There were 44 Races on Saturday 26th October 2024 across 6 meetings. There was 7 races at Cheltenham, 7 races at Newbury, 8 races at Doncaster, 7 races at Kelso, 7 races at Galway, 8 races at Chelmsford-City, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Saturday 26th October 2024
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(3) Lisnamult Lad 20/1, Useful Irish winner at 21f over hurdles who arrives in good nick over fences, cheekpieces on when fourth of 7 in handicap chase at Kilbeggan (20.2f, good to soft) 77 days ago. In the mix with tongue strap back on. Irish raider; fair mark on hurdling form but yet to be quite so good over fences.
9
2nd (9) (17/2 +15%) Weveallbeencaught
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(9) Weveallbeencaught 17/2, Useful hurdler/chaser for Nigel Twiston-Davies. Got back on track for his new handler when third of 5 in novice chase at Worcester (23f, soft) 29 days ago. Considered in first-time cheekpieces. Dropping back to 2m4f might not suit one who gallops rather than quickens; cheekpieces now.
4
3rd (4) (17/2 +6%) Riskintheground
8.5
17/2(+6%)
(4) Riskintheground 17/2, Much improved over fences since dropped back in trip, bagging his fourth success at Bangor in September. Posted another good effort when third of 4 in novice chase at Newton Abbot (21f, good) 36 days ago. Can go well again. Prolific already this season; handicapper closing in but this 7yo can give his running.
2
4th (2) (11/2 -10%) Guard Your Dreams
5.5
11/2(-10%)
(2) Guard Your Dreams 11/2, Smart hurdler at his best who made light of a 6-month absence to land 6-runner handicap chase at Warwick (20f, good) on his debut over fences 23 days ago. Up 4 lb but not taken lightly for last year's winning yard. Smart hurdler; back on track with successful chase debut and can improve again.
13
5th (13) (28/1 +15%) Andys Flame
28
28/1(+15%)
(13) Andys Flame 28/1, A fair winner at 19f over hurdles who made a promising start over fences when second of 10 in novice at Downpatrick (19.4f, good to soft) 15 days ago. More to offer now going into handicaps. Needs considering despite being 5 lb "wrong" in the weights. Hadn't been in the best of form until finishing a 7l second on chase debut at Downpatrick.
12
6th (12) (17/2 +61%) Bashers Reflection
8.5
17/2(+61%)
(12) Bashers Reflection 17/2, Improved hurdler last season, scoring at Wetherby and signing off with a solid ninth in 2m4f handicap here in first-time cheekpieces. No forlorn hope now going chasing. Capable of dealing with this mark if he can deliver a trouble-free round on chase debut.
11
7th (11) (13/2 +41%) Bob Bob Ricard
6.5
13/2(+41%)
(11) Bob Bob Ricard 13/2, Improved for the switch to fences during the summer, landing back-to-back handicap chases at Ffos Las and Worcester. Not disgraced twice since over hurdles at Worcester so enters calculations back chasing. Hurdling the last twice and had previously gone 2-2 over fences; fitness assured.
1
8th (1) (10/1 +0%) Will Carver
10
10/1(+0%)
(1) Will Carver 10/1, Improved sent chasing this term, scoring on his debut at Cartmel and looking likely to follow up in 2m4f Uttoxter handicap in June when blundered 2 out. Jumps soundly in the main and he's capable of another bold bid after a wind op. Won chase debut; late mistake cost him last time and he's in here off an untouched mark.
10
9th (10) (4/1 +33%) Marv Michael
4
4/1(+33%)
(10) Marv Michael 4/1, Got off the mark over hurdles at Tramore in August and followed up in striking style on his chasing bow at Kilbeggan (2m4f) following month, making all under an attacking ride. Player on his handicap debut. Impressed from the front on chase debut and this mark might be okay; respected.
8
|F| (8) (6/1 +29%) Lord Of Thunder
6
6/1(+29%)
(8) Lord Of Thunder 6/1, Son of Getaway was firmly on the up when last seen over hurdles in January, scoring twice in novice company around 2m4f at Wincanton. This points runner-up is an interesting chasing debutant. Won last two novice hurdles comfortably; chase debut and could be on a good mark.
7
|PU| (7) (12/1 -33%) Dutch Schultz
12
12/1(-33%)
(7) Dutch Schultz 12/1, Already a dual winner over fences this term, latest in 2m1f handicap at Killarney in August. Wasn't seen to best effect back hurdling when seventh at Listowel (20f, soft) 30 days ago so merits consideration reverted to fences. Might be a better horse over shorter but has a lot going for him otherwise.
13:10 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 3) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
GUARD YOUR DREAMS gained his first success since landing the International Hurdle here in December 2021 on his chasing debut at Warwick earlier in the month and the eight-year-old remains on a mark that he can be more than competitive from. Marv Michael took well to the larger obstacles at Kilbeggan and has to enter the reckoning along with Riskintheground, who has been kept busy over the summer months, and Will Carver.
This is wide open but Nicky Henderson's WILL CARVER was unfortunate not to go 2-2 over fences when thwarted by a late blunder at Uttoxeter in the summer and gets the nod with likely more to come after breathing surgery. Irish challengers Dutch Schultz (second choice) and Marv Michael both look capable of better too and rate the chief threats, although a host of others are also in the mix, namely Lord of Thunder, Weveallbeencaught and Guard Your Dreams.
Joe Tizzard must have no qualms about LORD OF THUNDER making his chase debut around here and he has looked a smashing prospect.
(7) Prosperitas 3/1, Lightly-raced maiden who showed improved form when fifth of 14 in minor event at York (7f, soft, 40/1) 15 days ago, having to pick way through. Makes handicap debut. Open to further progress but drop back to 6f isn't sure to be in his favour, even on testing ground. Ran creditably in valuable prize last time; may progress now handicapping.
5
2nd (5) (13/2 +0%) Art Design
6.5
13/2(+0%)
(5) Art Design 13/2, Overcame a poor position to get up late in a 6f nursery at Southwell in August but disappointing when favourite for a competitive fillies' event at Doncaster subsequently. Won at Southwell prior to disappointing last time; too soon to write off.
6
3rd (6) (18/1 -29%) Hackney Diamonds
18
18/1(-29%)
(6) Hackney Diamonds 18/1, Made a successful nursery bow at Leicester (7f) in July but well held in stronger races back in trip since. Form of Leicester win isn't compelling; has come up well short since.
1
4th (1) (9/2 +36%) Priapos
4.5
9/2(+36%)
(1) Priapos 9/2, Overcame greenness to make a winning debut at Windsor (6f) in June and ran to similar level when fourth of 8 at Salisbury next time. Finished lame when last of 12 on nursery debut over C&D in August and has been gelded subsequently. Finished lame here on last appearance; gelded since; may do better still.
8
5th (8) (11/1 -100%) Emporess
11
11/1(-100%)
(8) Emporess 11/1, In good form in deep ground of late, winning at Bath (5.7f) and second at Leicester (6f) and Goodwood (7f). Can go well again. Sound results on heavy ground this month; proving tough and has solid claims.
4
6th (4) (14/1 +0%) The Hare Rail
14
14/1(+0%)
(4) The Hare Rail 14/1, Has shown promise on all 3 of his starts so far and may yet do better now handicapping, though his opening mark could have been kinder. Best effort suggests he's on a workable opening mark; interesting.
2
7th (2) (7/2 +0%) Jr Climbs
3.5
7/2(+0%)
(2) Jr Climbs 7/2, Off the mark at Bath in July and steady improvement in 3 runs since, again running well when third of 14 in nursery at this course (7f, good to soft, 10/1) 36 days ago. Looks sure to make another bold bid. Two solid efforts on soft ground at Newbury since handicapping; strong claims.
3
8th (3) (5/1 +29%) Rock Hunter
5
5/1(+29%)
(3) Rock Hunter 5/1, Back on track when third of 6 in conditions stakes at Salisbury (6f, good to soft, 18/1) 23 days ago. Makes handicap debut. Can make presence felt. 0-7 since debut win but best form gives him a chance on handicap debut.
13:25 Newbury Handicap (Class 4) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
The in-form Ralph Beckett saddles top-weight Priapos, who was found to be lame when disappointing over C&D in August and would be a player if back on song. Similarly, Art Design needs to bounce back from a lacklustre effort in a good contest at Doncaster, but has leading claims on her previous form. The safest option may be JR CLIMBS, who was touched off by the subsequent Two Year Old Trophy winner over track and trip before a good effort in defeat over 7f here last month, and he should give another good account of himself.
JR CLIMBS showed he's still improving when third in a competitive nursery here last month and, with underfoot conditions holding no fears, he's an appealing candidate. Emporess is another who arrives in excellent heart, with Rock Hunter completing the shortlist.
Having shown solid form at Newbury since switched to nurseries, JR CLIMBS is preferred. Emporess is second choice.
(7) La Bellota 13/2, Posted much his best effort when close second in Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury (6f) last month. Not been at same level since but return to 6f a plus and will be a player if first-time blinkers have desired effect. Yet to win but went close in 6f Group 2 last month; fourth in Group 3 latest; blinkers on.
4
2nd (4) (10/3 +0%) Diego Ventura
3.333333
10/3(+0%)
(4) Diego Ventura 10/3, Promising sort who found further improvement when second of 6 in Somerville Tattersall Stakes at Newmarket (7f, heavy) 30 days ago. Drop back in trip should suit and holds strong claims. Won first two over 6f and second in 7f G3 latest; starts slowly but lots to like otherwise.
3
3rd (3) (5/4 +69%) Bounty
1.25
5/4(+69%)
(3) Bounty 5/4, Backed up encouraging debut effort when taking 11-runner maiden at Naas (5.9f, good to soft, 2/9) 13 days ago, driven clear. This is tougher but he is entitled to plenty of respect given connections. Easy winner of 6f Naas maiden 13 days ago; definitely more to come.
1
4th (1) (12/1 -20%) Francisco's Piece
12
12/1(-20%)
(1) Francisco's Piece 12/1, Useful colt. Winner at Chantilly in June. Posted another creditable effort, in first-time cheekpieces, when third of 12 to Une Pointure in listed race at Deauville (5.5f, heavy, 43/10) 5 days ago. Should give another good account. Useful and in form but probably vulnerable under a penalty for a French Listed win in June.
5
5th (5) (15/2 -15%) Fast Track Harry
7.5
15/2(-15%)
(5) Fast Track Harry 15/2, Made a winning start in 13-runner maiden at Newbury (6f, good to soft) 36 days ago, running on. Should improve and is one for shortlist.. Form of 6f Newbury debut win has been boosted by the second; very promising.
6
6th (6) (20/1 -25%) King's Call
20
20/1(-25%)
(6) King's Call 20/1, Useful colt who found improvement when very good second of 10 in nursery at York (5f, soft) 15 days ago. Back up in trip. Not out of things. Good second in York nursery but held in Listed/Group races before that.
8
7th (8) (33/1 -106%) Shadow Army
33
33/1(-106%)
(8) Shadow Army 33/1, Yet to add to York debut success in 4 subsequent starts and needs to bounce back from a poor effort at Ripon last time. Gelded since last run. Useful Group form this summer but ran poorly at Ripon latest (gelded since).
2
8th (2) (8/1 -100%) Arctic Voyage
8
8/1(-100%)
(2) Arctic Voyage 8/1, Left debut form well behind when taking 10-runner novice at Nottingham (6.1f, heavy, 3/1) 17 days ago, easily. More on plate here but remains open to improvement. Ready winner over 6f on heavy at Nottingham this month; can make an impact at higher level.
13:30 Doncaster Listed (Class 1) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Aidan O'Brien hasn't landed this since 2021 but he looks to hold solid claims with Bounty, who cruised to success at Naas recently having rattled the crossbar on his racecourse debut. However, preference is for DIEGO VENTURA. The son of Mehmas didn't quite see out 7f in the Tattersalls Stakes last month, but he'll appreciate the return to sprinting and is fancied to get back on track. La Bellota has yet to open his account but has some notable performances to his name, including a narrow second in the Mill Reef.
Preference is for DIEGO VENTURA, who took his form up a notch when second in a Newmarket Group 3 last month and should benefit from this speedier test. Fast Track Harry and Bounty are feared most.
Although his tendency to miss the break is a slight worry, DIEGO VENTURA ran cracker in a Newmarket Group 3 last time and get the nod.
(1) Bold Light 3/1, Runner-up completed start in points back in 2021 and ran to a fair level when placed on both hurdle outings in the spring. Has to enter calculations. Lightly raced 7yo; shaped nicely when third at Hexham; remains unexposed.
8
2nd (8) (11/8 +45%) Tommys Law
1.375
11/8(+45%)
(8) Tommys Law 11/8, Placed in points and has shown fair form when runner-up on last 3 outings over hurdles, including at Perth (16.2f) 31 days ago. Obvious contender. Seven-race maiden but has been knocking at the door and sets the standard on form.
9
3rd (9) (5/1 -11%) High Dancer
5
5/1(-11%)
(9) High Dancer 5/1, £7,500 3-y-o, £95,000 4-y-o, Norse Dancer gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to bumper winner/useful hurdler (stayed 21f) Midnight Tour. Off the mark in Irish points at third attempt in May and is an interesting Rules debutant. Changed hands for £95,000 after winning soft-ground point in May; interesting contender.
2
4th (2) (20/1 +50%) Bridge Court
20
20/1(+50%)
(2) Bridge Court 20/1, Runner-up on second of 2 starts in Irish points (May 2023) but finished well held in a C&D bumper on sole outing for R. Mike Smith. Tongue strap on for hurdle/stable bow. £62,000 purchase after point second; no show in bumper but has since changed stables.
7
5th (7) (11/1 -57%) Red Cadillac
11
11/1(-57%)
(7) Red Cadillac 11/1, Made the frame on both bumper outings last season but is probably more one for longer trips in due course. Made frame in two bumpers; leading northern yard has won this race twice in recent seasons.
11
5th (11) (40/1 -150%) Society Soldier
40
40/1(-150%)
(11) Society Soldier 40/1, £30,000 buy from the family of Paisley Park. Third sole start in Irish points in April. Might be one for the longer term. Not beaten far when third in Irish point; worth a market check but may be suited by 2m4f+.
4
7th (4) (7/1 -17%) Lance Les Des
7
7/1(-17%)
(4) Lance Les Des 7/1, Held back by inexperience on bumper debut here in February but more like it when third of 8 at Hexham 10 weeks later and shaped well on his hurdling debut when third in 7-runner maiden at Perth (16.2f) in May. That form hasn't worked out, but he's open to improvement nonetheless. Promising start to career, third in Hexham bumper and Perth maiden hurdle; considered.
10
8th (10) (66/1 -32%) Blow A Fortune
66
66/1(-32%)
(10) Blow A Fortune 66/1, Made a low-key start to her career when fourth in a small-field novice at this course (20.9f, good to soft) 20 days ago. Down in trip. Didn't show enough on her debut here to suggest she'll be of much interest.
6
9th (6) (125/1 -25%) Powerofjet
125
125/1(-25%)
(6) Powerofjet 125/1, Third completed start in Irish points but went with no encouragement on his recent Rules debut at Hexham. Beaten around 40l when tenth of 14 in novice at Hexham on rules debut; plenty to find.
5
|PU| (5) (150/1 0%) Nae Bother At A'
150
150/1(0%)
(5) Nae Bother At A' 150/1, No sign of ability in bumpers/maiden hurdle. Off 7 months. First run for yard after leaving Harriet Graham & Gary Rutherford. Well held in three bumpers and a maiden hurdle (150-1); looks more of a long-term prospect.
13:35 Kelso Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
LANCE LES DES made a pleasing start to life over hurdles when finishing a close-up third in a similar event at Perth in May and, with that experience under his belt, it would be no surprise if he were able to go two places better this time around. Lucinda Russell appears to hold a strong hand, and Bold Light may prove the pick of her duo returning after two admirable placed efforts over hurdles in the spring. Stable companion Tommys Law is also respected.
Those with experience don't set the bar all that high, so a chance is taken on HIGH DANCER, a £95,000 purchase after winning his third start in Irish points in May. There's little to seperate the Lucinda Russell-trained pair Tommys Law and Bold Light on form and they are obvious threats.
Point winner HIGH DANCER may be up to making a successful rules debut, with Bold Light perhaps the main threat.
(3) Intense Approach 2/1, Dual bumper winner who was good enough to overcome ongoing jumping issues when landing maiden/novice events in recent months. Fine second in Persian War on most recent outing and ought to make presence felt once again. Second in a Grade 2 last time; clear claims for yard with a good record in this race.
5
2nd (5) (14/1 +13%) Hauraki Gulf
14
14/1(+13%)
(5) Hauraki Gulf 14/1, Won twice in handicaps last season and shaped as if back in good form when runner-up at Newton Abbot (25.8f) in May. Found only a progressive sort too strong back over hurdles at Fontwell last month but this is tougher. Dual chase winner; second back hurdling last time but this is far more challenging.
1
3rd (1) (6/1 -33%) Donnie Devito
6
6/1(-33%)
(1) Donnie Devito 6/1, Struck at the second time of asking over hurdles in a Punchestown maiden in June and improved further when following up at Galway in August. Seemed beaten on merit under a penalty at Listowel since but still a big player in this company. Improving novice and sufficient stamina in his pedigree to believe 3m will be within range.
4
4th (4) (5/2 -11%) Millforce
2.5
5/2(-11%)
(4) Millforce 5/2, Took 6 goes to get off the mark in points but struck at the first time of asking under Rules in a 2m4f maiden at Bellewstown in August. Would have likely followed up with a better round of jumping when narrowly denied at Cork (24.4f) 13 days ago and remains with potential. 2m4f maiden winner who went close at 3m last time behind a similarly progressive type.
2
5th (2) (3/1 +25%) Fine Margin
3
3/1(+25%)
(2) Fine Margin 3/1, Fairly useful hurdler who completed a hat-trick in maiden/novice company earlier in the season. However, had winning run ended in tame fashion back in handicap company at Worcester last month. Rattled off a hat-trick in British novices and soft ground was no good to him last time.
13:45 Cheltenham Maiden Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
INTENSE APPROACH was on a hat-trick when finding one too strong in the Persian War at Chepstow. The manner of that performance suggested that going up to 3m would be a positive move and the five-year-old can make it a third triumph in this contest for his trainer since 2020. Bellewstown winner Millforce was beaten a short head at Cork and remains open to improvement on just his third start under Rules. Fine Margin should appreciate this kind of test having not appeared to handle the ground when pulling up at Worcester.
MILLFORCE's jumping technique certainly requires refinement but he strikes as the one with the most potential in this field, so gets the nod to come out on top. Intense Approach is another who's had his fair share of jumping issues but arrives following a fine second in the Persian War, with Donnie Devito deserving respect, also.
John McConnell has a good record in this race and Persian War runner-up INTENSE APPROACH is preferred to Millforce.
(7) Messerschmitt 3/1, Fairly useful winner at up to 1m on Flat. Jinked approaching 5 out and unseated rider on Killarney hurdle debut in August. Fairly useful on the Flat; ducked right and unseated on hurdles bow but still respected.
8
2nd (8) (15/2 +32%) Moutarde
7.5
15/2(+32%)
(8) Moutarde 15/2, Fair handicapper on Flat (stays 9.5f), won twice this year and improved when third last time. Could go well on hurdle debut. Solid sort on the Flat now rated 72; one to consider now switched to hurdles.
11
3rd (11) (12/1 -9%) Turn And Finish
12
12/1(-9%)
(11) Turn And Finish 12/1, Fair maiden on the Flat who showed some promise when sixth of 13 at Ballinrobe in September. Slipped up on the home turn in a similar event at Cork in October and remains capable of better. Lost of improvement needed on what we've seen.
1
4th (1) (5/1 +64%) Bacchanalian
5
5/1(+64%)
(1) Bacchanalian 5/1, Fairly useful maiden on the Flat but below that level both starts this year. Has left Joseph Patrick O'Brien and been gelded. 33,000gns buy out of Joseph O'Brien's; decent Flat maiden; hooded here for hurdles debut.
15
5th (15) (3/1 +33%) Out For A Stroll
3
3/1(+33%)
(15) Out For A Stroll 3/1, Modest maiden on the Flat who shaped like a stayer starting out over hurdles when fifth of 15 in juvenile at Gowran (16f, good) on NH debut 21 days ago, finishing best. Trainer going well. Gowran eyecatcher; won't have to improve much, if any, to score here.
16
6th (16) (14/1 -65%) Set The Tone
14
14/1(-65%)
(16) Set The Tone 14/1, Progressed again when third of 15 in juvenile hurdle at Gowran (16f, good) 21 days ago. Gowran third her best run yet; may not confirm that form with Out For A Stroll though.
3
7th (3) (18/1 +55%) Bid Up
18
18/1(+55%)
(3) Bid Up 18/1, Went the wrong way from hurdling debut when seventh of 15 in juvenile hurdle at Gowran (16f, good, 20/1) 21 days ago. Some hurdles debut promise but Gowran run since disappointing.
9
8th (9) (22/1 -38%) Robbies Rock
22
22/1(-38%)
(9) Robbies Rock 22/1, Fairly useful winner at 14f on Flat who couldn't quite match hurdling debut form in a first-time tongue strap (over jumps) when fifth of 7 in juvenile hurdle at Cork (16.1f, good) 13 days ago. 77-rated on the Flat; never landed a blow on hurdles debut so needs to step up.
2
9th (2) (100/1 -52%) Bay Brook
100
100/1(-52%)
(2) Bay Brook 100/1, Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Taper Tantrum (2m-19f winner, by Azamour). Well held in maiden sole outing on Flat. Ran poorly on sole Flat outing last month, probably best watched now switched to hurdles.
4
10th (4) (16/1 -129%) Ceol Draiochta
16
16/1(-129%)
(4) Ceol Draiochta 16/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Fifth of 13 in juvenile hurdle at Ballinrobe (17.9f, good, 4/1) 43 days ago. Hurdles debut second at Ballinrobe hasn't built on that; more needed.
14
11th (14) (100/1 -52%) Maxios Prime
100
100/1(-52%)
(14) Maxios Prime 100/1, Maxios filly. Dam unraced. Maxios filly best watched on debut.
13
12th (13) (150/1 -127%) Jaadil
150
150/1(-127%)
(13) Jaadil 150/1, Little impact in 3 maidens on Flat for G. M. Lyons. Likely outsider on hurdle debut. 54-rated Flat maiden for Ger Lyons; hurdles debut after 11 months absence and best watched.
6
13th (6) (9/1 -13%) Magic Thunder
9
9/1(-13%)
(6) Magic Thunder 9/1, Successful in 2 middle-distance events on Flat in France. Caimed for €30,001 after but was behind when falling 2 out on Gowran hurdling debut in October. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Jumping let him down on hurdles debut; tongue-tie now tried.
12
14th (12) (100/1 -150%) Drusilla
100
100/1(-150%)
(12) Drusilla 100/1, Fair on Flat (stays 1¼m), winner penultimate start, respectable fourth last time. Ha left Daniel & Claire Kubler ahead of hurdle debut. 59-rated on the Flat (won on heavy) in Britain; bought for 8,000gns.
10
15th (10) (100/1 -150%) Timeonourside
100
100/1(-150%)
(10) Timeonourside 100/1, Fair on Flat (stays 8.5f), won in May but below form both starts since. Most likely best watched on hurdle debut. 66-rated Flat performer (won on heavy); not an obvious one on hurdles debut.
5
16th (5) (12/1 -33%) Dahab
12
12/1(-33%)
(5) Dahab 12/1, Fairly useful maiden on Flat (stays 1¼m), placed last 2 of 4 starts. Makes hurdle debut. 77-rated Flat maiden could make his mark hurdling so one to consider.
17
17th (17) (125/1 -89%) Tir Og
125
125/1(-89%)
(17) Tir Og 125/1, Tirwanako filly. Dam unraced. Newcomer best watched.
13:53 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
The Joseph O'Brien-trained OUT FOR A STROLL can step up on her recent debut effort at Gowran. Having been held up in rear, the daughter of Churchill really caught the eye staying on late to finish a close-up fifth. Granted a better jump at the final flight, the filly might well have made a winning start to her hurdling career. Set The Tone, who was two places ahead of Out For A Stroll at Gowran, shouldn't be far away again. Unraced on the Flat, the David O'Brien-trained filly has improved with each start over flights. She looks to represent the each-way value. Messerschmitt, rated 82 on the level, would be hard to beat if putting in a clear round.
OUT FOR A STROLL caught the eye finishing best of all on her Gowran hurdling debut 3 weeks ago and is worth a chance to improve. Messerschmitt wasn't helped by the close proximity of a loose horse when jinking and unseating his rider approaching 5 out on his hurdling debut at Killarney in August and can be afforded another chance, with the steadily-progressive Set The Tone completing the shortlist.
Gowran eyecatcher OUT FOR A STROLL can reverse form with Set The Tone, with Messerchmitt a likely danger
(1) Ellaria Sand 14/1, Course winner in July. 20/1, creditable 3 lengths fifth of 19 to Candy in listed Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar (6f, good to soft) 21 days ago but vulnerable for win purposes again. Ran well in the Two Year Old Trophy last time but others look less exposed.
6
2nd (6) (9/1 -50%) Saqqara Sands
9
9/1(-50%)
(6) Saqqara Sands 9/1, Confirmed debut promise when winning 7f Newmarket maiden (good to soft) last month. Looks a useful prospect for her top stable. Won at Newmarket four weeks ago; helps to give Ralph Beckett a promising hand.
7
3rd (7) (7/1 -75%) Sea To Sky
7
7/1(-75%)
(7) Sea To Sky 7/1, Has a similar profile to stablemate Saqqara Sands, finishing second on debut before winning a 1m Newmarket novice (both good ground). Definitely more to come. Won at Newmarket five weeks ago; similar type to stablemate Saqqara Sands.
5
4th (5) (20/1 +60%) Santa Savana
20
20/1(+60%)
(5) Santa Savana 20/1, Made a winning start over 6f at Leicester in May. Creditable fourth of 9 in 7f Newmarket nursery last time but came up well short at listed/Group 3 level prior to that. Ran well last time but is 0-4 since debut win and others are preferred.
8
5th (8) (7/2 -40%) Supermodel
3.5
7/2(-40%)
(8) Supermodel 7/2, Looked a good prospect when ploughing through the mud to win comfortably on her 7f Haydock debut 4 weeks ago. Her top yard is no stranger to success in this race. Readily justified favouritism in Haydock contest on heavy ground; useful prospect.
4
6th (4) (6/1 +91%) Naina
6
6/1(+91%)
(4) Naina 6/1, Already a four-time winner over 7f but down the field in the Group 3 Oh So Sharp at Newmarket last time. Record of 4-6 since upped to 7f; faced a stiff task in Group 3 most recently.
10
7th (10) (40/1 -233%) Twafeeg
40
40/1(-233%)
(10) Twafeeg 40/1, Won on 6.5f Doncaster debut in June. Creditable seventh of 16 in Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot (6f, good to firm) 3 weeks later but ran poorly back from 4 months off at Newmarket 21 days ago. Looked a useful sort on debut but has taken a couple of backward steps since.
9
8th (9) (7/4 +61%) Too Much Heaven
1.75
7/4(+61%)
(9) Too Much Heaven 7/4, Created a very good impression when a 4-length winner of her C&D debut (soft) last month. Can take the step up to listed level in her stride. Made all for easy success in newcomers' event over C&D last month; promising filly.
3
9th (3) (22/1 -57%) Liberalised
22
22/1(-57%)
(3) Liberalised 22/1, Won 6f Hamilton maiden on debut in June but has had her limitations exposed in defeat since. Races on going softer than good for the first time. Has a respectable rating but probably isn't crying out for step back up to 7f.
2
10th (2) (25/1 +24%) Isabella Castile
25
25/1(+24%)
(2) Isabella Castile 25/1, Fair form, winning a 13-runner novice at Windsor (6f, heavy) 12 days ago, soon clear. Will relish the conditions but has plenty to find on form. Won well on heavy ground at Windsor most recently and may progress further.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Ralph Beckett launches a twin-pronged assault in the shape of last-time-out Newmarket winners Saqqara Sands (7f) and Sea To Sky (1m), both of whom step up to Listed class with scope for further progress. However, SUPERMODEL created a big impression first time out when quickening clear nicely in the mud at Haydock to score in fine style over this trip and the William Haggas-trained filly looks to have a bright future. Too Much Heaven romped home on her debut over C&D and is another unexposed sort to consider in a tricky contest.
It's likely at least one of the promising last-time-out maiden/novice winners will step forward, with the vote going to TOO MUCH HEAVEN, who was impressive on her C&D debut. Supermodel proved herself under these conditions on her Haydock debut and is second choice ahead of Ralph Beckett pair Saqqara Sands and Sea To Sky.
This looks the perfect next step for TOO MUCH HEAVEN, who is first choice ahead of Supermodel.
(6) Cover Up 10/1, Won 3 on the bounce on the AW during the winter and fifth in big 5f handicaps at Glorious at Goodwood and York in August. However, looked held even before he was hampered in the Portland here (5.6f, good) last time and the forecast slow ground is a worry where this 4-y-o is concerned. Dual AW winner in February; form has plateaued on turf; others appeal more.
12
2nd (12) (5/1 +50%) Jer Batt
5
5/1(+50%)
(12) Jer Batt 5/1, Done little wrong this year save for a below-par effort at Southwell in August, shaping much better than the bare result in a big York handicap (6f, soft) a fortnight ago (travelling as well as any but endured a torrid run through). Major player back at the minimum trip. 6f stretched his stamina last time; consistent at 5f; major player under Oisin Murphy.
14
3rd (14) (9/1 +44%) Solar Aclaim
9
9/1(+44%)
(14) Solar Aclaim 9/1, Relished the testing conditions when regaining the winning thread at Goodwood in September. Followed that effort with another good one at Salisbury but he proved a let-down when only sixth behind Woolhampton at Nottingham recently. Followed two good runs with a poor one at Nottingham and needs to put that well behind him.
9
4th (9) (5/1 +29%) Venture Capital
5
5/1(+29%)
(9) Venture Capital 5/1, Dual winner at 2 yrs and in good heart in recent months, winning at Ayr and over this C&D, plus placed twice at Ascot. Shade more will be needed if he's to take this but couldn't rule out all the same. Has thrived since dropped to sprint trips, winning twice and third at Ascot; shortlisted.
8
5th (8) (22/1 +33%) Walbank
22
22/1(+33%)
(8) Walbank 22/1, Successful at Meydan at the turn of the year and creditable fourth back on these shores at Goodwood in July. However, he hasn't shone in 3 subsequent starts and it's easy enough to look elsewhere. Unplaced since Meydan win but better signs last time; has possibilities from falling mark.
17
6th (17) (50/1 -317%) Je Ne Sais Quoi
50
50/1(-317%)
(17) Je Ne Sais Quoi 50/1, Opened her account for current yard in 8-runner handicap at Ripon (5f, firm) on latest start in August but she's effectively 10 lb higher in the weights here, in what is a much stronger race. Career-best RPR on only second start for yard when scoring at Ripon; out of the handicap.
5
7th (5) (22/1 +12%) The Bell Conductor
22
22/1(+12%)
(5) The Bell Conductor 22/1, Winner of 5f handicaps at Southwell and Pontefract earlier this year, and added another to his CV when narrowly scoring at Chester (6f, good to firm) at the end of August. Failed to land a blow in a valuable York handicap recently, though, and likely to come up short once again. Chester winner; not disgraced at York next time; likely to be thereabouts.
13
8th (13) (66/1 -65%) Tinto
66
66/1(-65%)
(13) Tinto 66/1, Has again paid his way this season with victories in a couple of 6f Thirsk handicaps. However, he has failed to make an impact on his last 2 starts and he's likely to find a few too good here, too. Two Thirsk wins this year but last two runs have been poor; on the back burner for now.
1
9th (1) (14/1 -133%) Blue Storm
14
14/1(-133%)
(1) Blue Storm 14/1, Useful colt who landed 3-y-o "Dash" at Epsom prior to a fine second in big-field Royal Ascot handicap. Firmly back on track when arriving late on the scene to strike at Haydock (5f, heavy) last time and while more will be needed off this 5 lb higher mark, he has to enter calculations. Big improver in last 12 months; led final 1f at Haydock last time; high on the list again.
4
10th (4) (9/1 +10%) Vintage Clarets
9
9/1(+10%)
(4) Vintage Clarets 9/1, Right back to form of late, hitting the target in deep-ground 5f handicaps at Chester and Catterick either side of a a good second at Ascot. Third to Aberama Gold in this race 12 months ago and bold show likely off the same mark this time round. Has hit top form; Catterick winner last week; third here last year; should go well again.
16
11th (16) (4/1 +43%) Aberama Gold
4
4/1(+43%)
(16) Aberama Gold 4/1, Winless since landing this race 12 months ago but, on the upside, he has slipped to a very appealing mark and again wasn't to best effect when 2¼ lengths fourth to Vintage Clarets at Catterick last weekend. Conditions won't be a problem and it's not hard to envisage a bold show from this 7-y-o. Last year's winner, now much lower in weights; better than result last time; tempting.
2
12th (2) (11/1 +45%) Pilgrim
11
11/1(+45%)
(2) Pilgrim 11/1, His rivals didn't see which way he went at Musselburgh in June and duly followed up when proving ½-length too strong for Blue Storm in a big-field Royal Ascot handicap (5f, good to firm) 20 days later. Poorly drawn at York next time but no real excuses at Ayr latest and he needs to bounce back. Edged out Blue Storm at Royal Ascot but two runs since have been below par.
15
13th (15) (33/1 +0%) Good Earth
33
33/1(+0%)
(15) Good Earth 33/1, Bagged handicaps at Newmarket/Sandown in August and wasn't far off registering another success at Hamilton (5f, good to soft) late last month. Best to overlook recent York run (poorly drawn) but others make more appeal all the same. Scuppered by the draw at York last time; arrived there in good form; not without hope.
7
14th (7) (22/1 -100%) Woolhampton
22
22/1(-100%)
(7) Woolhampton 22/1, Notched fourth success of 2024 when coming from off the pace to land a heavy-ground 5f Nottingham handicap in decisive fashion 10 days ago. That represented a career-best and while more will be needed up 5 lb in this stronger race, she's not discounted. Likeable filly; fourth 4yo win came at Nottingham last time; up 5lb and this is warmer.
11
15th (11) (16/1 +0%) Designer
16
16/1(+0%)
(11) Designer 16/1, Latest win was gained off 1 lb higher at York in August 2023 and stepped up on below par belated reappearance display on the Knavesmire when fifth of 10 in the Haydock handicap won by Blue Storm last month. Still, she looks vulnerable here. Runner-up in this race in 2022; encouraging fifth last time; interesting contender.
14:05 Doncaster Handicap (Class 2) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Only a tentative vote can go to VINTAGE CLARETS. Second at Ascot before gaining compensation at Catterick a fortnight later, that performance was a career best, so a subsequent 4lb rise in the handicap does not look overly harsh. With conditions to suit and from a favourable draw, he could follow up. Aberama Gold finished fourth in behind the selection that day but he's 3lb better off and may well close the gap. Blue Storm was raised 5lb for a narrow Haydock success and, while not ruled out, Nottingham scorer Woolhampton could be a bigger threat.
ABERAMA GOLD faces a bigger field than he did when accounting for nine rivals in the 2023 renewal of this handicap, but he's significantly lower in the weights this time round and is appealing having again shaped well behind Vintage Clarets at Catterick last time. He may have most to fear from Jer Batt, who is of strong interest back at 5f, while top-weight Blue Storm should have a part to play, along with the aforementioned Vintage Clarets.
Last year's winner Aberama Gold is tempting but preference is for the 2022 runner-up DESIGNER who shaped well at Haydock last time.
(4) Similar Story 2/1, Easy winner of an Irish point who showed ability in novices/handicaps sent hurdlng last season. After 5 months off, took a step forward when runner-up in mares' handicap at Hexham (20.1f) 22 days ago and she goes chasing with yard in good form. Major player. Good second over hurdles on seasonal debut and looks interesting on this chasing debut.
1
2nd (1) (11/2 +39%) Meetmeinthemorning
5.5
11/2(+39%)
(1) Meetmeinthemorning 11/2, Winning Irish pointer who made the frame on first of 3 starts over hurdles last season. Left chasing debut form behind when runner-in handicap at Hexham (20.1f) in June, before racing keenly in first-time cheekpieces at Market Rasen (23.8f) next time. Not ruled out. Didn't really fire when upped to 3m last time but remains lightly raced; considered.
2
3rd (2) (15/2 -67%) Raceview Road
7.5
15/2(-67%)
(2) Raceview Road 15/2, Multiple Irish point winner who was placed in a bumper and couple of Newcastle novice hurdles prior to making a winning chase debut in handicap here (21.6f) in April. Beaten only a length when fourth over C&D in May, so he enters calculations on return. Won over 2m5f here on chase/handicap debut in April and ran well over C&D in May.
3
4th (3) (17/2 -42%) Cardamon Hill
8.5
17/2(-42%)
(3) Cardamon Hill 17/2, Opened chase account at Perth (23.8f) in June and good second at same C&D the following month. Not in same form next 2 starts, but bounced back when third at this course (26.2f) 20 days ago. Capable of getting involved if he's on a going day. Placed over 3m2f here this month but is not one to rely upon and is not the force of old.
6
5th (6) (22/1 +0%) Blow The Budget
22
22/1(+0%)
(6) Blow The Budget 22/1, Remains a maiden but produced best effort over hurdles (following wind op) when third at Market Rasen (20.6f) in May. Unsuited by way race developed next time, though after 4 months off she offered little sent chasing at Perth (20.1f) on her latest outing. Struggled on recent chase debut and moves up in trip with quite a bit to prove.
7
6th (7) (11/4 -38%) Edgewell
2.75
11/4(-38%)
(7) Edgewell 11/4, After a spin over hurdles, off the mark at the fourth attempt over fences with a cosy success in handicap at Downpatrick (23.7f) 15 days ago. Remains unexposed as a chaser, so he's respected with further improvement to come. Came good with 14l win at Downpatrick last month; further progress is possible.
5
|PU| (5) (10/1 -54%) Domandlouis
10
10/1(-54%)
(5) Domandlouis 10/1, Hurdles winner here in 2022 and runner-up 3 times over fences last year, including twice over this C&D. Form went the wrong way on last 3 starts, pulled up back here in May, but he's been given a chance by the handicapper. Headgear left off on return. Placed in last two editions of this race and has slipped to a dangerous mark.
8
|PU| (8) (80/1 -60%) Bannside
80
80/1(-60%)
(8) Bannside 80/1, Little form over hurdles and hasn't fared any better in handicap chases, again finishing tailed off at Carlisle (20.9f) when last seen 18 months ago. Looks to be up against it from out of the weights. Absent since struggling to get competitive during 2022-23 season; makes no appeal.
14:10 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 4) 23f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
SIMILAR STORY caught the eye when finishing second over 2m4f in a Hexham handicap hurdle on her return to the track earlier this month, conceding first run to the winner before staying on well. Stepping back up in trip on her chasing debut, this point-to-point winner gets the vote to land the spoils. The largely consistent Raceview Road had excuses for his recent low-key effort over C&D, and he commands respect off the same mark, while recent Downpatrick winner Edgewell must enter calculations too.
A winning Irish pointer, SIMILAR STORY showed improved form over hurdles when second at Hexham on her return, so she could be ready to open her Rules account with her yard going well ahead of her chasing debut. Edgewell isn't taken lightly after winning in good style at Downpatrick 15 days ago, with Raceview Road also considered.
A chance is taken on the fitness of RACEVIEW ROAD, who made a good start to his chasing career here in the spring.
(6) Senior Chief 11/1, Useful hurdler who got off the mark at third time of asking over fences at Punchestown (22.8f) in February. Well fancied but failed to give his running in Irish Grand National next time but remains with potential and hails from a yard with a good record at this meeting. Good first season over fences until not giving his running in the Irish National.
14
2nd (14) (9/1 +55%) The Short Go
9
9/1(+55%)
(14) The Short Go 9/1, Performed creditably since sent handicapping over fences, latest when fourth of 14 in at Kilbeggan (25.4f, good to soft) in August. More on plate here but can't be discounted given the yard's record at this meeting. 1 lb out of the weights. Low weight today and he's run well when made favourite for his two handicaps.
2
3rd (2) (9/4 +36%) Broadway Boy
2.25
9/4(+36%)
(2) Broadway Boy 9/4, Made a successful start over fences in a Worcester novice before scoring twice at this course, the form of his handicap win in December boosted by the second and third subsequently. Not in same form on final 2 starts but reappears on a handy mark and must enter calculations. Front-runner who could yet be Graded class and returns with his yard in top form.
1
4th (1) (12/1 -9%) Does He Know
12
12/1(-9%)
(1) Does He Know 12/1, Smart chaser who returned to form, with positive tactics readopted, when landing the Grimthorpe at Doncaster on slow ground in March. Ran poorly at Sandown next time, however, and may find this test sharp enough first time up. Just one noticeable effort last season; has had wind op; this looks tough with top weight.
4
5th (4) (9/1 +0%) Le Milos
9
9/1(+0%)
(4) Le Milos 9/1, Big improver over fences for this yard in 2022/23, including victory in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury. Disappointed in first 3 starts (over hurdles) last term but offered more when seventh in Bet365 Gold Cup on final outing and can't be ruled out here. Well handicapped; didn't stay 3m4f when belatedly sent chasing on final appearance.
11
6th (11) (12/1 +14%) Pepe Le Moko
12
12/1(+14%)
(11) Pepe Le Moko 12/1, Winless following 5 attempts over hurdles but quickly put that right sent chasing, taking 2 of his first 3 starts (at up to 20.5f). Ended campaign with disappointing fifth at Kempton but scored on his return last year and will be a danger to all if staying this longer trip. Progressive profile last season but being unraced beyond 2m4f isn't ideal.
8
7th (8) (7/1 +42%) Chasing Fire
7
7/1(+42%)
(8) Chasing Fire 7/1, Improved on hurdles efforts when making an impressive winning return/chasing debut in a novice at Uttoxeter this time last year and back to that sort of form when scoring at Perth (23.8f) in April. Asked a bigger question now but returns on a fair mark. First run over 3m when winning well at Perth and he's unexposed as a stayer.
12
8th (12) (20/1 -25%) Unanswered Prayers
20
20/1(-25%)
(12) Unanswered Prayers 20/1, Posted creditable second of 8 in handicap chase at Kempton (24f, good to soft) when last seen in May but hasn't scored since taking a novice handicap here 2 years ago and others look better treated. Just about stays 3m but today's stiffer stamina test could leave him vulnerable.
10
9th (10) (28/1 -75%) Kansas City Star
28
28/1(-75%)
(10) Kansas City Star 28/1, Having left Gordon Elliott, made a winning stable/chase debut at Huntingdon in January and left behind a poor run when successful at Plumpton in March. However, not been in same form since and others are more appealing. Unraced beyond 2m1f as a chaser; stays 2m4f but it's not hard to have doubts over this far.
13
|PU| (13) (13/2 +0%) Some Scope
6.5
13/2(+0%)
(13) Some Scope 13/2, Had a good first season over fences, winning on 2 of his 5 starts and ending campaign with creditable fourth of 14 in handicap chase at this course (26f, good) in April. Likely more to come this term. 6yo who surely has more to offer and lurks on a lovely weight here.
3
|PU| (3) (16/1 +27%) Vanillier
16
16/1(+27%)
(3) Vanillier 16/1, Albert Bartlett winner in 2021 who ran a cracker from a long way back when a strong-finishing second in 2023 Grand National. Largely disappointed last term, however, and it's been some time since he got his head in front. Former Grand National runner-up and unlikely to be fully wound up for this reappearance.
7
|PU| (7) (16/1 +84%) Escaria Ten
16
16/1(+84%)
(7) Escaria Ten 16/1, Formerly useful performer for Gordon Elliot but has gone backwards in recent seasons, including on debut for this yard in April, and is best watched. Down the field on stable debut here in April and has essentially lost his way.
5
|PU| (5) (20/1 -11%) Kinondo Kwetu
20
20/1(-11%)
(5) Kinondo Kwetu 20/1, Snapped a run of poor form when scoring at Uttoxeter and Worcester this summer and arrives on back of creditable second of 5 in handicap chase at Perth (23.8f, soft, 3/1) 31 days ago. Should give another good account but this is much more competitive. Has no recent wellbeing questions but this would be the highest mark he's won off.
9
|PU| (9) (28/1 -40%) Captain Morgs
28
28/1(-40%)
(9) Captain Morgs 28/1, Returned to form from out of the blue, after 3 months off, when scoring at Aintree (25f) in May. However, underlined his inconsistency when running badly at Worcester next time and his overall profile remains off-putting. Has had a breathing operation. Good ground is important but he's not the easiest to predict at the best of times; wind op.
14:20 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 2) 25f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Broadway Boy enjoyed a fine start to life over fences before his form tailed off in high-class company. He is likely to be ready to do himself justice on his return, but may face a couple of better-handicapped rivals. Senior Chief was well fancied for the Irish National, only to pull up, and is an interesting contender if handling quicker conditions. The vote, though, goes to SOME SCOPE, who won at Catterick and Doncaster before running with great credit when runner-up to Does He Know in the Grimthorpe and finishing fourth here on the New Course in April. The six-year-old doesn't appear to have reached his ceiling yet and appears set for another productive campaign.
PEPE LE MOKO has to prove his stamina over this longer trip but he returns on a fair mark and the likelihood is we haven't seen the best of him yet. He gets the nod. Broadway Boy has a fine record here and is feared most, whilst Some Scope and Senior Chief are also much respected.
Broadway Boy could be set for a good season but he'll need to be right on the ball to concede so much weight to SOME SCOPE (nap).
(11) Scotcantou 14/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Back on track when third of 14 in novice hurdle at Tramore (16.6f, good) 38 days ago. Not out of things. Did okay despite some ropey jumping in a Tramore maiden hurdle latest; one for handicaps.
5
2nd (5) (3/1 +54%) Downmexicoway
3
3/1(+54%)
(5) Downmexicoway 3/1, Once-raced maiden. Ninth of 22 in bumper at Punchestown (16.4f, good to soft, 5/2) on NH debut. Off 18 months. Makes hurdles debut. First run for yard after leaving Peter Fahey. Betting will guide on hurdling bow on first start for Henry de Bromhead but interesting.
7
3rd (7) (7/1 +13%) Custom Taylor
7
7/1(+13%)
(7) Custom Taylor 7/1, Built on encouraging NH debut when taking 13-runner bumper at Kilbeggan (19f, good) in May, keeping on well. Warrants respect on hurdles bow. This trip is probably short enough for him on his hurdles debut but is one with a future.
12
4th (12) (9/2 +0%) Mi Lucky Cailin
4.5
9/2(+0%)
(12) Mi Lucky Cailin 9/2, Fair hurdler who made the frame again when creditable second of 16 in novice hurdle at Tipperary (16f, good to soft) in May. Sets the standard on form. Has the ability to win an ordinary maiden hurdle but may find a couple too good here.
6
5th (6) (2/1 +11%) Kish Bank
2
2/1(+11%)
(6) Kish Bank 2/1, Easy winner only start in points and justified good support to make a winning Rules debut in 8-runner Punchestown bumper (16.7f) last December. Good prospect now hurdling. Imposing 5yo who should have a bright future and will appreciate the forecast rain.
4
6th (4) (4/1 +11%) Arctic Gale
4
4/1(+11%)
(4) Arctic Gale 4/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Respectable fourth of 9 in novice hurdle at Cork (20.4f, good, evens) 13 days ago, unsuited by emphasis on speed. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Likely contender. Drop back to 2m here not guaranteed to suit and this could well be a stronger race.
9
7th (9) (200/1 -100%) Ballinoe Blaze
200
200/1(-100%)
(9) Ballinoe Blaze 200/1, Once-raced maiden. Eighth of 16 in juvenile hurdle (33/1) at Killarney (17f, good to soft) on NH debut 167 days ago. Made no impact on his hurdles debut at Killarney in May, much more needed here.
13
8th (13) (33/1 -32%) True Light
33
33/1(-32%)
(13) True Light 33/1, Modest hurdler. Fair winner at 16f in bumpers. 33/1, good fifth of 9 in novice hurdle at Cork (20.4f, good) 13 days ago. Each-way claims. Maiden hurdle form for her current trainer leaves her with plenty to find.
10
9th (10) (250/1 -150%) Stily
250
250/1(-150%)
(10) Stily 250/1, Once-raced maiden. Seventeenth of 20 in novice hurdle at this course (16.7f, good to soft, 125/1) on NH debut 47 days ago. Jumped poorly and well beaten on his hurdles debut here last month; makes no appeal.
3
10th (3) (80/1 -220%) Jeel Des Mottes
80
80/1(-220%)
(3) Jeel Des Mottes 80/1, Once-raced maiden. Sixth of 14 in bumper at Punchestown (16f, soft, 80/1) on NH debut 175 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. Others more likely but certainly worth watching on his hurdles debut.
2
11th (2) (150/1 -50%) Famous Sonnet
150
150/1(-50%)
(2) Famous Sonnet 150/1, Once-raced maiden. 10/1, eighth of 10 in bumper at Cork (19f, heavy) on NH debut. Off 6 months. Makes hurdles debut. First run for yard after leaving Charles Byrnes. Tailed off in a bumper for Charles Byrnes at Cork in March; hard to fancy on that evidence.
1
|PU| (1) (40/1 -60%) Danny By Boy
40
40/1(-60%)
(1) Danny By Boy 40/1, €39,000 3-y-o, Diamond Boy gelding. Half-brother to bumper winner Versace Twentyone. Dam unraced half-sister to useful hurdler/high-class chaser (stayed 23f) Royal Rendezvous. Bred to stay well and one for the future; stable second string here on debut.
14:28 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
The unbeaten KISH BANK can make a winning debut over hurdles. A point-to-point and bumper winner, the Gordon Elliott-trained five-year-old has the potential to make up into a smart novice this season. Having been taken out due to the ground on his intended reappearance at Cork, connections will be praying the forecast rain arrives. Runner-up on both previous visits here, Arctic Gale should again be a leading contender. The Emmet Mullins-trained gelding has acquired plenty of hurdling experience which should stand to him in this company. Although second three times over jumps, he has done little wrong in any of those runs. Off the track since April of last year, Downmexicoway would be a threat if ready after his long absence.
KISH BANK justified good support when making a winning bumper debut at Punchestown in December and is taken to repeat the feat over hurdles here. Mi Lucky Cailin and Arctic Gale look the likeliest dangers.
The one to be on though should be KISH BANK, who should be far more suited by a test of jumping than when winning his bumper narrowly
(7) Nap Hand 9/2, Ended a losing run at Haydock (1m) in September and followed it up with a good fourth of 14 in handicap at Kempton (1m) 24 days ago when needing a stronger gallop. Expected to be bang there back up in distance. Pretty reliable, though his only handicap win was at Haydock (1m, good) penultimate start.
5
2nd (5) (6/1 0%) Sir Lowry's Pass
6
6/1(0%)
(5) Sir Lowry's Pass 6/1, Siyouni colt got off the mark in 10f Goodwood novice in September and backed it up with a solid third of 7 in novice at Epsom (10.1f, soft) 27 days ago. Looks to have more to offer now handicapping. Likely player. Ran respectably on heavy latest; should have potential after just 3 races; handicap debut.
13
3rd (13) (28/1 -40%) Pink Lily
28
28/1(-40%)
(13) Pink Lily 28/1, Bagged her third win of 2024 at Goodwood (10f) in September but only eighth of 10 at Chelmsford City (10f) 23 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Regular winner in 2023 and 2024 but never on softer than good; unraced on soft or heavy.
8
4th (8) (22/1 -38%) Sweet Reward
22
22/1(-38%)
(8) Sweet Reward 22/1, Course winner but it's now 12 runs since his last win in 2023. Only fourth of 5 in handicap at Newmarket (9f, soft) 29 days ago so needs a couple of these to falter. Ran well here on April reappearance and some respectable efforts in a mixed record since.
4
5th (4) (7/2 +13%) Indemnity
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(4) Indemnity 7/2, Winner at Nottingham in June and has continued in good form, second of 11 in handicap at Salisbury (9.9f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Not taken lightly. Sole win (11 races) came at 1-2 in a maiden; close second at Salisbury (1m2f, heavy).
10
6th (10) (3/1 +33%) Desperate Dan
3
3/1(+33%)
(10) Desperate Dan 3/1, On the up since sent into handicaps, easily getting off the mark at Nottingham (1m) before a very good second of 11 in handicap at Windsor (1m, heavy) 12 days ago. Can go well again despite taking a 4 lb rise. Fared a lot better dropped to 1m last three starts, which are his only runs on soft/heavy.
12
7th (12) (33/1 -32%) Yokohama
33
33/1(-32%)
(12) Yokohama 33/1, Debut scorer who comes here in good nick, seventh of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (8f) 22 days ago. Back up in trip and possibilities. Apparent best form (1m, AW) in March has not been reproduced.
2
8th (2) (7/1 +56%) Maggie's Way
7
7/1(+56%)
(2) Maggie's Way 7/1, Largely held her form well after making a winning return last season but beat only one after a 13-month absence at Newmarket (10f) three weeks ago. Should strip fitter mow. Very solid over 1m last term; did not reappear until three weeks ago, when below form.
3
9th (3) (11/1 -22%) Arthur's Realm
11
11/1(-22%)
(3) Arthur's Realm 11/1, Scored at Beverley and Redcar in the spring and got back on track when third of 8 in handicap at Haydock (8.2f, heavy) 8 days ago. In the mix. Stays 1m2f; close third at Haydock (1m, heavy) eight days ago shows he is in the mix.
11
10th (11) (25/1 -79%) Odin Legacy
25
25/1(-79%)
(11) Odin Legacy 25/1, Lightly-raced maiden who came in a below-form fifth of 11 in handicap at Salisbury (9.9f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Needs to get back on track. Close third on handicap debut at Sandown (1m2f, soft) but ran moderately on heavy latest.
1
11th (1) (80/1 -471%) Civil Law
80
80/1(-471%)
(1) Civil Law 80/1, Running consistently well when last seen 6 months ago, runner-up in 10f handicap at Lingfield (AW) in March. This a very rare turf start and the bettting can guide. Has done most of his winning on AW and it's over three years since his sole turf success.
14:34 Newbury Handicap (Class 3) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
INDEMNITY relished the heavy ground when a half-length second off 2lb lower over this trip at Salisbury, finishing clear of the remainder, and he can mount another bold bid for his in-form yard. There are plenty of dangers, most notably Desperate Dan, who narrowly failed to complete a double under a penalty over 1m at Windsor and looks well worth another try at 1m2f. The unexposed Sir Lowry's Pass could be feasibly treated off a mark of 84 on his handicap bow, while Arthur's Realm and Nap Hand are also in with a shout.
Alan King's NAP HAND rates just the pick of these weights and with this return to a longer trip a likely plus too he gets the vote in this highly competitive handicap. Ed Walker's Sir Lowry's Pass appeals as an improver now going into handicaps and heads the list of dangers, although in-form trio Desperate Dan, Indemnity and Arthur's Realm all need considering too.
Arthur's Realm looks the most solid of the older horses but preference is for the 3yos SIR LOWRY'S PASS (nap) and Desperate Dan.
(4) Hotazhell 11/1, Gained a second pattern success of his career when battling well to see off Tennessee Stud in the Group 2 Beresford at the Curragh (1m, good) 4 weeks ago. Very likeable but he'll need to improve again if he's to follow up in what looks a really good renewal. Group 3 and Group 2 winner; tough sort who is progressing nicely; could have part to play.
2
2nd (2) (15/8 +53%) Delacroix
1.875
15/8(+53%)
(2) Delacroix 15/8, Dubawi colt who has improved from run to run, showing determination to see off the game Stanhope Gardens in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket (1m, soft) 14 days ago. Big player for stable seeking a twelfth win in this. Neck win in Group 3 Autumn Stakes last time; could have more left in the tank for top yard.
8
3rd (8) (3/1 +14%) Wimbledon Hawkeye
3
3/1(+14%)
(8) Wimbledon Hawkeye 3/1, Kameko colt who chased home The Lion In Winter in the Acomb at York before proving 1½ lengths too strong for Royal Playwright in the Royal Lodge at Newmarket (1m, good to soft) 4 weeks ago. Likely capable of even better and the one to beat. Won the Group 2 Royal Lodge in good style and holds leading claims today.
7
4th (7) (11/1 +31%) Seaplane
11
11/1(+31%)
(7) Seaplane 11/1, Impressive when getting off the mark at the third time of asking in 7f Newmarket maiden (soft) 4 weeks ago, pulling 4½ lengths clear. Tongue tied first time now stepping up to 1m. More to come from him. Easily made all in Newmarket maiden last month on third start; open to further improvement.
1
5th (1) (8/1 +0%) Anno Domini
8
8/1(+0%)
(1) Anno Domini 8/1, 525,000 gns breeze-up buy who looked a very good prospect when winning novices at Newbury (6.5f, good to firm) and Sandown (7f, good) over the summer. Takes a big jump in class but he has the potential for significant improvement for last year's winning yard. 2-2 (novices); others have more substance to form but he could have lots more to offer.
3
6th (3) (10/1 -100%) Detain
10
10/1(-100%)
(3) Detain 10/1, Has looked a colt of considerable promise when winning a pair of 7f novices at Kempton. It'll be very interesting to see how he fares now pitched into a Group 1 for his turf debut. 2-2; half-brother to St Leger 2nd Arrest; it remains to be seen where his limitations lie.
5
7th (5) (16/1 -14%) Nebras
16
16/1(-14%)
(5) Nebras 16/1, Half-brother to connections' Nashwa who made a winning start to his career in a 1m Newmarket maiden earlier this month. Very much in at the deep end 3 weeks on but there's definitely more to come. Won on recent debut at Newmarket and this half-brother to Nashwa has lots of potential.
6
8th (6) (8/1 +43%) Royal Playwright
8
8/1(+43%)
(6) Royal Playwright 8/1, Yet another in this line-up with a very progressive profile, looking well suited by the step to 1m when 1½ lengths second of 7 to Wimbledon Hawkeye in Royal Lodge at Newmarket (good to soft) 28 days ago. The type to go on improving. Second to Wimbledon Hawkeye in the Royal Lodge and can give another good account.
14:40 Doncaster Group 1 (Class 1) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Charlie Appleby landed this 12 months ago with Ancient Wisdom and he'll be hopeful Anno Domini can repeat the dose. The unbeaten colt has a bit to find on official figures but he's certain to progress further and must be respected. Detain is another who bids to maintain an unblemished record following an impressive win at Kempton, but this might be between Delacroix and WIMBLEDON HAWKEYE. The former, a game winner of the Autumn Stakes a fortnight ago, is Aidan O'Brien's sole representative this season and that could be a tip in itself. However, James Owen's colt bumped into the likeable The Lion In Winter in the Acomb before recording a commanding victory in the Royal Lodge at Newmarket, so he is preferred.
WIMBLEDON HAWKEYE looks capable of even better and can become the first since Elm Park in 2014 to complete the Royal Lodge/Futurity double. Aidan O'Brien has an outstanding record in this (11 wins) so his recent Autumn Stakes winner Delacroix rates an obvious danger. Anno Domini and Detain have been very impressive when winning both their starts in novices and are fascinating contenders in what looks a really strong renewal.
Having run a mighty race when runner-up in the Acomb, WIMBLEDON HAWKEYE impressed in the Royal Lodge last time and can follow up.
(1) Walk On Quest 3/1, Runner-up in an Irish point and shaped well when filling the same spot in a Kelso maiden hurdle on Rules debut last December. No match for handicap blot Size Five (winner again since) on return/handicap bow at Perth (3m, soft) and he's interesting back down in trip for this chase debut. No match for winner when second on handicap hurdle debut but that was still a good effort.
10
2nd (10) (17/2 +39%) Augharue
8.5
17/2(+39%)
(10) Augharue 17/2, Went agonisingly close to breaking his duck from a tumbling mark at Sedgefield (17f, good) in May. However, that effort has been followed by a series of uninspiring performances and he needs to get back on track. Went close at Sedgefield in May but soundly beaten three times since and now 0-18 overall.
9
3rd (9) (7/2 +30%) Kingofthegame
3.5
7/2(+30%)
(9) Kingofthegame 7/2, Finished third on the second of his 2 starts in Irish points and showed something to work on over hurdles. Likewise on recent chase debut at Hexham (2½m, good) where he was fourth in a 10-runner handicap off a 1 lb higher mark, and improvement could be on the way. Made quite promising chase/handicap debut this month and remains unexposed under rules.
2
4th (2) (3/1 +45%) Flash Du Pistolet
3
3/1(+45%)
(2) Flash Du Pistolet 3/1, Placed twice from 5 starts in Irish points and very nearly landed a gamble on Rules debut in a maiden hurdles here last October. Safely held both subsequent starts, though, and step forward needed switched to fences following 10 months off. Began rules career with three promising hurdle runs towards end of last year; chase debut.
6
5th (6) (20/1 -135%) Asa
20
20/1(-135%)
(6) Asa 20/1, Had cheekpieces on and got off the mark in 10-runner handicap hurdle at Cartmel (2¾m, good) in June. Good second at Market Rasen next time but drop to 17f counted against her at Stratford recently and she may again finds things happening roo quickly. Just 1-17 over hurdles; other chase debutants in this field have much more potential.
4
6th (4) (8/1 -60%) Okavango Delta
8
8/1(-60%)
(4) Okavango Delta 8/1, Not far off his hurdling best when runner-up on second chase start at Catterick last November. Ended 2023/24 campaign on a downer but back on track when fourth in a 10-runner handicap on return/debut for new yard at Hexham (15.6f, soft) and, down another 1 lb, he needs considering. 0-6 over fences but ran big race when fourth on recent stable debut at Hexham; shortlisted.
8
7th (8) (25/1 -25%) Jackhammer
25
25/1(-25%)
(8) Jackhammer 25/1, Veteran Flat/hurdles winner who has yet to trouble the judge following 8 attempts in this sphere. That said, he was a fair third on his latest start over fences at Perth (2½m, soft) last month and this drop back in trip will at least help. Latest chase run just respectable; well beaten on the Flat since; others appeal more.
7
8th (7) (40/1 -264%) Divas Doyen
40
40/1(-264%)
(7) Divas Doyen 40/1, Has found just one too good over fences on several occasions and latest fourth of 10 at Hexham (15.6f, good to soft) was by no means a bad effort. Still, it's hard to ignore the fact that she's 0-18 overall. Made the frame in two Hexham chases in the spring but her career strike-rate is 0-18.
3
9th (3) (17/2 -70%) Just Gino
8.5
17/2(-70%)
(3) Just Gino 17/2, Fetched £100,000 after winning sole start in points and, following a wind op and fitted with a first-time hood (retained), he posted arguably his best effort from 3 starts over hurdles when fourth of 11 on return at Warwick (2m, good). Could be a factor on this chase debut granted a clear round. Irish point winner; shaped with promise in novice hurdles; makes chase/handicap debut.
5
10th (5) (100/1 -300%) Gieves
100
100/1(-300%)
(5) Gieves 100/1, Worcester hurdles winner last September and bettered his low-key chase debut third in a 2m Uttoxeter handicap in July. However, ran poorly back over timber returned to Worcester last time and this 6-y-o is opposable on debut for new connections. Placed over fences for Ben Pauling this summer; left that stable after poor run in August.
11
11th (11) (125/1 -89%) Beechmount
125
125/1(-89%)
(11) Beechmount 125/1, Pulled up sole start in points and no promise over hurdles. A long way out of the weights for this chase debut and he's very hard to recommend. Showed no promise when a big-priced outsider for four novice hurdles; 29lb wrong today.
14:45 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 5) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Point-to-point winner JUST GINO shaped better than the bare result suggests when finishing fourth over 2m at Warwick on his seasonal reappearance earlier this month and, making his handicap/chase debut on his second start after wind surgery, this might be the time to catch him. A distant second over 3m on his handicap hurdle debut last month, Walk On Quest warrants respect dropping in trip and tackling a fence, while Flash Du Pistolet is also noteworthy.
There were positives to take from WALK ON QUEST's reappearance second in a handicap hurdle at Perth and he appeals as the type to make up into a better chaser. That remark also applies to Just Gino, who is second choice ahead of Okavango Delta and Kingofthegame.
The suggestion is OKAVANGO DELTA, who ran well when fourth on slower-than-ideal ground on his recent stable debut.
(3) The Wallpark 9/2, Smart hurdler who was faced with a different sort of test but still completed a hat-trick in 3-runner minor event at Galway (21.6f, good to soft) just under 7 weeks ago. Will have no issues with the extra distance and is one for the shortlist back in a handicap. Progressive 6yo who has won his last three races, including a big-field Listed handicap.
4
2nd (4) (7/1 +13%) Gowel Road
7
7/1(+13%)
(4) Gowel Road 7/1, Held his form well last season, posting creditable sixth of 22 in Pertemps Final (Handicap) at this course (24f, soft) when last seen 7 months ago, reportedly showing post-race heat stress. Tongue tie left off for return and no surprise to see another good run with yard flying. Failed to win last season but ran well in some good handicaps; returns on workable mark.
9
3rd (9) (9/2 +25%) Zain Nights
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(9) Zain Nights 9/2, Useful stayer on the Flat for Harry & Roger Charlton and fast heading that way over hurdles, making it 3 wins from 4 starts in handicaps in 16-runner event at Haydock (24.3f, good to firm) back in May. Remains unexposed at the trip and can continue improving this season. Took form to new level when upped to 3m in spring, winning three in a row; back from break.
13
4th (13) (22/1 -38%) Hardy Boy
22
22/1(-38%)
(13) Hardy Boy 22/1, Got off the mark for the season at Market Rasen in August and ran as well as he ever has when runner-up at Uttoxeter (23.3f, good to soft) just under 3 weeks ago, headed close home but pulling clear of rest. This a tougher assignment and he's 6 lb out of the weights. Won in good style at Market Rasen this summer but is 6lb out of the weights.
2
5th (2) (14/1 +0%) Beacon Edge
14
14/1(+0%)
(2) Beacon Edge 14/1, Seen to maximum effect when scoring at Ballinrobe in May and has held his form since, running well reverted to handicap company when fourth of 18 in listed event at Galway (22.5f, soft) in August. Proving consistent and should go well again back on these shores. Holds no secrets from the handicapper but was in good form in spring/summer; in the mix.
11
6th (11) (10/1 +38%) Como Park
10
10/1(+38%)
(11) Como Park 10/1, Showed improved form upped in trip to double his tally over hurdles at Bellewstown (24.5f, good to firm) in July. Unable to justify odds-on favouritism back on Flat at Killarney (16.8f, good to soft) since but this Irish raider warrants plenty of respect back hurdling (unexposed at trip). Useful Flat stayer who won over hurdles when upped to 3m at Bellewstown this summer.
5
7th (5) (9/1 +10%) Supreme Gift
9
9/1(+10%)
(5) Supreme Gift 9/1, Triple winner over hurdles in 2022/23 and made his second chase start a winning one last November. Below that level next 2 starts but fared better back hurdling, winning at Ascot in March before a good third to Zain Nights at this track (24f, good) when last seen 6 months ago. In the mix. Good third to Zain Nights here in April; contender if in similar form after break.
10
8th (10) (9/1 +25%) Idem
9
9/1(+25%)
(10) Idem 9/1, Posted a career best when readily bagging 15-runner handicap hurdle at Kelso (22.7f, good) in May and backed up that improvement shown returning from 5 months off when runner-up at Perth (23.9f, soft) recently, an error at the second last probably crucial. This tougher but can go well again. Up in grade today but ran well in defeat at Perth last month and remains unexposed over 3m.
8
9th (8) (33/1 -32%) Secret Trix
33
33/1(-32%)
(8) Secret Trix 33/1, Has won 5 times over hurdles since fitted with cheekpieces, resuming winning ways after a breathing operation at Uttoxeter (23.3f, soft) in July. Turned in a rare poor effort at Cartmel next time and offered little over fences at Newton Abbot (21f, good) last time. Quickly back hurdling. Career-best form when winning this summer but two very poor performances have followed.
1
10th (1) (11/1 -10%) Botox Has
11
11/1(-10%)
(1) Botox Has 11/1, Second success in Grade 2s last season when bounding clear in the Rendlesham at Haydock in February. Pulled up in Liverpool Hurdle next time, but not disgraced in a change of headgear when fifth to Impaire Et Passe in Select Hurdle at Sandown (21.5f, good) when last seen 6 months ago. Dual 3m Grade 2 winner last season; tough task under top weight but this C&D suits.
6
11th (6) (9/2 +40%) Al Gasparo
4.5
9/2(+40%)
(6) Al Gasparo 9/2, Useful hurdler who bolted up by 24 lengths in a maiden at Killarney in May and doubled his tally returned to that venue (17f, soft) in a novice just under 3 weeks ago, that track clearly suiting his running style. Upped to 3m for his handicap debut and likely has more to offer. 2-9 in novice maiden hurdles (2m-2m4f); 3m may unlock improvement on handicap debut.
12
12th (12) (50/1 +24%) Classic Concorde
50
50/1(+24%)
(12) Classic Concorde 50/1, Into the veteran stage of his career but thrived last season, winning 6 times, the latest coming in comfortable fashion at Chepstow in February. Bled at Uttoxeter the following month but back on song when seventh in a top-end Aintree handicap in April. Returns from 1 lb out of weights. Late-maturing 11yo who won six times last season; may find this race too hot, though.
14:55 Cheltenham Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
THE WALLPARK did it well when scoring in a hot Galway Festival handicap hurdle over an extended 2m6f, before giving weight and a beating to two useful rivals at the same course over a furlong shorter. With his stamina drawn out further here, the progressive six-year-old gets the vote to land the spoils, albeit off a career-high mark. Zain Nights was on target at Haydock when last seen in May and a 5lb rise doesn't discount another bold bid. Smart on his day, Botox Has also merits respect pitched back into handicap company.
A wide-open first Pertemps qualifier of the season in which the suggestion is ZAIN NIGHTS, who doesn't win by far but made it 3 victories from 4 starts in handicap hurdles at Haydock when last seen in the spring and Lucy Wadham's progressive 5-y-o can pick up from where he left off. Gordon Elliott sends a couple over from Ireland and his The Wallpark may emerge as the main threat, with Como Park, Gowel Road and Supreme Gift all having plenty going for them, too.
There may still be more to come from THE WALLPARK, who collected a good prize in the summer and can extend his winning run.
(8) Sporting Glory 11/8, Promising individual. Winner in bumper at Fairyhouse in February. Off 6 months ahead of this debut for the Gordon Elliott yard. Sets a good standard. Cracking run in Grade 2 novice hurdle; should be hard to beat on debut for Gordon Elliott.
1
2nd (1) (4/1 -33%) Addragoole
4
4/1(-33%)
(1) Addragoole 4/1, Promising sort. Second of 7 in bumper (4/1) at Listowel (16f, soft) 28 days ago. Switches from bumpers to hurdles. May well do better. Yard also saddles Bridie's Beau and His Nibs. 2nd in a Down Royal maiden hurdle in March probably his best effort; should win his maiden.
5
3rd (5) (11/4 +54%) His Nibs
2.75
11/4(+54%)
(5) His Nibs 11/4, Creditable third of 8 in bumper at Clonmel (18.7f, soft, 9/4), would have benefited from stronger handling. Off 6 months ahead of this hurdles debut. Should have a future in this sphere. Jumping is likely to suit him better and could go well, though not the stable first-string.
4
4th (4) (20/1 +39%) Dream Shaper
20
20/1(+39%)
(4) Dream Shaper 20/1, Fair hurdler. Fifth of 6 in handicap hurdle at this course (19f, good to soft, 9/1) 18 days ago. Looks vulnerable. Fifth in a competitive handicap hurdle over C&D last month; much more needed though.
7
5th (7) (20/1 +29%) Seskin Flash
20
20/1(+29%)
(7) Seskin Flash 20/1, Lightly-raced maiden under Rules. Good third of 14 in novice hurdle (8/1) at Kilbeggan (16f, good to soft) 131 days ago, unsuited by drop in trip. Opposable. Good run at Kilbeggan; much more needed here and looks like he will appreciate further.
6
6th (6) (33/1 -50%) Monroes Hollow
33
33/1(-50%)
(6) Monroes Hollow 33/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Sixth of 11 in bumper (40/1) at Downpatrick (17.8f, good to soft) 36 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. Has shown no progression in his last two runs; best watched on his hurdles debut.
13
7th (13) (22/1 +33%) Beauforts Storm
22
22/1(+33%)
(13) Beauforts Storm 22/1, Poor hurdler. Fair winner at 17f in bumpers. Sixth of 15 in novice hurdle at Gowran (16f, good to soft, 20/1) 22 days ago. Others preferred. Switched to maiden hurdles on her last two starts to no effect and looks up against it.
3
8th (3) (9/1 -6%) Bridie's Beau
9
9/1(-6%)
(3) Bridie's Beau 9/1, Twice-raced maiden. Third of 13 in bumper at Warwick (16f, good, 11/2). Off 6 months ahead of this hurdles debut for new yard (previously in the care of Paul Nicholls). Has ability but not the stable selected here and probably best watched on his Irish debut.
9
9th (9) (200/1 -33%) Swing Time
200
200/1(-33%)
(9) Swing Time 200/1, Once-raced maiden. 40/1, seventh of 9 in novice hurdle at this course (16.6f, good to soft) on NH debut 18 days ago. Not much went right on his hurdles debut here but still makes little appeal.
2
10th (2) (150/1 -200%) Beefeater
150
150/1(-200%)
(2) Beefeater 150/1, €13,500 3-y-o, Getaway gelding. Brother to fair hurdler Lets Go To Vegas. Little to shout about judged on exploits between the flags. Modest form in four points and makes no appeal.
14
11th (14) (300/1 -50%) Princess Fiadh
300
300/1(-50%)
(14) Princess Fiadh 300/1, Thrice-raced maiden under Rules. Pulled up in novice hurdle at Clonmel (18.9f, heavy, 200/1) when last seen 8 months ago. Hooded for 1st time. Nothing to recommend in three starts and impossible to fancy; hood tried here.
11
12th (11) (300/1 -100%) Three Tribes
300
300/1(-100%)
(11) Three Tribes 300/1, Twice-raced maiden. Fifth of 9 in novice hurdle at this course (16.6f, good to soft, 100/1) 18 days ago. Reportedly made a noise in a maiden hurdle here last time; safe to look elsewhere.
10
13th (10) (100/1 -100%) Theballflanagan
100
100/1(-100%)
(10) Theballflanagan 100/1, €18,000 3-y-o, Workforce gelding. Brother to fairly useful hurdler Scenic Look. Dam of little account. Likely to come on for the run. Workforce gelding best watched on debut.
12
14th (12) (80/1 +20%) Tizonlyadream
80
80/1(+20%)
(12) Tizonlyadream 80/1, Multiplex gelding. Dam 2½m chase winner (stayed 3¼m). Limited appeal on paper. Stoutly bred newcomer and probably best watched this time.
15:03 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Beaten less than six lengths in a Grade 2 hurdle on his jumping debut, SPORTING GLORY can strike on his first start for trainer Gordon Elliott. The Fame And Glory gelding is very lightly raced for an eight-year-old, having had just the three bumper runs prior to his first foray over hurdles. This looks a nice opportunity to shed his maiden status before stepping back up in class. Addragoole rates the main danger on his return to flights. Runner-up on his racecourse debut in a Down Royal maiden hurdle in March, the form of that race has worked out well. Twice second in bumpers subsequently, the gelding should go close. The locally-trained Dream Shaper holds each-way claims.
Bumper winner SPORTING GLORY wasn't beaten far in a Fairyhouse Grade 2 on his hurdles debut in March and, with his sights lowered significantly on debut for new yard here, this lightly-raced 8-y-o will take plenty of stopping. He will likely be followed home by the Gavin Cromwell-trained trio, with Addragoole preferred to His Nibs and Bridie's Beau for forecast purposes.
It's hard to oppose SPORTING GLORY, a fine fourth in a Grade 2 Fairyhouse novice on his last start for Pat Fahy, debuting for Elliott
(5) Make You Smile 5/1, 11/2, won 7-runner C&D (soft) on debut 35 days ago, pushed out. Won't be fazed by these conditions and rates a likely improver for a yard having a good year with 2-y-os. Clearcut success in C&D novice event on heavy ground five weeks ago; useful prospect.
9
2nd (9) (9/4 +10%) Yaroogh
2.25
9/4(+10%)
(9) Yaroogh 9/4, Fourth win of his career when easily seeing off 5 rivals in a 7f Chantilly listed event on heavy ground 14 days ago. Looks the chief threat to Benevento. Comfortable win in Chantilly Listed event took his record to 4-6; big player on ratings.
8
3rd (8) (16/1 -100%) Star Anthem
16
16/1(-100%)
(8) Star Anthem 16/1, Bath maiden winner in the spring. Useful form at Group 2 level since, latterly 2½ lengths fourth of 6 to Powerful Glory in Mill Reef here (6f, soft) 5 weeks ago. 7f is worth a go. Useful colt who brings Group 2 form having performed well in the Coventry and Mill Reef.
2
4th (2) (11/4 +8%) Benevento
2.75
11/4(+8%)
(2) Benevento 11/4, Progressing well, finishing second in a Ripon listed race before relishing the step up to 7f to score in similar company at Doncaster last month. Very testing ground an unknown but he has the best form and is the one to beat with further progress likely. Listed win at Doncaster took his form figures to 121; improving and has leading claims.
1
6th (1) (16/1 +20%) Afentiko
16
16/1(+20%)
(1) Afentiko 16/1, Winner of 2 of his 5 starts, including on nursery bow at Kempton last month. Good ½-length second of 7 in listed race at Bordeaux (1m, soft) at the start of the month. Ran well in French Listed event last time, taking form figures to 21212; progressive.
4
7th (4) (16/1 +52%) God Of War
16
16/1(+52%)
(4) God Of War 16/1, Doncaster novice winner in July but came up short when stepped up to listed company there 2 months later, finishing 4¼ lengths fifth of 7 to the reopposing Benevento. Just over 4l behind Benevento at Doncaster last time; needs to raise his game.
3
8th (3) (17/2 -21%) Bob Mali
8.5
17/2(-21%)
(3) Bob Mali 17/2, Made it 3-3 over 6f when seeing off 5 rivals in a Salisbury conditions race 23 days ago. Second win came on heavy. Likely to stay 7f and capable of even better. Acts well on heavy ground and remains unbeaten (3-3); limitations not yet exposed.
15:10 Newbury Group 3 (Class 1) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
BENEVENTO, who holds an Irish 2,000 Guineas entry, responded gamely for David Egan when running on well to snatch victory in the Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster. With the third home subsequently landing a Group 3 at Newmarket, that form has the most solid appearance. Yaroogh impressed when winning a Listed affair at Chantilly a fortnight ago and the consistent son of Dubawi is another must for the shortlist. The unbeaten Bob Mali and Make You Smile both step up in class, but are noteworthy contenders.
If BENEVENTO copes with the ground he'll be a tough nut to crack. The conditions won't faze recent French listed winner Yaroogh and he's second choice ahead of the unbeaten Bob Mali.
This looks the ideal next step for promising MAKE YOU SMILE, who is first choice ahead of Yaroogh and Bob Mali.
(10) Laafi 33/1, Back from a break with a creditable fourth to Mustazeed at Newbury (1¼m, soft) last month but needs to shrug off a disappointing run at Nottingham since. Blinkered first time. Underwhelming in light campaign this season but on a dangerous mark and blinkers may help.
1
2nd (1) (66/1 -164%) Iron Lion
66
66/1(-164%)
(1) Iron Lion 66/1, C&D novice winner on heavy in 2023. Has progressed into a useful handicapper this year, winning 3 times, the latest at Ripon (1½m, good) in July. His last 2 efforts haven't been the best, though. Three handicap wins this year but has gone off the boil the last twice; has to bounce back.
6
3rd (6) (14/1 -56%) Stressfree
14
14/1(-56%)
(6) Stressfree 14/1, Several good efforts in defeat prior to resuming winning ways at Chester (1¼m, soft) in September. Good runner-up efforts at Leicester and York (couple of these behind) since. Looks sure to give another good account if a wide stall doesn't prove too big an inconvenience. In fine form this autumn and has run well over C&D on both visits here; one to consider.
5
4th (5) (16/1 -33%) Alpha Crucis
16
16/1(-33%)
(5) Alpha Crucis 16/1, Building up a very good record at Goodwood, winning over 9f and 1m there on heavy ground in recent weeks. Another 4 lb higher now and needs to show he's as effective at other venues. Has won at Goodwood the last twice and he ran well in the Lincoln here in March; respected.
4
5th (4) (22/1 -22%) Mr Alan
22
22/1(-22%)
(4) Mr Alan 22/1, Useful sort who goes well in the mud but he was only a respectable fourth when bidding to land a hat-trick of wins in the same 1¼m handicap at Nottingham 10 days ago. Others boast stronger claims in this very competitive event. Runs off last winning mark and tends to come good in the autumn; not discounted.
16
6th (16) (13/2 +46%) City Of Delight
6.5
13/2(+46%)
(16) City Of Delight 13/2, Progressed at a rate of knots in handicaps on turf in the summer, extending his winning sequence to 4 when landing 10-runner Goodwood handicap (1¼m, soft) at the end of August. Only raised another 2 lb for that and should make a bold bid for 5 in a row. Completed 4-timer at Goodwood latest; higher grade here but could still have more to offer.
13
7th (13) (28/1 +0%) Lyric
28
28/1(+0%)
(13) Lyric 28/1, Won 8-runner maiden at Windsor (1¼m, good to soft) in April but has struggled in a Goodwood listed race and 1½m course handicap in just 2 outings since. Still early days but others arrive with more pressing claims. Soundly beaten here on handicap debut but may have needed the run; remains lightly raced.
17
8th (17) (28/1 -40%) Afloat
28
28/1(-40%)
(17) Afloat 28/1, In fine form at Yarmouth this autumn, including an 11.5f win this month. Creditable second of 7 there since but jumps from a Class 5 to a Class 2 here. In good form at Yarmouth lately; different course & tougher race today, but not discounted.
8
9th (8) (5/2 +58%) The Reverend
2.5
5/2(+58%)
(8) The Reverend 5/2, Progressive son of Lope de Vega who was an impressive winner on his 1½m Ascot handicap debut in September. Seemingly just stretched by 1¾m at York a couple of weeks ago and capable of resuming his progression back down significantly in trip with Ryan Moore taking the ride. Only 4th of 7 at York but lightly raced and this drop back in trip is well worth exploring.
3
10th (3) (16/1 -14%) Terwada
16
16/1(-14%)
(3) Terwada 16/1, Cracking first attempt at 1¼m when going down only to a progressive 3-y-o (pair clear) at Yarmouth at the end of August. Raised 5 lb but he is unexposed at this trip. Clear with unexposed Godolphin winner at Yarmouth last time and he's not ruled out..
11
11th (11) (8/1 +20%) Primo Lara
8
8/1(+20%)
(11) Primo Lara 8/1, New Bay gelding who has taken off since handicapping, comfortably defying a 5 lb rise for Chelmsford when quickening clear at York (1¼m, good) in May. Not seen since but looked capable of even better and he showed promise on heavy ground at 2. Made it 2-2 in handicaps with ready win at York in May; a 9lb rise may not stop him.
12
12th (12) (16/1 +11%) Have Secret
16
16/1(+11%)
(12) Have Secret 16/1, Winless since juvenile days but hard to knock his consistency, finishing a respectable fifth of 13 to Bolster (Stressfree second) at York (1¼m, soft) a fortnight ago. Placed off higher marks a few times this season and is not ruled out each-way.
7
13th (7) (14/1 -65%) Mustazeed
14
14/1(-65%)
(7) Mustazeed 14/1, C&D winner who revels in the mud and was better than ever when landing a Newbury Class 2 (1¼m, soft) last month, seeing off recent York scorer Bolster. The outside stall may prove a bigger issue than a 6 lb rise. Won in good style at Newbury and 6lb rise isn't harsh; in-form Kaiya Fraser removes 3lb.
9
14th (9) (28/1 +0%) Euchen Glen
28
28/1(+0%)
(9) Euchen Glen 28/1, Admirable veteran who is still capable of very useful form, as he demonstrated when striking at Ayr (13f, good to firm) in June. Creditable fourth of 13 in handicap at York (1¼m, soft) 14 days ago but Stressfree was ahead in second. Probably vulnerable for win purposes again. 11yo but has run well several times this year and he might not be far away.
15
15th (15) (5/1 +50%) Promethean
5
5/1(+50%)
(15) Promethean 5/1, Useful maiden who has shaped well when in the frame in handicaps at Newmarket and over C&D on his last two starts, caught further back than ideal each time. One of 2 very interesting contenders from his stable. Creditable fourth over C&D last month when the race wasn't run to suit; player.
14
16th (14) (12/1 -20%) Shadow Of War
12
12/1(-20%)
(14) Shadow Of War 12/1, Promising individual who got off the mark at the third time of asking in a 1¼m Nottingham novice in August 2023. Looked the type to go on to better things but hasn't been seen since. The betting should help guide to expectations. Absent since winning in August 2023 but well bred and has potential off opening mark.
2
17th (2) (40/1 -82%) Killybegs Warrior
40
40/1(-82%)
(2) Killybegs Warrior 40/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2023 but he did shape well when third of 9 at Pontefract (1¼m, good to soft) 30 days ago, losing momentum at a crucial stage when hampered by a loose horse. Well handicapped. On 15-race losing run but has dropped down the weights and was third at Pontefract latest.
15:15 Doncaster Handicap (Class 2) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The progressive CITY OF DELIGHT had the reopposing Alpha Crucis (fourth) and Mustazeed (fifth) comfortably behind when scoring at Goodwood in August, and David Menusier's charge can continue his winning run with jockey William Buick a positive booking. Not beaten far in a valuable handicap at York last time out, Stressfree is a leading contender, along with The Reverend, who has strong claims on his penultimate success at Ascot.
A cracking handicap. There's a feeling at least one of the progressive 3-y-os in this line-up will take another step forward, with the suggestion being CITY OF DELIGHT with the form of his latest Goodwood win boosted. The selection's stablemate Promethean was an eyecatcher in a C&D handicap at the St Leger meeting and is next on the list ahead of The Reverend. Stressfree and Killybegs Warrior may prove best of the older brigade.
Having flashed home for fourth in a steadily run race over C&D last month, PROMETHEAN can build on that if getting a proper gallop.
(2) Old Gregorian 20/1, Made a successful debut over hurdles after 6 months off in a course and distance maiden a year ago, beating one who won his next 2 starts. Mixed fortunes since but could go well with rust shaken off at Perth last month with the tongue strap refitted today. Made winning hurdling debut at this meeting last year; poor efforts last two starts.
16
2nd (16) (5/2 +55%) Heart Above
2.5
5/2(+55%)
(16) Heart Above 5/2, Came good over hurdles when readily scoring in 12-runner handicap hurdle at Perth (16.2f, soft) 30 days ago. Raised 6 lb for that but still plenty of scope to improve with good conditional jockey booked. Last month's cosy Perth win was first success and career best; 6lb rise looks manageable.
10
3rd (10) (9/1 0%) Foster's Fortune
9
9/1(0%)
(10) Foster's Fortune 9/1, Improved greatly for the switch into handicaps when winning in May and then a reappearance second of 11 over the same course and distance at Sedgefield (16.8f, good, 13/2) 25 days ago. Likely to feature off only a 1lb higher mark. Has improved since tackling handicaps, winner and second at Sedgefield; top of the list.
15
4th (15) (40/1 -82%) Lahire
40
40/1(-82%)
(15) Lahire 40/1, Landed juvenile hurdle at Sedgefield (soft) last October but below that form since, with jumping issues at the core of his struggles. Might fair better now after a break. Made all at Sedgefield last October and wasn't beaten far last time; not without hope.
5
5th (5) (15/2 +17%) Dog Fox
7.5
15/2(+17%)
(5) Dog Fox 15/2, Strong traveller who was better than the result on latest start at Southwell 23 days ago, making a mistake at a crucial time. Form of that race is working out well and a major player if able to minimise the jumping errors. Tongue strap on for the first time today. Arrives in form following Bangor win and Southwell fourth; in the mix again.
13
6th (13) (15/2 +25%) Theirshegoes
7.5
15/2(+25%)
(13) Theirshegoes 15/2, Creditable third of 11 in handicap hurdle at this course (20.9f, good to soft) 20 days ago having proven consistent at this level last season. Claims back down in trip. Better than ever of late and looks a more reliable proposition than most of these.
14
7th (14) (18/1 +10%) Fairmac
18
18/1(+10%)
(14) Fairmac 18/1, Fairly useful on the Flat and made a quick switch to handicaps here 38 days ago off what looked a appealing mark. Needs to bounce back from being well beaten in that contest (eighth of 14, 9/1) now back down in trip. Six-time Flat winner; disappointing on handicap hurdle debut; another wind op since.
4
8th (4) (18/1 -100%) Bashful
18
18/1(-100%)
(4) Bashful 18/1, Progressive in hurdles last season, improving to double his tally in this sphere at Musselburgh (15.5f) in February. Operating below best on the Flat in recent months though a return to this discipline may well have a positive effect now. On a hat-trick in this sphere following February's two wins at Musselburgh; contender.
3
9th (3) (33/1 -83%) Moonlight Glory
33
33/1(-83%)
(3) Moonlight Glory 33/1, Failed to build on an encouraging Sedgefield fifth when filling the same place at Hexham 22 days ago. Yard is still a little quiet but lurks on a dangerous mark if able to find her best here. 7lb below last winning mark but not threatening to take advantage; needs a revival.
11
10th (11) (18/1 +10%) Evenwood Sonofagun
18
18/1(+10%)
(11) Evenwood Sonofagun 18/1, Long standing maiden now with fourth trainer having left Fergal O’Brien following respectable fifth of 15 in selling handicap hurdle (8/1) at Stratford (18.7f, good) 49 days ago. Likely to be competitive but tough ask to break his duck here today. 0-23 under rules; runner-up four times over hurdles; could be perked up by change of yard.
1
11th (1) (18/1 -80%) Ballyfort
18
18/1(-80%)
(1) Ballyfort 18/1, Shaped with plenty of promise in novice hurdles last season, including over course and distance in February. This big field handicap will suit his strong travelling style and is a likely player if ready to go after 7 month break. Too free to get home in novice hurdles; this big-field handicap could unlock improvement.
6
12th (6) (12/1 +14%) Jumping Jupiter
12
12/1(+14%)
(6) Jumping Jupiter 12/1, Opened his account at Hexham in May but a below form sixth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Bangor (19.6f, good) 50 days ago. Tongue strap on 1st time with more required. Hexham winner in May and possibly failed to stay longer trip next time; tongue-strap on.
8
13th (8) (25/1 -56%) Trailblazer
25
25/1(-56%)
(8) Trailblazer 25/1, Made a bright start to hurdling career, including a second over course and distance in January this year. Bounced back from a couple of disappointing runs over the summer when 4th of 11 at Sedgefield 25 days ago and give a fair account here. Back to his winning (Perth, July) mark but needs to rediscover his spark.
12
14th (12) (25/1 -127%) Jet Patrol
25
25/1(-127%)
(12) Jet Patrol 25/1, Placed twice from 5 starts in Irish points and has shown ability in a handful of runs over hurdles. Appealed as the type to do better over fences but fell at Hexham (15.6f, good to soft) on chase debut in June and needs to learn to settle to feature on return to hurdles here. Hard-puller; needs to settle to fulfil potential but Jonathan Burke looks a good booking.
7
|PU| (7) (11/1 +0%) Ninetofive
11
11/1(+0%)
(7) Ninetofive 11/1, Came third in a Hexham novice back in May 2023 (which has worked out well) despite finishing lame. Has been off since so plenty to prove but can feature if retaining ability. Lightly raced; lame after third in Hexham novice when last seen in May 2023; not ruled out.
15:20 Kelso Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
THEIRSHEGOES was an encouraging third over 2m5f at this venue earlier in the month and the drop back in trip could spark a return to winning ways. Heart Above has to be of interest following his Perth success a month ago, although a 6lb rise will make his life tougher. Others to note are Foster's Fortune, Jumping Jupiter and Dog Fox.
Plenty have claims in this wide-open handicap and a chance is taken on HEART ABOVE to follow up on his recent Perth win. Opposition isn’t in short supply and if Dog Fox can eliminate the mistakes he’ll go close, with Ballyfort likely to improve for the switch to a big field handicap.
The safest choice is FOSTER'S FORTUNE who is progressive and looks straightforward, with Theirshegoes the main danger.
(5) Givemefive 7/2, Fair Flat winner in Ireland who made it 2 from 2 over hurdles for current yard at Warwick in January, before progressing again when second in the Adonis at Kempton. Below form at Fairyhouse in April, but with a recent Flat run behind him he can get back on track. Won two juvenile hurdles before going close in Grade 2 Adonis in February; major player.
4
2nd (4) (5/1 -11%) Dodger Long
5
5/1(-11%)
(4) Dodger Long 5/1, Fair form in bumpers and made second hurdles start a winning one in March. Has taken his form up a notch since returning for new trainer in August, making it back-to-back wins when scoring in good style in handicap at Chepstow 2 weeks ago. Not dismissed lightly. Drew nicely clear in Chepstow handicap this month and now 3-6 over hurdles; in the mix.
1
3rd (1) (5/6 +17%) Bottler'secret
0.833333
5/6(+17%)
(1) Bottler'secret 5/6, Progressive on the Flat for Ciaran Murphy and created good impression on yard/hurdles debut when winning a Grade 3 juvenile at Naas in February. Followed up at Fairyhouse, before a good second in Champion Juvenile Hurdle at Punchestown in May. Leading contender. Creditable second in Punchestown Grade 1 on latest outing in May; good chance here.
7
4th (7) (12/1 +14%) Royal Way
12
12/1(+14%)
(7) Royal Way 12/1, Winner on Flat in France and took very well to hurdling for new connections last season, scoring twice at Ludlow before completing the hat-trick in an Ascot handicap in March. Showed a good attitude last time and could do better still if ready to go on return. Kept on resolutely to win valuable juvenile handicap at Ascot in March on latest outing.
3
5th (3) (25/1 +38%) Balboa
25
25/1(+38%)
(3) Balboa 25/1, Fair maiden on Flat who opened account in juvenile hurdle at Chepstow a year ago. Best effort in handicap hurdles when runner-up at Ayr in April and creditable second back at Chepstow 2 weeks ago, though no match for Dodger Long. Has work to do. Held by Dodger Long on recent Chepstow form but largely consistent; not ruled out each-way.
2
6th (2) (11/1 +56%) An Bradan Feasa
11
11/1(+56%)
(2) An Bradan Feasa 11/1, Won juvenile event at Ballinrobe on hurdling debut (final start for Joseph O'Brien) last season and also successful here on second outing for Jack Jones. Didn't manage to kick on subsequently though, including when eighth in the Fred Winter in March. Others preferred. Twice ran well here towards end of 2023 but was not at same level after turn of the year.
6
7th (6) (33/1 +34%) Latin Verse
33
33/1(+34%)
(6) Latin Verse 33/1, Won twice over hurdles last season, including an impressive handicap success at Ludlow in February. Pulled up in the Fred Winter next time, but bounced back when second at Musselburgh in April. Has something to find here though, even with his recent run behind him. Shaped quite well when sixth at Chepstow last month but is not favoured by today's weights.
8
8th (8) (20/1 -25%) Hasten Slowly
20
20/1(-25%)
(8) Hasten Slowly 20/1, Fair Flat winner who displayed similar form when winning a Tramore maiden hurdle in August. Lesser effort back on the level next time, but after 7 weeks off she made a successful handicap hurdle debut at Punchestown 10 days ago. Merits consideration in receipt of weight. Won against own sex on recent handicap debut; more needed here; still not ruled out.
15:30 Cheltenham Conditions Hurdle (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
This can go to BOTTLER'SECRET, who readily got the better of Givemefive (fourth) when triumphant in a Fairyhouse Grade 2 back in the spring. Gavin Cromwell's charge looked a juvenile of considerable ability on that occasion, before confirming that promise when runner-up behind classy filly Kargese in a Grade 1 at the Punchestown Festival. Provided he is fully tuned up for his return to action, he should be good enough to successfully concede weight all round. Dodger Long and Royal Way are a couple of others to consider.
BOTTLER'SECRET has quickly developed into a useful hurdler, losing little in defeat when runner-up in the Champion Juvenile at Punchestown, so he is taken to pick up where he left off and make a winning return. Givemefive also made a bright start to his hurdling career and could be the main danger with a Flat run behind him, ahead of Hasten Slowly.
Grade 1 runner-up BOTTLER'SECRET is untested on ground quicker than yielding to soft but he's the one to beat.
(8) Sportinthepark 9/2, Fairly useful chaser. Excellent second of 6 in novice chase at Listowel (22f, soft, 6/1) 30 days ago. Couldn't rule out. Good Listowel run; trip might be short enough for him but he is likely to run his race.
2
2nd (2) (18/1 +10%) Sea Music
18
18/1(+10%)
(2) Sea Music 18/1, Fairly useful chaser. Tongue strap on for 1st time, saddle slipped when pulled up in handicap chase (28/1) at Chepstow (23.6f, good to soft) 15 days ago. Down in trip. Has to bounce back from a poor effort at Chepstow over a trip short of his best.
9
3rd (9) (1/1 +56%) Will Do
1
1/1(+56%)
(9) Will Do 1/1, Promising type. Useful winner at 25f over hurdles. 13/8, 2¼ lengths third of 9 to The Other Mozzie in novice chase at this C&D (good to soft) on debut over fences 18 days ago, doing too much too soon. Big player. Lacked a gear when third to The Other Mozzie over C&D last time; this time may be similar.
7
4th (7) (12/1 -20%) One Last Tango
12
12/1(-20%)
(7) One Last Tango 12/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Should improve on what he showed on chase debut when 14½ lengths fifth of 9 to The Other Mozzie over this C&D 18 days ago. Did not run badly behind The Other Mozzie here on his chase debut; should do better here.
4
5th (4) (11/2 +54%) Canal End
5.5
11/2(+54%)
(4) Canal End 11/2, Fairly useful hurdler. Creditable ninth of 23 in handicap hurdle (10/1) at Punchestown (20.5f, soft) 175 days ago. Makes chase debut. Chasing debut here and would prefer further but interesting to see how he fares.
6
6th (6) (80/1 -220%) Metersandmasks
80
80/1(-220%)
(6) Metersandmasks 80/1, Fairly useful hurdler. First run since leaving Charles Byrnes when fourth of 5 in novice chase at Gowran (20f, good to firm, 25/1) on debut over fences 21 days ago. Should have more to offer in this sphere. More for handicaps down the line but should be worth keeping an eye on here.
5
|R| (5) (40/1 -300%) Little Mixup
40
40/1(-300%)
(5) Little Mixup 40/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Fairly useful winner at 16f over hurdles. Unseated rider in novice chase at Limerick (19.2f, good to soft, 4/6) 6 days ago. Most recently unseated at the first at Limerick when odds-on; this is a much stiffer task.
3
|U| (3) (13/2 -63%) The Other Mozzie
6.5
13/2(-63%)
(3) The Other Mozzie 13/2, Promising type. 1 win from 3 runs this season. Career best when winning 9-runner novice chase (11/1) at this C&D (good to soft) on debut over fences 18 days ago. Enters calculations. C&D winner ; stiffer task here but looks sure to come on for that and can run a big race.
1
|U| (1) (14/1 -133%) Battle It Out
14
14/1(-133%)
(1) Battle It Out 14/1, Useful chaser. Latest win in chase at Naas in February. 10/1, creditable third of 17 in handicap chase at Punchestown (20.2f, soft) 176 days ago, finishing with running left. Possibilities. Sets the standard here and looks suited by the race conditions; will appreciate rain.
15:38 Galway Maiden Chase 18f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
Plenty of rain has fallen in Galway and that is music to the ears of WILL DO. He was beaten just over two lengths into third on chasing debut on better ground over C&D, but the rain makes this more of a stamina test which will suit him. The Other Mozzie won that aforementioned beginners' chase and looks like he could be a better chaser than hurdler. He has to give Will Do 4lb, though, which makes life a bit trickier. Battle It Out has plenty of experience over fences and has kept good company. He is certainly one to consider on his return to action along with Listowel runner-up Sportinthepark.
WILL DO shaped well under an attacking ride when third to The Other Mozzie back from a five-month break on his chase debut over this C&D. He meets that rival on 4 lb better terms this time and is taken to reverse those placings. One Last Tango was fifth in the same race and, likely to be all the better for that experience, he also enters calculations.
The drop in trip is a negative for a few, and it might just pay to side with the very solid BATTLE IT OUT, who sets a good standard
(2) Max Vega 22/1, Took this in 2022 but he's been off for 6 months since trailing in ninth of 10 to Hamish in John Porter Stakes here. Not ruled out though with his yard going very well. Won this race in 2022 on heavy going; has a mixed record since and off since April.
6
2nd (6) (3/1 +0%) Danielle
3
3/1(+0%)
(6) Danielle 3/1, Useful 10f winner but she's been off since coming in only ninth of 13 in listed race at Newmarket (12f, good to firm) 98 days ago. No forlorn hope with ground conditions to suit. Off since disappointing in Listed race in July; acts on soft; needs to resume improvement.
1
3rd (1) (5/6 +24%) Al Aasy
0.833333
5/6(+24%)
(1) Al Aasy 5/6, Highly-talented veteran who landed Group 3 at Goodwood and Geoffrey Freer over 13f here this summer. Posted another good effort when second to Al Qareem in Cumberland Lodge at Ascot 21 days ago. This course specialist holds excellent form claims. Six Group 3 wins; ran creditably on soft three weeks ago; huge shout if effective on heavy.
4
4th (4) (8/1 +20%) Feigning Madness
8
8/1(+20%)
(4) Feigning Madness 8/1, Looked a good prospect when scoring here and at Newmarket last autumn but he beat only one in listed race at Epsom (10.1f, good to firm) on his sole start of 2024 6 months ago. Remains with potential though with ground conditions to suit. Won in the mud as 2yo; pitched in at high level on today's belated second run this season.
3
5th (3) (11/1 -69%) Salt Bay
11
11/1(-69%)
(3) Salt Bay 11/1, Has just a debut win to his name but recorded good placed efforts in the John Porter over C&D and York listed summer. Not in same form in Group 3 events at York and Ascot since and needs to bounce back in first-time blinkers. Ran well on two starts this term, moderately in the other three; blinkers go on.
5
6th (5) (12/1 +14%) God's Window
12
12/1(+14%)
(5) God's Window 12/1, Smart colt who comes here on the back of a respectable fourth of 7 to Al Qareem in Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot 21 days ago. One for the shortlist. Al Aasy went past him without difficulty at Ascot (soft) three weeks ago on the same terms.
15:45 Newbury Group 3 (Class 1) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
AL AASY is already a dual Group 3 winner this season and, as he proved when scoring readily in the Geoffrey Freer in August, his liking for this course is a highly valuable asset. Rain-soaked ground could be a stumbling block, however, and support in the betting for Salt Bay, whose yard won the last running of this with Max Vega, would need taking seriously. The 2022 winner and the third Ralph Beckett representative Feigning Madness are also dangerous to rule out, while God's Window could be the pick of the Gosdens' two entrants.
Multiple course winner AL AASY is proven under these conditions and possesses the best form on offer so is fancied to add to his Geoffrey Freer success here in the summer and garner a third victory of 2024. Max Vega took this prize in 2022 and could emerge as the main danger with his stable among the winners. The Gosdens' pair God's Window and Danielle also need considering.
If AL AASY is in the same form he showed on soft ground at Ascot three weeks ago, he looks easily the most likely winner.
(6) Pellitory 7/2, Bagged a first success in novice at Yarmouth (7f) in August and has recorded very good efforts to be placed at Doncaster and York since. Can go well again. Yarmouth novice winner who has run really well the next twice and could be in the shake-up.
7
2nd (7) (20/1 -82%) We Dare To Dream
20
20/1(-82%)
(7) We Dare To Dream 20/1, Related to a smart sprinter and built on previous promise when opening his account in 7f maiden at Haydock in September. More to come now switched to nurseries and looks appealing. Made all at Haydock last month on third start and every chance he'll continue to progress.
11
3rd (11) (40/1 -100%) Law Degree
40
40/1(-100%)
(11) Law Degree 40/1, Reliable sort who bagged nurseries at Beverley in July and Ripon (8f) in September. Recorded a solid third of 11 in 1m Nottingham nursery latest so is in the mix. 2-8 in nurseries but up in grade today against some unexposed sorts; may prove vulnerable.
10
4th (10) (20/1 +39%) Barry's Boy
20
20/1(+39%)
(10) Barry's Boy 20/1, Advanced his form on his nursery bow when third of 9 to Our Mighty Mo at Haydock (7.2f, heavy) 28 days ago. Not ruled out off an unchanged mark. Encouraging 3rd at Haydock on nursery debut; needs another step forward in this warm race.
4
5th (4) (12/1 -9%) Bowen Island
12
12/1(-9%)
(4) Bowen Island 12/1, Fair maiden who made the frame for the fourth consecutive start when third of 9 to Eve's Boy in novice at Ayr (7.2f, good to firm) 37 days ago. Considered on his nursery debut. Has run well in defeat on all four starts and he's not discounted on his nursery debut.
2
6th (2) (15/2 -7%) Eve's Boy
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(2) Eve's Boy 15/2, Got off the mark in 9-runner novice at Ayr (7.2f, good to firm) 37 days ago, proving suited by the increase in trip. Much respected on his handicap debut. Beat some talented yardsticks to win at Ayr and could go well on nursery debut.
5
7th (5) (10/1 -25%) Our Mighty Mo
10
10/1(-25%)
(5) Our Mighty Mo 10/1, Got off the mark at Hamilton and quickly resumed winning ways in heavy-ground nursery at Haydock later in September. Posted a good third of 10 at York (7.9f, soft) 14 days ago so must enter calculations. Won Haydock nursery over 7f last month and didn't quite see out 1m at York last time.
9
8th (9) (40/1 +0%) Is I Right
40
40/1(+0%)
(9) Is I Right 40/1, Big prices all 3 starts but showed much more on his latest start when third in 1m Haydock maiden four weeks ago. May build on that so possibilities on his nursery bow. Improved 3rd at Haydock (1m, soft) latest but this is no easy starting point in nurseries.
8
9th (8) (10/1 +0%) Titian Blue
10
10/1(+0%)
(8) Titian Blue 10/1, Fair form shown on all her three runs, a good second of 8 in maiden at Newcastle (7.1f) 32 days ago. Much respected on her nursery debut. Runner-up on 2 of her 3 starts; 170,000gns half-sister to five winners; possible improver.
3
10th (3) (6/5 +36%) Wild Nature
1.2
6/5(+36%)
(3) Wild Nature 6/5, Kingman gelding who has shown fair form to be placed on all his three runs, a good second of 7 in maiden at Newmarket (8f, good to soft) 21 days ago. Looks to start handicaps on a good mark so he's expected to be bang there. Placed on all 3 starts and this well-bred nursery newcomer is open to further improvement.
15:50 Doncaster Handicap (Class 3) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
A taking winner over this distance on his penultimate start at Haydock, OUR MIGHTY MO seemed to be stretched by a mile despite running well at York most recently. Back over his optimum trip, Karl Burke's charge is preferred to comfortable Ayr winner Eve's Boy, and Wild Nature, who has yet to live up to his fine pedigree but could be suited by switching to nurseries. We Dare To Dream is a key player too.
Charlie Appleby's WILD NATURE looks to start life in nurseries on an attractive mark so he edges the vote in this highly competitive handicap. Fellow handicap debutant We Dare To Dream looks to have better days ahead of him so is next on the list, with Mirabeau and Pellitory also firmly in the picture. Barry's Boy and Law Degree complete the shortlist.
Godolphin representative WILD NATURE has shown considerable promise in defeat on all three starts and is taken to get off the mark.
(1) Elvis Mail 10/1, Useful handicapper who won this contest (off 3 lb lower) 12 months ago and notched a second chase win of the season when leading close home in a 3m Carlisle veterans' event in April. Warrants respect in repeat bid although slower ground would be preferable. Last year's winner not on a bad mark but would prefer easier ground ideally.
4
2nd (4) (6/1 +0%) Famous Bridge
6
6/1(+0%)
(4) Famous Bridge 6/1, Dual staying chase winner last term who ended campaign with respectable fourth of 21 in Ultima Handicap at Cheltenham (25f, heavy) in March. Dropped 2 lb since and could be a player if tuned up for return. Classy chaser but in the mud so ground and fitness could be issues on comeback.
6
3rd (6) (14/1 -17%) Peaches And Cream
14
14/1(-17%)
(6) Peaches And Cream 14/1, Yard's raiders to UK always worthy of respect but failed to come for his return when pulled up over hurdles at Listowel last month and his last victory came in April 2022. Out of form but he's a strong stayer and one in this field who doesn't mind good ground.
2
4th (2) (5/2 +0%) Apple Away
2.5
5/2(+0%)
(2) Apple Away 5/2, Four-time winning hurdler who matched best form in this sphere when taking 5-runner listed chase at Perth (23.8f, soft, 9/4) in April. Looks fairly treated on handicap debut and must enter calculations. Classy mare but this might just be a stepping stone to Newbury next month.
5
5th (5) (2/1 +60%) Young Buster
2
2/1(+60%)
(5) Young Buster 2/1, Much improved sent chasing last term, completing hat-trick in a handicap at this course (22.3f) over Christmas. Back to that sort of form when creditable second at Aintree (25f, good to soft, 6/1) in May and returns on a workable mark. Had a good first season over fences (3-6) and is a major player here.
7
|PU| (7) (12/1 -9%) Watergrange Jack
12
12/1(-9%)
(7) Watergrange Jack 12/1, Racked up a handicap hurdle hat-trick at the end of last summer and jumped better than usual when off the mark over fences at Worcester (20f) last month. However, got no further than the first at Perth last time and is yet to fully convince over this sort of trip. Worcester winner before unseating early next time; should have a fitness edge.
3
|PU| (3) (13/2 -63%) La Renommee
6.5
13/2(-63%)
(3) La Renommee 13/2, Built on return effort over hurdles when readily taking 6-runner handicap chase at Ludlow (23.8f, good) 17 days ago, travelling strongly. Raised 10 lb since but not taken lightly. Whacked up 10lb for winning at Ludlow but this mare is on top of her game.
15:55 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 2) 26f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
A 10lb rise for La Renommee's impressive success at Ludlow recently has to be a slight concern. As a result, preference is for APPLE AWAY, who ended last season with a Listed success at Perth in April and a mark of 142 should be workable for this former Grade 1-winning hurdler. Young Buster hit the crossbar on his most recent outing at Aintree in May and is another to consider on his return.
Preference is for YOUNG BUSTER, who is lightly raced for his age and has yet to taste defeat at this course. Apple Away and La Renommee rate the principal dangers in what looks a cracking contest.
The big names may either need this or want softer ground. The one who should give his running is dual course winner YOUNG BUSTER (nap).
(1) Hyland 9/2, Useful hurdler who made a winning start over fences in handicap at Southwell (20.4f, good) in June. Weakened out of contention in the closing stages at Uttoxeter since but it's early days for him in this sphere and he has a clear chance on these terms. Four-time hurdle winner; very good start to chasing career when eased-down winner in June.
6
2nd (6) (17/2 +15%) Transmission
8.5
17/2(+15%)
(6) Transmission 17/2, Irish import who did well in staying handicap hurdles after joining this yard last season, winning twice and placed twice from half-a-dozen appearances. Well beaten sole previous start over fences (when in the care of Colm Murphy) but he's surely capable of better in this sphere. Well beaten on last summer's chase debut but has done well over hurdles for new yard since.
4
3rd (4) (11/2 +31%) Moon D'orange
5.5
11/2(+31%)
(4) Moon D'orange 11/2, Winner of a novice hurdle during a short stint for Fergal O'Brien during the spring and shaped well on recent chase debut having rejoined former yard when third of 12 in a Punchestown maiden (16.6f, good). This trip will be more his bag and improvement could be on the way. Just a respectable third over 2m on recent chase debut but 3m suits him better.
5
4th (5) (15/8 +17%) Theatre Man
1.875
15/8(+17%)
(5) Theatre Man 15/8, Useful hurdler who took well to fences last term, placed in handicaps at Newbury and this course prior to falling early on when favourite for the Plate at the Festival. Probably best to draw a line through subsequent hurdles effort and bold show likely on return in first-time cheekpieces. 0-4 over fences last season but has strong claims if judged on 2m4f second here in January.
3
5th (3) (8/1 -33%) Bowtogreatness
8
8/1(-33%)
(3) Bowtogreatness 8/1, Successful on 2 of his 4 starts over hurdles and has twice performed with great credit in valuable handicaps in this sphere, including when third in the Coral Trophy at Kempton (3m, soft). Below that level both starts since, though, and record over fences now stands at 0-11. Placed in major handicap in February but is 0-11 over the fences over the last two seasons.
2
|F| (2) (7/2 -17%) Yeats Star
3.5
7/2(-17%)
(2) Yeats Star 7/2, Save for a poor effort in the Martin Pipe at the Festival, he didn't do anything wrong over hurdles last season. Perfect start to chase career when landing a 6-runner Listowel maiden (2¾m, soft) last month and his yard has saddled 2 of the last 4 winners of this race. Useful handicap hurdler who won Listowel beginners' chase last month; respected.
16:05 Cheltenham Maiden Chase (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Useful over hurdles, Hyland made a successful start over fences at Southwell in June and really should be capable of better than he showed when he was last-but-one in a five-runner handicap at Uttoxeter subsequently. He's undoubtedly a player, but the concession of 5lb to fellow unexposed chaser THEATRE MAN could be crucial. Richard Bandey's eight-year-old shades preference with first-time cheekpieces added for this drop back down in class. Irish raider Yeats Star appeals as the pick of the remainder.
Cases can be made for each member of the sextet but THEATRE MAN is the one with the most persuasive claims. Indeed, he was a solid second to Ginny's Destiny (twice placed in Grade 1 company since) in the Timeform Novices' Handicap Chase in January, which is the best chase form on offer here. Yeats Star made a smooth transition to the larger obstacles at Listowel and he is feared most ahead of fellow Irish raider Moon d'Orange and Hyland.
He signed off on a low note in the spring but THEATRE MAN began his chasing career with three very promising runs last autumn/winter.
(6) Four Clean Aces 3/1, Latest win in hurdle at Kilbeggan in August. Very good fourth of 15 in handicap hurdle (22/1) at Listowel (16f, soft) 29 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Trainer going well so she ought to be in the shake-up. Promising handicap debut at Listowel over inadequate trip; more to offer at this trip.
2
2nd (2) (18/1 -29%) Zeeband
18
18/1(-29%)
(2) Zeeband 18/1, 2 wins from 4 runs this season. Last of 30 in handicap at the Curragh (16.8f, good to soft, 125/1) 27 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Has work to do. Stiff tasks on the Flat of late and respected back hurdling for local yard.
5
3rd (5) (13/2 +13%) Iceberg Theory
6.5
13/2(+13%)
(5) Iceberg Theory 13/2, Creditable sixth of 17 in minor event hurdle (22/1) at Punchestown (19.3f, good to soft) 178 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Much respected on his handicap hurdle debut. Handicap debutant with scope for improvement at this longer trip.
4
4th (4) (2/1 +11%) Hgranca De Thaix
2
2/1(+11%)
(4) Hgranca De Thaix 2/1, Smart winner at 20f in chases. Career best when landing 17-runner handicap chase at Punchestown (20.2f, soft, 16/1) 176 days ago, well on top finish. Big player switched to hurdles off a handy-looking mark. Progressive chaser in the Spring; very interesting back hurdling off 20lb lower mark.
1
5th (1) (33/1 -230%) Shoot First
33
33/1(-230%)
(1) Shoot First 33/1, 9/4, career best when winning 15-runner handicap hurdle at Cheltenham (24f, good to soft), kept up to work. Off over 2 years so has his fitness to prove. Last seen winning over 3m at Cheltenham two years ago; market best guide on return.
9
6th (9) (14/1 -40%) Krabat
14
14/1(-40%)
(9) Krabat 14/1, One win from 25 NH runs. Good second of 6 in handicap chase at Gowran (16f, heavy, 3/1). Off 11 months. Switches from chase to hurdles. Significantly back up in trip. Merits consideration if fully tuned up. Well held in this race last year; long absent but has run well fresh; wants it soft.
10
7th (10) (16/1 0%) Enjoy D'allen
16
16/1(0%)
(10) Enjoy D'allen 16/1, Twenty runs since last win in 2021. 33/1, very good sixth of 16 in handicap chase at Roscommon (25.2f, good) 138 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Not ruled out. Much better chaser; absent since June and may need this.
11
8th (11) (22/1 -10%) Early Arrival
22
22/1(-10%)
(11) Early Arrival 22/1, Latest win in hurdle at Sligo in August. Creditable third of 7 in handicap hurdle at Kilbeggan (24.4f, soft, 9/2) 52 days ago. Ought to be thereabouts. Drop back in trip here could suit and no forlorn hope despite being 2lb wrong.
8
9th (8) (6/1 +0%) Coole Cherry
6
6/1(+0%)
(8) Coole Cherry 6/1, 5/1, good second of 13 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (24f, soft) 31 days ago, going with enthusiasm. Yard in good form. Can go well again. Listowel second puts her in the mix, especially if ground eases.
7
10th (7) (11/1 +21%) Desert Cave
11
11/1(+21%)
(7) Desert Cave 11/1, Winner in hurdle at Kilbeggan in June. 15/2, good third of 6 in handicap hurdle at Kilbeggan (19f, soft) 52 days ago. Needs considering. Progressive 6yo sure to appreciate return to staying trip; contender.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
FOUR CLEAN ACES was noted keeping on for fourth over a much shorter trip in a valuable handicap hurdle at Listowel last month. She remains on a mark of 119 and should be a major player here. The market is likely to revolve around Hgranca De Thaix who won a pair of handicap chases at Limerick in March and Punchestown in May. That latest effort was particularly notable and he reverts to hurdling off a much lower mark. Shoot First has been off since winning a Cheltenham handicap hurdle more than two years ago. It will be a tough task to give weight away, but he is worth a market check.
Plenty are in with a shout but HGRANCA DE THAIX looks to have got in lightly back hurdling here after an impressive chasing victory at Punchestown so earns the vote. The Willie Mullins-trained duo Four Clearn Aces (second choice) and Coole Cherry can both have a say and head the list of dangers, with Iceberg Theory, Desert Cave and Early Arrival also in the picture.
Absent since an impressive chase win at the Punchestown festival, HGRANCA DE THAIX gets the vote, ahead of Iceberg Theory
(6) That's Amore 13/8, Foaled February 7. €100,000 foal, 180,000 gns yearling, New Bay filly. Sister to smart winner up to 1¼m Persica. Dam 2-y-o 1m winner in New Zealand. Trainer’s newcomers command plenty of respect. 180,000gns yearling; sister to 6f 2yo-1m2f winner Persica (including Listed; RPR 115).
2
2nd (2) (10/3 +44%) Celestial Pearl
3.333333
10/3(+44%)
(2) Celestial Pearl 10/3, €260,000 yearling, Kodiac filly. Dam, 1½m winner, half-sister to useful 9f-10.5f winner Skia. Went with little encouragement on recent Newmarket debut (7f) but yard's 2-y-os can often improve considerably from their debut efforts. 260,000euros yearling; should be a lot more competitive with Newmarket run under her belt.
4
3rd (4) (11/1 +8%) Honour Whim
11
11/1(+8%)
(4) Honour Whim 11/1, Foaled February 7. 15,000 gns foal, Mohaather filly. Half-sister to useful 1m winner Ebt's Guard. Dam of little account, half-sister to smart winner up to 1¼m Law Power. 15,000gns foal; second foal; Mohaather half-sister to 1m winner Ebt's Guard (RPR 95).
1
4th (1) (15/2 +25%) Brightandbeautiful
7.5
15/2(+25%)
(1) Brightandbeautiful 15/2, Sea The Moon filly who looked backward when beating only home in 10-runner maiden at Newmarket on debut 4 weeks ago. Hood retained. Ninth of ten at Newmarket (7f, soft) but she shaped better than that suggests.
3
5th (3) (11/2 -65%) Hatysa
5.5
11/2(-65%)
(3) Hatysa 11/2, Foaled February 24. Sea The Stars filly. Dam lightly-raced half-sister to Derby/Irish Derby winner Harzand (by Sea The Stars) out of useful 7f-9.5f winner Hazariya. One to note on debut. Dam unplaced half-sister to Derby winner Harzand, who's by this one's sire Sea The Stars.
5
6th (5) (14/1 -40%) Magdalayna
14
14/1(-40%)
(5) Magdalayna 14/1, Foaled April 30. New Approach filly. Half-sister to 3 winners, including 11f/1½m winner Ya Hafhd and winner up to 1½m Motadarrek. Late foal; stable runners are generally much more interesting later in career.
LTO Selection:hiden content, hiden content,
16:19 Newbury Stakes (Class 4) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
That's Amore, who fetched 180,000gns as a yearling and is a sister the to classy Persica, looks a likely type on paper and must feature prominently in calculations ahead of her racecourse bow. It is fellow debutant HATYSA who shades preference, however. By Sea The Stars out of a half-sister to Harzand, the 280,000gns purchase could be a smart middle-distance performer in the future but this mile looks a good starting point. Stablemate Brightandbeautiful didn't show much on debut, but she ought to progress with that run under her belt.
THAT'S AMORE ticks plenty of boxes on paper for a yard that can do no wrong with its 2-y-os, so she's fancied to make a successful start to her career. Hatysa is another interesting debutante and warrants close market inspection, while it would be no surprise to see Celestial Pearl step up on her debut effort.
Brightandbeautiful and Celestial Pearl did not do enough to scare off the newcomers, so THAT'S AMORE is the pick.
(12) Pearle D'or 14/1, Dual winner last season who has been cut plenty of slack by the handicapper and posted creditable fourth at Leicester (7f) 11 days ago. Entitled to build on that (first start for 4 months off) and enters calculations. Engaged 2.51 Newbury Friday. Strong traveller; creditable minor honours on heavy at Leicester and yesterday at Newbury.
19
1st (19) (15/2 +25%) Myal
7.5
15/2(+25%)
(19) Myal 15/2, Looks highly progressive now and completed hat-trick when landing 8-runner handicap at Haydock (7.2f, heavy) 29 days ago by length from Lord Bertie. 4 lb rise fair and is not taken lightly. Completed hat-trick when seeing off Lord Bertie at Haydock last month; likely more to come.
11
2nd (11) (3/1 +54%) Thunder Roar
3
3/1(+54%)
(11) Thunder Roar 3/1, Ended last season with victory over C&D and only narrowly failed to get off the mark for this term in 16-runner handicap (13/2) at York (7.9f, soft) 15 days ago. 3 lb higher now but another bold bid is anticipated. C&D winner; also second in Spring Mile here in March; went close at York latest; player.
2
3rd (2) (9/2 +25%) Akkadian Thunder
4.5
9/2(+25%)
(2) Akkadian Thunder 9/2, Won for second time this year when scoring over C&D in July and shaped better than bare result when eighth of 18 in handicap at Ascot (7f, good, 5/1) 21 days ago, finishing with running left. Shortlisted. Had good first year with yard, including C&D win; run well at Ascot last twice; contender.
7
4th (7) (25/1 -56%) Crown Estate
25
25/1(-56%)
(7) Crown Estate 25/1, Won 2 of his 6 starts this year but shaped as if amiss at York in August and may be best watched for time being. Both wins from front in small fields; well held at York Ebor meeting latest.
17
5th (17) (18/1 +10%) Quest For Fun
18
18/1(+10%)
(17) Quest For Fun 18/1, Twice performed with credit in 7f handicaps at York during the summer, and again when finding just one too good at Chester last month. Below par since, though, and he's probably worth taking on. On a winning mark, goes in the mud and yard in form so there are reasons to be hopeful.
4
6th (4) (8/1 +27%) Baradar
8
8/1(+27%)
(4) Baradar 8/1, Yet to score this year and needs to bounce back from a below-par sixth at Ascot (6f, good to soft) 22 days ago. Others more appealing. Has yet to fire this year but dangerously well treated back at track which suits him.
15
7th (15) (10/1 +38%) Look Back Smiling
10
10/1(+38%)
(15) Look Back Smiling 10/1, Won over C&D in March but been rather in and out since and was disappointing at York 15 days ago. Good Doncaster record (beat Thunder Roar to win Spring Mile) affords him respect.
10
8th (10) (9/1 +25%) Zabriskie Point
9
9/1(+25%)
(10) Zabriskie Point 9/1, Useful dual winner at 2 who has shaped well in all 3 starts this term, latest when sixth of 11 in handicap (8/1) at Newbury (7f, good to firm) 70 days ago. Warrants respect. Has shown promise in Class 2 handicaps during light campaign; acts on soft; could go well.
6
9th (6) (28/1 -12%) Sterling Knight
28
28/1(-12%)
(6) Sterling Knight 28/1, Winner of handicaps at Newbury (7f) and Newmarket (8f) this summer and has largely acquitted himself well in defeat since. Others look better treated, though. Latest win at Newmarket in July but running only respectably in defeat since.
1
10th (1) (22/1 +12%) Glenfinnan
22
22/1(+12%)
(1) Glenfinnan 22/1, Bagged a second success of season at Sandown (7f) in August but is struggling for consistency this year and ran poorly at Ayr last time. Others preferred. Well held in Ayr Gold Cup latest but won over 7f at Sandown under Oisin Murphy before that.
8
11th (8) (50/1 -52%) Persuasion
50
50/1(-52%)
(8) Persuasion 50/1, Ended long losing run at Haydock (7f) last month but wasn't in same form at Southwell latest and others hold more appeal. Well held on AW last week but in good form on turf before that; Bowen takes 3lb off.
9
12th (9) (16/1 +20%) Rhythm Master
16
16/1(+20%)
(9) Rhythm Master 16/1, Been given a chance by assessor and arrives on back of respectable fifth of 16 in handicap at York (7.9f, soft) 15 days ago. Merits consideration. Easing down the weights while running respectably; type to pop up at some point.
3
13th (3) (18/1 -29%) Lord Bertie
18
18/1(-29%)
(3) Lord Bertie 18/1, Useful performer who returned to form, after 7 months off, to land a minor event at Ascot last month. Backed that up when creditable length second of 8 to Myal in handicap at Haydock (7.2f, heavy) since and should go well again. In good form with Ascot win and Haydock (both 7f) in the mud last month.
18
14th (18) (18/1 +18%) Roberto Caro
18
18/1(+18%)
(18) Roberto Caro 18/1, Won 3 of his 7 starts this year but was well held in Silver Cup at Ayr last month and may also find this too competitive, Pair of 6f wins on softer than good this summer; well held at Ayr latest, though; stays 7f.
13
15th (13) (28/1 +15%) Wobwobwob
28
28/1(+15%)
(13) Wobwobwob 28/1, Sole success this term came at Thirsk (6f) in May but has been below his best more recently and makes limited appeal. Well handicapped again but not obviously ready to strike.
5
16th (5) (33/1 -32%) Darkness
33
33/1(-32%)
(5) Darkness 33/1, Scored at Newmarket (7f) in June and bounced back to his best when doubling his tally for the year in a 9-runner handicap at Sandown (7f, soft) last month. Not in same form latest but can't be ruled out. Back to winning ways on soft last month and not seen to best effect at Newmarket since.
14
17th (14) (14/1 +65%) Navagio
14
14/1(+65%)
(14) Navagio 14/1, Useful 1m/9,5f winner in Ireland who got back on track for his current yard when third in 1m Haydock handicap last month but couldn't back it up at York last time. Hard to fancy on recent efforts but was third in Lincoln here in spring and Buick booked.
16:25 Doncaster Handicap (Class 3) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
Denied by the narrowest of margins over 1m at York last time out, THUNDER ROAR showed more than enough pace on that occasion to suggest that dropping back to 7f should suit. The five-year-old's last victory came over C&D last October, and he can repeat the feat at the main expense of Akkadian Thunder, who was extremely unlucky when not getting the clearest of runs in the Challenge Cup at Ascot. Baradar is another to consider.
C&D winner THUNDER ROAR arrives in top form and revels on slower ground. He makes plenty of appeal. Akkadian Thunder, Myal and Lord Bertie make up the shortlist.
A good Doncaster record gives THUNDER ROAR the nod over Akkadian Thunder, who like the selection is a C&D winner.
(1) Pay The Piper 15/8, Useful winning chaser lacked nothing in fitness as he ended a losing run following 4 months off in 6-runner handicap chase over C&D last month. Ran at least as well in defeat when runner-up at Wetherby (15.2f, good to soft) 10 days ago and no surprise should he regain the winning thread. Won over C&D last month and clear 2nd to unexposed winner at Wetherby since; solid claims.
6
2nd (6) (10/1 +44%) Gold Des Bois
10
10/1(+44%)
(6) Gold Des Bois 10/1, Hasn't got his head in front since back-to-back wins over C&D in 2022 but the handicapper has relented and he returned to form when second in a 5-runner contest there in March. Makes return/yard debut after 5 months off and percentage call is to look elsewhere despite a tumbling mark. Out of form when last seen but handicapped for leading role if back on track on yard debut.
5
3rd (5) (7/1 -250%) Jack Holiday
7
7/1(-250%)
(5) Jack Holiday 7/1, Gambled-on and got off the mark for this yard at Wexford in August and has continued to thrive, resuming winning ways with a trademark display at Killarney (17f, soft) just under 3 weeks ago, the race rather falling apart behind him. Sure to be popular but a 10 lb rise makes his task much harder. 2-5 for this yard including dominant display last time; entitled to considerable respect.
3
4th (3) (13/8 +46%) Cannock Park
1.625
13/8(+46%)
(3) Cannock Park 13/8, Point winner who landed a Bangor bumper and Cheltenham maiden hurdle last autumn. Placed twice in Graded novice hurdles subsequently but failed to meet expectations sent chasing after 6 months off at Hexham a fortnight ago. Sure to be all the sharper for that here, though. 3rd in Grade 2 nov hurdle here in March; well beaten on chase debut but may have needed it.
4
5th (4) (8/1 +20%) Bollingerandkrug
8
8/1(+20%)
(4) Bollingerandkrug 8/1, Showed improved form switched to front-running tactics last season, landing hat-trick between May and November 2023 (middle leg came in this race also following break). Below form since though and down to a tempting mark as a result. Needs to show more on return, however. Won this last year (middle leg of C&D hat-trick); return to form needed but break may help.
2
6th (2) (14/1 -65%) El Borracho
14
14/1(-65%)
(2) El Borracho 14/1, Useful hurdler/chaser at best and a likeable type who jumps nimbly. Shaped like a non-stayer back in this sphere at Stratford (19.4f) in August but fared better returned to shorter when third of 6 there (17f, good) 7 weeks ago. Potentially very well handicapped. Dropping down the weights but needs something extra if he's to come out on top today.
16:30 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 3) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
CANNOCK PARK appeared to need his return effort on his first attempt over fences at Hexham a fortnight ago. The five-year-old had jumped well in the main before getting tired and the drop back in trip is also likely to benefit him. Pay The Piper is a model of consistency who scored over C&D on his penultimate start and is capable of being in the mix along with recent Killarney winner Jack Holiday.
PAY THE PIPER made a winning return over C&D last month and having matched that form in defeat at Wetherby subsequently, Ann Hamilton's 9-y-o is fancied to regain the winning thread at the expense of Irish-raider Jack Holiday, who bolted up at Killarney earlier this month and has been hit with a hefty 10 lb rise. Front-runner El Borracho has become potentially very well handicapped, so he rounds off the shortlist.
Topweight PAY THE PIPER has been in good form this autumn and is taken to add to last month's C&D win. Jack Holiday is a danger.
(4) Block Rockin Beats 14/1, Winner of a maiden point in Ireland in March. Bought for £28,000 in May. The stable gets the odd bumper winner but might be best watched this time. Beat just two other finishers to win his point but the runner-up went in by 20l next time.
9
2nd (9) (5/1 +9%) Fortune De Mer
5
5/1(+9%)
(9) Fortune De Mer 5/1, Bought for £105,000 after finishing runner-up on his completed start in Irish points (Apr 20). Has joined a top stable and would firmly enter the reckoning if the betting speaks in his favour. Runner-up in his second Irish point and has since joined top yard for £105,000.
3
3rd (3) (25/1 -108%) Cloudy View
25
25/1(-108%)
(3) Cloudy View 25/1, Made a winning debut for Paul Collins at Uttoxeter in July. Bettered that form under a penalty when going down by only a neck at Sedgefield for Adrian Keatley last month. Tongue tie added. Not discounted. First and second so far but this is a big step up from Sedgefield last time.
1
4th (1) (14/1 -27%) Not So Sobers
14
14/1(-27%)
(1) Not So Sobers 14/1, Promise at Market Rasen in the spring, second on debut before going one better 6 weeks later. Will need an improved performance to defy a penalty in this stronger race, though. Solid start in Market Rasen bumpers but this is tougher and he's penalised.
14
5th (14) (22/1 -57%) Rubber Ball
22
22/1(-57%)
(14) Rubber Ball 22/1, Won sole start in Irish points (Apr 28). Worth a market check having joined a stable no stranger to bumper success. Sluiced through the field to win going away by 4l in a 3m Irish point in April.
2
6th (2) (5/2 +0%) The Dancing Tree
2.5
5/2(+0%)
(2) The Dancing Tree 5/2, Ran out an easy winner of a heavy-ground bumper at Limerick on his Rules debut in January. Open to improvement and likely to have a big say for an Irish yard with a strong Cheltenham record. Point third reads well and he then came out on top in sprint finish to bumper at Limerick.
15
7th (15) (22/1 -57%) Everest
22
22/1(-57%)
(15) Everest 22/1, Kayf Tara mare who was a promising second of 11 on her Southwell debut (2m, good to soft) in June. May do better. Couldn't match an Alan King newcomer at Southwell but ran well.
10
8th (10) (66/1 -32%) Kashchei
66
66/1(-32%)
(10) Kashchei 66/1, Third in bumpers 5 months apart but hasn't achieved enough to think he can be competitive in this warmer race. Open to improvement in the tongue-tie but likely to need some.
8
9th (8) (80/1 -60%) Aeroplane Blonde
80
80/1(-60%)
(8) Aeroplane Blonde 80/1, 13/2, offered something to work on when third of 7 in bumper at Newcastle (17f, heavy) on debut back in April, outpaced 2f out before keeping on gradually. Will need to leave that bare form well behind to get heavily involved here, though. Hood goes on. Some 16l off the winner when third at Newcastle on heavy ground; now hooded.
7
10th (7) (9/4 +59%) Seatoit
2.25
9/4(+59%)
(7) Seatoit 9/4, Reached the frame in 2 Irish bumpers at the end of last year, finishing runner-up at Punchestown latterly. Changed hands for £120,000 in January. Interesting new recruit for Kim Bailey, who won this race last year. Two good bumper runs in Ireland and it took £120,000 to take him to Kim Bailey's.
5
11th (5) (9/1 +18%) Jager Time
9
9/1(+18%)
(5) Jager Time 9/1, Third on only start in Irish points in January. His stable has a good record in this race (3 wins since 2017) so it'll be interesting to see what the betting makes of him. Promising run in an Irish point and stable usually runs a good one in this.
12
12th (12) (80/1 -21%) Osterberg
80
80/1(-21%)
(12) Osterberg 80/1, Idaho gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Classic Escape. The stable's 3-84 record in bumpers in the last 5 seasons doesn't mark him down as the likely winner of this. 6,000euros foal; half-brother to 2m5f hurdle/3m1f chase winner Classic Escape.
11
13th (11) (25/1 -108%) Let Me Go Boys
25
25/1(-108%)
(11) Let Me Go Boys 25/1, Purchased for £82,000 after finishing runner-up in an Irish point in February. The betting should help guide to expectations on Rules debut. Bought for £82,000 after going close in a 2m4f Irish point on yielding ground in February.
13
14th (13) (100/1 -203%) Pougie
100
100/1(-203%)
(13) Pougie 100/1, Dartmouth gelding. Half-brother to 3 winners, including useful hurdler Bardenstown Lad and fairly useful hurdler/chaser Southern Sam. Bred to have a future but a watching brief is advised this time. 13th foal; half-brother to winners but probably for one further down the line.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
THE DANCING TREE impressed with an emphatic win in a bumper at Limerick on his debut under Rules in January and, having been given plenty of time to strengthen up, the five-year-old is an attractive proposition for a yard that has hit the ground running for the upcoming autumn/winter campaign. The betting should be informative, however, and the likes of Seatoit, Cloudy View and Everest are all notable types to carefully monitor for signs of support.
THE DANCING TREE created a good impression in a Limerick bumper at the start of the year and is taken to defy a penalty on his return to action. Kim Bailey won this race last season and his new recruit Seatoit rates an obvious danger. Fortune de Mer and Jager Time, whose stable has a good record in this, showed promise in points and would also enter the reckoning should the betting vibes be strong.
Most of these have confirmed themselves quite useful but SEATOIT has the ability and potential to go up a level.
(4) Meehall 9/2, C&D winner. Latest win in chase at Killarney in August. Respectable third of 10 in handicap chase at Listowel (23.8f, soft, 13/8) 28 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Yard in good form. 2022 winner in good form chasing of late; yard flying and has to be on the shortlist.
6
2nd (6) (22/1 +12%) Walk In Time
22
22/1(+12%)
(6) Walk In Time 22/1, 11/1 and cheekpieces on for 1st time, pulled up in handicap hurdle at Killarney (20.4f, good) 100 days ago, joined when bad mistake 3 out. Tongue strap on 1st time. Jumping let her down of late; hard to have confidence in.
8
3rd (8) (18/1 +10%) Barryroe Madam
18
18/1(+10%)
(8) Barryroe Madam 18/1, Fell in handicap hurdle at Roscommon (20.3f, soft, 8/1) 26 days ago. Hood on 1st time. Very hard to make a case for. Struggled so far in handicaps; upped in trip and hood tried now.
16
4th (16) (12/1 -71%) Stowaway Lass
12
12/1(-71%)
(16) Stowaway Lass 12/1, 12/1, every chance when fell last in handicap hurdle at Limerick (21f, good to soft) 7 days ago. Looks well-in if none the worse. Recent Limerick run suggests she's improving at the age of 10.
3
5th (3) (12/1 +0%) Hill Rocket
12
12/1(+0%)
(3) Hill Rocket 12/1, Creditable second of 15 in handicap hurdle (9/1) at Kilbeggan (24.4f, good to soft) 50 days ago. Can give a good account. Solid efforts on last two starts at Wexford and Kilbeggan over this trip; solid claims.
9
6th (9) (13/2 -8%) Mahler Appeal
6.5
13/2(-8%)
(9) Mahler Appeal 13/2, 1 win from 2 runs this season. Winner in chase at Wexford in May. Good second of 12 in handicap hurdle (4/1) at Wexford (24f, good to soft) 150 days ago. Considered back from break. Good form when last seen in May; runs well fresh and one to consider if ground softens.
1
7th (1) (7/1 -56%) Beggars Rock
7
7/1(-56%)
(1) Beggars Rock 7/1, Respectable fifth of 15 in handicap hurdle (11/10) at Clonmel (24.7f, good) 23 days ago. Enters calculations. Beaten favourite last twice at this trip; respected but vulnerable.
13
8th (13) (25/1 -25%) County Champs
25
25/1(-25%)
(13) County Champs 25/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Ninth of 12 in handicap hurdle (10/1) at this course (16.6f, good to soft) 18 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Uphill task. Opening two handicap efforts (including here 18 days ago) leave him with loads to find.
2
9th (2) (25/1 +24%) Coffeys Forge
25
25/1(+24%)
(2) Coffeys Forge 25/1, 16/1, respectable seventh of 12 in handicap hurdle at Roscommon (24.1f, soft) 26 days ago. Has struggled off harsh opening mark over hurdles; needs more respite from the handicapper.
11
10th (11) (11/1 +45%) Ivane
11
11/1(+45%)
(11) Ivane 11/1, Unreliable individual. Course winner. One win from 21 NH runs. Respectable fifth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Roscommon (20.3f, soft, 10/1) 26 days ago. Blinkers on 1st time. Cork second over 3m in May but more recent form not too encouraging.
15
11th (15) (14/1 +22%) Delias Pet
14
14/1(+22%)
(15) Delias Pet 14/1, Course winner. Fourth of 15 in handicap hurdle at Clonmel (24.7f, good, 16/1) 23 days ago. 2m6f winner here last year, stamina for this trip not totally proven yet.
7
12th (7) (16/1 +36%) Loughrask Rainbow
16
16/1(+36%)
(7) Loughrask Rainbow 16/1, 20/1, creditable eighth of 17 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (20f, good) 11 days ago, left with lot to do. Plenty to find on form. Couple of okay runs in handicaps but of limited appeal here off just 1lb lower mark.
12
13th (12) (28/1 +44%) Winter Carnival
28
28/1(+44%)
(12) Winter Carnival 28/1, 33/1, ninth of 14 in handicap chase at Kilbeggan (25.4f, good to soft) 64 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Tongue strap on 1st time. Glimpses of ability but recent form makes him hard to fancy; tongue-tie tried.
21
14th (21) (10/1 +64%) Dark Voyager
10
10/1(+64%)
(21) Dark Voyager 10/1, Fourteen runs since last win in 2021. Visored for 1st time, ninth of 19 in handicap (12/1) at Navan (14f, good to soft) 3 days ago. Switches from Flat to hurdles. Creditable on last hurdle outing. RESERVE. Long losing run under both codes, midfield on the Flat at Navan on Wednesday; reserve.
5
15th (5) (20/1 0%) O'faolains Glory
20
20/1(0%)
(5) O'faolains Glory 20/1, Latest win in chase at Downpatrick in May. 12/1 and visored for 1st time, fell in handicap chase at Roscommon (21.7f, soft) 81 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Improved for current yard but usual cheekpieces left off here and this her stamina limit.
10
16th (10) (14/1 +30%) Max Time
14
14/1(+30%)
(10) Max Time 14/1, Course winner. One win from 24 NH runs. Winner in hurdle here in September. Twelfth of 16 in handicap hurdle (5/1) at Roscommon (20.3f, soft) 26 days ago. Others more persuasive. Winner here in September (2m6f) but held twice since; don't rule out him bouncing back.
14
|PU| (14) (11/1 +31%) Oskar High
11
11/1(+31%)
(14) Oskar High 11/1, Course winner. 1 win from 3 runs this season. Latest win in hurdle here in September. Respectable seventh of 16 in handicap hurdle at Clonmel (19.9f, good, 11/1) 23 days ago. Up in trip. 2m6f winner here last month; blundered badly when well held at Clonmel since.
17
|PU| (17) (18/1 -64%) Derby De Thaix
18
18/1(-64%)
(17) Derby De Thaix 18/1, Remains a maiden after 40 NH runs. Forty three runs since last win in 2017. Good second of 11 in handicap hurdle (11/1) at Fairyhouse (24f, good) 19 days ago. Looks competitive on form. Should be thereabouts but others with more scope for improvement.
20
|PU| (20) (50/1 -213%) Land Jet
50
50/1(-213%)
(20) Land Jet 50/1, Remains a maiden after 19 NH runs. 11/1, fell in handicap chase at Punchestown (23.2f, good) 10 days ago struggling at time. Switches from chase to hurdles. Long time since sole hurdles win; remains opposable.
19
|PU| (19) (80/1 +20%) Kerrytown Rock
80
80/1(+20%)
(19) Kerrytown Rock 80/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Fourteenth of 15 in handicap hurdle (66/1) at Limerick (19f, good to soft). Off over 2 years. Up in trip. First run for yard after leaving Philip Rothwell. Absent since tailed off on handicap debut at Limerick in May 2022; can only be watched.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
MAHLER APPEAL was in good form when last seen in May. He hacked up over fences at Wexford and then switched to hurdles at the same track and finished runner-up. The horse that beat him by two lengths over flights has since landed a handicap hurdle at the Galway Festival by six lengths off a mark of 107, so there should be scope in Mahler Appeal's rating of 88. Meehall's last appearance in this discipline saw him finish a close second in Tipperary which brings him into contention. Oskar High won over a shorter trip at this track in September, while Derby De Thaix ran well for a long way when second in Fairyhouse.
STOWAWAY LASS would have gone close at the least had she cleared the last at Limerick last weekend and is given a chance to gain quick compensation. Beggars Rock, Mahler Appeal, Hill Rocket and Derby de Thaix head the many dangers.
A chance is taken on STOWAWAY LASS, a faller at the last at Limerick when she would have been at least second and is only 1lb higher
(7) Macari 6/1, Consistent sort who posted another good effort when second of 16 in handicap at Yarmouth (11.5f, good to soft, 5/1) 19 days ago, albeir no match for winner. Races off same mark here and should give another good account. 0-7 on the Flat but second over about 1m4f on soft ground on his last two outings.
12
2nd (12) (22/1 -83%) Ship To Shore
22
22/1(-83%)
(12) Ship To Shore 22/1, Returned to winning ways at Lingfield (15.8f) in August and run respectably both starts since. Drop back in trip doesn't look ideal. though. Below form on latest start but he's been 2nd and 1st in his two races under Frederick Tett.
10
3rd (10) (11/2 +8%) Hartur D'oudairies
5.5
11/2(+8%)
(10) Hartur D'oudairies 11/2, Lightly-raced maiden on Flat who found some improvement when good sixth of 14 in handicap (33/1) at York (10.2f, heavy) 14 days ago, slowly away. Worth a crack at this longer trip and is an interesting contender. Engaged 1.41 Newbury Friday. Runner-up over 2m here yesterday; big player if he's in the same form.
4
4th (4) (18/1 -64%) Beautiful Crown
18
18/1(-64%)
(4) Beautiful Crown 18/1, 3 wins from 9 runs this year, most recently at Chelmsford (10f) in August. Creditable in-frame efforts since, latest when fourth of 9 in Southwell handicap (12.1f) 18 days ago and good amateur booked. Respected. Won three times this summer and has continued to run with credit; scored on heavy in 2021.
2
5th (2) (7/2 +13%) Warning Sign
3.5
7/2(+13%)
(2) Warning Sign 7/2, Consistent performer who finished runner-up for fourth consecutive time in 13-runner handicap at Ascot (7f, good to soft) 22 days ago, nearest finish. Return to longer trip a plus and must enter calculations. Cheekpieces back on. Not proven over this far when ground is testing but has to be considered after four 2nds.
1
6th (1) (16/1 +60%) Aikhal
16
16/1(+60%)
(1) Aikhal 16/1, Not scored since 2022 and arrives on below-form efforts the last twice. Two recent AW runs have helped with his fall in the weights and a case can be made.
5
7th (5) (12/1 -20%) Dashing Panther
12
12/1(-20%)
(5) Dashing Panther 12/1, C&D winner who ended last campaign with respectable second of 10 in handicap at Pontefract (12f, good to soft, 2/1) 13 months ago. Fairly treated on return and is worth a second look in the market. Did well last year; more to prove on soft ground and especially after 394 days off.
9
8th (9) (12/1 +25%) Imperial Cult
12
12/1(+25%)
(9) Imperial Cult 12/1, Bagged third win of year at Epsom (10.1f) last month. Not in same form at Kempton latest, however, and finds himself on career-high mark now. Won at Epsom (1m2f, soft) last month, adding to two Lingfield AW wins over 1m4f in July.
3
9th (3) (28/1 -12%) Motazzen
28
28/1(-12%)
(3) Motazzen 28/1, Yet to score for current yard and recent efforts over hurdles don't inspire much confidence for return to level. . 0-12 (eight hurdling) for this yard; 1m6f, soft-ground win off 5lb higher last September.
8
|U| (8) (9/1 -6%) Genesius
9
9/1(-6%)
(8) Genesius 9/1, Shaped as if still in form when sixth of 9 in handicap at Wolverhampton (12.2f, 4/1) 12 days ago but his losing run continues to mount. Others more convincing. Usually apprentice ridden and has been largely consistent this year; reasonable e-w claims.
6
10th (6) (40/1 -21%) Throne Hall
40
40/1(-21%)
(6) Throne Hall 40/1, Winner over hurdles in Sweden last month but finished well beaten in a couple of starts on Flat since. Cheekpieces back on and is hard to fancy. Often ridden by Brodie Hampson, including Doncaster win (soft) in March off 7lb higher.
11
11th (11) (33/1 -32%) Atalanta Breeze
33
33/1(-32%)
(11) Atalanta Breeze 33/1, Not scored for over 2 years and finished well held at Wolverhampton (14f, 14/1) 29 days ago. Others more persuasive. Second under Alice Tregoning at Ffos Las (soft) and Haydock on two of last four outings.
13
12th (13) (11/1 +45%) Mrs Meader
11
11/1(+45%)
(13) Mrs Meader 11/1, Landed first victory since taking this event 2 years ago at Bath (11.6f) last month. Wasn't in same form at Yarmouth latest but remains fairly treated and can't be ruled out. Good record under Ross Birkett, including winning this race in 2022 and at Bath last month.
16:50 Newbury Handicap (Class 5) 12f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
MACARI has found steady improvement since having his attentions turned to handicaps last month, reaching the frame on all four occasions. No match for an easy winner over an extended 1m3f at Yarmouth recently, Sheena West's charge could relish a return to further and duly open his account in this sphere. Motazzen returns to the Flat following an indifferent spell over hurdles and is handicapped to go well. Others to note include Throne Hall and Warning Sign.
HARTUR D'OUDAIRIES acquitted himself well in a stronger contest at York a fortnight ago and promises to be suited by this longer trip. He gets the nod in the finale. Warning Sign and Macari head the list of dangers.
Mrs Meader, who won this race on heavy going two years ago, is second choice but a chance is taken on AIKHAL for the selection.
(2) Naana's Sparkle 17/2, Too free to build on his debut when fourth of 13 in novice at Yarmouth (6f, good to firm, 18/1) 39 days ago. Could build on initial promise now switched to all-weather. More promise on debut than second run; has been gelded; may yet do better.
3
2nd (3) (11/8 +31%) Storm Free
1.375
11/8(+31%)
(3) Storm Free 11/8, 11/2, showed a lot more than first time up switched to all-weather when second of 9 in novice at Kempton (6f) just over 5 weeks ago, clear of rest. Likely to improve, he could take some stopping. Big step forward when second at Kempton; open to further progress; commands major respect.
1
3rd (1) (9/2 -13%) The Actor
4.5
9/2(-13%)
(1) The Actor 9/2, Winner at Newmarket in May and third in a 5f Sandown listed race in July. Poor runs over 6f last twice though, looking in danger of going the wrong way. Makes all-weather debut and that needs to spark a revival. Won strong novice at Newmarket in May but has not built on it and now has a bit to prove.
7
4th (7) (4/1 +0%) Pink Diesel
4
4/1(+0%)
(7) Pink Diesel 4/1, C&D winner in August. Probably remained in form when fifth of 11 in valuable 2-y-o fillies' event at Goodwood (7f, heavy, 17/2) 31 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Leading claims. Has shown a consistent level of form; C&D winner; should be thereabouts in new headgear.
6
5th (6) (50/1 -100%) Ottawa
50
50/1(-100%)
(6) Ottawa 50/1, Foaled April 16. £19,000 yearling, Belardo colt. Half-brother to 3 winners, including 6f/6.5f winner Asjad and 5f winner Blue Storm, both smart. Dam 5f/6f winner. Market check advised. Has two well-above-average sprinters among his siblings; well worth market check on debut.
4
6th (4) (12/1 -167%) Sweet Fantastic
12
12/1(-167%)
(4) Sweet Fantastic 12/1, Showed plenty to work on behind an impressive winner when second of 4 in novice (11/1) at Haydock (6f, heavy) on debut just over 4 weeks ago. Open to progress. Some promise when runner-up in small-field novice on debut; open to improvement.
9
7th (9) (150/1 -200%) Missile Mac
150
150/1(-200%)
(9) Missile Mac 150/1, Shaped as if amiss 8 weeks on from her debut when last of 8 in novice at Yarmouth (8f, good, 80/1) 19 days ago. Down in trip. Hasn't beaten a rival in two runs and looks the second string of George Boughey's pair.
5
8th (5) (40/1 -233%) Herkeios
40
40/1(-233%)
(5) Herkeios 40/1, Still green but showed more than first time up when sixth of 14 in maiden at this C&D (28/1) 16 days ago. Raced prominently when sixth here 16 days ago; further improvement possible but necessary.
8
9th (8) (125/1 -150%) Synergism
125
125/1(-150%)
(8) Synergism 125/1, 300/1, fared no better than on debut when last of 7 in novice at Yarmouth (6f, soft) 11 days ago, slowly away. Looks one for low-grade handicaps over markedly longer trips. Well held at big odds both starts; looks one for handicaps over longer distances next year.
16:55 Chelmsford Stakes (Class 5) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
STORM FREE showed marked improvement from first to second start when runner-up over this distance at Kempton last time out, and he looks the one to beat if building upon that. Winless since scoring at Newmarket in May, The Actor has operated mostly at a higher level since, and he is a player with jockey Tyrese Cameron taking off 7lb. Pink Diesel and newcomer Ottawa are capable of being in the shake-up as well.
STORM FREE showed much more than first time up when finding just one too strong at Kempton last month, the penny really dropping late on, so James Tate's colt is fancied to make it third time lucky at the expense of Pink Diesel, who won over C&D in August and probably remained in form when fifth in a valuable fillies' event in the mud at Goodwood last time. Sweet Fantastic and The Actor can fight out third.
Preference is for STORM FREE who seemed to have learned a lot from his debut and can progress further. Pink Diesel is second choice.
(13) Onemorenomore 7/2, In good form without winning until only ninth of 18 in handicap at York (7f, soft) 15 days ago. This C&D scorer is no forlorn hope. Merely mid-division at York last time but has a good record here; of interest.
12
2nd (12) (13/2 +35%) Mysteryofthesands
6.5
13/2(+35%)
(12) Mysteryofthesands 13/2, Opened his account at Hamilton in July and largely in good form since, fourth of 18 in handicap at York (7f, soft) 15 days ago when doing too much too soon. Ought to be thereabouts. Inconsistent but recovered from slow start to finish 4th of 18 at York (7f, soft) latest.
4
3rd (4) (11/2 +21%) Zip
5.5
11/2(+21%)
(4) Zip 11/2, A 3-time C&D winner who hinted at a revival when sixth of 10 in handicap at Leicester (7f, heavy) 11 days ago. Merits serious consideration off a 3 lb lower mark. Well-handicapped three-time C&D winner, but not shaping as though a win is imminent.
1
4th (1) (4/1 +11%) Racingbreaks Ryder
4
4/1(+11%)
(1) Racingbreaks Ryder 4/1, Ended a long losing run in 9-runner handicap at Catterick (7f, heavy) 7 days ago. Not taken lightly despite a 6 lb rise in the weights. Capitalised on reduced mark at Catterick last Saturday; back up 6lb but had 4l to spare.
5
5th (5) (9/1 +0%) Feel The Need
9
9/1(+0%)
(5) Feel The Need 9/1, Scored at York in May and has continued in good nick, fifth of 18 in handicap there 15 days ago. Can give another good account. Won at York in May and has run well in defeat on three of his four starts since.
2
6th (2) (14/1 -133%) Abduction
14
14/1(-133%)
(2) Abduction 14/1, It's now 11 runs since his last win in 2023 but he recorded a good second of 11 in handicap at Ayr (6f, good) 16 days ago. Needs considering. 0-11 this year but has gone close at Ayr the last twice and is in with a chance.
7
7th (7) (6/1 +57%) Albeseeingyer
6
6/1(+57%)
(7) Albeseeingyer 6/1, C&D winner who comes here on the back of a respectable seventh of 12 in handicap at Newmarket (8f, good) 35 days ago. One to consider dropped back to her optimum trip. Needs to prove she can cope with this mark, but soft-ground form-figures read 113.
11
8th (11) (20/1 -43%) Cold Stare
20
20/1(-43%)
(11) Cold Stare 20/1, On a losing run but not disgraced when fifth of 13 in handicap at Redcar (6f, soft) 8 days ago, left poorly placed. Possibilities off an easing mark. 9yo; has to produce more than the last twice but on a dangerous mark and not written off.
10
9th (10) (33/1 -32%) Drumstick
33
33/1(-32%)
(10) Drumstick 33/1, Good fourth in 7f Salisbury novice but only fifth in similar company at Windsor (8.1f, good to firm) in June on his final run for Andrew Balding. More is required on his yard/handicap debut. Promise on the middle of his three starts; sold for 10,000gns in July; may be best watched.
9
10th (9) (25/1 -150%) Broken Spear
25
25/1(-150%)
(9) Broken Spear 25/1, Unreliable type but tried in blinkers when a very good second of 11 in handicap at Catterick (6f, heavy) 7 days ago. This C&D winner can't be discounted with the same headgear applied. 8yo who hasn't been at his best this year but he went close at Catterick last Saturday.
8
11th (8) (22/1 -175%) Count Palatine
22
22/1(-175%)
(8) Count Palatine 22/1, Much improved of late and on a hat-trick after 7f wins at Thirsk and Redcar. Up another 2 lb but he can go well again with Oisin Murphy in the saddle. Has won his last two; up in grade today but clearly thriving and entitled to respect.
6
12th (6) (125/1 -25%) Sceptic
125
125/1(-25%)
(6) Sceptic 125/1, A fairly useful 7f/1m winner at his best but he has shown nothing both outings for his new yard this autumn. Cheekpieces are now reached for. 9lb lower than when winning in June 2023 but out of form since December; cheekpieces go on.
17:00 Doncaster Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
FEEL THE NEED has posted credible efforts in defeat since joining his current yard and, nudged down 1lb after a respectable fifth-placed finish in a competitive event at York 15 days ago, the consistent four-year-old is worth another chance. The in-form Racingbreaks Ryder rates another serious player after an easy win at Catterick last week, while the hat-trick seeking Count Palatine is also a must for consideration.
This is wide open but Richard Fahey's ZIP took a step back in the right direction with a recent sixth at Leicester and can now capitalise on a lenient mark to bag a fourth C&D success. Tennessee Gold is enjoying a good 2024 and feared most in his bid for a third victory, while Count Palatine, Racingbreaks Ryder and Abduction all need factoring in too.
Two-time course winner ONEMORENOMORE (nap) was behind two thriving rivals when keeping on well for third over 6f here two starts ago.
(8) Maura Jeanne 9/2, Still yet to win after 19 races, but was unlucky not to finish closer when a creditable fifth of 11 in handicap hurdle (10/1) at Sedgefield (19.8f, soft) 17 days ago. Tongue strap introduced for that run is retained and can run with credit again back up in trip. 0-17 over hurdles and tends to get going too late, whatever the trip.
6
2nd (6) (11/4 +39%) You Some Girl
2.75
11/4(+39%)
(6) You Some Girl 11/4, Should have broken her duck over hurdles when going like the winner at Downpatrick 15 days ago only to hang badly in the final stages. This trip isn’t sure to suit based on previous efforts and she’s opposable. 0-11 over hurdles but ran well when third ay Downpatrick (2m6f) recently; new trip today.
1
3rd (1) (10/3 -21%) Artic Mann
3.333333
10/3(-21%)
(1) Artic Mann 10/3, Very consistent during last season and got a deserved first win since 2020 when stepped up in trip at Perth back in May. Likely to be competitive again after a break. Not seen since game Parth win in May but stable conditional claims a helpful 8lb here.
4
4th (4) (4/1 +27%) Return Fire
4
4/1(+27%)
(4) Return Fire 4/1, Returns to hurdling for the first time since 2022 following a fair spell over fences. Form petered out last season, though could come back to form for the return to the smaller obstacles and has won fresh. Out of form over fences in the spring but reverts to hurdling on a tempting mark.
5
5th (5) (15/2 -15%) Lights Are Green
7.5
15/2(-15%)
(5) Lights Are Green 15/2, Has had a slightly disappointing 2024, though came back to best when winning at Cartmel over fences in July. Pulled up at Perth on latest start in August and returns over hurdles for the first time since March 2023. Not discounted. Game winner over fences in July but pulled up since; first hurdle run since March 2023.
2
6th (2) (11/1 -22%) Guernesey
11
11/1(-22%)
(2) Guernesey 11/1, Failed to back up encouraging Perth effort when below form eighth of 16 in handicap hurdle at Hexham (23.3f, soft) 175 days ago. Ran well fresh last season so not without a chance. Not the force of old but went close over C&D after a layoff last autumn.
17:05 Kelso Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 26f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
ARTIC MANN was consistently running well last season before winning at Perth in May and a 3lb rise is unlikely to inconvenience the 10-year-old in what appears to be a winnable contest on paper. You Some Girl placed at Downpatrick earlier in the month and she is of interest stepping up in trip. Others for the shortlist include Lights Are Green and Wearelongterm.
ARCTIC MANN was the picture of consistency last season and finally got a deserved win in May. Other than the break, he’s got far less questions to answer than most of his opponents, though Return Fire is interesting returned to hurdles and Maura Jeanne isn’t without a chance of making it 20th time lucky today.
The two against the field are GUERNESEY and Return Fire, who both ran well when fresh at around this time last year.
(1) Colcannon 8/11, Lightly-raced maiden. 10/3, creditable second of 17 in bumper at Punchestown (16.7f, good to soft) 179 days ago. Hard to beat. Ran into a decent horse at Punchestown in April; likely to take a bit of beating here.
3
2nd (3) (14/1 -180%) Heads Up
14
14/1(-180%)
(3) Heads Up 14/1, Once-raced maiden. 5/2, fourth of 7 in bumper at Listowel (16f, soft) on NH debut 28 days ago. Likely to improve. Should improve plenty for his Listowel run and no surprise if he was thereabouts.
8
3rd (8) (13/2 -30%) That Danny Feeling
6.5
13/2(-30%)
(8) That Danny Feeling 13/2, Once-raced maiden. 7/2, fair form when third of 17 in maiden hurdle at Listowel (16f, soft) on NH debut 28 days ago, running on. Makes bumpers debut. Did some nice late work in an ordinary maiden hurdle at Listowel last month; more to come.
6
4th (6) (17/2 +79%) Knowing Me
8.5
17/2(+79%)
(6) Knowing Me 17/2, Twice-raced maiden under NH rules. Eleventh of 13 in novice hurdle (100/1) at Down Royal (20f, good) on hurdles bow 57 days ago. Switches from hurdles to bumpers. Soundly beaten in two summer bumpers and safe to overlook here.
2
5th (2) (13/2 -18%) Gaoithe Glory
6.5
13/2(-18%)
(2) Gaoithe Glory 13/2, Once-raced maiden. Tongue strap on, second of 12 in bumper (14/1) at Listowel (16f, soft) on NH debut 30 days ago. Was somewhat unlucky in running when beaten a half-length on debut at Listowel; contender.
5
6th (5) (33/1 -32%) James The Brave
33
33/1(-32%)
(5) James The Brave 33/1, Dansant gelding. Dam winning pointer out of 25f/3¼m hunter chase winner Front Cover. Tailed off when pulled up on his sole point-to-point; others look far more likely.
7
7th (7) (13/2 -8%) O' Bon Pardon
6.5
13/2(-8%)
(7) O' Bon Pardon 13/2, Once-raced maiden. 50/1, sixth of 25 in valuable bumper at Punchestown (16.7f, good to soft) on NH debut 179 days ago. Nice debut at the Punchestown festival; nice sort and likely to improve again for this.
4
8th (4) (66/1 -313%) Hei
66
66/1(-313%)
(4) Hei 66/1, Order of St George gelding. Dam unraced sister to bumper winner/useful hurdler (stays 23f) Wilde About Oscar. Nicely bred newcomer by Order Of St George but might just be best watched this time.
9
9th (9) (50/1 -150%) Warriors Wood
50
50/1(-150%)
(9) Warriors Wood 50/1, Once-raced maiden. 16/1, fifth of 15 in bumper at Kilbeggan (20f, good to soft) on NH debut 50 days ago. Should progress. Soundly beaten on debut in a Kilbeggan bumper last month; others preferred.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
THAT DANNY FEELING was a major gamble for a Listowel maiden hurdle and came home well for third. He switches to a bumper on his second start and has to be respected in a competitive contest. Gaoithe Glory ran on well for second in Listowel and the form got a significant boost when the winner followed up in good style at Punchestown. There was plenty to like about O' Bon Pardon's opening sixth in the Goffs Defender Bumper at the Punchestown Festival in April, so he is a threat. Colcannon was no match for a clear-cut winner of a Punchestown bumper but there was merit in his second-placed finish.
COLCANNON shaped well on a few occasions last season and can come good in this concluding bumper. Heads Up offered plenty to work on when sent off at only 5/2 on his Listowel debut and can provide the chief threat ahead of Gaoithe Glory, who was second in another bumper at the Listowel harvest festival.
It is almost a fool's errand to oppose anything from Eric McNamara's yard at the moment, and GAOITHE GLORY (nap) can land this
(1) Bluebells Boy 10/3, Thriving a present, making it 3 wins from his last 4 starts in 9-runner handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f, 9/2) 5 days ago. Has to be respected under a 5-lb penalty. Won 3 of his last 4, the latest on Monday (5f, Tapeta); respected despite his penalty.
6
2nd (6) (22/1 -38%) Melisende
22
22/1(-38%)
(6) Melisende 22/1, Winner at Lingfield in September but below form both outings subsequently. Beat Shamardia at Lingfield last month but she's retreated into her shell again since.
3
3rd (3) (11/2 +50%) Mokaatil
5.5
11/2(+50%)
(3) Mokaatil 11/2, Course winner who ran below form when only sixth of 7 in handicap at Kempton (6f) 12 days ago. Possibilities if bouncing back. Three Chepstow wins this summer and a good 3rd over C&D this month; below par latest.
11
4th (11) (28/1 -100%) Tilsworth Ony Ta
28
28/1(-100%)
(11) Tilsworth Ony Ta 28/1, C&D winner. Latest win at Lingfield in July. Last of 5 in handicap (4/1) at Windsor (5.1f, heavy) 12 days ago, reportedly bled. Conditions to suit; not at best the last twice but no surprise to see a full revival.
2
5th (2) (3/1 +91%) Betties Bay
3
3/1(+91%)
(2) Betties Bay 3/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2023. Tenth of 11 in handicap (50/1) at Lingfield (8f, AW) 46 days ago. Back down in trip. Had a quiet summer but she's tumbled down the weights as a result; drops in class.
10
6th (10) (9/1 -157%) Lewis Barnes
9
9/1(-157%)
(10) Lewis Barnes 9/1, Showed a good attitude to get off the mark in12-runner handicap at Kempton (6f) 24 days ago, rallying. Likely to give another good account. 15th time lucky when scrambling home at Kempton this month; can give another good account.
7
7th (7) (7/1 +0%) Shamardia
7
7/1(+0%)
(7) Shamardia 7/1, Eked out a bit more improvement to double her career taly at Wolverhampton in September. Run best excused back there 7 days later and remains relatively unexposed. Flopped last time but with mitigating factors; progressing well beforehand; big chance.
8
8th (8) (10/1 +29%) Almodovar Del Rio
10
10/1(+29%)
(8) Almodovar Del Rio 10/1, 12/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (7f, AW). Off 7 months but has gone well fresh before, so not ruled out. Poor strike-rate but on fair mark & has gone well after a break in the past; better at 7f?.
5
9th (5) (9/1 +55%) Nazalan
9
9/1(+55%)
(5) Nazalan 9/1, Twelve runs since last win in 2023. Ninth of 12 in handicap (25/1) at this course (7f) 23 days ago. Blinkers/tongue strap on for 1st time. Modest form over a variety of trips this year; new accessories added but plenty to prove.
12
10th (12) (66/1 -100%) Grand Style
66
66/1(-100%)
(12) Grand Style 66/1, Last of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (6f, 66/1) 22 days ago. First run for yard after leaving Philip Kirby. Unplaced all 17 starts; makes stable debut with too much to prove for comfort.
17:25 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Turned out again quickly after a comfortable success over shorter at Wolverhampton on Monday, BLUEBELLS BOY looks more than capable of following up under a 5lb penalty. Stepping back up in distance should not inconvenience him and the five-year-old gets the vote ahead of Prince Of Bel Lir, and Lewis Barnes, who got off the mark with a determined performance at Kempton over 6f earlier in the month.
SHAMARDIA had excuses on her most recent outing and had been on an upward trajectory prior to that, so she's well worth another chance to regain the progressive thread. Lewis Barnes and the thriving Bluebells Boy head the opposition.
Prince Of Bel Lir remains of interest but the return to 6f can see SHAMARDIA resume her progress.
(12) Capote's Dream 25/1, On a lengthy losing run and was well placed when mid-field at Kempton a fortnight ago. Visor back on but looks opposable here. Engaged 3.26 Newbury Friday. Two close seconds over 6f in the mud at Newbury this autumn, including yesterday.
1
1st (1) (7/2 +75%) Lowton
3.5
7/2(+75%)
(1) Lowton 7/2, Developed into a useful performer over 7f last year and made a respectable return from 11 months off in a Southwell Racing League handicap in August. However, couldn't build on that at Sandown last month and has something to prove now. Maiden/novice winner at 7f in 2023; not yet got regular foothold in handicaps.
13
2nd (13) (16/1 +0%) Ey Up Its Jazz
16
16/1(+0%)
(13) Ey Up Its Jazz 16/1, Made the frame again when third of 10 in handicap at Redcar (7f, soft) 8 days ago but this looks tougher and he finds himself 2 lb out of the weights here. Suited by the mud; in good form behind an improver over 7f of late; can go well again.
7
3rd (7) (5/1 -50%) Arctic Dawn
5
5/1(-50%)
(7) Arctic Dawn 5/1, Much improved earlier this year, making the frame in a couple of AW contests. Faces a different test here but looks fairly treated on handicap debut and likely has more to offer yet. Promising at 6f/7f on AW in the spring; off since; unraced on turf; has handicap potential.
4
4th (4) (6/1 -20%) Empire Of Light
6
6/1(-20%)
(4) Empire Of Light 6/1, Doubled his tally at Haydock (10.2f) in June and has placed all 6 starts since, latest when good second of 10 in handicap at Redcar (8f, good to soft) 21 days ago. Shortlist material. Not obviously crying out for return to 7f but reliable and in form; acts on soft; involved.
9
5th (9) (20/1 +39%) Golspie
20
20/1(+39%)
(9) Golspie 20/1, Took a step back in right direction when fourth of 7 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f, 28/1) 29 days ago. 2 lb lower now but this is more competitive. Winning 1m debut on soft; has to show he can be effective over easy 7f; career-low mark.
2
6th (2) (9/1 +25%) Gincident
9
9/1(+25%)
(2) Gincident 9/1, Back from 4 months off when respectable third of 12 in handicap (33/1) at Newcastle (8f) 22 days ago. Entitled to build on that and figures off a handy mark. Turf win at 1m on good to soft (unraced on slower) in 2023; effective at 7f; contender.
6
7th (6) (9/1 -6%) Rock Melody
9
9/1(-6%)
(6) Rock Melody 9/1, Bounced back to best when winning 8-runner handicap (20/1) at Musselburgh (7.1f, good to soft) 12 days ago, bit in hand. 3 lb rise fair and ought to go well again. Has won at 6f and 7f this year, the latter 12 days ago; back up 3lb; weighted to go well.
11
8th (11) (15/2 +25%) Another Baar
7.5
15/2(+25%)
(11) Another Baar 15/2, Course winner who only narrowly failed to get back on scoreboard at Pontefract (5f, heavy, 9/2) 5 days ago. Can race off same mark here but he's yet to fully convince over this sort of trip. All 4 wins at sprint trips; has 7f form but staying power will be put to the test on soft.
3
9th (3) (17/2 +39%) Boy Douglas
8.5
17/2(+39%)
(3) Boy Douglas 17/2, Successful under testing conditions at Ayr as a 2-y-o and, having missed the majority of 2023, he doubled his tally at the same course in June. Largely acquitted himself well in defeat since but others preferred for win purposes. Won on heavy as 2yo; successful on good ground over 1m in June; below best on last 2 runs.
8
10th (8) (25/1 +24%) Spun To Gold
25
25/1(+24%)
(8) Spun To Gold 25/1, Considerately handled, on first start for new yard, when tenth of 13 in handicap at Ayr (7.2f, good, 33/1) 16 days ago. More required here, though. Won 7f AW maiden as 2yo; had some excuses in handicaps since; unraced on slower than good.
5
11th (5) (7/1 +0%) The Cookstown Cafu
7
7/1(+0%)
(5) The Cookstown Cafu 7/1, Bagged second success this term when taking 9-runner handicap at Newcastle (8f) 11 days ago. Remains feasibly treated on old form and warrants respect. Touched off here in 2022; 2-3 on AW for new yard; still below latest winning turf mark.
17:30 Doncaster Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
The Cookstown Cafu, who has adapted well to the all-weather recently, warrants serious thought given he has performed with credit when tried here before. Empire Of Light also appeals on that score given his recent form over a mile looks solid. However, the potentially well-handicapped GINCIDENT could be the answer back on turf after a solid return from a break off 1lb higher at Newcastle 22 days ago.
ARCTIC DAWN has few miles on the clock and the booking of Billy Loughnane catches the eye on his first start in handicap company. He could be the answer in the finale. Empire of Light and Rock Melody head the list of dangers.
There are dangers but THE COOKSTOWN CAFU has a solid chance both on his form in the 2022 running and his revival on AW for this yard.
(7) Agostino 10/3, Course winner. 5/2 and hooded for 1st time, was too free when tenth of 11 in handicap at this course (6f) 23 days ago. Well backed over 6f here last time but pulled hard and dropped right away; no headgear now.
10
2nd (10) (28/1 -75%) Southbank
28
28/1(-75%)
(10) Southbank 28/1, Course winner who ran better than last time in first-time cheekpieces when eighth of 11 in handicap at this course (6f) 23 days ago. Visored for 1st time. Dangerous mark and latest effort wasn't without hope; new headgear; more appealing at 6f.
1
3rd (1) (11/8 +39%) Cabeza De Llave
1.375
11/8(+39%)
(1) Cabeza De Llave 11/8, Resumed winning ways in 7-runner handicap at this C&D 9 days ago. Likely to give another good account around here. Comes here in top form and he did well to win over C&D last week; solid claims.
3
4th (3) (10/1 -100%) Bernard Spierpoint
10
10/1(-100%)
(3) Bernard Spierpoint 10/1, C&D winner. 3 wins from 11 runs this year, latest at Brighton in September. 2/1, run best excused when last of 4 in handicap at Yarmouth (5.2f, good to firm) 39 days ago, reared leaving stalls. Better judged on previous form. Completed a hat-trick in Aug/Sept, including C&D, but below par at Yarmouth latest.
2
5th (2) (6/1 0%) It's Showtime
6
6/1(0%)
(2) It's Showtime 6/1, 16/1, respectable third of 7 in handicap at Lingfield (5f, AW) 56 days ago. 0-9 on AW but effective here and she's not handicapped out of things.
8
6th (8) (28/1 -40%) Man On A Mission
28
28/1(-40%)
(8) Man On A Mission 28/1, 28/1, fifth of 7 in handicap at this C&D 14 days ago. Tongue strap on for 1st time. On a winning mark but two runs back from a break have been modest; drawn widest.
9
7th (9) (11/1 +45%) Beauzon
11
11/1(+45%)
(9) Beauzon 11/1, Course winner who went with a lot more spark than of late despite finishing last of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 7 days ago, doing too much too soon. Significantly back down in trip. Struggled since returning from a summer break; down in weights but others look safer.
4
8th (4) (80/1 -264%) Spiritual Pursuit
80
80/1(-264%)
(4) Spiritual Pursuit 80/1, 100/1, last of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (6f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Blinkered for 1st time. 100-1 and finished last in two runs for current stable; change of headgear today.
11
9th (11) (9/1 -64%) Spanish Angel
9
9/1(-64%)
(11) Spanish Angel 9/1, 11/2, good second of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 7 days ago. Thereabouts if in the same form. Second at Wolverhampton last week but in a modest event; each-way shout.
5
10th (5) (33/1 -106%) Idle Assembly
33
33/1(-106%)
(5) Idle Assembly 33/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 8¼ lengths last of 7 to Cabeza De Llave in handicap at this C&D (11/1) 9 days ago, lost all chance at start. Fluffed the start when last of seven behind Cabeza De Llave here last week.
18:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
A tentative vote goes to SPANISH ANGEL, who bounced back to form with a strong runner-up effort at Wolverhampton last time out and remains well handicapped off an all-weather mark 6lb lower than his last victory in May. A winner of two of his last three starts, including over C&D most recently, Cabeza De Llave must enter calculations, along with the capable Agostino and It's Showtime.
BERNARD SPIERPOINT can have his latest run overlooked having reared leaving the stalls when trying to get a flyer and gets the nod from a good mark. The in-form Cabeza de Llave is also of interest.
It's Showtime can go well but CABEZA DE LLAVE is taken to defy a small rise for last week's C&D win.
(2) Salamanca 4/7, Much improved second at Newmarket on return, before facing stiff task when 11½ lengths fifth of 9 to Ambiente Friendly in listed Derby Trial at Lingfield (11.6f, good to firm, 16/1) in May. The one to beat dropped in grade. Absent since down the field in the Lingfield Derby Trial in May; strong form claims.
1
2nd (1) (4/1 -14%) Al Ameed
4
4/1(-14%)
(1) Al Ameed 4/1, Fairly useful form when runner-up on handicap debut at Kempton (11f) in September. Hasn't built on that effort since, fifth of 7 in novice at the same course (12f, 6/4) 15 days ago, but he could still be in the mix. Not at best on last three starts, pulling hard early latest; others appeal more.
4
3rd (4) (4/1 +67%) User Amistoso
4
4/1(+67%)
(4) User Amistoso 4/1, Fairly useful gelding. Wasn't in the same form as previous outing when fifth of 9 in handicap at Nottingham (10.2f, heavy, 12/1) 17 days ago, though seemed unsuited by the very testing conditions. Could bounce back. Capable of winning races but he'd be 17lb better off with Salamanca in a handicap.
6
4th (6) (100/1 -203%) Biznieta Power
100
100/1(-203%)
(6) Biznieta Power 100/1, Has finished well held both starts so far, last of 4 in novice at Nottingham (10.2f, good to firm, 50/1) when last seen in June. Needs to leave previous efforts well behind after 4 months off. Poor form in two 1m2f turf runs this summer; bred to do much better at some point.
3
5th (3) (16/1 +0%) Tic Tok Trot
16
16/1(+0%)
(3) Tic Tok Trot 16/1, 290,000 gns yearling, Siyouni gelding. Dam, 11f/1½m winner, half-sister to useful 7f/1m winner (stayed 1¼m) Angel Vision out of very smart 1¼m-1½m winner Islington. Has had wind op ahead of debut and wears tongue strap. 290,000gns yearling; gelding/wind ops prior to debut; tongue tied; good standard to aim at.
18:30 Chelmsford Stakes (Class 5) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
SALAMANCA struggled in the Lingfield Derby Trial when last seen in May but his previous form suggests that the son of Sea The Stars could be hard to beat this level on his return. Al Ameed is an obvious threat based on the pick of his form but he did put in an underwhelming effort last time, while any market support for either of Bewitch or Tic Tok Trot should be noted.
SALAMANCA was only narrowly denied at Newmarket on his reappearance, before giving a good account upped in grade when mid-field in the Lingfield Derby Trial, so he looks to hold leading claims as he returns to action. Al Ameed could be the biggest threat having placed on 3 of his 4 starts on all-weather, ahead of User Amistoso.
His absence is a slight concern but SALAMANCA has outstanding form claims and can get off the mark at the fourth attempt.
(9) Etretat 11/2, Winner at Wolverhampton in July. Bit below form seventh of 12 in handicap (15/2) at Newcastle (8f) 23 days ago. Will be in with a shout if able to bounce back. Exposed 3yo whose record is only 1-20; below par back on AW last time.
2
2nd (2) (4/1 +27%) The Bitter Moose
4
4/1(+27%)
(2) The Bitter Moose 4/1, 4/1 and visored for 1st time, creditable second of 9 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 29 days ago, conceding first run. Likely to be on the premises once more. Latest effort took his AW record to 1142; this new trip is worth exploring; likely player.
8
3rd (8) (6/1 +57%) Born A Rebel
6
6/1(+57%)
(8) Born A Rebel 6/1, Eighth of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (8f, good to firm, 9/1) 37 days ago. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals. Won off this mark at Yarmouth in April; fighting chance if back to that form.
4
4th (4) (33/1 +0%) Royal Parade
33
33/1(+0%)
(4) Royal Parade 33/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2023. 50/1 and tongue strap on for 1st time, finished eleventh of 14 in handicap at Kempton (7f) on debut for new yard 15 days ago. Best to look elsewhere. Far from consistent and losing run is mounting up; second run for new yard.
13
5th (13) (13/2 -86%) Cloud Free
6.5
13/2(-86%)
(13) Cloud Free 13/2, 6/1, won 12-runner handicap at this C&D 14 days ago, helped by being held up in strongly-run race. Nudged up just 2 lb and will be a danger to all if he again gets a strong pace to aim at. Off the mark in C&D contest two weeks ago; back up just 2lb; may well remain competitive.
12
6th (12) (40/1 -21%) Currumbin
40
40/1(-21%)
(12) Currumbin 40/1, 100/1, ninth of 11 in handicap at Windsor (8.1f, heavy) 12 days ago and he's readily passed over. Ex-Irish maiden whose form for new stable isn't convincing.
6
7th (6) (10/1 -150%) Sonmarg
10
10/1(-150%)
(6) Sonmarg 10/1, Thirteen runs since last win in 2023. 4/1, creditable third of 11 in handicap at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 12 days ago, faring best of those ridden prominently. Has to be taken seriously. Threatening to win a handicap; possibilities provided he's aided by the return to 1m.
1
8th (1) (20/1 -100%) Dynamic Talent
20
20/1(-100%)
(1) Dynamic Talent 20/1, Creditable fifth of 10 in handicap at Kempton (7f, 10/1) 12 days ago. Down another 2 lb and claims if able to build on that. Not the percentage call off top weight back at 1m; all wins over 7f.
5
9th (5) (10/1 +29%) Palazzo Persico
10
10/1(+29%)
(5) Palazzo Persico 10/1, Course winner. Tenth of 11 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f, 11/1) 61 days ago, slowly away. In good order prior to that and each-way chance if on-song here. Has a record of 221 at Chelmsford, the win gained last November; interesting back here.
14
10th (14) (25/1 +24%) Tactical Control
25
25/1(+24%)
(14) Tactical Control 25/1, Winner at Salisbury in August. 80/1, ninth of 13 in handicap at Kempton (8f) 17 days ago. Others preferred. Won off this mark on turf in August but still has something to prove on AW.
3
11th (3) (11/2 +54%) Tasmanian Legend
5.5
11/2(+54%)
(3) Tasmanian Legend 11/2, Creditable fifth of 12 in handicap at Newcastle (10.2f, 14/1) 11 days ago, needing stronger gallop. Back down in trip and hood on 1st time. Needs a couple of these to falter. Chance depends on whether first-time hood cures his bout of fifthitis.
11
12th (11) (20/1 +9%) Seamore
20
20/1(+9%)
(11) Seamore 20/1, Eighth of 9 in handicap (33/1) at Sandown (10f, good) 38 days ago and it's probably best to look elsewhere. Perhaps not progressing but this return to AW may have positive effect.
7
13th (7) (15/2 -7%) Gone Rogue
7.5
15/2(-7%)
(7) Gone Rogue 15/2, Respectable sixth of 14 in handicap at this course (10f, 9/2) 9 days ago and he enters calculations with this drop back to a mile likely to prove ideal. Solid efforts on turf in August/September; non-stayer over 1m2f here last week.
10
14th (10) (100/1 -203%) Destinado
100
100/1(-203%)
(10) Destinado 100/1, Six wins from 21 runs this year but trailed in last of 10 when sent off at 50/1 for a handicap at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 7 days ago. Currently out of sorts and this trip looks too sharp.
19:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
CLOUD FREE won over course and distance a couple of weeks ago and this appears to be an ideal opportunity for the three-year-old to make it a double, despite a 2lb rise. The Bitter Moose hit the crossbar at Wolverhampton last time and is likely to be in the mix once again, while similar comments apply to the consistent Sonmarg. Gone Rogue is another capable of going well.
A deserved success could be on the cards for SONMARG, who has been knocking on the door of late. Gone Rogue's stamina was stretched upped to 1¼m here last time and he is feared back at a mile, while Cloud Free opened his account over C&D a fortnight ago and is also shortlisted, along with Gone Rogue's stablemate Etretat.
Preference is for THE BITTER MOOSE who has a solid AW record and remains on a workable mark. Sonmarg is second choice.
(3) Sullivan Bay 7/4, Course winner. 12/1, seventh of 8 in handicap at Lingfield (16.3f, firm). Off 91 days ahead of his debut for new yard and sports a first-time visor. Won off 3lb higher here (1m5f) in January but struggled since; has left Henrietta Knight.
5
2nd (5) (10/3 +33%) Sir Joseph Swan
3.333333
10/3(+33%)
(5) Sir Joseph Swan 10/3, Course winner. Good third of 13 in handicap (15/2) at Lingfield (15.8f, AW) 51 days ago. Should give another good account off the same mark. Third off career-low mark at Lingfield (2m, AW) last time was his closest finish this term.
4
3rd (4) (10/1 -122%) Cloudy Rose
10
10/1(-122%)
(4) Cloudy Rose 10/1, Good second of 10 in handicap (7/1) at Brighton (11.9f, good to soft) 18 days ago, just failing. Significantly back up in trip and very much a player for the yard also responsible for joint top-weight Dereham. Pipped over 1m4f latest; rare AW run (well beaten here in April) gives her most to prove.
1
4th (1) (18/1 -29%) Dereham
18
18/1(-29%)
(1) Dereham 18/1, 11/1, last of 6 in handicap at this C&D 23 days ago. Placed in a couple of turf handicaps prior to that and he could have a part to play if things pan out more favourably this time. Lightly raced on AW, close third here last June markedly better than three other visits.
6
5th (6) (11/4 +66%) Veer
2.75
11/4(+66%)
(6) Veer 11/4, Fourth of 6 in handicap (15/2) at this C&D 23 days ago, not ideally placed. Hood back on and this 3-y-o is likely to find a few too good. 0-9; second in two 1m6f handicaps and creditable fourth of six over C&D on latest outing.
7
6th (7) (8/1 +0%) Grey Nyle
8
8/1(+0%)
(7) Grey Nyle 8/1, Last of 6 in handicap (5/1) at Southwell (16.5f) 18 days ago. Reproduction of his Newcastle near miss last month would give him a chance but he's now 0-10 and may again prove vulnerable. 0-10; head 2nd at Newcastle (2m, AW) on penultimate start but something amiss on latest.
8
|PU| (8) (150/1 -355%) Boleyn Forever
150
150/1(-355%)
(8) Boleyn Forever 150/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Cheekpieces on for 1st time, last of 14 in novice at Windsor (8.1f, good, 200/1) 40 days ago. Significantly up in trip for this handicap debut. No form; handicap debut and upped from 7f/1m but he's not bred for anything like this far.
19:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
ALTANERA appeared to have plenty in hand when winning over 1m6f at Wolverhampton on Monday and David Simcock's filly is hard to oppose under a 6lb penalty. Cloudy Rose was only beaten a nose into second at Brighton recently but may have to settle for the runner-up position once again, while Sir Joseph Swan edges out Dereham and Veer to be best of the rest.
While it's a slight concern that CLOUDY ROSE has failed to fire on each of her three previous appearances on the all-weather, it's worth bearing in mind that two of those were back in early 2021 and she will surely go very close indeed if reproducing the form of her recent effort at Brighton. Sir Joseph Swan and recent Wolverhampton winner Altanera rate the main dangers, though the selection's stablemate Dereham is also worth a second look.
The potential seems to rest almost solely with ALTANERA (nap), who took a step up to 1m6f in her stride at Wolverhampton on Monday.
(3) Kessaar Power 16/1, Course winner. Twenty-six runs since last win in 2023. Fourth of 10 in handicap (66/1) at Southwell (7.1f) 16 days ago, racing closer to pace than ideal. That represented a step back in the right direction but not sure that the return to this trip is what he wants. Hinted at a return to form last time but has something to prove back up in trip.
1
2nd (1) (15/2 -125%) Meng Tian
7.5
15/2(-125%)
(1) Meng Tian 15/2, 2/1, respectable fourth of 9 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 12 days ago, nearest finish. 1 lb lower here and he has to be high on the shortlist. Infrequent winner but is on a handy mark and Sam Garcia takes off 7lb; possibilities.
4
3rd (4) (5/2 +38%) Bobby Dassler
2.5
5/2(+38%)
(4) Bobby Dassler 5/2, One win from 25 Flat runs. Hooded for 1st time, first run since leaving Laura Mongan when third of 9 in handicap at Brighton (7f, good to soft, 3/1) 18 days ago. One to consider. Clear signs of a revival at Brighton this month on debut for new yard; interesting.
5
4th (5) (11/2 +45%) Edmund Ironside
5.5
11/2(+45%)
(5) Edmund Ironside 11/2, One win from 26 Flat runs. Respectable seventh of 12 in handicap (9/1) at this C&D 16 days ago. Hopes now pinned on the first-time visor sparking some improvement. Below best in two runs this autumn but may be helped by new headgear.
10
5th (10) (3/1 +10%) Guildford
3
3/1(+10%)
(10) Guildford 3/1, Creditable fourth of 11 in handicap (16/1) at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 5 days ago and he merits consideration here off the same mark. Has shown signs of improvement at Wolverhampton recently; frame possibilities.
2
6th (2) (18/1 -29%) Van Zant
18
18/1(-29%)
(2) Van Zant 18/1, 16/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 12 days ago, slowly away. Makes polytrack debut and would be a danger to all if able to get back on track. Has a question mark over current form and something to prove on this surface.
7
7th (7) (7/1 +30%) Starshot
7
7/1(+30%)
(7) Starshot 7/1, Remains a maiden after 21 Flat runs. 10/3, last of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (8f, soft) 11 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time and, chances are, he'll again find one or two too good. Ran well over C&D on penultimate start but record is 0-21; wears new headgear.
6
8th (6) (40/1 -433%) Summanus
40
40/1(-433%)
(6) Summanus 40/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Tenth of 12 in maiden (150/1) at this course (7f) 23 days ago. Cheekpieces on for 1st time for this handicap debut and sizeable step forward needed. Needs to show improvement for the switch to handicap level and first-time headgear.
8
9th (8) (40/1 -60%) Love Is A Rose
40
40/1(-60%)
(8) Love Is A Rose 40/1, Last of 7 in handicap (100/1) at Wolverhampton (16.6f) 7 days ago. Significantly back down in trip and she's readily passed over. 4yo maiden who has weak claims on form.
9
10th (9) (22/1 -120%) Spirit Charmer
22
22/1(-120%)
(9) Spirit Charmer 22/1, 66/1, respectable seventh of 14 in handicap at Kempton (8f) 15 days ago. Each-way claims. Not disgraced at Kempton last time; pedigree offers hope for better still.
20:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
The money came for BOBBY DASSLER, who finished third at Brighton on his stable bow and, although unable to justify that market support, it was at least a much more encouraging performance. Eased 1lb in the ratings and back over the mile, Michael Wigham's gelding can repay his supporters this time around. Summanus might not have shown much in novice/maiden events, but he could progress now sent handicapping and with cheekpieces applied for the first time. Meng Tian is another to consider.
The vote goes to GUILDFORD, who will benefit from the drop back to this trip after finishing a creditable fourth off this mark at Wolverhampton the other day. Meng Tian was doing his best work at the finish at the same course 12 days ago and he is a much-respected main danger, while Bobby Dassler is also accorded respect.
Attractively treated BOBBY DASSLER is taken to build on his Brighton effort and record a first AW win. Meng Tian is second pick.
(2) Thomas Equinas 11/4, 3-time C&D winner. Ninth of 12 in handicap at this course (8f, 25/1) 14 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Has fallen to a workable mark so can't be discounted. Three C&D wins; cheekpieces refitted for first time since latest win last October.
3
2nd (3) (7/1 -17%) Cuban Harry
7
7/1(-17%)
(3) Cuban Harry 7/1, Winner at Wolverhampton in September. Ninth of 11 in handicap (3/1) at Wolverhampton (9.5f) 12 days ago. Back down in trip with more needed. Has 7f form but his win came at about 1m on Tapeta; well held in his only course run.
6
3rd (6) (11/2 -83%) Batal Dandy
5.5
11/2(-83%)
(6) Batal Dandy 11/2, 10/1, won 13-runner handicap at Kempton (7f) 17 days ago. Ought to be in the shake-up despite taking a 3 lb rise. Convincing winner over 7f on second Polytrack start; won off this mark on turf in June.
5
4th (5) (14/1 -40%) Velvet Vortex
14
14/1(-40%)
(5) Velvet Vortex 14/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Hooded for 1st time, sixth of 12 in maiden (80/1) at this C&D 23 days ago, not knocked about. Makes handicap debut. Should improve. Modest form at 1m and 7f but a glimmer of ability and should do better now handicapping.
1
5th (1) (7/2 +30%) Cogsworth
3.5
7/2(+30%)
(1) Cogsworth 7/2, C&D winner. Latest win at Brighton in May. 11/1, creditable third of 11 in handicap at Kempton (6f) 10 days ago, faring best of those held up. Very much one to consider. C&D winner; relatively unexposed at 7f; will be suited by return to this trip; solid claim.
4
6th (4) (5/2 -25%) Profitman
2.5
5/2(-25%)
(4) Profitman 5/2, C&D winner. Solid second of 11 in handicap at this C&D (5/2) 9 days ago, slowly away. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Has good chance on form. Excellent C&D record, making all here in April and two narrow defeats the last twice.
20:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
BATAL DANDY appeared to relish a return to this trip when recording a narrow success at Kempton recently and, with Brandon Wilkie negating the 3lb rise incurred, he can double his tally. Connections of Profitman, runner-up on his last two starts, will be hoping the addition of first-time cheekpieces can give him an added boost. That said, Cogsworth, a previous C&D winner, might be the bigger threat.
A tight-knit handicap in which PROFITMAN rates just the pick of the weights and is fancied to gain a deserved second C&D victory. Fellow C&D scorer Cogsworth is next on the list with recent Kempton victor Batal Dandy and handicap-debutant Velvet Vortex also firmly in the picture.
Preference is for BATAL DANDY who coped well with his first 7f run on Polytrack when winning at Kempton and has more to come.
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How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
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