Aintree Races & Results Tomform Saturday 9th December 2023
There were 48 Races on Saturday 9th December 2023 across 6 meetings. There was 8 races at Sandown, 8 races at Chepstow, 7 races at Navan, 8 races at Aintree, 8 races at Wolverhampton, 9 races at Newcastle, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Saturday 9th December 2023
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(1) Norman Fletcher 11/4, Made it 2 wins from 4 starts in bumpers with an improved effort at Ludlow in April. Hasn't impressed with his jumping since switched to hurdles but got the job done in 14-runner maiden at Market Rasen (16.6f) 23 days ago. Likely to find life tougher under a penalty. Two bumper wins; not a natural hurdling but getting better and won at Market Rasen latest.
2
4
2nd (4) (2/1 +47%) Goonhilly
2
2/1(+47%)
(4) Goonhilly 2/1, Fairly useful form in a couple of bumpers and shaped well on return/hurdles debut when third of 11 in a Uttoxeter maiden (2½m). In the process of building on that when departing at the last (held in third) at Ludlow since and merits respect down in trip. A tired faller at Ludlow (2m5f) latest; this drop back in trip can help; each-way claims.
3
3
3rd (3) (28/1 +15%) Fresh Speculation
28
28/1(+15%)
(3) Fresh Speculation 28/1, Signs of ability in a bumper/Chepstow maiden hurdle but is possibly more one for handicaps a bit further down the line. Low in the ratings today but could prove capable of a lot better at some point.
4
10
4th (10) (12/1 +25%) Raffles Wonder
12
12/1(+25%)
(10) Raffles Wonder 12/1, Maiden Irish pointer who confirmed the encouragement of his Rules debut when landing a bumper at Sedgefield in January. Only fifth at Kelso when last seen 8 months ago but should take to hurdling in a first-time tongue strap (has also had breathing op). Bumper winner who's had wind surgery and also has his tongue tied; bred to jump.
5th
11
5th (11) (25/1 -150%) Wild Grouse
25
25/1(-150%)
(11) Wild Grouse 25/1, Won the last of his 3 starts in Irish points and shaped a fair bit better than the bare result on his hurdling debut at Uttoxeter (15.8f, heavy) 3 weeks ago, still clear second at last before weakening run-in. Likely to improve. Irish point win; modest form at Uttoxeter (2m, heavy) three weeks ago but should improve.
6th
5
6th (5) (40/1 -21%) Gower Prince
40
40/1(-21%)
(5) Gower Prince 40/1, Showed a bit on the first of 3 starts in bumpers for Matt Sheppard but was too free sent hurdling in a first-time hood after 13 months off when fifth to a good prospect at Hereford in October. May do better. Showed significant ability on hurdling debut but looks the stable second string.
8
8
|U| (8) (66/1 -560%) Into The Park
66
66/1(-560%)
(8) Into The Park 66/1, €55,000 3-y-o, Walk In The Park gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/fair chaser Goodnightngodbless. Third when fell last sole start in Irish points and showed a bit amidst inexperience when well held in a Newbury bumper on Rules debut last month. 10-1 for bumper at Newbury (2m, good to soft) but finished a remote seventh of 13.
9
9
|PU| (9) (10/3 +0%) Le Jeune Bresil
3.333333
10/3(+0%)
(9) Le Jeune Bresil 10/3, Imposing sort who got off the mark in Irish points at second attempt in April and shaped with plenty of encouragement on his second hurdles start when third of 15 at Wetherby (19.7f, heavy) 3 weeks ago. Can improve further. Easy Irish point win in April; bold show at Wetherby (2m3f, soft) is best form in this.
2
2
|PU| (2) (15/2 -125%) Old Gregorian
7.5
15/2(-125%)
(2) Old Gregorian 15/2, Showed improvement on the last of 3 starts in bumpers and built on that promise as he made a successful debut over hurdles after 6 months off in 8-runner maiden at Kelso (16.2f, heavy) in October. Has a penalty to carry in a stronger race but is open to improvement nonetheless. Improved to win on seasonal/hurdling debut in eight-runner maiden at Kelso (2m, soft).
7
7
|PU| (7) (22/1 -38%) Industrialist
22
22/1(-38%)
(7) Industrialist 22/1, Has shown some promise in a trio of bumpers but is bred to need time and distance, so probably won't come into his own until tackling longer trips over jumps. Major work to do after bumpers but he looks a scopey sort who should do better.
6
6
|PU| (6) (100/1 -614%) Honey Jack
100
100/1(-614%)
(6) Honey Jack 100/1, Has scope but looked badly in need of the experience when well-beaten on debut in a Newbury bumper last month. 17-2 from 16-1 for a bumper at Newbury (2m, good to soft) but ended among the backmarkers.
LTO Selection:
11:10 Aintree Maiden Hurdle (Class 3)
17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
A tricky puzzle to solve with plenty in with a chance and only a tentative vote goes to recent Market Rasen scorer NORMAN FLETCHER. The four-year-old arrives here for the in-form Nigel Twiston-Davies yard and having shed his maiden tag in comfortable fashion last time, he could be up to handling this tougher assignment. Le Jeune Bresil shaped as though this drop in trip could work the oracle when not quite lasting home over the extended 2m3f at Wetherby last month and he is feared most, while Goonhilly would enter the equation should he produce a more polished jumping display.
GOONHILLY was in the process of building on his hurdling debut when departing late at Ludlow last month and, with the Skelton yard going much better now, he's taken to get off the mark at the third attempt in this sphere. Le Jeune Bresil is an imposing sort who's open to further improvement, with Kelso-scorer Old Gregorian also feared.
The form on offer does not compare with this race's usual standards but LE JEUNE BRESIL has shown the most with his Wetherby third.
11:10 Aintree Maiden Hurdle (Class 3)
17f PREDICTION SIMULATION
(3) Pembroke 6/4, Useful chaser who walked over at Warwick 17 days ago. One to consider for top yard. Yet to replicate his good hurdle form over fences but there's time to put that right.
1
1
|PU| (1) (4/5 -29%) Golden Son
0.8
4/5(-29%)
(1) Golden Son 4/5, Smart hurdler who was successful twice at Auteuil in 2021/22, in handicap and Group 2 Prix Georges de Talhouet-Roy. Encouragement when second after 19 months off in 5-runner novice chase at Warwick on yard debut. The clear form pick. Grade 2 winner over hurdles in France; encouraging second on his recent British debut.
2
2
|PU| (2) (9/1 +10%) Hardy Bloke
9
9/1(+10%)
(2) Hardy Bloke 9/1, A fairly useful hurdler/chaser for Emmet Mullins. Faces a tall order on his yard bow/return when patiently-ridden fourth of five at Haydock 14 days ago. Not discounted in these calmer waters. Again he's up against it on these terms and over a trip short of his best.
4
4
|PU| (4) (28/1 -75%) Pozo Emery
28
28/1(-75%)
(4) Pozo Emery 28/1, A fairly useful winning hurdler for Paul Nicholls but he's been off for over 2 years. Has his fitness to prove on his yard/chase debut. Useful hurdle form for Paul Nicholls in early 2021; departed that yard for only £3,000.
LTO Selection:
11:45 Aintree Maiden Chase (Class 2) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
This contest seems to revolve around the performance of GOLDEN SON, who is clear of these on official ratings and he'll be difficult to beat should he put his best foot forward. The French recruit made a pleasing start to his career on these shores, following the Martin Pipe hero Iroko home over 2m4f at Warwick last month, and Paul Nicholls' charge can improve for that outing. Pembroke rates as the main danger with the benefit of a walk over at Warwick last time and he can give the selection most to think about, while Hardy Bloke heads the remainder.
GOLDEN SON shaped well on his return from a long absence when runner-up at Warwick and looks to have been found an excellent opportunity to go one better here. Dan Skelton's Pembroke can chase home Paul Nicholls' ex-French recruit ahead of Hardy Bloke.
Smart French hurdler GOLDEN SON was second in a strong chase at Warwick and there's good reason to believe he can improve again.
11:45 Aintree Maiden Chase (Class 2) 20f PREDICTION SIMULATION
(1) Kyntara 10/3, Point/bumper winner. Failed to win over hurdles/fences for Kim Bailey but improved to make a winning start for Mel Rowley in 23f Lingfield handicap hurdle last month. It was an uncompetitive race but he did it easily so a 5 lb rise looks fair. Point/bumper winner; off the mark over hurdles last time; stiffer task but a possible.
2
6
2nd (6) (9/2 +18%) Gaye Legacy
4.5
9/2(+18%)
(6) Gaye Legacy 9/2, Lightly-raced hurdler who has taken a step forward in handicaps this season, suited by the step up in trip when scoring over 23f at Market Rasen 16 days ago. Should be more to come as her stamina is drawn out. Off the mark in mares' event when tried at 2m7f latest; further progress likely.
3
8
3rd (8) (5/2 +38%) Moonlight Artist
2.5
5/2(+38%)
(8) Moonlight Artist 5/2, Just his second handicap when improving to win 10-runner event over 23f at Exeter (soft) last month. Unexposed as a stayer and there's likely more to come. Off the mark in 2m7f handicap last time and may improve again over this longer trip.
4
3
4th (3) (10/3 -11%) Harper Valley
3.333333
10/3(-11%)
(3) Harper Valley 10/3, Steadily progressive form, winning Hexham novice in May and Sedgefield handicap on return to action 6 months later (both 2½m). Has the potential for better again now stepping up to 3m. Progressive hurdler who won a 2m4f handicap last time; up 5lb; this longer should suit.
5th
4
5th (4) (10/1 +0%) Monochromix
10
10/1(+0%)
(4) Monochromix 10/1, Ran to a fair level over hurdles last season and made a positive reappearance when second in 2½m handicap at Hexham in October. Only a respectable fifth at Kelso since but he was later found to have lost a shoe. Remains unexposed. Placed in four of his five runs at up to 2m4f but didn't seem to stay 3m2f last time.
5
5
|U| (5) (9/1 -50%) Call Me Harry
9
9/1(-50%)
(5) Call Me Harry 9/1, Dual bumper winner who has gradually got his act together over hurdles, well served by a good gallop when opening his account in a 3m Musselburgh handicap last month, reeling in an in-form sort. Another who can't be discounted. Off the mark over hurdles on first run at 3m last time; this stronger; unproven on soft.
7
7
|PU| (7) (33/1 -136%) My Brother Jack
33
33/1(-136%)
(7) My Brother Jack 33/1, Modest Flat winner and a similar standard over hurdles without managing to get his head in front. Remains to be seen if the marked step up in trip (ran over 17f last time) improves matters. 1m6f AW Flat winner; yet to win over hurdles; possible improver on first run at around 3m.
LTO Selection:
12:20 Aintree Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 25f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Plenty of in-form rivals line up here with the slight preference being GAYE LEGACY, who scored in cosy fashion over 2m7f at Market Rasen last time and she looks likely to offer another bold bid. Tom Symonds' charge has been raised 4lb for that one-and-a-half-length success and it could prove lenient today. Kyntara is feared most after a bloodless win over 2m7f at Lingfield and he's not ruled out of defying a 5lb rise, while Moonlight Artist should also be thereabouts.
An interesting novice handicap in which it's worth taking a chance on the stamina of ROGER POL. His pedigree provides hope that 3m will be within range and he's shown enough in bumpers and novice hurdles to suggest a mark of 114 could underestimate him. Gaye Legacy and Harper Valley are others who should have more to offer and head the dangers.
This looks a competitive event, with five of the seven runners having won last time, but HARPER VALLEY moving up in trip gets the vote.
(2) Zambella Evens, Highly likeable mare with an excellent record at this level. Should be ready to go after 8 months and worth chancing to make a successful return. Seeking a hat-trick of wins in this race; bold bid looks assured on reappearance.
2
3
2nd (3) (8/1 +27%) Burrows Diamond
8
8/1(+27%)
(3) Burrows Diamond 8/1, Resumed winning ways when taking a 7-runner handicap over 24.2f at Wetherby around a year ago. Made a solid return at Kelso and, while he went backwards from that at Market Rasen last time, her yard is going better now. Respectable fourth in handicap on return but pulled up in Listed race since.
3
5
3rd (5) (15/2 +38%) Sacre Coeur
7.5
15/2(+38%)
(5) Sacre Coeur 15/2, Well suited by the switch to front-running tactics as she won a couple of handicap chases this autumn. Disappointing in Elite Hurdle at Wincanton last time and faces another relatively stiff task back in this sphere. Made all in two handicap chases in October; held up when last of 4 in Grade 2 hurdle since.
4
1
4th (1) (7/2 -154%) Pink Legend
3.5
7/2(-154%)
(1) Pink Legend 7/2, Three-time winner during a consistent 2022/23 campaign, signing off with success in a listed chase at Perth. Returns with stable firing and bound to be thereabouts. In top form in spring; good record fresh and yard going well so has plenty going for her.
4
4
|PU| (4) (13/2 +54%) La Renommee
6.5
13/2(+54%)
(4) La Renommee 13/2, Progressive chaser who made a winning return in a handicap at Ludlow in October and backed it up with another solid showing at Kempton last time. More on her plate now but should give her all. Landed another Ludlow win on return; good second since but bit to find at this level..
LTO Selection:
12:55 Aintree Conditions Chase (Class 1) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
This can once again go the way of ZAMBELLA, who has won this contest for two years running, including a restaged renewal at Carlisle last November. The eight-year-old may not have an excellent record fresh, but she loves soft ground and her stable could hardly be be in any better form at present. Placed in a strong renewal of the Mares' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, Pink Legend has won twice since and must enter calculations, along with La Renommee, who was an impressive winner on her penultimate outing at Ludlow.
ZAMBELLA and Pink Legend are both likeable mares who are closely matched on form and they're likely to dominate. Marginal preference is for the first named, with La Renommee making most appeal of the remainder.
PINK LEGEND had Zamballa behind her when they clashed most recently at Cheltenham in March and is taken to confirm that superiority.
(4) Richmond Lake 4/1, Quickly got his act together over fences earlier this year, the third of his 4 victories coming in listed handicap company at Ayr (20.5f) in the spring. Little fuss (granted soft lead) when successful on hurdles return at Wetherby and likely more to come back in this sphere. Won over fences on final two runs last season; reappeared with hurdle win; one to consider.
2
5
2nd (5) (7/1 +72%) Gustavian
7
7/1(+72%)
(5) Gustavian 7/1, Belatedly opened his account over fences at Exeter in February and in process of running well when crashing out at the second last at Uttoxeter (3m) a month later. Shaped as if he'd come on for his reappearance in the Badger Beers but he does need to keep the errors at bay. Impressive in small field at Exeter in February; could improve for last month's comeback.
3
6
3rd (6) (5/2 +17%) Heltenham
2.5
5/2(+17%)
(6) Heltenham 5/2, Improved markedly for switch to chasing last term, rattling off hat-trick of handicap victories at Newbury (19.8f) in March. Fell in Silver Trophy final start but resumed with a comfortable success over hurdles in novice company at Wetherby 21 days ago. Big shout with more to come in this sphere. Highly progressive novice chaser last season; could still be ahead of the handicapper.
10
10
|PU| (10) (6/1 +25%) Donna's Double
6
6/1(+25%)
(10) Donna's Double 6/1, Mixed bag on the back of chase success at Ayr (20.5f) in January but firmly back on track following a 7-month layoff when third back at that venue 5 weeks ago, edged out close home in a very tight finish. Remains lightly raced in this sphere but task is to build on that here. Tongue tied. Reappeared with very close third at Ayr and not ruled out in a first-time tongue-tie.
1
1
|PU| (1) (9/1 -157%) Brave Seasca
9
9/1(-157%)
(1) Brave Seasca 9/1, Career best display when landing this from 1 lb higher mark 12 months ago but not in anything like the same form in trio of starts thereafter. Had wind op but fared no better when well-beaten last of 6 on return in Haldon Gold Cup 4 weeks ago. Needs to step up a good deal on that. Easily won this race last year and is not ruled out, but a return to form is needed.
2
2
|PU| (2) (11/2 +8%) War Lord
5.5
11/2(+8%)
(2) War Lord 11/2, Smart novice chaser who essentially endured a disappointing 2022/23 but offered hope of a rival (following wind op) when third in last month's Haldon Gold Cup from out of the weights. Could well build on that back up in trip. Promising third in the Haldon Gold Cup on reappearance and he's firmly in calculations.
3
3
|PU| (3) (16/1 +0%) A Wave Of The Sea
16
16/1(+0%)
(3) A Wave Of The Sea 16/1, Losing run is mounting up but ended time with Joseph O'Brien with a creditable fourth in the Munster National (3m, heavy) in October. Starts out for new yard from 3 lb higher mark but this drop back in trip unlikely to inconvenience him. On long losing run but ran well on final Irish start; could be thereabouts on stable debut.
8
8
|PU| (8) (20/1 -25%) Daly Tiger
20
20/1(-25%)
(8) Daly Tiger 20/1, Very smart chaser in his pomp for Noel Meade. Fallen long way in the weights without threatening for present stable, finishing hollow second behind a facile winner at Haydock (16.3f) 2 weeks ago. Back up in trip now. Hints of promise on both starts this season but others are a bit more compelling.
7
7
|PU| (7) (22/1 -10%) Nothin To Ask
22
22/1(-10%)
(7) Nothin To Ask 22/1, Hit the ground running over fences last term, bagging handicaps at Chepstow/Doncaster. Disappointed on 2 of his 3 starts after but did shape much better than distance beaten suggests at first-named venue in October. Another needing to keep the errors at bay, however. Made excellent start to chasing career last autumn but his form has been patchy since.
LTO Selection:
13:30 Aintree Handicap Chase (Class 2) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
A comfortable winner over hurdles at Wetherby on his return last month, RICHMOND LAKE should enjoy the return to the larger obstacles, having put together a fine novice campaign. The seven-year-old can land the four-timer, with the progressive Heltenham and last year's winner of this contest, Brave Seasca, looking best placed to chase him home. War Lord bounced back to form with a strong effort behind a stablemate in the Haldon Gold Cup and he should enjoy conditions today.
HELTENHAM was most progressive from a low base over fences last season, completing a hat-trick with any amount to spare at Newbury in March. Undone by a mistake at Cheltenham on his final start, he had little fuss in resuming winning ways over hurdles at Wetherby 3 weeks ago and there's surely more to come in this sphere. War Lord finished off encouragingly in the Haldon Gold Cup and along with Richmond Lake heads up the dangers.
A tendency to make mistakes is a concern with HELTENHAM but there can be considerable optimism that he remains well handicapped.
(8) Chambard 18/1, Ended 2021/22 campaign with success in the Kim Muir at the Festival. Disappointed initially last term but better signs on final start and, from further reduced mark he ran a cracker to finish runner-up on return in amateur's handicap at Cheltenham (25f, soft) 3 weeks ago. Good second of 16 at Cheltenham on return; this 11yo needs a career-best on Aintree debut.
2
1
2nd (1) (6/1 +50%) Coko Beach
6
6/1(+50%)
(1) Coko Beach 6/1, 8-y-o who returned with a good third in the Munster National in October and built on that to land 20-runner Troytown Chase at Navan (3m) 3 weeks ago, typically jumping well and asserting on the run-in. Evidently in rude health but career-high mark demands more. Very lofty mark to defy but better than ever last time & he's effective over these fences.
3
12
3rd (12) (6/1 +14%) Percussion
6
6/1(+14%)
(12) Percussion 6/1, 3-time winner over fences who is building up a sound record over these fences (third in this race 12 months ago) and he ran another fine race when runner-up in last month's Grand Sefton behind Gesskille. Shortlisted for all he's operating from 6 lb out of the weights. 6lb out of the handicap but his proven ability over these fences is a significant positive.
4
5
4th (5) (7/1 +36%) Celebre D'allen
7
7/1(+36%)
(5) Celebre D'allen 7/1, 11-y-o who was largely highly tried in 5 starts last term and he justified good support on back of 7 months off when cruising clear of his 10-rivals to land 25f handicap here in October. 11yo who was right back to his very best on his reappearance and could go well.
5th
13
5th (13) (11/1 +73%) Lounge Lizard
11
11/1(+73%)
(13) Lounge Lizard 11/1, Looked more straightforward than had previously been the case (in blinkers) when landing small-field handicaps at Catterick/Taunton during second half of last term. Creditable third back from 5 months off when third at Exeter (24.2f) in October but this tougher from out of the weights. Close third on return and this 6yo could have more to offer, but he's 6lb out of the h'cap.
3
3
|U| (3) (7/1 +42%) Highland Hunter
7
7/1(+42%)
(3) Highland Hunter 7/1, Thorough stayer who landed the London National at Sandown prior to finishing second in the Welsh National at Chepstow during a light 2021/22 campaign. Highly encouraging return from 21 months off when second on yard debut at Kelso 6 weeks ago and this 10-y-o is of interest. Returned from very long absence with creditable second at Kelso and not ruled out.
14
14
|U| (14) (10/1 +70%) Dorking Cock
10
10/1(+70%)
(14) Dorking Cock 10/1, Lightly raced for this yard and bounced back to form to capitalise on much lower mark over hurdles at Navan (22f, heavy) 3 weeks ago, keeping on well run-in. However, returns to chasing operating from 8 lb out of the weights and others make more appeal. Exploited lower hurdle mark last month; career-best needed from 8lb out of the handicap.
10
10
|U| (10) (50/1 +0%) Sidi Ismael
50
50/1(+0%)
(10) Sidi Ismael 50/1, Hurdles/chase winner who ended last season with a brace of placed efforts in long distance chases at Taunton/Ffos Las. Underwhelming reappearance at Haydock (25.5f) on back of a wind op 2 weeks ago and he'll need to leave that well behind to figure. Good second on final two starts last term but tailed off on recent reappearance at Haydock.
11
11
|PU| (11) (9/1 +44%) Undersupervision
9
9/1(+44%)
(11) Undersupervision 9/1, Unreliable as a rule but showed benefit of his reappearance run when third in big-field amateurs' handicap at Cheltenham (25f) 21 days ago. Operating from a workable mark if he can back that up on first try over these fences for yard with very good record in this race. Inconsistent but good third at Cheltenham last time and stable has won this race six times.
2
2
|PU| (2) (11/2 +66%) The Big Breakaway
5.5
11/2(+66%)
(2) The Big Breakaway 11/2, Started last term with 2 fine efforts, including when runner-up in Welsh National over Christmas. Given a break and failed to complete final 2 starts (fell early in Grand National) but not disgraced when midfield on last month's return in the Badger Beer. Still, not easy to catch right. Hampered/fell early in National; 1lb lower than when 2nd in last season's Welsh equivalent.
7
7
|PU| (7) (13/2 -8%) Ashtown Lad
6.5
13/2(-8%)
(7) Ashtown Lad 13/2, Built on an encouraging hurdles return when bagging this race from a 2 lb lower mark 12 months ago, notably travelling/jumping fluently. Lines up here following pair of non-completions, latterly in Badger Beer at Wincanton 4 weeks ago but return to these fences may perk him up. May have needed reappearance and he won this in good style last year; has to be respected.
6
6
|PU| (6) (22/1 +56%) Moroder
22
22/1(+56%)
(6) Moroder 22/1, Good strike rate over fences and he resumed winning way in the Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster in March prior to a career-best second in Bet365 Gold Cup final outing. Stamina assured but needs to leave October's reappearance run at Wincanton in his wake (reportedly bled). Runner-up in the bet365 Gold Cup and can leave reappearance run well behind; interesting.
LTO Selection:
14:05 Aintree Handicap Chase (Class 1) 26f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
HIGHLAND HUNTER looks just the type to excel over theses fences, having been runner-up in the Welsh Grand National and won the London National at Sandown around this time two years ago. The 10-year-old caught the eye on his first start for new connections when runner-up in a decent contest at Kelso in October, and he looks to have been laid out for this since. A taking winner of this prestigious handicap last year, Ashtown Lad returns off just 2lb higher and must be considered, while Percussion, who has never failed to place over theses fences, cannot be ruled out either. Former Kim Muir scorer Chambard had the capable Undersupervision (third) behind when runner-up at Cheltenham last month and both are entitled be thereabout again.
Following a lengthy absence, HIGHLAND HUNTER shaped with plenty of promise when runner-up at Kelso 6 weeks ago. With the forecast rain very much in his favour, he's given the nod to confirm the promise of that run now. Last year's winner Ashtown Lad was below his best on return but this has likely been on his agenda for a while and better can be expected. Last month's Grand Sefton runner-up Percussion, Undersupervision and potentially well-treated Now Where Or When complete the shortlist.
A good case can be made for MORODER judged on his second in the bet365 Gold Cup in April. Now Where Or When is second choice.
(6) Liari 11/4, Ran to a fairly useful level in just 3 races on Flat in France for Jean-Claude Rouget and looked a promising recruit to hurdles when scoring at Wincanton (soft) 6 weeks ago. Could be plenty more to come for top yard. Got the job done on hurdle/stable debut at Wincanton and is in excellent hands to progress.
2
3
2nd (3) (9/2 +72%) Knight Of Allen
4.5
9/2(+72%)
(3) Knight Of Allen 9/2, Carried out soon after the first on his debut in a Cheltenham Grade 2 last month so this is effectively his first start. Bred for the job. Carried out when 22-1 in Grade 2 on debut; no surprise to see a good run, however.
3
5
3rd (5) (5/2 +29%) Le Fauve
2.5
5/2(+29%)
(5) Le Fauve 5/2, Ran a promising first race when narrowly denied by a next-time-out winner in a Bordeaux juvenile in September. Interesting having joined Dan Skelton, particularly if the betting vibes are strong. Went very close in France on sole run; winner has followed up; has joined top British yard.
4
9
4th (9) (11/4 -10%) Max Of Stars
2.75
11/4(-10%)
(9) Max Of Stars 11/4, Took very well to hurdling in the first half of the season, winning 4 times. Fine second in a fillies' listed juvenile at Newbury 8 days ago. Likely to give it her usual good shot. Runner-up in Listed fillies' race at Newbury last Friday; could make another bold bid.
5th
4
5th (4) (28/1 -133%) Latin Verse
28
28/1(-133%)
(4) Latin Verse 28/1, Fair Flat winner for Ralp Beckett. Struck at the third time of asking over hurdles in Catterick juvenile 15 days ago (only run for Syd Hosie). More will be needed at this level. Off the mark on third hurdle start at Catterick; others have more substance to their form.
8
8
|PU| (8) (10/1 +29%) Palio
10
10/1(+29%)
(8) Palio 10/1, Fair maiden at up to 1½m on the Flat and translated that ability to hurdles when second at Huntingdon 5 weeks ago, understandably no match for the very talented Burdett Road. A good deal more will be needed at this level. Bumped into subsequent Grade 2 winner Burdett Road on hurdle debut and not ruled out.
7
7
|PU| (7) (33/1 -106%) Midnight Lion
33
33/1(-106%)
(7) Midnight Lion 33/1, Fairly useful Flat winner for Charlie Johnston. An interesting one for juvenile hurdles for new connections but this is a tough starting point. Has had wind surgery (also wears a first-time tongue tie). Hurdle debut; useful on the Flat and half-brother Eradicate won the Swinton Hurdle twice.
10
10
|PU| (10) (66/1 -164%) Virginia Lodge
66
66/1(-164%)
(10) Virginia Lodge 66/1, Well beaten on Ludlow debut in October but totally different proposition when seeing off 4 rivals at Fakenham 6 weeks later. Probably capable of better again but jockey bookings suggest Le Fauve is the stable first string. Easy win against fellow fillies at Fakenham but the strength of the form is questionable.
LTO Selection:
14:40 Aintree Conditions Hurdle (Class 1) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
LIARI showed a good attitude when making a winning debut over hurdles at Wincanton in October and Paul Nicholls' gelding merits the utmost respect now upped in grade. Max Of Stars is an obvious threat to the selection following her second to a useful prospect at Newbury eight days ago. Le Fauve has to be of some interest on his first start for Dan Skelton, while Eagle Prince and Knight Of Allen are others to note.
LIARI drew clear with another promising type when making a successful start to his hurdle career at Wincanton at the end of October and is selected to take the step up in class in his stride. Fellow French recruit Le Fauve is an interesting opponent on his first outing for Dan Skelton. The more-established Max of Stars ran a cracker in listed company among her own sex at Newbury last week and should get involved in the battle for minor honours along with Cheltenham Grade 2 fourth Eagle Prince.
Preference is for French recruit LE FAUVE on his debut for Dan Skelton. Liari could be a major threat.
(5) Rafferty's Return 16/1, 3-time hurdle winner (at up to 21f) who showed benefit of reappearance run when 7 lengths third of 10 in handicap at Wetherby (19.7f) 3 weeks ago. Fallen 1 lb below last winning mark ahead of this and not discounted. Fair third to Bashers Reflection at Wetherby last time but needs something extra today.
1
1
1st (1) (10/3 +26%) Sonigino
3.333333
10/3(+26%)
(1) Sonigino 10/3, Progressive type last season, winning 3 times before signing off the campaign with an excellent third over C&D in April. Promise when third in Silver Trophy at Chepstow and backed that up when fourth in last month's Greatwood at Cheltenham. In the mix eased in class. Has run well in defeat on both starts this season and he's effective over C&D; solid.
2
6
2nd (6) (14/1 +0%) Prince Zaltar
14
14/1(+0%)
(6) Prince Zaltar 14/1, Irish raider who scored twice earlier in the year and returned from 4 month absence with a good sixth of 20 in handicap at Cheltenham (21f, soft) 3 weeks ago, faring best of those held up. 6th of 20 at Cheltenham recently and he may be able to build on that first run since July.
3
8
3rd (8) (4/1 +11%) Vicki Vale
4
4/1(+11%)
(8) Vicki Vale 4/1, Low-mileage mare who bookended first season over hurdles with victories in mares' events at Hereford/Taunton. Solid reappearance effort (following wind op) when second on handicap debut at Wincanton (21.3f) in November and she may well come on again from that. Good second at Wincanton on handicap debut and she could have more to offer for top yard.
4
2
4th (2) (15/2 +12%) Benson
7.5
15/2(+12%)
(2) Benson 15/2, Useful handicap hurdler who deservedly opened account for present yard at Musselburgh in January and followed up in Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso 2 months later. Creditable fourth on return/chase debut at Carlisle in October and interesting having finished runner-up in this 12 months ago. Won competitive handicap at Kelso in March and is just 3lb higher; capable of going well.
5th
3
5th (3) (25/1 -56%) Fingal's Hill
25
25/1(-56%)
(3) Fingal's Hill 25/1, Real credit to connections, finding further progress as he extended his winning sequence on return from 6 months off at Carlisle (20f, soft) in November. Raced off the pace and not in same form when seventh of 10 in handicap hurdle at Haydock since, though. Completed a four-timer at Carlisle last month but down the field at Haydock subsequently.
6th
11
6th (11) (9/1 +25%) Chance A Tune
9
9/1(+25%)
(11) Chance A Tune 9/1, Solid comeback third from lengthy absence at Market Rasen in September and confirmed as much when running out an emphatic winner at Chepstow (2m, heavy) a month later. Latest Ascot fourth in a stronger race was another creditable display and return to this longer trip could unlock a little more. Running well since back from huge absence; time looks right for the step back up in trip.
7th
7
7th (7) (4/1 -14%) Bashers Reflection
4
4/1(-14%)
(7) Bashers Reflection 4/1, Improved performer switched to handicaps, taking his form up another notch with his reappearance behind him to score at Wetherby (19.7f, heavy) 3 weeks ago. Handicapper applies a little more pressure but strong suspicion his progress hasn't levelled out yet. Player. Travelled well to win at Wetherby and a 7lb rise could underestimate his dominance.
8th
4
8th (4) (9/1 +18%) Holmes St Georges
9
9/1(+18%)
(4) Holmes St Georges 9/1, Fairly useful hurdler who opened his account at Musselburgh 13 months ago and made the frame all 4 starts thereafter, good third in Down Royal minor hurdle (3m) when last seen in May. Gone well fresh previously. Consistent and versatile sort who can go well fresh; could be a player back from a break.
10
10
|PU| (10) (12/1 +14%) Largy Shark
12
12/1(+14%)
(10) Largy Shark 12/1, Lightly-raced 6-y-o who landed a brace of novice hurdles at upto 19.5f last season and shaped as if better for the run on return/handicap debut at Navan (2m) 3 weeks ago, his effort flattening out. Remains with potential now stepping back up in trip. Unexposed 6yo who is open to improvement now back up in trip on second handicap start.
9
9
|PU| (9) (40/1 -122%) Voix Du Reve
40
40/1(-122%)
(9) Voix Du Reve 40/1, Capitalised on a reduced mark when winning at Ayr (20.5f, good) in April and confirmed he retains plenty of zest in 2 starts this term, a shuddering error as he made his move ending his chance at Musselburgh 31 days ago. This tougher, however. Bad blunder three out was costly at Musselburgh latest; this 11yo is an each-way possible.
LTO Selection:
15:15 Aintree Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 20f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
SONIGINO was far from disgraced when fourth in the Greatwood at Cheltenham last time and he is likely to be hard to stop if reproducing that level of form in this company. Benson did not take to fences but he is only 3lb higher than when winning the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso in March and, on that evidence, Sandy Thomson's gelding could well make his presence felt here. Vicki Vale edges out Holmes St Georges and Bashers Reflection to be the pick of the rest.
BASHERS REFLECTION resumed progress with his reappearance under his belt when running out an authoritative winner at Wetherby 3 weeks ago and a 7 lb rise shouldn't prevent another bold showing on that evidence. Last year's runner-up Benson and Sonigino, stepping back up in trip, head up the dangers, with the returning Holmes St Georges another worth a look.
The progressive 6yo BASHERS REFLECTION (nap) appeared to have bundles in hand at Wetherby and a 7lb rise could underestimate him.
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
About U.K Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
The most famous horse racing event in the UK is the Grand National, which is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is a jump racing event that is known for its challenging course and has become a national institution in the UK. Other notable horse racing events in the UK include the Derby, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, and the Royal Ascot, held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
Horse racing in the UK is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which sets rules and standards for the industry. It is responsible for the welfare of racehorses and the safety of jockeys and trainers, as well as ensuring fair and transparent racing practices.
In addition to its economic and cultural importance, horse racing in the UK also plays a significant role in the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses. Many of the world's top thoroughbreds are bred and trained in the UK, and the industry plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Overall, horse racing is an integral part of British culture and a major contributor to the country's economy. It is a thrilling and exciting sport that continues to attract a loyal following and generate significant interest from spectators and bettors around the world.
(11/4 +31%)
(2/1 +47%)
(28/1 +15%)
(12/1 +25%)
(25/1 -150%)
(40/1 -21%)
(66/1 -560%)
(10/3 +0%)
(15/2 -125%)
(22/1 -38%)
(100/1 -614%)
(6/4 +25%)
(4/5 -29%)
(9/1 +10%)
(28/1 -75%)
(10/3 -21%)
(9/2 +18%)
(5/2 +38%)
(10/3 -11%)
(10/1 +0%)
(9/1 -50%)
(33/1 -136%)
(Evens +28%)
(8/1 +27%)
(15/2 +38%)
(7/2 -154%)
(13/2 +54%)
(4/1 -14%)
(7/1 +72%)
(5/2 +17%)
(6/1 +25%)
(9/1 -157%)
(11/2 +8%)
(16/1 +0%)
(20/1 -25%)
(22/1 -10%)
(18/1 -13%)
(6/1 +50%)
(6/1 +14%)
(7/1 +36%)
(11/1 +73%)
(7/1 +42%)
(10/1 +70%)
(50/1 +0%)
(9/1 +44%)
(11/2 +66%)
(13/2 -8%)
(22/1 +56%)
(11/4 +21%)
(9/2 +72%)
(5/2 +29%)
(11/4 -10%)
(28/1 -133%)
(10/1 +29%)
(33/1 -106%)
(66/1 -164%)
(16/1 -14%)
(10/3 +26%)
(14/1 +0%)
(4/1 +11%)
(15/2 +12%)
(25/1 -56%)
(9/1 +25%)
(4/1 -14%)
(9/1 +18%)
(12/1 +14%)
(40/1 -122%)
