%) A Plus Tard
3.33
3.33/1(-21%)
(2) A Plus Tard 3.33/1, Produced one of the best Gold Cup performances in recent times when landing the Cheltenham Festival showpiece last March. This season hasn't gone to plan but he was travelling well until hampered 6 out when bidding to retain his Gold Cup crown last month and the vibes from his yard have been upbeat.
4
|PU| (4) (4.5/1 +25%) Conflated
4.5
4.5/1(+25%)
(4) Conflated 4.5/1, Notched his second Grade 1 success over fences when landing the Savills at Leopardstown over Christmas. Performed to an even higher standard when third in the Gold Cup last month and while he has a bit to find with Bravemansgame on that evidence, this slightly shorter trip/sharper track will help.
5
|PU| (5) (25/1 +11%) Ga Law
25
25/1(+11%)
(5) Ga Law 25/1, Has improved this term after a long absence, finishing third in the Old Roan here prior to landing the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November. By no means disgraced in the Ryanair at the Festival last month and well worth another try at this trip, but he does have plenty to find.
LTO Selection:
14:55 Aintree Conditions Chase (Class 1) 25f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
When Ahoy Senor puts in a clear round he looks more than capable of winning a race at this level, but sadly that is never guaranteed with the eight-year-old who fell when leading in the Gold Cup and seemingly going as well as any at the time. He could go close here but with the late withdrawal of Bravemansgame, preference goes to SHISKIN who is trying 3m-plus for the first time, he stayed on well despite too many mistakes to finish second in the Ryanair Chase, if he does get home here with a clear round will be set to land the spoils here. A Plus Tard, although pulling up on both starts this season will be thereabouts after showing up well in The Gold Cup.
In what promises to be an absorbing renewal of this prestigious contest, A PLUS TARD is taken to emerge on top. Though pulled up both starts so far this season, he appeared to be travelling as well as any before being hampered when Ahoy Senor fell 6 out in the Gold Cup, and his imperious performance in that race last March remains fresh in the memory. Bravemansgame is a big player on the back of his fine Gold Cup second but if Shishkin puts it all together he will be an even bigger threat.
Having looked ready for a crack at this new trip, SHISHKIN gets the vote. Ahoy Senor has a good Aintree record and is feared most.
(3) Picks Lad 9/1, Won a bumper for previous yard and has run with promise in a trio of novice hurdles for Kim Bailey, latest when fourth of 8 at Southwell (15.8f, soft) 24 days ago. Should be suited by this stiffer test of stamina and is a likely contender on switch to handicapping.
12
3rd (12) (4/1 +38%) Weaver's Answer
4
4/1(+38%)
(12) Weaver's Answer 4/1, Didn't show much in trio of novice hurdles, but has made more impact since sent handicapping, making the frame in all 3 starts. Steps up significantly in trip now and isn't discounted. 1 lb out of the weights.
9
4th (9) (14/1 -17%) Safe Destination
14
14/1(-17%)
(9) Safe Destination 14/1, Offered bits of promise in maiden/novice hurdles but all 3 outings in handicaps so far have been disappointing, including over this trip at Ffos Las latest.
4
5th (4) (12/1 -33%) Champ Royal
12
12/1(-33%)
(4) Champ Royal 12/1, Posted several creditable efforts in Ireland, latest when seventh of 15 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (20.6f, heavy) 87 days ago. Still a maiden after 9 attempts, however, and remains to be seen if switch to new yard has positive impact.
1
6th (1) (6.5/1 +35%) Looking For Larry
6.5
6.5/1(+35%)
(1) Looking For Larry 6.5/1, Point winner who posted career best in this sphere when taking 15-runner handicap at Exeter (16.7f, good to soft, 12/1) 34 days ago. Step up in trip looks a good move and must enter calculations.
6
7th (6) (6/1 +33%) Pedley Wood
6
6/1(+33%)
(6) Pedley Wood 6/1, Lightly-raced maiden who found improvement when second of 7 on handicap debut at Hereford (21.7f, good) in February. Looked unsuited by shorter trip when third at Exeter (18.5f) since and better expected here.
7
8th (7) (2.5/1 +29%) Dancingontheedge
2.5
2.5/1(+29%)
(7) Dancingontheedge 2.5/1, Back to best when narrow second of 16 in handicap hurdle over C&D (soft, 9/2) 31 days ago. 5 lb higher now but looks sure to go well again.
8
|DQ| (8) (9/1 +25%) Sandalwood
9
9/1(+25%)
(8) Sandalwood 9/1, Showed fairly useful form when second on his final bumper run at Newton Abbot last spring but hasn't got near that level in a trio of completed starts in this sphere and makes limited appeal. Cheekpieces back on.
11
|PU| (11) (16/1 -60%) Country Kitten
16
16/1(-60%)
(11) Country Kitten 16/1, Caused a surprise when taking 6-runner handicap hurdle at Market Rasen (23.1f, heavy, 40/1) 23 days ago, driven out. 4 lb rise fair and could prove dangerous if in same form again.
10
|PU| (10) (50/1 +24%) Mojito Royale
50
50/1(+24%)
(10) Mojito Royale 50/1, Twice placed in Hereford maiden hurdles last season but has offered little in a couple of outings this term.
LTO Selection:
15:10 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Paul Nicholls appears keen to win this contest, saddling three runners, presumably headed by DANCINGONTHEEDGE, who is the mount of Bryony Frost. She was only beaten a neck over C&D last month, with the third 10 lengths adrift, and although upped 5lb for that by the handicapper, she arrives here in good form and gets the nod. Picks Lad looks intriguing taking a big step up in trip and he could surprise a few, while Pedley Wood is another lightly raced sort who may have more to offer.
PICKS LAD looks the type to do better in handicaps, particularly now granted a stiffer test of stamina, and can get off the mark over hurdles. Pedley Wood and Dancingontheedge head the list of dangers.
Paul Nicholls saddles three, with the vote going to his DANCINGONTHEEDGE, who likely would have won here last time with better jumping.
(2) Naxos 0.36/1, Promising sort. Course winner. 8/11, second of 11 in minor event at Kempton (8f) when last seen in November, needing stronger gallop. Gelded since and now tried in a hood. Very much the one to beat.
4
2nd (4) (80/1 +0%) Sidney's Son
80
80/1(+0%)
(4) Sidney's Son 80/1, Twice-raced maiden. Ninth of 11 in minor event (100/1) at Redcar (7f, heavy). Off 163 days. Probably more one for handicaps in due course.
5
3rd (5) (66/1 +18%) Keeponbelieving
66
66/1(+18%)
(5) Keeponbelieving 66/1, Once-raced maiden. Fourth of 9 in minor event at Wolverhampton (8.6f, 125/1) on debut. Off 166 days and looks set for another struggle.
3
4th (3) (5/1 -122%) Mlle Chanel
5
5/1(-122%)
(3) Mlle Chanel 5/1, Twice-raced winner. One win from 2 runs last year. 9¼ lengths sixth of 10 to Dance In The Grass in listed race at Sandown (7f, good, 28/1) on final start at 2 yrs. Sights lowered here and she should make her presence felt.
1
5th (1) (4/1 +0%) Fade To Gray
4
4/1(+0%)
(1) Fade To Gray 4/1, Twice-raced winner. Won 7-runner maiden at this course (7.1f, evens) 49 days ago, well on top finish. More needed under a penalty but he's open to progress.
LTO Selection:
15:20 Newcastle Stakes (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
NAXOS is having his first run of the season having been gelded since finishing runner-up at Kempton in November. He was a comprehensive winner over 7f here on debut the previous month and this looks a good opportunity to get back to winning ways. Andrew Balding has his string in fine order at present and although Mlle Chanel was a shade disappointing on her final run last term, that was in Listed company and this looks much more winnable. Fade To Gray appears the best of the rest having won over a furlong shorter here in February and he may continue to progress.
NAXOS was turned over by a Roger Varian newcomer when odds-on for a Kempton novice in November but the muddling nature of that race didn't play to his strengths and, in any case, the winner (successful again next time) could be useful. Gelded since and now equipped with a hood, he is taken to resume winning ways. Mlle Chanel earns marginal preference ahead of Fade To Gray for forecast purposes.
The addition of a hood and a gelding operation could see a more polished display from the promising NAXOS.
(1) Constitution Hill 0.13/1, Capped last year's campaign with exceptional performance in Supreme at Cheltenham Festival and has looked imperious in a trio of victories this term, taking Champion Hurdle without being asked a serious question last month. Looks sure to stay longer trip and can't be opposed.
4
2nd (4) (20/1 +9%) Sharjah
20
20/1(+9%)
(4) Sharjah 20/1, Smashing 10-y-o who has twice finished runner-up in Champion Hurdle and, whilst he may not be quite the force of old, he's acquitted himself well in all 4 starts this term. latest when fourth of 24 in County Hurdle at Cheltenham last month. This longer trip not guranteed to suit, though.
5
3rd (5) (14/1 +13%) Zanahiyr
14
14/1(+13%)
(5) Zanahiyr 14/1, Very smart hurdler who would likely have finished runner-up (fell at last) in this contest 12 months ago and ran right up to his best when 13 lengths third of 7 to Constitution Hill in Champion at Cheltenham latest. Return to longer trip a plus and should run well again.
6
4th (6) (14/1 +13%) Epatante
14
14/1(+13%)
(6) Epatante 14/1, Classy mare who ran with credit behind stablemate Constitution Hill in Fighting Fifth and Christmas Hurdle this term before easily landing the odds in Doncaster Grade 2. Rare below-par effort in Mares' Hurdle last month but was a ready winner of this event last year and can bounce back to form.
2
5th (2) (22/1 +33%) I Like To Move It
22
22/1(+33%)
(2) I Like To Move It 22/1, Smart novice hurdler last term who has took his form up another notch this season, landing Greatwood at Cheltenham on return to action and Kingwell at Wincanton in February. Finished well beaten in Champion since, though, and has plenty on his plate again here.
3
6th (3) (50/1 +24%) Sceau Royal
50
50/1(+24%)
(3) Sceau Royal 50/1, Very smart hurdler/chaser who landed the odds at Kempton in a listed hurdle on his reappearance and has aquitted himself well in defeat since. However, this trip will stretch his stamina and others are preferred for places. Cheekpieces on for first time.
LTO Selection:
15:30 Aintree Conditions Hurdle (Class 1) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
No prizes for suggesting that CONSTITUTION HILL will win this as the reigning Champion Hurdler looks to cement his place as one of the best of all-time, and keep his unbeaten record under Rules intact. He was close to faultless at Cheltenham when beating State Man by nine lengths and although this is his first try at the trip, there is a school of thought that suggests he may even improve for it. Zanahiyr was behind the suggestion in third that day despite a mistake at the last and Gordon Elliott's six-year-old could be the one to follow him home, albeit at a respectful distance. Epatante won this last year and is another who could go well, but if Nigel Twiston-Davies allows I Like To Move It to settle on the pace and try to make every post a winning one, he could be the surprise package and hold on for a place at a bigger price.
This may be the last chance we get to see CONSTITUTION HILL over the smaller obstacles and it's difficult to envisage anything but another impressive winning display from this magnificent performer. Last year's winner Epatante is just preferred to Zanahiyr for the forecast spot.
The step up in trip should not pose a problem for Champion Hurdle winner CONSTITUTION HILL. I Like To Move It could finish second.
(2) Imperial Joe 1.88/1, Below best at Chepstow latest but had registered his second win over fences here previously and is still on a workable mark. Shortlisted.
1
2nd (1) (10/1 -67%) Milanford
10
10/1(-67%)
(1) Milanford 10/1, Formerly useful at best but clearly had his problems and folded tamely at Newbury last time. Tough to recommend despite tumbling mark.
3
3rd (3) (3.6/1 +28%) Furkash
3.6
3.6/1(+28%)
(3) Furkash 3.6/1, Not the easiest to catch right but shaped as if back to form when second in handicap chase at Hereford (25.2f, good to soft) last month and is one of the likelier contenders.
4
4th (4) (25/1 +0%) Cobra Commander
25
25/1(+0%)
(4) Cobra Commander 25/1, Showed improved form when winning handicap chases here and Newton Abbot this time last year but well below that form in 3 starts since and has plenty to prove at present.
8
5th (8) (4.5/1 +50%) Advantura
4.5
4.5/1(+50%)
(8) Advantura 4.5/1, Best effort of any description when second of 12 in handicap chase at this course (26.3f) in December but failed to complete in his other 3 attempts over fences and percentage call is to look elsewhere.
5
|F| (5) (7/1 -8%) Mexican Boy
7
7/1(-8%)
(5) Mexican Boy 7/1, Still looking for first success and hasn't progressed from his promising debut over fences, coming down before the race unfolded at Wetherby latest.
6
|U| (6) (11/1 -230%) O'faolains Lad
11
11/1(-230%)
(6) O'faolains Lad 11/1, Only raced 5 times under Rules, winning back-to-back handicap chases (at up to 26f) in autumn of 2021. Not seen since but he reappears off a handy mark and must enter calculations, particularly if the market vibes are strong.
9
|PU| (9) (14/1 +65%) Botus Fleming
14
14/1(+65%)
(9) Botus Fleming 14/1, Appears to be of little account and hopes for improvement may rest on recent wind operation. 5 lb out of the handicap.
LTO Selection:
15:45 Taunton Handicap Chase (Class 5) 23f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Cobra Commander won this last season off a mark of 75 but he is 17lb higher today and, after pulling up at Hereford last time, it may be sensible to look elsewhere. O'FAOLAINS LAD is looking for his hat-trick after successes at Newton Abbot and Wincanton and, although he hasn't been seen since October 2021, he has run well fresh in the past and might be able to run these down late on. Bal Amie and perhaps Furkash seem likeliest to battle it out for second and third.
Another chance is given to C&D winner IMPERIAL JOE, who may have been undone by the testing conditions at Chepstow last time. Furkash and O'Faolains Lad are also respected.
Preference is for IMPERIAL JOE, who was back on song over C&D two starts ago and had an excuse at Chepstow last time.
(1) Skilled Warrior 7.5/1, Respectable fifth of 13 in handicap at this C&D (9/2), slowly away. Capable of going close from this sort of mark but will need to hit the ground running on reappearance.
10
2nd (10) (6.5/1 -30%) Broctune Red
6.5
6.5/1(-30%)
(10) Broctune Red 6.5/1, 6-time C&D winner. 11/1, career best when winning 11-runner handicap at this course (10.2f) 10 days ago, quickening to lead 2f out and soon clear. Carries 4 lb penalty. Back down in trip. Major claims.
9
3rd (9) (6.5/1 +19%) Ravenglass
6.5
6.5/1(+19%)
(9) Ravenglass 6.5/1, Ended last season in good form, 10/1, creditable third of 11 in handicap at Pontefract (8f, good). May need this outing after 6 months off.
7
4th (7) (6.5/1 +54%) Vindobala
6.5
6.5/1(+54%)
(7) Vindobala 6.5/1, Unreliable type. 4-time course winner, latest in February. Not disgraced taking on a bunch of unexposed 3-y-os when sixth of 8 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f, 10/1) 9 days ago. Others preferred for win purposes.
8
5th (8) (5/1 +9%) Star Shield
5
5/1(+9%)
(8) Star Shield 5/1, C&D winner. Twelve runs since last win in 2022. Did well under the circumstances when second of 9 in handicap (6/1) at this C&D 29 days ago, conceding first run. Merits consideration.
4
6th (4) (7/1 -75%) Streak Lightning
7
7/1(-75%)
(4) Streak Lightning 7/1, Won 11-runner handicap (6/1) at this course (7.1f) just under a fortnight ago, leading final 1f and driven clear. 4 lb higher mark to contend with but fancied to give another good account.
2
7th (2) (3.33/1 +17%) Ron O
3.33
3.33/1(+17%)
(2) Ron O 3.33/1, Three wins from 9 runs last year. 9/4, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at this course (7.1f) 10 days ago, pushed out. Back up to 1m and remains of interest under a penalty.
5
8th (5) (40/1 -100%) Gainsbourg
40
40/1(-100%)
(5) Gainsbourg 40/1, Shaped like a non-stayer over hurdles on debut for new yard and ran poorly returned to the Flat when eighth of 9 in handicap at this C&D (33/1) 29 days ago. Cheekpieces back on but easy to look elsewhere.
6
9th (6) (40/1 -43%) Abnaa
40
40/1(-43%)
(6) Abnaa 40/1, 4-time course winner, latest in February. 4½ lengths last of 8 to Ron O in handicap at this course (7.1f, 22/1) 10 days ago. Needs more respite from the handicapper.
3
10th (3) (10/1 -54%) Outsmart
10
10/1(-54%)
(3) Outsmart 10/1, C&D winner. 8/1, ran no sort of race when last of 11 in handicap at Beverley (7.4f, good) 6 months ago. Others more persuasive.
LTO Selection:
15:55 Newcastle Handicap (Class 4) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
A 5lb penalty for a win over 7f earlier this month may not be enough to stop Ron O having a big say in proceedings here, but preference lies with the Gillian Boanas-trained BROCTUNE RED. The gelded son of Haafhd bolted up to score by six lengths over 1m2f at this track last time out and a 4lb penalty looks unlikely to hold him back, especially given he was eased inside the final furlong on that occasion. Recent C&D runner-up Star Shield is another to bear in mind.
BROCTUNE RED capitalised on a falling mark in emphatic style over 1¼m at this track 10 days ago and, if arriving in anything like the same form, Gillian Boanas' charge is likely to take some stopping under a 4 lb penalty. Star Shield turned in his best effort of the season when runner-up over C&D last month, so he heads up the opposition, ahead of Skilled Warrior and recent winner Ron O.
Broctune Red is respected on the back of last week's easy course win but this is a better race and he's taken on with STAR SHIELD.
(11) Famous Clermont 4.5/1, Multiple point winner and useful form in hunter chases. Travelled well for a long way when sixth in Festival Challenge Cup at Cheltenham, so this drop back in trip (also tongue tied) could be in his favour.
2
2nd (2) (16/1 +20%) Bennys King
16
16/1(+20%)
(2) Bennys King 16/1, Very smart handicap chaser and has mounted a minor revival in hunters lately, completing a double in convincing style at Fakenham last time. Can't be ruled out.
16
3rd (16) (40/1 -21%) Lough Derg Spirit
40
40/1(-21%)
(16) Lough Derg Spirit 40/1, Useful hurdler/chaser for Nicky Henderson in the past. Back from a spell in points with an encouraging (travelled well) second at Gowran a month ago. Outside chance if he builds on that.
15
4th (15) (4.5/1 +10%) Latenightpass
4.5
4.5/1(+10%)
(15) Latenightpass 4.5/1, Capped an excellent campaign last season by landing this event in gutsy style. Has looked as good as ever in points lately, so should go well in his bid to defend his crown.
25
5th (25) (80/1 -21%) Time Leader
80
80/1(-21%)
(25) Time Leader 80/1, Winning pointer for this yard and he continued the good work when a smooth winner on hunter debut at Leicester (22.5f). Easily followed up at Stratford and latest run at Carlisle is best excused (broke blood vessel). Faces a stiff task in this company.
6
6th (6) (20/1 -25%) Dento Des Obeaux
20
20/1(-25%)
(6) Dento Des Obeaux 20/1, 10-y-o who looked back to his fair best when landing a hunter at Thurles in facile style a month ago. Will probably be found out in this much better race, though.
19
7th (19) (20/1 +0%) Not That Fuisse
20
20/1(+0%)
(19) Not That Fuisse 20/1, Useful chaser who scored at Wetherby on return and backed it up with a respectable second to I k Brunel at Taunton. Could get involved if they go too quick.
27
8th (27) (3.33/1 +5%) Winged Leader
3.33
3.33/1(+5%)
(27) Winged Leader 3.33/1, Highly likeable sort who was cruelly denied in the 2022 Festival Challenge Cup at Cheltenham when last seen under Rules. Fit from a hat-trick between the flags and looks set for a bold showing.
18
9th (18) (100/1 +0%) Matts Commission
100
100/1(+0%)
(18) Matts Commission 100/1, Very lightly raced under Rules and, while he is prolific in points, there's too much improvement for him to find.
13
|B| (13) (28/1 +15%) I K Brunel
28
28/1(+15%)
(13) I K Brunel 28/1, Fairly useful chase winner (at 23f) for Olly Murphy last season and made a successful transition to hunters (winning pointer) at Taunton. Unseated rider at Cheltenham and this is another tough ask.
14
|F| (14) (8/1 +20%) Its On The Line
8
8/1(+20%)
(14) Its On The Line 8/1, Isn't the most straightforward but put up his best effort under Rules when second in the Festival Challenge Cup at Cheltenham last time, finishing to good effect. Drop back in trip isn't ideal and he's not sure to be in the same form.
23
|F| (23) (80/1 -21%) Sixteen Letters
80
80/1(-21%)
(23) Sixteen Letters 80/1, Fair chaser who landed a novice hunter at Wincanton with any amount in hand on his latest Rules outing 12 months ago. Has tasted further success in points since but he has a lot to find.
12
|U| (12) (5.5/1 -10%) Fier Jaguen
5.5
5.5/1(-10%)
(12) Fier Jaguen 5.5/1, Multiple point winner who made a pleasing start in hunters when runner-up at Chepstow in April last year, travelling best. Easy winner between the flags last time and worthy of respect back under Rules.
10
|U| (10) (40/1 +0%) Envoye Special
40
40/1(+0%)
(10) Envoye Special 40/1, Fairly useful chaser who completed a four-timer at Ffos Las in February and was far from discredited at Wincanton next time. Can't be completely dismissed.
1
|U| (1) (100/1 -25%) Ami Desbois
100
100/1(-25%)
(1) Ami Desbois 100/1, Veteran who showed fairly useful form in this sphere last season but needs to put a poor run at Southwell behind him if he's to have any sort of chance.
21
|U| (21) (200/1 -33%) Rewritetherules
200
200/1(-33%)
(21) Rewritetherules 200/1, Multiple point winner little encouragement under Rules of late.
7
10th (7) (66/1 -32%) Dieu Vivant
66
66/1(-32%)
(7) Dieu Vivant 66/1, Doesn't win much but has run well the last twice and the nature of this race should play to his strengths. Cheekpieces back on and might get involved if they go off hard.
4
11th (4) (33/1 +0%) Cousin Pascal
33
33/1(+0%)
(4) Cousin Pascal 33/1, Won this in 2021 and, while he's probably not quite as good these days, he wasn't totally disgraced when second at Leicester 44 days ago.
8
12th (8) (33/1 +0%) Dorking Cock
33
33/1(+0%)
(8) Dorking Cock 33/1, Useful hunter chaser who should have won when neck second of 8 to Vaucelet at Down Royal in December. Tame display at the Festival last time and others make more appeal.
17
13th (17) (10/1 +17%) Magic Saint
10
10/1(+17%)
(17) Magic Saint 10/1, Just useful nowadays but completed a rather straightforward task in ready fashion at Wincanton last time and has previously run well in big fields, so no forlorn hope.
24
14th (24) (100/1 -25%) Step Back
100
100/1(-25%)
(24) Step Back 100/1, Former Bet365 Gold Cup winner who stepped up on hunter debut when second at Carlisle recently. Probably not up to this level anymore and faces competition for the lead.
20
15th (20) (150/1 -50%) Reikers Island
150
150/1(-50%)
(20) Reikers Island 150/1, Useful chaser who scored twice in this sphere last season. Underperformed in last year's renewal, though, and was tailed off in a point last time.
3
16th (3) (66/1 -65%) Coastal Tiep
66
66/1(-65%)
(3) Coastal Tiep 66/1, Unreliable type who was below his best when only third at Thurles last time. Has had a break since and cheekpieces now applied.
26
17th (26) (200/1 -100%) Wagner
200
200/1(-100%)
(26) Wagner 200/1, Fairly useful chaser at best but he's short of the standard required to compete in this and was unplaced between the flags last time.
9
|PU| (9) (66/1 -32%) Drop Flight
66
66/1(-32%)
(9) Drop Flight 66/1, Fair winning chaser in France. Has returned with a trio of placed efforts in hunters for this yard but more needed in this company.
28
|PU| (28) (200/1 -33%) Write It Down
200
200/1(-33%)
(28) Write It Down 200/1, Unreliable chaser who was second in a point last time but looks out of his depth in this.
5
|PU| (5) (200/1 +0%) Dalahast
200
200/1(+0%)
(5) Dalahast 200/1, Multiple chase winner in France but obviously not the force of old and is easily passed over despite first-time blinkers.
LTO Selection:
16:05 Aintree Hunter Chase (Class 2) 21f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Cousin Pascal was a shock winner of this race back in 2021 and proved that the unexpected can happen over this unique course. However, WINGED LEADER, who appears to have been saved for this race, gets the vote. The nine-year-old looked set to be crowned champion of last year's Cheltenham Hunters' Chase but for being swallowed up in the dying strides. He arrives here on the back of three victories between the flags in Ireland and is likely to be spot on in his attempt to claim this contest. Famous Clermont's stamina appeared stretched by the extended 3m2f distance when weakening into sixth late on at Cheltenham last month and Chris Barber's inmate isn't taken lightly now dropped to 2m5f. Latenightpass boasts a fine record in the race, with last year's win under his belt and a fine second behind the aforementioned Cousin Pascal the season before. Tom Ellis' gelding is likely to be on the premises once more and can't be ruled out, while Fier Jaguen and Magic Saint make most appeal of the remainder.
WINGED LEADER is a straightforward, bold jumper, who tends to go forward, all attributes that lend themselves to this sort of test, and he's looked as good as ever in points recently, so he's a solid option. Last year's winner Latenightpass is set for another bold showing and Magic Saint has enough class to make his presence felt.
Although making his Aintree debut, the talented WINGED LEADER appeals most. Its On The Line and Latenightpass head the dangers.
(7) Hititi 3.2/1, Back thriving again since returned to hurdles (building up good record in this sphere), readily shrugging off a 9 lb rise for his Exeter success when going in again at Wincanton (19.8f) recently. Up another 4 lb but will be a danger to all if coping with this step up in trip.
1
2nd (1) (6.5/1 +46%) Jatiluwih
6.5
6.5/1(+46%)
(1) Jatiluwih 6.5/1, Has made the frame all 4 starts returned to hurdles this season, albeit without really threatening and his latest success under Rules was gained back in November 2019. Yard also saddles Stellar Magic.
6
3rd (6) (3.5/1 +36%) Sayadam
3.5
3.5/1(+36%)
(6) Sayadam 3.5/1, Kelso bumper winner who hasn't done much wrong since switched to hurdles, winning 3 times and just behind American Sniper when third in a Taunton handicap in January. Not disgraced at Uttoxeter (2½m) last time and this new trip may well be within his range.
4
4th (4) (2.75/1 +0%) Jet Of Magic
2.75
2.75/1(+0%)
(4) Jet Of Magic 2.75/1, Has returned an improved model for new yard this season, following his Hereford success with a string of solid placed efforts over 3m, including in a valuable Sandown handicap in February. Unseated early at Wincanton last time but claims granted a clear round here. Yard also fields Take Your Time.
2
4th (2) (5.5/1 +39%) Stellar Magic
5.5
5.5/1(+39%)
(2) Stellar Magic 5.5/1, Back to best when runner-up over 3m at Wincanton on Boxing Day, and again back on track following a low-key effort when fourth of 13 at Uttoxeter last month. Still, others make more appeal here for win purposes.
9
6th (9) (7.5/1 -25%) Take Your Time
7.5
7.5/1(-25%)
(9) Take Your Time 7.5/1, Looked very much on the up when winning handicaps at around this trip on his first 2 starts of last season. Fair to say that things haven't gone to plan since but he's been given a real chance by the assessor and perhaps the first-time blinkers will help spark a return to form.
8
7th (8) (100/1 -25%) Brazos
100
100/1(-25%)
(8) Brazos 100/1, Stepped up on low-key reappearance when runner-up at Cheltenham (3m) in December. However, it's been all downhill since and he needs to bounce back in a major way.
LTO Selection:
16:20 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
Take Your Time has lost his way recently and was beaten a long way at Chepstow in February, but connections try blinkers for the first time now and he has won twice off higher marks in the past. He could go well, but HITITI is the in-form option after wins at Exeter and Wincanton and, if he stays this trip at the first attempt, he may well complete the hat-trick. Sayadam is another to consider, though a place seems more likely for the six-year-old.
Having been given a serious chance by the handicapper, it would be no surprise were TAKE YOUR TIME to stage a revival equipped with first-time blinkers. Stablemate Jet of Magic looks a big threat judged on his solid effort in a Grade 3 Sandown handicap in February but whether he has much in hand of his current mark remains to be seen. Consequently, the selection may have most to fear from Copper Coin, who is interesting back from a break (goes well fresh), and the hat-trick seeking Hititi.
Hititi is on the up but COPPER COIN (nap) drops in class and may be the answer.
(3) Centre Court 5/1, 16/1, ran creditably after 5 months off when fifth of 14 in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW) 6 days ago, staying on final 1f after short of room over 2f out. More needed from this mark, however.
7
2nd (7) (7.5/1 +6%) Tiamat
7.5
7.5/1(+6%)
(7) Tiamat 7.5/1, Made a winning debut at this track back in September but rather underwhelming when sixth of 12 in minor event at Newmarket (7f, good to soft) 6 months ago. Back on all-weather and better showing anticipated on handicap debut.
1
3rd (1) (1.62/1 +51%) Calypso
1.62
1.62/1(+51%)
(1) Calypso 1.62/1, 2/1, improved again when second of 12 in maiden at Wolverhampton (7.2f), well positioned. The third that day has won since and returning from over 4 months off, he needs taking seriously on handicap debut (also gelded in interim).
2
4th (2) (2.5/1 -67%) Falcon Nine
2.5
2.5/1(-67%)
(2) Falcon Nine 2.5/1, 28/1, fifth of 14 in maiden at Kempton (8f) 5 months ago, left poorly placed. Looks one to keep on side now heading into handicaps so he's a must for the shortlist.
5
5th (5) (7.5/1 +32%) Time Traveller
7.5
7.5/1(+32%)
(5) Time Traveller 7.5/1, 5/2, ran to a modest level when second of 9 in minor event at Redcar (7f, heavy) over 5 months ago. Could prove a different proposition now handicapping/having been gelded.
4
6th (4) (20/1 -67%) Calluna
20
20/1(-67%)
(4) Calluna 20/1, Ran poorly on qualifying run when seventh of 11 in maiden (11/4) at this course (6f) 5 months ago. Significantly upped in trip for handicap debut (also had a breathing operation) so well worth a second look.
6
7th (6) (33/1 -83%) Vampire Slayer
33
33/1(-83%)
(6) Vampire Slayer 33/1, First run since leaving Joseph Patrick O'Brien when creditable second of 6 in handicap (20/1) at this course (6f) 3 months ago, having run of race. Significantly back up in trip.
LTO Selection:
16:30 Newcastle Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Calypso makes his handicap debut following a decent second over 7f at Wolverhampton when last seen in November but he has to shoulder top-weight here, so preference is for FALCON NINE. Sir Michael Stoute-trained gelding is related to some smart types and must hold every chance of building on a fair fifth over this trip at Kempton, also from last November, so should not be taken lightly. Vampire Slayer and Time Traveller are others of interest.
CALYPSO continued his race-by-race progress when finishing runner-up at Wolverhampton back in November, and with this step up to 1m holding no fears, James Ferguson's charge is fancied to go one better. He faces plenty of unexposed opposition though, with Falcon Nine, Calluna and course-winner Tiamat all capable of playing their part on handicap debut, too.
Newmarket raiders CALYPSO and Falcon Nine are likely big improvers this year and can fight out the finish.
(2) Dancing On My Own 7.5/1, Low-mileage 9-y-o who ran a cracker when runner-up behind The Last Day in this race 12 months ago, well served by an attacking front-running ride. Struggled to make an impact both starts in Ireland this winter but comes here fresh from 3 month break and better showing not ruled out.
13
2nd (13) (4.5/1 -29%) Douglas Talking
4.5
4.5/1(-29%)
(13) Douglas Talking 4.5/1, Front runner who resumed progress to run out an emphatic winner at Ayr after 4 months off (had undergone a breathing operation) and backed that up with easy success at Sandown last month (jumping superbly). Hit with another 10 lb rise but unlikely he's finished improving yet.
10
3rd (10) (16/1 -45%) The Last Day
16
16/1(-45%)
(10) The Last Day 16/1, Sparingly campaigned for a horse of his age and well prepared to land this race in convincing fashion from 2 lb lower mark 12 months ago. Not in same form either outing this term, pulled in Grand Annual last month. Hopes pinned on return to this venue having positive effect (2-2 over C&D).
11
4th (11) (14/1 -17%) Hasankey
14
14/1(-17%)
(11) Hasankey 14/1, Made excellent strides over fences last season, winning 3 on the bounce prior to finishing sixth in Grand Annual at the Festival. Comes here in good order, runner-up at Warwick (16.2f) 2 weeks ago but his mark does look about right.
4
5th (4) (6/1 +40%) Pay The Piper
6
6/1(+40%)
(4) Pay The Piper 6/1, Steadily found his form this season, readily regaining winning thread at Musselburgh (15.8f) in February and only just edged out in follow-up bid at Doncaster (16.4f) 6 weeks ago. Evidently at the top of his game and fancied to be thereabouts again.
6
6th (6) (16/1 +27%) Before Midnight
16
16/1(+27%)
(6) Before Midnight 16/1, Multiple chase winner for this yard who returned in good order during the winter, running with credit when fourth at Doncaster (16.3f) in January, despite an uncharacteristic late mistake. Pulled up in Grand Annual since but he's now 4 lb below last winning mark. Cheekpieces/tongue tie discarded.
5
7th (5) (6/1 +8%) Grey Diamond
6
6/1(+8%)
(5) Grey Diamond 6/1, Looked set to play a big part when falling 2 out at Sandown in January and duly confirmed promise of that run when running out a ready winner at Haydock (16.3f) 3 weeks ago, clear before 2 out and eased final 100 yds. Commands plenty of respect again despite 7 lb higher mark to defy.
8
8th (8) (80/1 +20%) Vado Forte
80
80/1(+20%)
(8) Vado Forte 80/1, Returned to form from out of the blue to land 10-runner Galway handicap chase (18.2f) for Gordon Elliott last summer. Exploits mixed for present stable but in process of running well (likely to have finished third) when unseating last at Thurles (16.7f) in February. More needed here, though.
1
9th (1) (3.33/1 +33%) Third Time Lucki
3.33
3.33/1(+33%)
(1) Third Time Lucki 3.33/1, Successful 3 times over fences last season and bounced back to best to score at Sandown (15.5f) in February. Again shaped well (fared best of those from off the pace) when fourth in last month's Grand Annual at Cheltenham and he's one to be interested in from 1 lb lower mark.
12
10th (12) (40/1 -43%) Defan
40
40/1(-43%)
(12) Defan 40/1, Resumed progress on back of a break when successful at Ballinrobe (17f) last May. Below that level both starts since though, unable to land a blow (following 8 months off) when sixth in 7-runner Limerick handicap (19.5f) 18 days ago. Others make greater appeal.
14
|PU| (14) (14/1 -27%) Hatcher
14
14/1(-27%)
(14) Hatcher 14/1, Failed to complete first 3 starts this winter but stopped the slide following wind op/3 months off when third in 9-runner Ascot handicap (16.7f) 11 days ago. Has tumbled in the weights but his task is to build on that now.
3
|PU| (3) (14/1 +22%) Dads Lad
14
14/1(+22%)
(3) Dads Lad 14/1, Improved model over fences during second half of last year, gaining third success at Cheltenham (15.9f) in October. Unable to get competitive in Greatwood Hurdle in November though and let down by his jumping on return from a break in last month's Grand Annual.
7
|PU| (7) (16/1 +27%) Mackenberg
16
16/1(+27%)
(7) Mackenberg 16/1, Won his first 5 chase starts, the latest over 19f at Doncaster in November and he comes here on the back of finishing a creditable third back at that venue (16.4f) in March, albeit making late gains off a strong gallop. This understandably tougher.
LTO Selection:
16:40 Aintree Handicap Chase (Class 1) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
A fiercely competitive handicap where a case can be made for most of the field, but THIRD TIME LUCKI ran a fine race on ground softer than ideal to finish fourth having been slightly hampered two out in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham last month. He travelled well for most of that race and having been dropped 1lb since, he looks primed for a big effort. The biggest danger may come from Pay The Piper, who was denied by the narrowest of margins at Doncaster when last seen and should have conditions to suit. Douglas Talking is 2-2 this year, since having wind surgery, and can't be discounted, although a 10lb rise for his latest success tempers enthusiasm.
THIRD TIME LUCKI has bounced back to form in recent starts, successful at Sandown prior to faring best of those held up when fourth in last month's Grand Annual at Cheltenham. He's operating from a 1 lb lower mark here, and a strong pace to aim at will play to his strengths so he could well be the answer. Progressive 7-y-o Douglas Talking and facile Haydock-scorer Grey Diamond head up the dangers, whilst last year's winner The Last Day is another to keep an eye on.
Third Time Lucki will be suited by this track but DOUGLAS TALKING was impressive at Sandown and looks seriously progressive.
(8) Phoenix Risen 3.33/1, Produced his best effort to date by some way when third of 14 in first-time cheekpieces over 19f here last month. Likely to be in the mix off the same mark with this drop in trip a potentially good move.
5
2nd (5) (28/1 -100%) Gavin
28
28/1(-100%)
(5) Gavin 28/1, More miss than hit on the Flat during the summer and it was a similar story returned to this sphere during the autumn. Needs to bounce back from a break here.
14
3rd (14) (4/1 +20%) Gorcombe Moonshine
4
4/1(+20%)
(14) Gorcombe Moonshine 4/1, Remains a maiden following 10 attempts in this sphere but latest third in a 15-runner Exeter handicap (16.7f) was one of his better efforts. Ridden a bit too aggressively on that occasion and he's a player off the same mark.
11
4th (11) (7/1 +22%) Syr Maffos
7
7/1(+22%)
(11) Syr Maffos 7/1, Yet to trouble the judge but it's still early days and he's now 10 lb lower in the weights compared to when making his handicap debut at Uttoxeter in September. Worth a second look with first-time blinkers enlisted.
4
5th (4) (12/1 -20%) Noble Savage
12
12/1(-20%)
(4) Noble Savage 12/1, Got back on track when second of 5 in handicap at Wincanton (21.4f) last month, first past the post but demoted for hanging left and hampering the runner-up. However, he wasn't in the same form there recently and now drops back in trip.
17
6th (17) (125/1 -89%) La Referi
125
125/1(-89%)
(17) La Referi 125/1, Looks very limited judged on what she's shown over hurdles to date and she's a long way out of the weights for this handicap debut.
3
7th (3) (4.5/1 +55%) Robinsville
4.5
4.5/1(+55%)
(3) Robinsville 4.5/1, Out of an unraced sister to connections' top-class hurdler/chaser Thistlecrack but hasn't shaped with much promise in maiden/novice company so far. Still, he's worth a second look in the betting now pitched into a handicap.
2
8th (2) (125/1 -150%) Forever Des Long
125
125/1(-150%)
(2) Forever Des Long 125/1, Market Rasen winner for Philip Hobbs last spring but ended his time with that yard on a low note and well held all 3 starts for present connections. Tongue strap applied.
9
9th (9) (18/1 +10%) Secret Potion
18
18/1(+10%)
(9) Secret Potion 18/1, Went close on the Flat in November but has failed to fire both starts in this sphere for present yard, including over 19f here last time. Others are more appealing.
13
|F| (13) (12/1 +52%) Tuscan Rose
12
12/1(+52%)
(13) Tuscan Rose 12/1, Little to shout about in a bumper/3 starts over hurdles to date, and she's another who needs to improve considerably now making the switch to handicap company.
7
10th (7) (12/1 -60%) Faerie Cutlass
12
12/1(-60%)
(7) Faerie Cutlass 12/1, Has hinted at promise in a bumper and in a trio of novice events in this sphere. Can be expected to improve now that she ventures down the handicap route and it'll be interesting to see what the market has to say.
6
11th (6) (50/1 -100%) Ho Que Oui
50
50/1(-100%)
(6) Ho Que Oui 50/1, Fair hurdler in France and produced her best effort for this yard when scoring over fences at Ffos Las in October. Disappointing since, though, and it's hard to know what to expect of her now back over hurdles.
15
|PU| (15) (10/1 +50%) Presgrave
10
10/1(+50%)
(15) Presgrave 10/1, Solid third of 15 over 19f here in November but has failed to back that effort up in 2 subsequent starts, and record in this sphere stands at 0-14.
12
|PU| (12) (14/1 +44%) Nordy Lordy
14
14/1(+44%)
(12) Nordy Lordy 14/1, Winner of sole start between the flags but hasn't shown much under Rules so far and big step forward needed now pitched into a handicap.
LTO Selection:
16:55 Taunton Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
A trappy-looking contest for the penultimate race, in which Man Of The Sea must be high on the shortlist. The drier the ground the better for the seven-year-old gelding, with Joe Anderson claiming a valuable 7lb off his back. However, the eye is drawn to GORCOMBE MOONSHINE, who sneaks in with a lovely racing weight. He ran well at Exeter last month and arrives here off the same mark. Phoenix Risen outran his odds to finish third here last time and this sharper trip shouldn't be too much of an inconvenience.
Solid options are thin on the ground and while FAERIE CUTLASS can hardly be considered as such following 3 low-key efforts in novice company, she very much appeals as the type to raise her game now handicapping off a realistic opening mark. If able to build on his latest improved effort here, Phoenix Risen should have a big role to play, while Gorcombe Moonshine and Syr Maffos are others to consider.
Several runners are interesting, most notably the handicap newcomers FAERIE CUTLASS, Robinsville and Tuscan Rose.
(2) Early Morning Dew 4/1, Has run well all 3 starts this year for his current yard, latest when third of 12 in handicap (5/2) at Kempton (12f) 29 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Visor now applied for first time and ought to be in the mix again.
4
2nd (4) (3/1 +40%) Kentucky Kingdom
3
3/1(+40%)
(4) Kentucky Kingdom 3/1, 3-time C&D winner. One win from 3 runs last year. 9/2, sixth of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 16 days ago, not knocked about. Others preferred.
1
3rd (1) (1.75/1 -7%) They Don't Know
1.75
1.75/1(-7%)
(1) They Don't Know 1.75/1, Returned to form when second of 7 in handicap over C&D 7 days ago. Races off same mark and holds strong claims.
5
4th (5) (50/1 +0%) Dutch Admiral
50
50/1(+0%)
(5) Dutch Admiral 50/1, Last of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f, 150/1) 31 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time in this code. Hard to fancy.
6
5th (6) (28/1 -12%) Endofastorm
28
28/1(-12%)
(6) Endofastorm 28/1, Winner at Newcastle in January. First run since leaving David C. Griffiths when ninth of 11 in handicap at Kempton (8f, 16/1) 43 days ago. Up in trip. Work to do.
7
6th (7) (8/1 +33%) Claddaghduff
8
8/1(+33%)
(7) Claddaghduff 8/1, Sixth of 8 in handicap (16/1) at Southwell (12.1f) 30 days ago. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals.
3
7th (3) (5/1 -11%) Kenilworth King
5
5/1(-11%)
(3) Kenilworth King 5/1, Winner at Wolverhampton (9.5f) in October. Below par over shorter trip at same course in December but better expected here. Cheekpieces on first time.
LTO Selection:
17:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
THEY DON'T KNOW posted an improved effort when runner-up over C&D a week ago and looks the one to beat off the same mark. Early Morning Dew has proved to be competitive on all three appearances since having his first run for these connections in January and a first-time visor could aid his cause. Kenilworth King is capable on his day and should not be underestimated.
THEY DON'T KNOW posted his best effort for Tony Carroll when runner-up over C&D last week and can belatedly open his account. Early Morning Dew and Kenilworth King should also go well.
They Don't Know (second choice) and Early Morning Dew are serial losers so KENTUCKY KINGDOM is favoured.
(5) Profitar Rules 11/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 2/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time, last of 5 in minor event at Lingfield (8f, AW). Off 101 days. Makes tapeta debut and visored for 1st time.
2
2nd (2) (3/1 +40%) Aihawawi
3
3/1(+40%)
(2) Aihawawi 3/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 40/1, good sixth of 10 in nursery at Kempton (7f), well positioned. Off 162 days ahead of this tapeta debut and needs to improve.
4
3rd (4) (0.83/1 +0%) Bella Kopella
0.83
0.83/1(+0%)
(4) Bella Kopella 0.83/1, 4/1, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at this C&D 30 days ago. Should make a bold bid to follow up off this 4 lb higher mark.
3
4th (3) (7.5/1 -50%) Hidden Code
7.5
7.5/1(-50%)
(3) Hidden Code 7.5/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Eighth of 11 in minor event at Southwell (6.1f, 50/1) 60 days ago, slowly away. Sizeable step forward needed now switched to handicap company.
1
5th (1) (8/1 -23%) The King's Men
8
8/1(-23%)
(1) The King's Men 8/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 20/1, sixth of 9 in maiden at this C&D, left poorly placed. Off 101 days. Makes handicap debut and could have a part to play.
LTO Selection:
17:05 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
BELLA KOPELLA looked better than ever when travelling strongly to win over C&D last month and a 4lb rise is unlikely to prevent another bold bid from Nigel Tinkler's filly. Aihawawi shaped better than his finishing position of sixth suggests at Kempton in November and he's feared most now 2lb lower on this return from a 162-day absence. The King's Men may have more to offer now entering handicaps and completes the shortlist.
It's hard to look beyond BELLA KOPELLA, who improved when landing a C&D handicap on her reappearance last month and it's likely that she has more to offer. The King's Men could be the one to follow her home, ahead of Aihawawi.
The progressive BELLA KOPELLA (nap) still looks well treated on the back of a C&D win that has been franked since.
(4) Dysart Enos 6.5/1, Runner-up sole outing in Irish points and has looked a good prospect in winning both starts under Rules, the latter coming at Market Rasen a couple of months ago. Looks a player.
6
2nd (6) (40/1 +50%) Golden Ace
40
40/1(+50%)
(6) Golden Ace 40/1, Golden Horn filly who showed a likeable attitude when making a winning debut at Wincanton on Boxing Day, rallying to lead again on the line. Not disgraced at Ascot next time but seems to be flying too high in this.
18
3rd (18) (16/1 +0%) Williamstowndancer
16
16/1(+0%)
(18) Williamstowndancer 16/1, Impressive debut winner. Ran out in listed bumper at Cheltenham (16.4f, good, 5/2) and slightly disappointing when fifth of 8 to Jetara at the same level at Navan last time. Travelled quite well that day, though, and a 137-day break will probably have done her good.
12
4th (12) (40/1 +20%) Politacus
40
40/1(+20%)
(12) Politacus 40/1, Off the mark at the third attempt when landing a 14-runner event at Ascot (from Kay Tara Tara). Needs to up her game if she's to feature in this much stronger contest, though.
19
5th (19) (3/1 +33%) Jolie Coeur Allen
3
3/1(+33%)
(19) Jolie Coeur Allen 3/1, Shaped very well when second of 17 in bumper at Fontainebleau (12.9f, good, 22/1) 7 months ago and has joined top connections subsequently. Should be ready to go and strength in the market would hold great significance.
5
6th (5) (7.5/1 +6%) Gaillimh A Run
7.5
7.5/1(+6%)
(5) Gaillimh A Run 7.5/1, Straightforward mare who doubled her tally in a first-time tongue strap at Naas a month ago. Likely to give another good account for all that she might lack the ability of one or two.
13
7th (13) (40/1 +0%) Rockstown Girl
40
40/1(+0%)
(13) Rockstown Girl 40/1, Scored on debut at Roscommon last July and has bettered that form since, a creditable third in a Grade 2 at Leopardstown last time. Likely to come up short for ability but worth her place.
1
8th (1) (40/1 -21%) Alfie's Princess
40
40/1(-21%)
(1) Alfie's Princess 40/1, £220,000 5-y-o, Shirocco mare. Won sole start in Irish points (Mar 13) and couldn't quite justify market confidence starting out at listed level at Huntingdon in December. Clearly has plenty of ability and should improve.
20
9th (20) (5/1 +17%) July Flower
5
5/1(+17%)
(20) July Flower 5/1, Unbeaten in a couple of French bumpers and looks an intriguing addition to this field having joined a top stable. Worth monitoring in the betting.
3
10th (3) (40/1 -21%) Casa No Mento
40
40/1(-21%)
(3) Casa No Mento 40/1, Cheap purchase but looked a good prospect when landing a Hereford bumper and narrowly denied in listed company at Sandown next time. Merits respect.
16
11th (16) (22/1 +0%) She's A Fine Wine
22
22/1(+0%)
(16) She's A Fine Wine 22/1, Confirmed encouragement of her debut when bolting up at Southwell recently and there could be more to come, so she's no forlorn hope despite the hike in grade.
14
12th (14) (100/1 -52%) Saint Bibiana
100
100/1(-52%)
(14) Saint Bibiana 100/1, Left previous form behind when landing a bumper at Uttoxeter in December but that form isn't good enough to feature in this and she unseated her rider around halfway next time out.
2
13th (2) (14/1 +0%) Baby Sage
14
14/1(+0%)
(2) Baby Sage 14/1, Flemensfirth mare who made the ideal start when landing a Warwick bumper 48 days ago. Good prospect but lack of experience could hold her back.
8
14th (8) (40/1 -60%) Kay Tara Tara
40
40/1(-60%)
(8) Kay Tara Tara 40/1, Looked potentially useful when readily making a winning debut on Lingfield's AW in December. Good second to Politacus at Ascot subsequently but needs to do more if she's to make her presence felt in this.
15
15th (15) (4.5/1 -35%) Seeyouinmydreams
4.5
4.5/1(-35%)
(15) Seeyouinmydreams 4.5/1, 235,000 gns buy after easily winning her sole start in Irish points last April. Had had wind surgery ahead of making winner bumper debut at Newbury 6 weeks ago (unchallenged) and looks all set to make a bold follow-up bid.
11
16th (11) (28/1 -56%) Notkeepinyagoing
28
28/1(-56%)
(11) Notkeepinyagoing 28/1, Point winner who justified support when making a successful Rules debut at Galway 7 months ago. Not seen since, which would be a concern, but open to improvement if fitness isn't an issue.
17
17th (17) (100/1 -52%) Telepathique
100
100/1(-52%)
(17) Telepathique 100/1, Confirmed debut promise when landing a 12-runner event at Warwick 48 days ago but has a lot more on her plate in this company.
10
18th (10) (12/1 +40%) Magic Dawn
12
12/1(+40%)
(10) Magic Dawn 12/1, Improved markedly from debut when landing an 11-runner event at Punchestown 103 days ago and has joined a top Irish yard since, so further improvement seems likely.
7
19th (7) (80/1 -142%) Ici La Reine
80
80/1(-142%)
(7) Ici La Reine 80/1, Comfortable winner of her first two starts, both coming at Newcastle. Likeable type on early evidence, which will help in this scenario, but she has improvement to find.
9
20th (9) (66/1 -100%) Lunar Discovery
66
66/1(-100%)
(9) Lunar Discovery 66/1, Won her first two starts in impressive style and only lost out on the hat-trick in the stewards' room at Ayr a couple of months ago. This is tougher but she's worthy of respect.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Three of the last four runnings of this race have gone to an Irish raider and this year may be no different with most of the big trainers across the Irish Sea being represented. Last year's winning handler Willie Mullins is doubly represented with Williamstowndancer and Jolie Coeur Allen, the latter is having her first run on these shores having finished second in a French bumper last year and has since been purchased by J P McManus. However, JULY FLOWER was 2-2 in France having won a Grade 1 bumper in November on her most recent outing and, receiving 8lb from most of the field, she's taken to open her account for new connections at the first time of asking. The best chance from the home contingent appears to be Seeyouinmydreams, who couldn't have won any easier at Newbury on her Rules debut and looks an exciting mare for the future.
Paul Nicholls has enjoyed a cracking campaign in bumpers and his ex-pointer SEEYOUINMYDREAMS looked an exciting prospect when scoring at Newbury on debut, so she could be the way to go in a typically competitive renewal. Jolie Coeur Allen is a danger starting out for Willie Mullins and a big run from the unbeaten Dysart Enos would come as no surprise.
This could be between the two ex-French 4yos. JOLIE COEUR ALLEN was unlucky on her sole start and is preferred to July Flower.
(9) Geezer Rockstar 5.5/1, €55,000 3-y-o, Getaway gelding. Dam (c89/h107), 2¾m hurdle winner, sister to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser (stayed 25f) Themoonandsixpence. Yard enjoy plenty of success in this sphere and he's a noteworthy newcomer.
10
2nd (10) (1.5/1 -9%) Jackpot D'athou
1.5
1.5/1(-9%)
(10) Jackpot D'athou 1.5/1, €165,000 purchase on the back of finishing runner-up sole start in a French bumper and he again displayed plenty when third in a big-field Kempton bumper on debut for his new yard 26 days ago. Should be firmly in the mix again on that evidence.
8
3rd (8) (6.5/1 +19%) Call To Duty
6.5
6.5/1(+19%)
(8) Call To Duty 6.5/1, Soldier of Fortune gelding. Dam (h104), 19f-3m hurdle winner, sister to fairly useful hurdler/smart chaser (winner up to 3m) Simon and fairly useful 2½m hurdle winner Taking My Cut.
3
4th (3) (5/1 -43%) Il Va De Soi
5
5/1(-43%)
(3) Il Va De Soi 5/1, Gris De Gris gelding who was placed both starts in Irish points (latest April 2022) and promise on Rules/bumper debut when second in 8-runner event at Kempton (2m) in February, running green straight but keeping on well final 1f. Type to do better.
13
5th (13) (7.5/1 +17%) Star Of Affinity
7.5
7.5/1(+17%)
(13) Star Of Affinity 7.5/1, £80,000 3-y-o, Affinisea gelding. Dam (b79), ran twice in bumpers, closely related to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser (stayed 3¼m) O Maonlai and bumper winner Flirtatious Girl. Betting should prove a useful guide ahead of debut.
2
6th (2) (8.5/1 +15%) Idamix
8.5
8.5/1(+15%)
(2) Idamix 8.5/1, €40,000 3-y-o, Al Namix gelding. Half-brother to fair French 2¼m chase winner Hudson Dubreau and French bumper/2¼m chase winner Tonia d'Airy. Dam 19f chase winner in France. Yard boast a sound record in this sphere and worth noting if market speaks in his favour.
5
7th (5) (66/1 +34%) Parsons Stone
66
66/1(+34%)
(5) Parsons Stone 66/1, Leading Light gelding who showed a bit when mid-field in a Worcester bumper (16f, good to soft) on debut back in summer 2021. However, well held on belated return at Chepstow (2m) in February. Hood on 1st time.
1
8th (1) (100/1 -100%) Hi Trig
100
100/1(-100%)
(1) Hi Trig 100/1, Stimulation gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Bard of Brittany, stays 3m. Dam (b75) ran twice in bumpers. Yard 0-16 with their runners in this sphere in last 5 seasons.
6
9th (6) (50/1 -150%) Ede'iffs Rock
50
50/1(-150%)
(6) Ede'iffs Rock 50/1, Saddler's Rock mare who is bred to be a stayer and shaped with a little encouragement with that in mind when third in a Warwick bumper on debut 2 weeks ago, staying on well final 1f. This looks a stronger contest however and she may find a few too good again.
11
10th (11) (150/1 -127%) Pescatorius
150
150/1(-127%)
(11) Pescatorius 150/1, €18,000 3-y-o, Getaway gelding. Dam point winner/lightly-raced maiden hurdler. Rates a likely outsider on racecourse bow.
12
11th (12) (11/1 +8%) Sparkling Duke
11
11/1(+8%)
(12) Sparkling Duke 11/1, €80,000 3-y-o, Jukebox Jury gelding. Half-brother to 5 winners, including fairly useful hurdler/smart chaser Wounded Warrior and useful hurdler/chaser Sword of Destiny. Dam. useful bumper winner. Market should unearth some clues with yard also saddling Star of Affinity.
7
12th (7) (300/1 -200%) Madame Bijoux
300
300/1(-200%)
(7) Madame Bijoux 300/1, Geordieland filly. Dam poor maiden hurdler (stayed 23f) out of temperamental chaser (3¼m-3½m winner) Mrs Be. 66/1, well held seventh in 9-runner Wincanton bumper on debut back in November. Can only be watched here.
4
|PU| (4) (300/1 -100%) Just Orlando
300
300/1(-100%)
(4) Just Orlando 300/1, Big prices and well held both starts in bumpers late last year. Can only be watched.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
JACKPOT D'ATHOU sets the standard for the champion trainer having made a pleasing start since arriving from France to finish a narrow third at Kempton last month. He was very strong in the betting market that day and even a replication of that effort, although he is entitled to improve, may suffice. Il Va De Soi was another who narrowly failed to land the odds when unable to reel in Killarney Mountain in February and he might benefit from that experience. Joe Tizzard is doubly represented with Sparkling Duke and Star Of Affinity, with the latter slightly preferred.
Runner-up on his sole start in France, JACKPOT D'ATHOU again ran with plenty of promise when third in a big-field Kempton bumper on debut for Paul Nicholls last month and a repeat should see him play a lead role once more here. Il Va de Soi similarly showed a good deal to work on himself on debut and is feared, with Geezer Rockstar and Idamix a couple of the newcomers to note.
There are several newcomers worth noting but JACKPOT D'ATHOU sets a good standard.
(7) My Little Queens 4/1, Left rare poor previous effort behind when third of 9 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f) when last seen in November. Won first time up last year so warrants plenty of respect.
6
2nd (6) (7/1 +22%) Angels Landing
7
7/1(+22%)
(6) Angels Landing 7/1, Fifth of 7 in handicap hurdle (6/1) at Southwell (15.8f, good) 64 days ago. Poor on last Flat start. Tongue strap back on. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals. Had wind operation.
5
3rd (5) (3/1 -33%) Mountain Queen
3
3/1(-33%)
(5) Mountain Queen 3/1, Promising type. Career best when winning 11-runner maiden at Wolverhampton (9.5f) in November and backed that effort up with close second of 5 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 28 days ago. Likely more to come yet.
2
4th (2) (3.5/1 +0%) Wynter Wildes
3.5
3.5/1(+0%)
(2) Wynter Wildes 3.5/1, Three wins from 15 runs last year. 13¼ lengths twelfth of 17 to Something Enticing in listed race (66/1) at Doncaster (10.2f, heavy) when last seen in October. Returns in much calmer waters and must enter calculations.
1
5th (1) (6/1 +25%) Dal Mallart
6
6/1(+25%)
(1) Dal Mallart 6/1, Three wins from 9 runs last year. 17/2, tenth of 11 in handicap at Nottingham (10.2f, heavy). Off 6 months. Needs a couple of these to falter.
3
6th (3) (12/1 +14%) New Heights
12
12/1(+14%)
(3) New Heights 12/1, Three wins from 11 runs last year. Seventh of 11 in handicap (18/1) at this C&D. Off 6 months. Others more persuasive.
8
7th (8) (8.5/1 -21%) Miss Harmony
8.5
8.5/1(-21%)
(8) Miss Harmony 8.5/1, Course winner who got didn't need to improve to bag 4-runner handicap at Lingfield (10f, AW, 11/1) 13 days ago. This is tougher. 1 lb out of the weights.
4
8th (4) (28/1 -56%) Flower Of Thunder
28
28/1(-56%)
(4) Flower Of Thunder 28/1, C&D winner. Four wins from 11 runs last year. 11/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at this C&D. Off 6 months. Others have achieved more.
LTO Selection:
17:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 4) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
MOUNTAIN QUEEN was denied by a neck at Southwell last month and she can regain the winning thread now faced with a stiffer test of stamina. Miss Harmony won at Lingfield recently and, despite being 1lb out of the handicap, she also merits consideration. Wynter Wildes likely to enjoy a return to the all-weather and completes the shortlist, along with Dal Mallart and My Little Queens.
The return to this longer trip will suit MOUNTAIN QUEEN, who failed only narrowly to make a winning handicap bow at Southwell last month and remains low mileage. My Little Queens and Wynter Wildes are feared most.
Having been in decent nick when last seen in the autumn, MY LITTLE QUEENS, who has also won fresh, could be the answer.
(3) Blazing Son 3.33/1, Enjoyed a productive 2022, landing back-to-back 6f handicaps on turf/AW and returned with a respectable third in a C&D handicap 3 weeks ago, outpaced over 2f out and keeping on. May well sharpen up a little for that and he's still low-mileage on artificial surfaces.
4
2nd (4) (16/1 +27%) Patontheback
16
16/1(+27%)
(4) Patontheback 16/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2021. 22/1, creditable fourth of 18 in handicap at Redcar (7f, good to soft) in October, progress over 1f out and running on. Both career victories to date have come on AW and interesting what the market makes of him on return from 6 months off.
6
3rd (6) (3/1 -20%) Jems Bond
3
3/1(-20%)
(6) Jems Bond 3/1, In good form on AW since turn of the year and enhanced good course record when landing 10-runner C&D handicap 2 weeks ago, leading approaching final 1f and keeping on. 2 lb higher mark shouldn't prevent another good showing.
12
4th (12) (9/1 +25%) Merry Secret
9
9/1(+25%)
(12) Merry Secret 9/1, Unreliable sort. C&D winner. Run best excused when ninth of 13 in handicap at this course (7.1f, 4/1) 13 days ago, blindfold removed late/racing off the pace. Still, he's not the easiest to predict.
9
5th (9) (6.5/1 +19%) Mumcat
6.5
6.5/1(+19%)
(9) Mumcat 6.5/1, Just the one win from 23 starts but she again ran well when runner-up in a C&D handicap 3 weeks ago, challenging final 1f and keeping on. On a fair mark and she's another worthy of a second look with cheekpieces added to usual hood.
2
6th (2) (8.5/1 -31%) Thaki
8.5
8.5/1(-31%)
(2) Thaki 8.5/1, C&D winner who ran best race for Jessica Macey when runner-up over C&D on penultimate start. Not in same form, albeit not ideally placed when seventh of 11 back here 3 weeks ago and he starts out for new yard who are amongst the winners. Not out of things.
8
7th (8) (20/1 -100%) Dream Together
20
20/1(-100%)
(8) Dream Together 20/1, 17/2, 3¼ lengths fifth of 10 to Jems Bond in handicap at this C&D 13 days ago, shaping as if better for the run on the back of 5 months off. Now operating 8 lb below last winning mark if he can build on that here.
10
8th (10) (12/1 -71%) Tathmeen
12
12/1(-71%)
(10) Tathmeen 12/1, 7-time course winner, successful at this C&D in February. 10/1, ran right up to best second of 10 in handicap at this C&D 10 days ago, staying on final 1f. Another who can't be dismissed in a competitive affair.
5
9th (5) (80/1 -344%) Hey Mr
80
80/1(-344%)
(5) Hey Mr 80/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2020. First run since leaving Les Eyre when seventh of 10 in handicap (13/2) at Doncaster (5f, heavy) 11 days ago, pushed along before halfway and never involved. Others make more appeal.
7
10th (7) (5.5/1 +50%) Sir Benedict
5.5
5.5/1(+50%)
(7) Sir Benedict 5.5/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. 9/2, looked unlucky not to finish closer when sixth of 11 in handicap at this course (5f) 13 days ago, keeping on when denied a run inside final 1f. This mark looks exploitable provided he gets the breaks returned to 6f.
1
11th (1) (100/1 -355%) Merricourt
100
100/1(-355%)
(1) Merricourt 100/1, 33/1, last of 11 in handicap at this course (7.1f) 13 days ago, probably in need of the run on the back of 6 months off. Usual headgear again absent here but is now operating just 1 lb above last winning mark at least.
11
12th (11) (80/1 -100%) Brides Bay
80
80/1(-100%)
(11) Brides Bay 80/1, Maiden (best form on AW for Richard Hughes) who went the wrong way from yard debut effort when last of 11 in handicap at Pontefract (6f) in October. Undergone wind surgery ahead of return and the betting should prove a useful guide operating from career-low mark.
LTO Selection:
17:40 Newcastle Handicap (Class 6) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
JEMS BOND enhanced his fine record over C&D when regaining the winning thread here in late-March and another success looks a distinct possibility for the six-year-old, despite a 2lb rise for that victory. Blazing Son failed to justify favouritism when a never-nearer third at the same venue last month, but Bryan Smart's charge likely has more races in him and isn't taken lightly. Tathmeen and Mumcat both arrive in good heart and can't be ruled out in an open-looking contest.
JEMS BOND has been in excellent heart on AW since the turn of the year, adding to his good course record in a C&D handicap 2 weeks ago and a 2 lb higher mark shouldn't prevent another bold showing. This is competitive however, with Mumcat, who comes here on the back of a good second herself, feared. Blazing Son and Sir Benedict complete the shortlist.
A competitive race in which a chance is taken that the gaps appear for the well-handicapped SIR BENEDICT.
(1) Rhythm N Hooves 0.53/1, Promising sort who opened his account in 6-runner minor event at Newcastle (5f, 11/10) 13 days ago. Sets a high standard and further improvement is on the cards.
3
2nd (3) (3/1 +75%) Rogue De Vega
3
3/1(+75%)
(3) Rogue De Vega 3/1, 150,000 gns yearling, €40,000 2-y-o, Lope De Vega gelding. Brother to smart 5f/6f winner Mondammej and half-brother to useful winner up to 7f Soldierpoy. Dam 5f winner. Worth a check in the market on debut.
7
3rd (7) (8.5/1 -55%) Beau Roc
8.5
8.5/1(-55%)
(7) Beau Roc 8.5/1, Runner-up in all her three starts last year and should be sharper for reappearance third of 6 to Rhythm N Hooves in minor event at Newcastle (5f, 9/1) 13 days ago.
6
4th (6) (28/1 -273%) Rhythmic Acclaim
28
28/1(-273%)
(6) Rhythmic Acclaim 28/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Wasn't seen to best effect when seventh of 12 in minor event (15/2) at this course (7f) on return 7 days ago. Down in trip. Not out of things.
4
5th (4) (28/1 -75%) Asian Queen
28
28/1(-75%)
(4) Asian Queen 28/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 14/1, third of 8 in minor event at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 27 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time. Improvement required.
2
6th (2) (22/1 -57%) Bangles Joe
22
22/1(-57%)
(2) Bangles Joe 22/1, Once-raced maiden. 9/2, sixth of 9 in maiden at Thirsk (5f, soft) on debut 9 days ago. Should have more to offer.
5
7th (5) (80/1 -264%) Carry On Aitch
80
80/1(-264%)
(5) Carry On Aitch 80/1, Modest filly. Good third of 8 in nursery at Yarmouth (5.2f, good, 12/1). Off 6 months. Others preferred.
LTO Selection:
18:00 Chelmsford Stakes (Class 5) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
RHYTHM N HOOVES displayed a good attitude when winning at Newcastle recently and he looks to have been found a good opportunity to add to his tally. Beau Roc was five lengths behind in third on that occasion and may finish closer now 7lb better off at the weights, while Asian Queen showed plenty of promise on her return to action last month and is the pick of the remainder.
It's hard to get away from RHYTHM N HOOVES, who built on his promising debut when scoring at Newcastle earlier this month and should have more to offer yet. Beau Roc and Rhythmic Acclaim can fight it out for the minor honours.
This looks a good opportunity for RHYTHM N HOOVES to supplement his Newcastle win 13 days ago. He won with a bit in hand there.
(3) Rock Chant 1/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in March. Respectable third of 9 in handicap (evens) at Newcastle (16.2f) 27 days ago. Has to be taken seriously.
2
2nd (2) (4/1 +0%) Cedar Cage
4
4/1(+0%)
(2) Cedar Cage 4/1, Latest win at Wolverhampton in March. Fourth of 6 in handicap back at that venue (12.2f) 8 days ago, not seen to best effect off a steady gallop. Remains relatively low-mileage at this sort of trip so not out of things.
5
3rd (5) (4.5/1 -80%) What Will Be
4.5
4.5/1(-80%)
(5) What Will Be 4.5/1, Badly out of sorts over hurdles in recent months but bounced back to form returned to the level when landing 6-runner handicap over 14f here 12 days ago. 3 lb higher mark to contend with but certainly not ruled out kept to this sphere.
6
4th (6) (8.5/1 -31%) Huscari
8.5
8.5/1(-31%)
(6) Huscari 8.5/1, 14/1, career best when winning 8-runner handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 43 days ago, just holding on. Still unexposed as a stayer so she merits consideration from only 2 lb higher.
1
5th (1) (9/1 -64%) Smith
9
9/1(-64%)
(1) Smith 9/1, Three wins from 9 runs last year. 3/1, career best when winning 5-runner handicap at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 55 days ago, quickening to lead last ½f and keeping on having been well positioned. Should give another good account.
4
6th (4) (40/1 -100%) Infiniti
40
40/1(-100%)
(4) Infiniti 40/1, Prolific on the level last year, bagging fifth win from 7 starts at Pontefract (17f) in September. Disappointed final start at Newcastle (16.2f) in October however, and again ran poorly on return over hurdles at Southwell last month.
LTO Selection:
18:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Smith might go well after winning at Lingfield in February and, with six wins over two miles to his name, he may have a say here off his new mark. That said, WHAT WILL BE ran on well to win over shorter here last time and he could be the one off 3lb higher in the handicap. Huscari is the youngest in this field and may have more to offer after just four starts.
ROCK CHANT has got back on track in line with longer trips/being fitted with cheekpieces on AW, landing back-to-back events at around 2m before a sound third at Newcastle 4 weeks ago. He looks sure to go well again and earns the vote, with recent course winner What Will Be and Cedar Cage just 2 potential threats.
Having shown a good level of form at four different AW tracks of late, ROCK CHANT is fancied to take to Chelmsford and win.
(6) One More Dream 2.25/1, C&D winner. Latest success at Newcastle in March. Ran up to best when second of 9 in handicap at Southwell (7.1f, 18/5) 9 days ago. Major player.
1
2nd (1) (7.5/1 -15%) Spirited Guest
7.5
7.5/1(-15%)
(1) Spirited Guest 7.5/1, C&D winner. Fourteen runs since last win in 2021. 28/1, last of 15 in handicap at Ascot (7f, good to firm) when last seen in September. Others more persuasive.
5
3rd (5) (6.5/1 +35%) Fiftyshadesofred
6.5
6.5/1(+35%)
(5) Fiftyshadesofred 6.5/1, After 4 months off, again below form when tenth of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (7.1f, 11/2) 20 days ago. Drops in grade but others still preferred.
7
4th (7) (28/1 -100%) Vape
28
28/1(-100%)
(7) Vape 28/1, Course winner. Three wins from 19 runs last year, successful here (6f) in October. 15/2, faced competition for the lead when sixth of 11 in handicap at this course (5f) in November. Back up in trip.
4
5th (4) (12/1 -20%) Flying Secret
12
12/1(-20%)
(4) Flying Secret 12/1, Failed to repeat previous effort when eighth of 9 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW, 13/2) in December. Could leave latest run behind back down in grade following a break.
2
6th (2) (4.5/1 +10%) Buckshaw Village
4.5
4.5/1(+10%)
(2) Buckshaw Village 4.5/1, Cheekpieces on for 1st time, stepped up on reappearance run when fourth of 9 in handicap (10/1) at this C&D 42 days ago. Can give another good account.
8
7th (8) (9/1 -20%) Epic Express
9
9/1(-20%)
(8) Epic Express 9/1, Course winner. 15/2 and hooded for 1st time, respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at Lingfield (6f, AW) 19 days ago. Capable of getting involved with recent run behind him.
3
8th (3) (3.5/1 +13%) Wiseacre
3.5
3.5/1(+13%)
(3) Wiseacre 3.5/1, After 9 months off (cheekpieces on for 1st time), second of 6 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 5/1) 17 days ago, well positioned. Needs to find more off current mark.
LTO Selection:
19:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Wiseacre was second at Wolverhampton last month and could get involved if finding some improvement, but preference is for SPIRITED GUEST. His last win was back in 2021 at Ascot but he has been keeping higher company in decent handicaps on turf. The seven-year-old runs off his lowest mark since winning over C&D in July 2021 and ought to find this level to his liking. The recent Lingfield fourth Epic Express is a tentative suggestion to follow them home.
ONE MORE DREAM has been holding his form well this year, running up to his best when second at Southwell 9 days ago, and he can build on his latest effort to record a second C&D success. Buckshaw Village stepped up on his reappearance run when making the frame here last time and could be the main danger, ahead of Epic Express.
Buckshaw Village is feared but a chance is taken on the dangerously well handicapped FIFTYSHADESOFRED.
(4) Anificas Beauty 8/1, Course winner. Twelfth of 14 in handicap (66/1) at this course (6f) when last seen in October. Best watched on return.
6
2nd (6) (1.25/1 +44%) Thomas Equinas
1.25
1.25/1(+44%)
(6) Thomas Equinas 1.25/1, C&D winner last month. Continued in good heart when second of 10 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f, 10/3) 28 days ago, conceding first run. Respected back in handicap company.
8
3rd (8) (12/1 +40%) Tara
12
12/1(+40%)
(8) Tara 12/1, Fared little better than on reappearance when ninth of 12 in minor event at Lingfield (1m, AW, 28/1) 17 days ago. Has enough to prove at present.
1
4th (1) (3.5/1 -86%) Mcqueen
3.5
3.5/1(-86%)
(1) Mcqueen 3.5/1, Course winner. 11/4, soon back to form when third of 7 in handicap at this course (1m) 33 days ago. Could be ready to return to winning ways back down in trip.
3
5th (3) (7.5/1 +17%) Night Traveller
7.5
7.5/1(+17%)
(3) Night Traveller 7.5/1, Winner here (1m) in January on only previous start with Hollie Doyle in the saddle. However, hasn't been able match that level since, last of 7 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f, 16/1) 19 days ago.
5
6th (5) (8/1 +43%) Love Destiny
8
8/1(+43%)
(5) Love Destiny 8/1, C&D winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2021. Well held when thirteenth of 14 in handicap at Bath (1m, soft. 40/1) 6 days ago.
10
7th (10) (125/1 -150%) My Beauty
125
125/1(-150%)
(10) My Beauty 125/1, Again finished down the field when eighth of 9 in handicap (125/1) at Lingfield (6f, AW) 10 days ago. Makes little appeal.
2
8th (2) (14/1 -133%) Global Tycoon
14
14/1(-133%)
(2) Global Tycoon 14/1, After 9 months off, possibly needed run when seventh of 9 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f, 9/1) 13 days ago. Could still have more to offer with cheekpieces on 1st time.
7
9th (7) (50/1 -317%) Secret Tryst
50
50/1(-317%)
(7) Secret Tryst 50/1, Refused to settle when eighth of 13 in minor event at Kempton (7f, 5/1) 75 days ago. First run for yard after leaving William Knight. Has work to do back in a handicap.
LTO Selection:
19:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Tony Carroll won this in 2021 and Night Traveller is coming back down the handicap. She could get involved along with C&D winner Thomas Equinas, who clearly likes it here, but a chance is taken on ANIFICAS BEAUTY. She won a novice contest at this venue in 2021 and looks all set for a decent effort on her first start of the season for a stable in great form.
MCQUEEN has been a largely consistent performer on the all-weather, quickly getting back to form when third here last time, and he can return to winning ways with this shorter trip to suit. Thomas Equinas also arrives in good heart and is feared most, with Global Tycoon the pick of the remainder.
This looks between Mcqueen and THOMAS EQUINAS (nap). The latter has a bit less to prove.
(4) Lilandra 6.5/1, After 5 months off, raced too freely when seventh of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f, 33/1) 27 days ago. Won second-time-out last year, so she could fare better on the back of her recent run.
2
1st (2) (1.75/1 +22%) Monaadhil
1.75
1.75/1(+22%)
(2) Monaadhil 1.75/1, Three wins from 11 runs last year, successful twice at this C&D including in October. Creditable second of 11 in handicap at Kempton (7f, 9/4) later same month. Can make a winning return with yard going well.
7
2nd (7) (6.5/1 +7%) Cappananty Con
6.5
6.5/1(+7%)
(7) Cappananty Con 6.5/1, Course winner. A long time without a win, but not discredited when sixth of 12 in handicap (17/2) at Lingfield (6f, AW) 13 days ago. Merits consideration back up in trip off a career-low mark.
8
3rd (8) (18/1 -29%) Nivelle's Magic
18
18/1(-29%)
(8) Nivelle's Magic 18/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Ran to similar level as on seasonal/stable debut when fifth of 9 in handicap (14/1) at Southwell (8.1f) 13 days ago, again slowly away. Improvement required.
10
4th (10) (33/1 -32%) Bo Taifan
33
33/1(-32%)
(10) Bo Taifan 33/1, After over 2 years off, sixth of 10 in minor event at Southwell (7.1f, 80/1) 28 days ago. Looks to be up against it having only his third start in a handicap.
1
5th (1) (8/1 -33%) Ostilio
8
8/1(-33%)
(1) Ostilio 8/1, Again below form when third of 5 in handicap (6/1) at this C&D 12 days ago. Lurks on a dangerous mark but he's hard to catch right.
3
6th (3) (5/1 +50%) Magicinthemaking
5
5/1(+50%)
(3) Magicinthemaking 5/1, C&D winner. Latest success at Kempton (7f) in January. Below form both starts since, though, seventh of 9 in handicap back at Kempton (10/1) 34 days ago. Capable of getting involved if on a going day.
6
7th (6) (4.5/1 +36%) Shining Crystal
4.5
4.5/1(+36%)
(6) Shining Crystal 4.5/1, Remains a maiden after 17 Flat runs. Only fifth of 12 in minor event at Wolverhampton (8.6f, 9/1) 14 days ago. Blinkers and tongue strap now reapplied. On a handy mark back down in trip.
9
8th (9) (11/1 +8%) Thaayer
11
11/1(+8%)
(9) Thaayer 11/1, Twenty three runs since last win in 2021. 12/1, ran better than for a while when fourth of 8 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 13 days ago. On a good mark if backing up his latest effort.
5
9th (5) (20/1 -100%) You Are My World
20
20/1(-100%)
(5) You Are My World 20/1, Possibly needed the run after 5 months off when sixth of 9 in handicap at Southwell (6.1f, 16/1) 44 days ago. This run should reveal more.
LTO Selection:
20:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Runner-up over this trip at Kempton when last seen in October, it could be worth siding with the Ruth Carr-trained MONAADHIL on his return to action. He has only gone up 1lb for that run and can have a big say in proceedings, especially given he scored over C&D on his penultimate outing, albeit off 5lb lower. Ostilio and Thaayer are others with valid form claims and appear to be his most serious dangers.
MONAADHIL ended last year in good form, recording a second C&D win of the campaign on his penultimate outing, and he can continue in that vein with his yard going well. He is taken to see off the challenge of Cappananty Con who has dropped to a career-low mark, while Shining Crystal could also be capable of playing a part.
Although back from six months off, MONAADHIL hails from a yard in fair nick and was thriving when last seen so deserves the call.
(3) Sexy Rexy 2.25/1, Maiden who matched previous best when creditable ½-length second of 5 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f) 5 weeks ago, challenging 1f out and keeping on. Entitled to be thereabouts again with a repeat.
5
2nd (5) (11/1 +21%) Steven Seagull
11
11/1(+21%)
(5) Steven Seagull 11/1, Son of War Command out of a 1¼m-1½m winner. Failed to beat a rival in trio of maiden/novice events on turf last summer and another who needs to show benefit of 6-month break/being gelded if he's to figure on handicap debut. Significantly up in trip.
1
3rd (1) (0.57/1 +8%) Smooth Ryder
0.57
0.57/1(+8%)
(1) Smooth Ryder 0.57/1, Good second of 7 in handicap at this course (10f, 13/8) 7 days ago, headed last ½f and pulling clear of rest. Big player now tackling this longer trip.
4
4th (4) (18/1 -80%) Vitani
18
18/1(-80%)
(4) Vitani 18/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Tenth of 12 in minor event (200/1) at Southwell (8.1f) 83 days ago. Needs to step up plenty for the switch to handicaps/marked increase in trip if she's to feature.
LTO Selection:
20:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 13f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
SMOOTH RYDER has been knocking on the door of late and was not disgraced when filling the runner-up spot over 1m2f at this track last time out. He can have another big say in proceedings off the same mark here, but Sexy Rexy recorded an improved second over 1m4f at Wolverhampton a month ago and can give the selection plenty to think about. Vitani completes the shortlist.
SMOOTH RYDER again found only one too good on his latest start over 10f here 7 days ago and, well on top of the remainder then, he gets the nod to deservedly open his account now his stamina is tested further. Sexy Rexy can emerge as the chief threat.
Charlie Johnston's SMOOTH RYDER, who is verging on becoming frustrating, can't be opposed.
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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