There were 38 Races on Saturday 28th October 2023 across 5 meetings. There was 8 races at Kelso, 8 races at Doncaster, 7 races at Cheltenham, 7 races at Galway, 8 races at Chelmsford-City, no doubt Tomform helped you find a winner.
Races & Results Saturday 28th October 2023
The data in the racecards below is for the past year. View the racecard key.
(3) Coniston George 9/4, Ran to a high figure when second on debut at Haydock in December and didn't need to match that form to go one better at Ayr. Below expectations over C&D on final outing but possibly found the race coming too soon and remains a good hurdle prospect. Bumper winner who is out of a sister to a smart jumper; interesting on hurdling debut.
2
2nd (5) (2/1 +69%) Flash Du Pistolet
2/1(+69%)
(5) Flash Du Pistolet 2/1, €55,000 3-y-o, Westerner gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdle winner/smart chase winner Molly The Dolly. Dam (h116) bumper winner, also 1¾m winner on Flat. Maiden Irish pointer, runner-up last time (Jan 22). Market for clues. Runner-up in his final Irish point and needs watching in market on rules debut.
3
3rd (10) (9/1 +44%) Valleyview Tommy
9/1(+44%)
(10) Valleyview Tommy 9/1, €5,000 3-y-o, £15,000 4-y-o, Youmzain gelding. Half-brother to useful hurdler Ratfacemcdougall. Runner-up completed start in Irish points (May 7). Respected Rules debutant. Runner-up in his second Irish point in May and market should guide on this switch to rules.
4
4th (7) (5/1 -82%) Lunar Chief
5/1(-82%)
(7) Lunar Chief 5/1, Made a successful debut in 8-runner bumper at Newcastle (16.2f, heavy) in March, despite showing a tendency to flash his tail under the whip. Interesting hurdling debutant. Won in the mud in his sole bumper in March and he could have a good future over hurdles.
5th
5th (2) (80/1 -142%) Blue Bear
80/1(-142%)
(2) Blue Bear 80/1, Looks a work in progress. Has struggled so far and will be more interesting when handicapping over further.
6th
6th (6) (11/1 -57%) Indian Louis
11/1(-57%)
(6) Indian Louis 11/1, Successful both completed starts in Irish points but did too much too soon in a C&D bumper on Rules debut back in May. Tongue tied for hurdle debut (also had breathing op) and ought to do better somewhere down the line. Disappointing in sole bumper but he was 2-4 in points and is respected on hurdling debut.
7th
7th (4) (50/1 -127%) Edgewell
50/1(-127%)
(4) Edgewell 50/1, Modest in bumpers and shaped as if in need of the experience when well held on recent Hexham hurdle debut. Some promise in bumpers but he struggled on his hurdling debut at Hexham two weeks ago.
8th
8th (1) (100/1 -100%) Better Be Definite
100/1(-100%)
(1) Better Be Definite 100/1, Showed ability on the first of 2 starts in bumpers this winter but was well held on C&D hurdling debut in March. Has left Harriet Graham & Gary Rutherford and looks one for low-grade handicaps over longer trips. Tailed off in the last two of his three runs and can only be watched on his stable debut.
9th
9th (9) (11/2 -10%) Tara Cove
11/2(-10%)
(9) Tara Cove 11/2, Kayf Tara gelding. Dam unraced half -sister to useful hurdler (stayed 3m) On Raglan Road and fairly useful hurdler (stayed 2½m) Overthetop. Multiple Irish point winner, including last 2 starts (latest Mar 26). Much respected Rules newcomer. 3-7 in Irish points and he needs a close look on his hurdling/stable debut.
10th
10th (8) (250/1 -150%) Mrindependant
250/1(-150%)
(8) Mrindependant 250/1, Little sign of ability. Seven-race maiden who has not finished closer than 27l to a winner; can only be watched.
LTO Selection:
12:54 Kelso Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
LUNAR CHIEF might have flashed his tail en route to winning a Newcastle bumper in March but still created the impression that he has a bright future ahead. The five-year-old won that race a shade cosily and is likely to improve further now that obstacles are in the way. Similar comments apply to Coniston George, who landed an Ayr bumper on his penultimate start despite running green on the day. Tara Cove, a noteworthy recruit form the point-to-point scene, completes the shortlist.
CONSISTON GEORGE was a shade disappointing on his final run in bumpers, but it possibly came too soon and he remains a good hurdle prospect who should be up to winning a race of this nature. Lunar Chief is another interesting newcomer to this sphere having made a successful bumper debut at Newcastle back in March, with multiple point winner Tara Cove also feared.
Ruth Jefferson's LUNAR CHIEF beat a clear second when winning his sole bumper in March and gets the vote on this hurdling debut
(2) Dancing On My Own 14/1, Smart chaser. Best effort when winning the Red Rum at Aintree in April. Respectable 3½ lengths second of 4 to Easy Game in minor event chase at at Listowel (19f, good, 5/1) 2 months later. Respected. Decent run last time and had previously won Aintree's Red Rum off 7lb lower.
2
2nd (8) (9/1 +18%) Triple Trade
9/1(+18%)
(8) Triple Trade 9/1, Gained his breakthrough success over fences in 2m4f handicap at Wincanton in April and followed up with a career best at Kempton later that month. Up 10 lb but can make his presence felt again on return. Beaten in his first six chases but came good in his final two last season; up the weights.
3
3rd (7) (6/1 +57%) In Excelsis Deo
6/1(+57%)
(7) In Excelsis Deo 6/1, Fairly useful ex-French winning hurdler. Easy winner on chasing/yard debut at Hereford (2m, soft) in December. Best effort since when second of 3 in handicap chase at Southwell (15.8f, soft). Off 6 months. Drying ground might not be ideal but he's a 5yo with more to offer.
4
4th (1) (13/2 +28%) Notlongtillmay
13/2(+28%)
(1) Notlongtillmay 13/2, Immediate improvement switched to fences for this yard, winning novice handicaps on first 3 starts before excellent 3¼ lengths second of 7 to Stage Star in Grade 1 Turners at Festival here (2½m) final start. Revised mark of 152 on the high side but remains unexposed. Quality novice last season, winding up with a second in the 2m4f Grade 1 here in March.
5th
5th (10) (6/1 +33%) Guy
6/1(+33%)
(10) Guy 6/1, Fairly useful chaser who was in good form over hurdles during the spring, landing the odds in a Ludlow novice (15.8f, good). Followed up back over fences at Fontwell on return 3 weeks ago but 5 lb higher in much better race now. Recent Fontwell winner; this is way tougher over a trip perhaps short of his best.
6th
6th (9) (12/1 +14%) The Dasher Conway
12/1(+14%)
(9) The Dasher Conway 12/1, Latest win in chase at Tramore in June. Couple of good placed efforts after before let down by a rare jumping lapse at Listowel. Proved he was none the worse when going close back over hurdles at Fairyhouse 3 weeks ago. Irish raider who could have a say should his jumping stand the test.
7th
7th (6) (33/1 +0%) Prince Escalus
33/1(+0%)
(6) Prince Escalus 33/1, Useful chaser who gained a third win in that sphere in 2m Wetherby handicap in February. Only seventh both starts since, including at Market Rasen on return. All three chase wins have come at a lower level in small fields; 2m5f too far latest.
8th
8th (11) (17/2 +58%) Royale Margaux
17/2(+58%)
(11) Royale Margaux 17/2, Multiple winner in France for David Cottin and posted best effort for Tom Symonds when second of 6 in handicap chase (11/4) at this course (16.3f, good), travelling strongly. Off 6 months and 1 lb out of handicap. Seven wins in France and signed off last season with good efforts in handicaps.
9th
9th (5) (7/1 -40%) Before Midnight
7/1(-40%)
(5) Before Midnight 7/1, Encouraging start for this yard (previously trained by Sam Thomas) after 6 months off when fourth on belated return to hurdles at Chepstow. Should come on for that and potentially on a good mark. Rated higher in the past; hurdling reappearance (stable debut) was quite encouraging.
|F|
|F| (3) (5/2 +0%) Haddex Des Obeaux
5/2(+0%)
(3) Haddex Des Obeaux 5/2, Very progressive over fences, making all with a bold-jumping display at Doncaster in December before showing further improvement when landing a valuable pot at Warwick (heavy) following month. Off since (through injury) but remains of firm interest. Impressive from the front in a pair of 2m handicaps last season; has Graded-race potential.
|U|
|U| (12) (40/1 +20%) Madara
40/1(+20%)
(12) Madara 40/1, Fairly useful form over fences in France, neck second of 6 in claimer at Auteuil last time, leading till last few strides. Claimed from Y. Fouin €25,555 after. 3 lb out of handicap on U.K bow. Three wins in France; low mileage but could be on a tough mark for British debut.
LTO Selection:
13:15 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
NOTLONGTILLMAY won his first three starts over fences, but he ran his best race in defeat when second to Stage Star here in March. If he has the speed for this trip, the seven-year-old could take some beating. Dancing On My Own is hard to ignore after his Listowel second when last seen in June, while the Warwick winner Haddex Des Obeaux has 10lb more from the handicapper here.
HADDEX DES OBEAUX looked very progressive in a light campaign over fences last season and the handicapper hasn't overreacted for his impressive win at Warwick last time. Triple Trade and Notlongtillmay are also firmly on the upgrade so are feared most.
Gary Moore's HADDEX DES OBEAUX is by the same sire as the stable's star chaser Editeur Du Gite and he could have similar potential.
(3) Elvis Mail 2.75/1, Useful hurdler/chaser who got back on track when landing a C&D handicap (soft) on final run of last season. Good record when fresh, but resumes on a 5 lb higher mark in a tougher race and his jumping isn't always on-point. Comfortable winner over C&D in March; this 5lb higher mark might not be beyond him.
2
2nd (2) (5/1 +23%) Highland Hunter
5/1(+23%)
(2) Highland Hunter 5/1, Thorough stayer who landed the London National at Sandown prior to finishing second in the Welsh National at Chepstow for Paul Nicholls during a light 2021/22 campaign. Resumes on a handy mark for new yard, but 21-month absence is naturally a concern. Tongue strap applied. New trainer can get them fit but this 10yo is a thorough stayer who ideally wants further.
3
3rd (4) (2.25/1 +10%) Empire Steel
2.25/1(+10%)
(4) Empire Steel 2.25/1, Back to form when landing a 4-runner listed chase here (23.4f, good to soft) in March, enhancing his fine record at Kelso in the process (form figures at this course read 1121). Didn't have the stamina for the Scottish National on final start of last season, but this is a more suitable scenario. Has an appealing record here and he's capable of showing his true form after an absence.
4
4th (6) (18/1 +45%) Burrows Diamond
18/1(+45%)
(6) Burrows Diamond 18/1, Resumed winning ways when taking a 7-runner handicap over 24.2f at Wetherby (soft) last December. Found just one too good on 2 of his 3 subsequent starts, but faces an uphill task from 5 lb out of the weights here. Has never raced beyond 3m and being 5lb out of the weights is no help.
5th
5th (1) (10/3 -48%) Corach Rambler
10/3(-48%)
(1) Corach Rambler 10/3, Notched second successive win in the Ultima at the Cheltenham Festival in March before a fine performance to land the Grand National at Aintree (34.3f, good) the following month. Clearly still improving and very much the one to beat, albeit he looked in need of his reappearance run last season. 13lb higher than for his Grand National heroics but he was mightily impressive.
|PU|
|PU| (5) (10/1 +0%) Rapper
10/1(+0%)
(5) Rapper 10/1, Raised his game in first-time cheekpieces when landing a 3¼m Cheltenham handicap on New Year's Day. Hard to knock his fifth-place finish at Sandown next time and there were excuses when pulled up back at Cheltenham in March (later found to have bled). Visored that day but cheekpieces now refitted. Not on a bad mark and cheekpieces return but his record fresh isn't overly encouraging..
LTO Selection:
13:29 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 2) 26f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Last season's Grand National hero Corach Rambler has a good record when fresh and, having won half of his previous races over fences, he can again be relied upon to give his all. However, he runs off 13lb higher today and, given EMPIRE STEEL goes well here, this could be a good time to side with the Sandy Thomson-trained gelding, who runs off just 2lb higher than his last winning mark. A winner over C&D last time out, Elvis Mail is also respected off just 5lb higher.
EMPIRE STEEL evidently has something of a penchant for Kelso, making it 3-4 here when taking notable scalps in a listed race in March. Everything looks in place for a big run from Sandy Thompson's charge and he is taken to get the better of another high-profile rival in Corach Rambler. The latter was a brilliant winner of the Grand National and may well have more to offer this season, but this could be the day to take him on (needed his reappearance run last term). Rapper is best of the rest.
All eyes are on the returning Grand National hero CORACH RAMBLER who could be set for another memorable campaign.
(3) Edge Of Blue 2/1, Well-bred gelding who is unbeaten in two, having something to spare when scoring in a novice at Wolverhampton last time. More to come and makes plenty of appeal.
2
2nd (6) (16/1 +20%) Bill's Baar
16/1(+20%)
(6) Bill's Baar 16/1, Won 6-runner maiden (11/4) at Ripon (6f, good to firm) in September but wasn't in the same form at Ayr next time. Others preferred.
3
3rd (2) (7/2 -115%) Palmar Bay
7/2(-115%)
(2) Palmar Bay 7/2, Progressive sort who doubled his tally in 9-runner event at Salisbury last time and looks to have been let in lightly for nursery debut. Looks the one to beat.
4
4th (5) (7/2 +61%) Miguel
7/2(+61%)
(5) Miguel 7/2, Winner of a 7f maiden at Brighton and a 1m nursery at Ripon last month but he does need to shrug off a poor run on testing ground at York a couple of weeks ago.
5th
5th (1) (3/1 +0%) Ice Max
3/1(+0%)
(1) Ice Max 3/1, Made it 2-4 with a useful effort to easily see off 4 rivals in a 7f Catterick nursery (soft) 24 days ago. Bold show likely for top 2-y-o stable.
6th
6th (4) (22/1 +0%) Bellarchi
22/1(+0%)
(4) Bellarchi 22/1, Completed hat-trick when landing 6f Hamilton nursery in September and has held her form in the main since. Latest effort best excused and she's not completely dismissed.
LTO Selection:
13:35 Doncaster Handicap (Class 3) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
ICE MAX made a seamless transition into handicaps when streaking clear of Bellarchi (second) to score in style at Catterick 24 days ago. Karl Burke's charge has an 11lb higher mark to contend with today, but that might not be enough to stop him given the manner of that facile victory. Palmar Bay landed a conditions event over 6f at Salisbury last time and is an interesting candidate upped in trip, along with the unbeaten Edge Of Blue.
PALMAR BAY is going the right way and an opening mark of 88 looks lenient, so he's marginally preferred to Edge of Blue, who also has plenty of potential. Ice Max is the pick of the others.
Palmar Bay is a tempting option but preference is for Godolphin's EDGE OF BLUE, who is 2-2 and could have plenty more to offer.
(2) Blueking D'Oroux 2.5/1, Well and truly turned a corner on back of a wind op during the spring, landing a juvenile handicap at Ascot prior to a fine second in 20-runner Aintree handicap (16.5f) in April. Looks one to keep on side this season now he's back on track. Won Ascot handicap in April and was excellent second at Aintree festival soon afterwards.
2
2nd (6) (10/1 +64%) Jilaijone
10/1(+64%)
(6) Jilaijone 10/1, Fair ex-French hurdler who scored on yard debut at Fontwell (17.7f) last winter and hard to knock his efforts in defeat since, good second with race fitness on his side at Chepstow (2m, heavy) 2 weeks ago. However, expected to find at least a couple too good here. Not favoured by today's weights but comes here after two good efforts this season.
3
3rd (3) (4/1 +60%) Bois Guillbert
4/1(+60%)
(3) Bois Guillbert 4/1, Lightly-raced gelding who picked up where he left off returning from 6 months off when landing 7-runner Kelso handicap hurdle 3 weeks ago, that despite still looking rough around the edges. Very much the type to go on improving for his good yard. Won on recent seasonal/hurdle debut at Kelso but has a bit to find here.
4
4th (8) (1.75/1 +13%) Spirit D'Aunou
1.75/1(+13%)
(8) Spirit D'Aunou 1.75/1, Promise when second on hurdles bow this time last year and most progressive thereafter, completing 4-timer in fine style at Chepstow (2m) in April. Highly likely there's more to come on the back of just 5 career starts and he's well worthy of respect. 4-5 over hurdles; ended last season with stylish handicap win at Chepstow; respected.
5th
5th (7) (18/1 -13%) Mr Mackay
18/1(-13%)
(7) Mr Mackay 18/1, In-the-frame on 3 of his 4 starts in bumpers and confirmed reappearance/hurdles debut promise when landing 6-runner Huntingdon maiden (19.6f) earlier this month. Much more on his plate now upped in class but highly likely there's more to come. Won Huntingdon maiden this month but needs another big step forward to follow up here.
6th
6th (4) (40/1 -21%) Bojak
40/1(-21%)
(4) Bojak 40/1, Fair Flat winner (stays 9f) and much improved on third hurdles start when landing 18-runner Cork maiden (16.9f) in July. Respectable second in French 4-y-o hurdle for new yard 12 days ago but suspicion he'll find a few too good here. Hood on 1st time. Ran big race from the front when second of 15 in France on recent stable debut.
7th
7th (5) (10/1 +50%) Chaos Control
10/1(+50%)
(5) Chaos Control 10/1, Fairly useful handicapper on Flat who struck at the third time of asking over hurdles in a Market Rasen juvenile (16.5f) in February. Not disgraced in handicaps in recent months but likely he lacks the potential of one or two in this field. Respectable third in 2m4f handicap in August but does not appear to be progressing.
LTO Selection:
13:50 Cheltenham Conditions Hurdle (Class 2) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Bois Guillbert could go well for Lucinda Russell after winning on his seasonal return at Kelso and, although he needs to improve at this level, the four-year-old does have a race-fitness advantage over the majority of the field. He could go well, but the handicapper rates BLUEKING D'OROUX 9lb or more better than all of his rivals and Paul Nicholls' gelding is hard to oppose. Mr Mackay might surprise a few and pick up some place money.
BLUEKING D'OROUX well and truly turned a corner following wind surgery during the spring, successful on handicap debut at Ascot prior to running a fine race to finish runner-up in a big-field Aintree handicap on his final outing. Worth keeping on side this term, he earns the vote to come out on top, with the rapidly improving Spirit d'Aunou heading the dangers. Punta del Este and Bois Guillbert can do battle for a minor role.
Blueking D'Oroux is respected but SPIRIT D'AUNOU still looked full of running when drawing clear to win at Chepstow in April.
(2) Kaleosun 2.5/1, Bumper winner in France for Alain Couetil who failed to justify support when fourth of 10 in juvenile event at Cork (16.1f, good to soft) on hurdle debut 13 days ago. Open to progress. French bumper winner; should have improved from Cork debut for this yard and go close.
2
2nd (5) (5/1 -11%) Ose Partir
5/1(-11%)
(5) Ose Partir 5/1, Dam half-sister to fairly useful 15f hurdle winner in France Misterenrique. Successful once from 2 starts on Flat in France, showing fairly useful form, stays 10.5f: has left J. Boisnard. Interesting hurdling debutant. Winner over 1m2f on the AW in France; could take to this game but untested on this ground.
3
3rd (1) (12/1 +64%) Biggerthanbigtime
12/1(+64%)
(1) Biggerthanbigtime 12/1, Twice-raced maiden. 18/1, fourth of 6 in juvenile hurdle at Punchestown (16.6f, good) 18 days ago. Didn't jump fluently at times at Punchestown; handicaps probably beckon after today.
4
4th (8) (8.5/1 -13%) Expelliarmus
8.5/1(-13%)
(8) Expelliarmus 8.5/1, Fair maiden on the Flat but went backwards from hurdling debut when seventh of 11 in juvenile hurdle at Gowran (16f, heavy) 28 days ago, possibly unsuited by conditions. Needs to bounce back. Best Flat form was on good ground; looks the owner's main contender but ground concerns.
5th
5th (9) (11/1 +31%) Jeaniemacaroney
11/1(+31%)
(9) Jeaniemacaroney 11/1, Fair maiden on Flat, stays 9.5f, shaped as if still in good form last time. Each-way possibilities if her stamina holds out on hurdle debut. Flat maiden is rated 66 in that sphere and was placed up to 1m3f, including on heavy.
6th
6th (6) (7/4 +56%) Van Demon
7/4(+56%)
(6) Van Demon 7/4, Fairly useful form on Flat (stays 1½m), won maiden in August, third on handicap debut last time. Very much one to consider on hurdle debut. Flat winner is rated 80 and has the ability to run a big race if jumping soundly.
7th
7th (3) (33/1 -65%) Macinamillion
33/1(-65%)
(3) Macinamillion 33/1, Modest maiden on Flat and ran to a similar level when eighth of 10 in juvenile hurdle at Cork (16.1f, good to soft, 40/1) on NH debut 13 days ago. Beaten 10l on hurdling debut at Cork after racing keenly; needs to improve a fair bit.
8th
8th (4) (33/1 +18%) No Big Deal
33/1(+18%)
(4) No Big Deal 33/1, Little impact in 4 Flat outings and was well held at Gowran (16f, heavy) on hurdling debut 28 days ago. Beaten a long way on hurdling debut at Gowran and lots of work to do.
9th
9th (7) (100/1 -52%) Better Choice
100/1(-52%)
(7) Better Choice 100/1, 1,000 gns 3-y-o, Elzaam filly. Sister to 2 winners, including fairly useful hurdler Instant Return. Dam ran once on Flat. A 9,000euros yearling made only 1,000gns as a 3yo; likely to improve from this debut.
|PU|
|PU| (11) (22/1 +45%) Party Hard
22/1(+45%)
(11) Party Hard 22/1, Wings of Eagles filly. Half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser Ofalltheginjoints and fair hurdler Mick Charlie. Half-sister to a pair of decent winners; 1,100Euros foal is likely to improve from this.
LTO Selection:
13:57 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
KALEOSUN, who won on the level in his native France, can come on from fourth place in a maiden hurdle at Cork. He went off 4/6 favourite, but weakened to fourth after being headed on the run-in. That was his first run for almost six months, so improvement looks inevitable. In a recent stable tour, Gordon Elliott mentioned him as a possible for the Boodles at the Cheltenham Festival. Van Demon hails from a shrewd stable and won a maiden on the Flat at Cork in August. Jeaniemacaroney may prove the pick of Joseph O'Brien's pair on this ground.
VAN DEMON has shown fairly useful form on four of his 5 starts on the Flat and has the size to make a hurdler, so he's a very appealing candidate and is preferred to Kaleosun, who failed to justify support on his recent debut in this sphere at Cork but should improve nonetheless. Ose Partir is another to note.
Turned out again relatively quickly after a beaten favourite at Cork on yard debut, French bumper winner KALEOSUN (nap) can make amends
(6) Busty Boy 4/1, Successful on 3 of his 4 starts in Irish points and achieved more than previously under Rules when second in 5-runner Carlisle novice (19.3f, soft) on debut for new yard in March. Not disgraced over the same C&D last time and worth a second look now upped in trip for this chase debut. Triple Irish point winner; promise in novice hurdles in spring; chase/handicap debut today.
2
2nd (4) (9/4 +44%) Domandlouis
9/4(+44%)
(4) Domandlouis 9/4, Hurdles winner here in May 2022 and runner-up twice over fences last season, including off a 1 lb higher mark over C&D in April. Disappointing back here the following month and absent since, but will be a threat if responding well to the first-time cheekpieces. 0-6 over fences but runs this track well and returns from break on a workable mark.
3
3rd (8) (13/2 +35%) Pats Dream
13/2(+35%)
(8) Pats Dream 13/2, Failed to pull up any trees in 4 starts over hurdles last season and needs to take a big step forward now switched to fences. Well beaten on handicap hurdle debut in April but improvement is possible over fences.
4
4th (3) (8/1 +50%) No Tackle
8/1(+50%)
(3) No Tackle 8/1, Showed much improved form to get off the mark at the second attempt over hurdles in a heavy-ground Lingfield maiden (19.5f) last December. However, struggled in handicaps thereafter and opposable starting out over fences here. Finished well to win maiden hurdle last year but lost his way soon afterwards; chase debut.
5th
5th (1) (7/4 +42%) Horacio Apple's
7/4(+42%)
(1) Horacio Apple's 7/4, Fair form in bumpers and winner of first 2 starts in handicap company over hurdles last season. Came up short when bidding for the hat-trick off this mark at Haydock when last seen in March, but makes his chase debut in a winnable race and he's one to consider. 2-5 over hurdles last season and a good candidate for chasing this term.
6th
6th (7) (28/1 +0%) So Be It
28/1(+0%)
(7) So Be It 28/1, Runner-up twice around 3m at Perth this summer, but he has performed poorly on his last 2 starts and record stands at 0-15 under Rules. Second in three chases this season but suffered worrying slump in form last month.
LTO Selection:
14:04 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 4) 23f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
HORACIO APPLE'S was progressive over hurdles last season and, as he is bred to be a chaser, looks to have been found a suitable opening to make a strong impact now he switches to the larger obstacles. No Regrets is rated higher over timber but has enough respectable form over fences to suggest he can go well again, having topped up his fitness at Southwell 25 days ago. Domandlouis is a potential improver now tried with cheekpieces applied.
If his jumping passes the test now tackling fences, HORACIO APPLE'S could be the answer to this rather tricky-looking contest. He never looked like completing the hat-trick on his final start of last season, but he appeared to be going the right way prior to that. No Regrets and Domandlouis have already exhibited a fair level of ability in this sphere, with the former feared most. Busty Boy was 3-4 between the flags and may well step up on his hurdles form now sent chasing.
Triple Irish point winner BUSTY BOY showed more than enough in two novice hurdles in the spring to make him of strong interest here.
(2) Battle Cry 40/1, Off the mark at third attempt in valuable York maiden but beaten over 7 lengths by Dancing Gemini in listed race here since. Excellent second on AW debut at Dundalk subsequently. Has plenty to find with Dancing Gemini on their soft-ground Listed clash here last month.
1
1st (1) (5/4 +9%) Ancient Wisdom
5/4(+9%)
(1) Ancient Wisdom 5/4, €2,000,000 yearling who made an impressive winning debut at Haydock before following up in workmanlike style on the July Course. Seemed beaten on merit when third in strong Ascot listed event but took form to another level when resuming winning ways in Newmarket Group 3 (1m). Form pick. Comfortably won the Group 3 Autumn Stakes a fortnight ago; leading player on that form.
2
2nd (5) (16/1 +20%) Devil's Point
16/1(+20%)
(5) Devil's Point 16/1, Built on debut when scoring readily in maiden company at Ffos Las (7f, heavy). Better form when making the frame in Group 3s at Sandown/Saint-Cloud since but another big step forward is required. Respectable efforts in Group 3s the last twice but has something to find here.
3
3rd (7) (8/1 +0%) God's Window
8/1(+0%)
(7) God's Window 8/1, Dubawi colt who made a highly promising start when winning C&D maiden with a bit in hand 6 weeks ago. This a big step up but had 2 subsequent winners in behind on debut and has scope for plenty of improvement for top stable. Won soft-ground C&D maiden on debut; could have lots more to offer for leading stable.
4
4th (4) (50/1 +67%) Deira Mile
50/1(+67%)
(4) Deira Mile 50/1, Promise when third on first 2 outings but he failed to get the job done when sent off at 1/5 in a small field on AW last month, looking reluctant under pressure. Has since left Charlie Johnston and chucked into the deep end by new yard. Has shown ability in defeat but transformation needed on this stable debut.
5th
5th (3) (9/2 +10%) Dancing Gemini
9/2(+10%)
(3) Dancing Gemini 9/2, Offered plenty to work on when second in maiden at Salisbury before not disgraced in Pat Eddery at Ascot (over 10 lengths behind Ancient Wisdom). Big improvement since, winning Newbury maiden before following up in Doncaster listed race in impressive fashion. Needs considering. Impressive in 7f Listed race here last month and has to be respected on the back of that.
6th
6th (6) (9/4 +10%) Diego Velazquez
9/4(+10%)
(6) Diego Velazquez 9/4, Cost 2,400,000 gns as a yearling and looked a very bright prospect when winning 13-runner maiden at the Curragh on debut, readily. Stepped up on that as expected when landing odds in Group 2 at Leopardstown despite some residual greenness. Big shout for trainer who has win this a record 11 times. 2-2 (Group 2 last time) and trainer has won this 11 times, including four of the last six.
7th
7th (8) (33/1 +18%) Redhot Whisper
33/1(+18%)
(8) Redhot Whisper 33/1, Out of a winning miler and showed plenty of encouragement when third at Leicester on debut, not having a hard race. Built on that when ¾-length second to God's Window at this C&D, again showing plenty to work on. Promise when placed on first two starts but looks up against it in this red-hot race.
LTO Selection:
14:10 Doncaster Group 1 (Class 1) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
Aidan O'Brien has a magnificent record in this contest in recent years, winning four of the last six renewals, including with subsequent Derby winner Auguste Rodin 12 months ago. DIEGO VELAZQUEZ, who landed a Group 2 at Leopardstown last month, is fancied to add to that tally today. Ancient Wisdom was an impressive winner of the Autumn Stakes at Newmarket a fortnight ago and he appeals as the main danger today. Others to note include Flying Scotsman winner Dancing Gemini and God's Window.
ANCIENT WISDOM was most impressive when resuming winning ways in the Autumn Stakes at Newmarket 2 weeks ago and he sets a clear standard. The unbeaten Diego Velazquez is the obvious threat for a trainer who has won this a record 11 times, including the last 2 renewals. Dancing Gemini completes the shortlist after his wide-margin win in a listed event here 6 weeks ago.
Aidan O'Brien has won this race 11 times and DIEGO VELAZQUEZ is taken to make it a dozen. Dancing Gemini is second choice.
(12) Whacker Clan 12/1, Winner of a Ballinrobe maiden chase last year and doubled his tally over fences when seeing off 9 rivals in a Tramore handicap (21.7f, soft) in August. 5 lb higher now and Rachael Blackmore prefers Amirite, but his bold jumping will stand him in good stead round here and he' not discounted. Gamely made all at Tramore in August and now 2-6 over fences; more is needed here.
2
2nd (3) (4/1 +56%) Twig
4/1(+56%)
(3) Twig 4/1, Good strike rate between the flags and over hurdles, and record in this sphere stands at 4-5 following his victory in a valuable Uttoxeter handicap upped to 3¼m in July (was treated for post-race heat stress). 5 lb rise by no means the end of the world and he's a must for the shortlist. Took form to new level when winning 16-runner handicap chase at Uttoxeter in July; up 5lb.
3
3rd (13) (33/1 -18%) Wayfinder
33/1(-18%)
(13) Wayfinder 33/1, Completed a 3m Chepstow hat-trick on his reappearance last October. However. pulled up 3 times from 4 subsequent starts and it's easy enough to look elsewhere. Won when fresh last October but pulled up on three of next four outings; hard to predict.
4
4th (2) (5/1 -11%) Amirite
5/1(-11%)
(2) Amirite 5/1, Looked a good prospect when making winning chase debut at Fairyhouse (21f, good) last October. Twice placed in graded events since and probably best to ignore his tame effort when sent off favourite for the Irish National in April (likely he was amiss that day). Remains of interest. Disappointing favourite in Irish Grand National but still has potential; shortlisted.
5th
5th (7) (25/1 -14%) The Wolf
25/1(-14%)
(7) The Wolf 25/1, Boasts some solid pieces of form at Cheltenham, not least when second to Lord Accord in this race 12 months ago. Back on the scoresheet at Perth in April, but this temperamental sort didn't jump at all well at Cartmel since and is probably worth taking on. Blinkers refitted. Second off 3lb higher in this race last year; has tendency to make jumping errors, though.
|PU|
|PU| (8) (7/1 +13%) Quick Draw
7/1(+13%)
(8) Quick Draw 7/1, Scored twice over hurdles for Tom Lacey and made it 3 wins from 9 starts in this sphere for Nicky Henderson when making all on return at Ludlow (23.8f, good to soft) recently. Dominating round here in this competitive race will not be easy, though, and an 8 lb rise demands more in any case. Made all for wide-margin win on recent seasonal debut; value of that form hard to assess.
|PU|
|PU| (6) (8/1 -7%) Undersupervision
8/1(-7%)
(6) Undersupervision 8/1, Unreliable sort but turned in one of his better efforts when runner-up in the Grimthorpe at Doncaster (3¼m, good) in March. Failed to fire tried over 31.8f in the Scottish National the following month, but would be a threat if on a going day. Not always a fluent jumper but runs this track well; on workable mark for seasonal debut.
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|PU| (1) (10/1 +9%) Kinondo Kwetu
10/1(+9%)
(1) Kinondo Kwetu 10/1, Most progressive over fences, making it 6 wins from 8 starts when seeing off another improver (pair well clear) at Aintree in May. Denied a clear run at a crucial stage when third in the 16-runner Uttoxeter handicap (3¼m, good) won by Twig next time and should make his presence felt. 6-9 over fences; good third of 16 last time, having made bad jumping error in straight.
|PU|
|PU| (9) (11/2 -38%) Lord Accord
11/2(-38%)
(9) Lord Accord 11/2, Decisive winner of this race off just a 1 lb lower mark 12 months ago before finishing a fine second in the Badger Beer at Wincanton. Below par thereafter, but should be spot-on following a spin over hurdles earlier this month and he merits serious consideration. Won this a year ago and should be primed after satisfactory reappearance over hurdles.
|PU|
|PU| (10) (11/1 +31%) Hidden Heroics
11/1(+31%)
(10) Hidden Heroics 11/1, Scored at Exeter and over this C&D on first 2 starts in this sphere last winter. However, he proved rather disappointing during the spring and needs to get back on track following a break/wind operation. Not at best when last seen in spring but might go well from the front here.
|PU|
|PU| (14) (14/1 +44%) Swapped
14/1(+44%)
(14) Swapped 14/1, Bumper winner who didn't progress over hurdles but has sprouted wings since switched to fences, completing the hat-trick with a commanding performance on debut for this yard at Southwell (25.8f, good to firm) last month. Good second there since, but this is a tougher assignment. In very good form in recent month but upped significantly in grade today.
|PU|
|PU| (5) (18/1 -13%) Brief Times
18/1(-13%)
(5) Brief Times 18/1, Often let down by his jumping but transformed by a step up to 3m this summer, making all at Southwell and Bangor. before finishing third off this mark at Worcester last time. However, has much more on his plate here and, in any case. Lord Accord appears to be the stable No 1. Returned to form with two wins this summer but may find this race too competitive.
|PU|
|PU| (4) (40/1 -21%) Mister Fogpatches
40/1(-21%)
(4) Mister Fogpatches 40/1, Useful chaser when on-song and performed with credit both starts here during 2021/22 campaign. However, he was only seen out twice last season and has failed to fire in 2 appearances (one of which was on the Flat) since returning from a break in September. This is more suitable than his last two assignments but he still has a fair bit to prove.
LTO Selection:
14:25 Cheltenham Handicap Chase (Class 2) 25f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
QUICK DRAW returned to fences with a wide-margin success at Ludlow recently where he made all of the running. Although up 8lb here, that was his first start since April and he may have more to offer. Tramore winner Whacker Clan does look attractively weighted for Henry De Bromhead and could be a major contender under Darragh O'Keeffe, alongside The Wolf, who looks set for a profitable season.
AMIRITE failed to justify strong support in the Irish National during the spring, but something was clearly amiss that day and he makes plenty of appeal on his second start in handicap company, in view of the promise he exhibited in novice company. Twig and Kinondo Kwetu, first and third respectively in a valuable contest at Uttoxeter last time, both have claims, while last year's winner Lord Accord, Undersupervision and the selection's stablemate Whacker Clan are others to consider.
Neil Mulholland's LORD ACCORD (nap) won this race last year after a satisfactory reappearance over hurdles and can repeat the dose.
(1) Release The Beast 1/1, €40,000 3-y-o, Affinisea gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler She's Commanche. Dam (h95) 2½m hurdle winner. Makes some appeal on paper and wouldn't need to be anything out of the ordinary to make an impact. Newcomer probably best watched unless market suggests otherwise.
2
2nd (7) (5/1 -43%) Mac's Xpress
5/1(-43%)
(7) Mac's Xpress 5/1, Fair maiden who ran respectably when third of 14 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (20f, soft) 35 days ago. Should give another good account. Solid form in handicaps and could well feature in what appears a weak maiden.
3
3rd (2) (16/1 +68%) Makaela's Choice
16/1(+68%)
(2) Makaela's Choice 16/1, Down the field in bumpers and showed only a bit when fifth of 12 in maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse (16f, soft) 26 days ago. Plenty to find on previous two attempts and needs to improve jumping.
4
4th (6) (28/1 -75%) Upthereforthinking
28/1(-75%)
(6) Upthereforthinking 28/1, Went backwards from an encouraging hurdling debut when ninth in 12-runner maiden (12/1) at Roscommon (15.9f, soft) 33 days ago. Needs to get back on track. Excuses at Roscommon latest, some promise prior to that so don't rule out.
5th
5th (9) (14/1 -40%) Safran Et Bleu
14/1(-40%)
(9) Safran Et Bleu 14/1, €12,500 3-y-o, Youmzain gelding. Half-brother to 4 winners, including useful hurdler/smart chaser Court Maid and useful bumper winner/useful hurdler Sheamus. Dam maiden hurdler. Interesting debutant from respected source, market support likely significant.
6th
6th (4) (33/1 +34%) Jouster
33/1(+34%)
(4) Jouster 33/1, Maiden pointer who offered little when well held on hurdling debut at Gowran (16f, heavy) 29 days ago. Tailed off on hurdles debut over C&D last month in maiden won by a stablemate.
7th
7th (3) (80/1 -60%) Captain Dillon
80/1(-60%)
(3) Captain Dillon 80/1, 18/1, considerate introduction when twelfth of 14 in maiden hurdle at Limerick (16f, soft) on NH debut. Off 9 months. Jumped poorly, tailed off on Limerick debut back in January; best watched on return.
|U|
|U| (8) (11/4 -120%) Ollie La Ba Ba
11/4(-120%)
(8) Ollie La Ba Ba 11/4, Built on hurdling debut effort at second attempt when runner-up in 14-runner maiden at Cork (20.4f, good to soft) 13 days ago, running on. Sets a clear standard. Recent Clonmel second over 2m5f makes him the one to beat if coping with drop in trip.
|U|
|U| (5) (16/1 -33%) The Lucky Lobster
16/1(-33%)
(5) The Lucky Lobster 16/1, €20,000 3-y-o, Yorgunnabelucky gelding. Half-brother to a point winner, and smart hurdler/useful chaser War Sound and modest hurdler Allbarkanobite. Needs a market check-on debut in an ordinary affair. Half-brother to a pair of hurdle winners; market likely best guide on debut.
LTO Selection:
14:32 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
OLLIE LA BA BA could be the answer to a weak race. Eoin McCarthy's charge posted a decent effort in second behind an odds-on favourite in an auction maiden hurdle at Cork this month. That is strong form in the context of this race. Safran Et Bleu is a newcomer to note by virtue of being related to a host of multiple winners while Paul Nolan takes the wraps off Release The Beast who is well worth a market check. Mac's Xpress has plenty of experience over flights and has been placed in his last couple of outings albeit beaten a fair way in Listowel.
OLLIE LA BA BA built on his hurdling debut promise at the second attempt when runner-up at Cork 13 days ago and this looks an excellent opportunity for him to go one better. Mac's Express is fully exposed but is still expected to provide the main threat ahead of newcomer Release The Beast.
A weak maiden hurdle in which OLLIE LA BA BA has the best form credentials although that was over 2m4f so there are doubts back in trip
(5) Bollingerandkrug 6/4, Clearly likes it here, registering all 4 wins at this course, including when proving ½-length too strong for Cedar Hill in May. 5 lb rise fair and this bold-jumping 8-y-o will be a threat if allowed his own way in front. Good Kelso record, beating Cedar Hill when last seen in May; yard continues in form.
2
2nd (3) (3/1 +33%) Gold Des Bois
3/1(+33%)
(3) Gold Des Bois 3/1, Started last season with back-to-back wins in 4-runner races over C&D, and by no means disgraced when third back here on this season's reappearance 20 days ago, finishing a length adrift of the re-opposing runner-up Cedar Hill. Should make his presence felt. Third over C&D on recent reappearance, with Cedar Hill 1l ahead in second; thereabouts.
3
3rd (1) (11/8 +31%) Pay The Piper
11/8(+31%)
(1) Pay The Piper 11/8, Regained the winning thread at Musselburgh (15.8f, good to soft) in February and only just edged out in follow-up bid at Doncaster the following month. Unseated early on when returning to action at Wetherby, but will surely be in the mix granted a clear round here. Smart chaser; unseated early on recent return but prominent in betting and yard going well.
4
4th (4) (33/1 -50%) Sil Ver Klass
33/1(-50%)
(4) Sil Ver Klass 33/1, Three-time winner over fences for previous connections in Ireland, but he was a long way adrift of Cedar Hill and Gold des Bois over C&D on his recent British debut. Well behind Cedar Hill and Gold Des Bois on recent C&D yard debut; can only watch.
LTO Selection:
14:39 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 3) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
BOLLINGERANDKRUG got the better of Cedar Hill (second) by half-a-length when they last met over C&D in May and Lucinda Russell's charge is taken to uphold that form, despite being 2lb worse off at the weights. The selection has run well fresh in the past and he can notch up a fifth career victory on his return. Pay The Piper is more than capable on his day and must enter calculations.
The vote goes to PAY THE PIPER, who looked in fine shape ahead of his recent reappearance at Wetherby only to unseat his rider before the halfway point. He is generally a sound jumper and this mark is clearly within reach (went close off 1 lb higher at Doncaster in March). Gold des Bois was behind Cedar Hill on his recent reappearance over C&D, but he should come on for that and rates the main danger. Bollingerandkrug should also have a part to play if fully tuned-up.
Perhaps PAY THE PIPER can make his class tell. Kelso specialist Bollingerandkrug might give him most to do.
(3) Ballymount Boy 5/2, Winner at Hamilton in July and much improved when runner-up in Richmond (soft) at Goodwood and Acomb Stakes at York next 2 starts. Pulled too hard in Group 1 at Longchamp since. Form pick back down in class trip. Well beaten in French Group 1 last time but leading claims on earlier Group-race form.
2
2nd (1) (16/1 -45%) Alaskan Gold
16/1(-45%)
(1) Alaskan Gold 16/1, Off the mark at the third attempt when narrowly landing the odds at Carlisle (5.8f, good, 4/9) but found step up in class too much when 5½ lengths seventh of 13 in Cornwallis Stakes at Newmarket. Change of headgear. Merely midfield in recent 5f Newmarket Group 3 but can have that run upgraded; interesting.
3
3rd (7) (6/1 +40%) Moswaat
6/1(+40%)
(7) Moswaat 6/1, 150,000 gns yearling, Kodiac colt. Confirmed debut promise to win Yarmouth novice (6f, soft) 12 days ago, well on top finish. Much more on his plate here but open to further improvement. Soft-ground win at Yarmouth on second start; up in grade but could continue to progress.
4
4th (2) (5/2 +62%) Al Shabab Storm
5/2(+62%)
(2) Al Shabab Storm 5/2, Advertise colt. Plenty of promise to glean from first 2 starts before landing odds in Goodwood novice (6f, soft) 13 days ago. Has proven his effectiveness with give underfoot so not taken lightly up in class. Won soft-ground Goodwood novice; up in grade but in good hands to continue to progress.
5th
5th (8) (28/1 -12%) Photosynthesis
28/1(-12%)
(8) Photosynthesis 28/1, Left debut form well behind to justify support in 18-runner maiden (15/2) at Navan (5.8f, soft) 24 days ago. May well do better again so respected. Narrow win in Navan maiden; much tougher task today but no surprise to see him run well.
6th
6th (4) (9/2 -50%) Esquire
9/2(-50%)
(4) Esquire 9/2, Looked a good prospect when making a winning debut in 7-runner novice at Hamilton with plenty in hand and showed plenty of improvement when second in listed race at York (6f, soft) 14 days ago, clear of rest. Big player with more to come. Listed runner-up at York a fortnight ago and holds strong form claims in this line-up.
7th
7th (5) (17/2 +58%) Global Skies
17/2(+58%)
(5) Global Skies 17/2, Mondialiste gelding. Improved when winning 8-runner maiden at Haydock (6f, soft, 3/1) before good second of 13 in novice at Nottingham (6.1f, heavy) 17 days ago. More needed again but will handle the ground. Good maiden/novice form but needs something extra if he's to threaten here.
8th
8th (9) (66/1 -32%) Boardroom
66/1(-32%)
(9) Boardroom 66/1, Confirmed debut promise when winning 11-runner maiden at Thirsk in August but well below par both starts since. Uphill task. Promising start to career in the summer but has failed to shine the last twice.
9th
9th (6) (20/1 -100%) Matters Most
20/1(-100%)
(6) Matters Most 20/1, 500,000 gns yearling who has won 5f Salisbury novice and 6f Windsor nursery. Took form to another level when runner-up in listed event at Ripon but pulled too hard under more restraint than usual in Mill Reef at Newbury. Disappointing in heavy-ground Group 2 latest but this Listed runner-up is not written off.
LTO Selection:
14:45 Doncaster Listed (Class 1) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 1 race.
BALLYMOUNT BOY was never involved in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagadere at Longchamp on Arc weekend, but his earlier form, most notably when finishing second to the classy Vandeek in the Richmond, makes him the one to beat. The son of Camacho can exploit a drop in class to repel the likely challenge of Esquire, who hit the woodwork in a similar event at York a fortnight ago. Matters Most heads the remainder.
BALLYMOUNT BOY's length second to Vandeek in the Richmond Stakes at Goodwood is the best form on offer and he can bounce back with a bang having pulled too hard in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp 4 weeks ago. Esquire rates a smart prospect and is feared most ahead of Al Shabab Storm.
The Richmond/Acomb runner-up BALLYMOUNT BOY didn't show his true form in France and can get back on track with a win.
(13) Hyland 9/1, Better than ever when landing a third handicap hurdle success on his 21f Warwick reappearance 23 days ago. Did that quite readily so a 6 lb rise looks fair enough. Won readily over 2m5f on recent seasonal debut and is unexposed over 3m; respected.
2
2nd (11) (20/1 -25%) Judicial Law
20/1(-25%)
(11) Judicial Law 20/1, Gained a third win of the season when leading in the dying strides over 3¼m at Kelso last month. First-time cheekpieces worn on that occasion are retained. Another who can't be discounted. Led close home in first-time cheekpieces at Kelso last month; now 5-14 over hurdles.
3
3rd (1) (66/1 +18%) Flight Deck
66/1(+18%)
(1) Flight Deck 66/1, Pretty smart on his day for Jonjo O'Neill but ended his time with that stable on a low note and a watching brief is advised on his return for a new yard with first-time blinkers replacing cheekpieces. Ended last season with two disappointing efforts and was sold for £5,000; stable debut.
4
4th (16) (9/1 +36%) Dubrovnik Harry
9/1(+36%)
(16) Dubrovnik Harry 9/1, Third in the competitive EBF Final at Sandown in his novice season. Didn't progress in a light campaign last term but he remains low mileage. Very promising novice in 2021-22; last season didn't get going; still has potential.
5th
5th (7) (18/1 -13%) Moonovercloon
18/1(-13%)
(7) Moonovercloon 18/1, Two wins this season and every chance of another when falling at the last at Listowel (2½m) in September. Showed himself none the worse for that when fourth of 17 at Punchestown (2½m again) 17 days ago. Stamina the unknown now tackling 3m for the first time. Two wins this season (2m1f/2m4f); needs a career best over new trip here.
6th
6th (12) (11/1 -22%) We'llhavewan
11/1(-22%)
(12) We'llhavewan 11/1, Strong in the market and back to winning ways at Killarney (22.5f, good to soft) when last seen in August. His British mark isn't obviously generous but anything this yard sends over merits plenty of respect. Fended off clear runner up to score at Killarney in August; on a fairly tough British mark.
7th
7th (19) (11/1 +21%) Gortmillish
11/1(+21%)
(19) Gortmillish 11/1, Maiden/novice hurdle winner back from a long absence this summer. Advanced his form again when fourth in a 23f rated novice at Killarney 4 weeks ago and he's unexposed now moving into handicap company for Gordon Elliott. On the shortlist. Dual novice winner this summer; no surprise if he features on this handicap debut.
8th
8th (4) (6/1 -9%) Bugs Moran
6/1(-9%)
(4) Bugs Moran 6/1, Useful hurdler who has recorded excellent runner-up efforts at Galway (22.5f) and Listowel (2½m) since returning from a long absence. Likely to give another good account now returning to 3m. Won competitive novice handicap in April and ran well in defeat on all three starts since.
9th
9th (10) (33/1 -32%) Hurricane Harvey
33/1(-32%)
(10) Hurricane Harvey 33/1, Recorded back-to-back wins around 3m at Uttoxeter and Ludlow last winter. Made a creditable return from 6 months off when third of 5 back at Uttoxeter 3 weeks ago but this looks a much deeper race. Good second on New course here in April but others in this field look better handicapped.
|U|
|U| (6) (18/1 +10%) Party Business
18/1(+10%)
(6) Party Business 18/1, Landed a big handicap at Aintree in spring 2022 but drawn a blank since, albeit he ran respectably for fourth of 16 at Haydock (3m) when last seen in May. Has had wind surgery. Did not hit peak form during a fairly light campaign last season; others preferred.
10th
10th (17) (33/1 +34%) American Sniper
33/1(+34%)
(17) American Sniper 33/1, Showed a good attitude when winning first 2 completed starts over hurdles. Another good run when just touched off on his 19f Taunton handicap debut in January but hasn't repeated that since, albeit he may have needed his recent Chepstow reappearance. Jack Tudor on Bashful Boy. Didn't run badly on heavy ground this month; a possible if this new trip suits.
11th
11th (2) (14/1 +0%) Espoir De Romay
14/1(+0%)
(2) Espoir De Romay 14/1, Very capable sort who has been lightly raced in recent seasons, but he again ran with credit when third in 23f Uttoxeter handicap hurdle back in May. Undergone wind surgery ahead of return with a tongue tie also refitted. Better over fences but placed twice off today's lower hurdle mark in the spring.
12th
12th (3) (18/1 +18%) Jet Of Magic
18/1(+18%)
(3) Jet Of Magic 18/1, Positive start for new yard, winning over hurdles at Uttoxeter (23f) in July. Every chance when unseated back there 4 weeks later and respectable third on his Worcester chase debut since. Jumped rather erratically and quickly reverts to hurdles. Last month's chase debut was underwhelming but he was in good form over hurdles beforehand.
13th
13th (5) (16/1 -14%) Rock My Way
16/1(-14%)
(5) Rock My Way 16/1, Winning Irish pointer who landed a course Grade 2 novice hurdle in January. Disappointing back here in 2 subsequent outings in the spring but he reappears with his yard in better form. Unexposed. Grade 2 novice winner here in January but ended last season with two heavy defeats.
14th
14th (9) (25/1 +11%) Willaston
25/1(+11%)
(9) Willaston 25/1, Progressive in the spring, winning competitive handicaps here (2½m) and at Haydock (3m). Had his winning run ended when a well-held fourth at Uttoxeter in July. Given a break since (has had wind surgery). Won two competitive handicaps in the spring (2m4f/3m) and further progress is possible.
15th
15th (8) (9/2 +36%) Hugos New Horse
9/2(+36%)
(8) Hugos New Horse 9/2, Likeable type who made it 4 wins in his last 5 starts when showing a typically tenacious attitude to see off 4 rivals at the Ayr Scottish National meeting in April. Steps up to 3m for the first time on reappearance. Likely to go on to even better things this season. Won five times as a novice last season; moves up in trip today; should have more to offer.
16th
16th (14) (25/1 -150%) Ringdufferin
25/1(-150%)
(14) Ringdufferin 25/1, Much improved for cheekpieces, making all in a novice at Downpatrick (21.5f, soft) and handicap at Gowran (3m, heavy) last month. Will find it harder to dominate this field but still merits consideration for his top Irish stable. 2-2 since fitted with cheekpieces last month and still has fairly low mileage; shortlisted.
|PU|
|PU| (18) (12/1 +14%) Bashful Boy
12/1(+14%)
(18) Bashful Boy 12/1, Back-to-back winner on the Flat at the start of the summer and completed a hat-trick back hurdling at Newton Abbot (21.5f) in July. Well suited by the emphasis on stamina when fourth of 31 in the 2¼m Cesarewitch at Newmarket a fortnight ago and that suggests he'll be suited by this step up to 3m. Highly commendable fourth in the Cesarewitch on Flat this month; first 3m attempt today.
|PU|
|PU| (20) (22/1 -10%) Spike Jones
22/1(-10%)
(20) Spike Jones 22/1, Successful twice over 3¼m at Fontwell last season and ended the campaign with a near miss at Kelso in March. Likeable type but might prove vulnerable in deeper on reappearance. Has had wind surgery. Through stayer; in good form when last seen in March; more needed again here.
|PU|
|PU| (15) (33/1 -32%) Bangers And Cash
33/1(-32%)
(15) Bangers And Cash 33/1, Progressed into a useful staying chaser last season, winning 3 of his last 4 starts. Has a slightly lower mark to work with back hurdling on his reappearance. Battled bravely for 3m4f chase win in March; today's test may not be ideal for him.
LTO Selection:
15:00 Cheltenham Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
BUGS MORAN may find this to be slightly easier than the valuable handicaps he has been contesting in Ireland. The six-year-old is likely to be held up off the pace and, granted a strongly run affair, he can sweep home late to collar the likes of Warwick winner Hyland and Hugos New Horse, who was progressive last season. Judicial Law should not be inconvenienced by dropping back in trip, having won over slightly further at Kelso, while Irish raiders Moonovercloon and We'llhavewan are likely to be thereabouts as well.
BUGS MORAN has been better than ever in 2 outings back from a long absence and there could be more to come now returning to 3m so he gets the vote. The likeable Hugos New Horse isn't opposed lightly and is second choice now stepping up to 3m for the first time. Gordon Elliott's Gortmillish and recent Cesarewitch fourth Bashful Boy also make the shortlist in a race where a case can be made for many.
The answer might be BUGS MORAN, who has finished second in three competitive handicaps since winning a series final in April.
(11) Waterford Whispers 2.75/1, Promising type. Seventh of 21 in novice hurdle at Fairyhouse (16f, good to soft, 18/1) on debut in April. Open to progress for leading connections. Promise in a stronger maiden than this at Fairyhouse in April; should play a part.
2
2nd (2) (40/1 +39%) Ataboycharlie
40/1(+39%)
(2) Ataboycharlie 40/1, Make Believe gelding. Half-brother to 2 winners, including fair 2m hurdle winner Versin Getorix. Pedigree a mix of Flat and jumps; likely to improve from this.
3
3rd (4) (0.73/1 +84%) Beau Walking
0.73/1(+84%)
(4) Beau Walking 0.73/1, Runner-up completed start in points (Mar 25). Joined a good stable and betting should help guide to expectations on Rules debut. Narrow runner-up in a point' in March; could go well on rules debut; check market.
4
4th (1) (66/1 -32%) Ask The Bookie
66/1(-32%)
(1) Ask The Bookie 66/1, Thrice-raced maiden under NH rules. Last of 21 in bumper (80/1) at Punchestown (18f, good to soft) on bumper debut. Off 18 months. Switches from bumpers to hurdles. Second in a Cork maiden hurdle but tailed-off in a bumper next time; off a long time.
5th
5th (3) (25/1 +24%) Barton Snow
25/1(+24%)
(3) Barton Snow 25/1, 9/2, sixth of 9 in bumper at Tramore (16f, heavy) 16 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Makes hurdles debut. Point' winner has twice been placed in bumpers this year but best runs were on good ground.
6th
6th (10) (50/1 +50%) Three In A Row
50/1(+50%)
(10) Three In A Row 50/1, Twice-raced maiden. Ninth of 18 in novice hurdle (40/1) at Tipperary (20.2f, soft). Off 6 months. Beaten 42l at Tipperary when last seen and handicaps will suit better.
7th
7th (6) (33/1 -32%) Folly Master
33/1(-32%)
(6) Folly Master 33/1, Got off the mark in points at the second time of asking in May. The betting should provide clues as to what's anticipated now hurdling. Won a point' in May on second start in yielding ground; worth a market look.
8th
8th (9) (100/1 +50%) Superdermo
100/1(+50%)
(9) Superdermo 100/1, Thrice-raced maiden. Seventeenth of 19 in novice hurdle at Navan (20f, soft, 250/1). Off 11 months. No promise in three hurdles starts and can't be fancied after a year away.
9th
9th (12) (150/1 -50%) Colline Fleurie
150/1(-50%)
(12) Colline Fleurie 150/1, Twice-raced maiden. Last of 18 in novice hurdle (100/1) at Limerick (16f, heavy) 6 days ago. Point' winner in April but little promise in two hurdle runs lately.
10th
10th (5) (12/1 +25%) Ca Plane Pour Moi
12/1(+25%)
(5) Ca Plane Pour Moi 12/1, Third sole start in points (May 7). One to note in the market now hurdling. Was 3rd on sole point' start in May and is worth a market check on rules debut.
11th
11th (8) (125/1 -150%) Snow Punt
125/1(-150%)
(8) Snow Punt 125/1, Once-raced maiden. 22/1, thirteenth of 15 in bumper at Tipperary (18f, heavy) on NH debut 177 days ago. Makes hurdles debut. Point' winner was tailed-off in a bumper when last seen and questions now.
12th
12th (13) (5/1 +50%) Down The Park
5/1(+50%)
(13) Down The Park 5/1, Third in a bumper last December. 11/4, could only manage a well-held fifth on Leopardstown hurdle/stable debut in March but it's early days. Promising 3rd in a bumper on debut but disappointing over hurdles since; not ruled out.
LTO Selection:
15:07 Galway Maiden Hurdle 16f Race Speed Rating Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
POUR LES FILLES was the subject of a favourable report by Gordon Elliott in a stable tour. He was a beaten favourite in third on hurdle debut at Punchestown, but the trainer expects him to come on significantly from that run. He is a former point-to-point and bumper winner, and should have a future in this discipline. Waterford Whispers showed some promise when seventh in a big field at Fairyhouse in April. He had subsequent hurdle winners in behind that day and should get much closer in this company. Beau Walking was only beaten half a length into second in a Lisronagh point-to-point in March. He has switched to Jessica Harrington for his track career and shouldn't be a backmarker.
Useful bumper winner POUR LES FILLES made a promising start to his hurdle career when third in a decent race at Punchestown recently and this looks an ideal opportunity for him to build on that. Waterford Whispers showed plenty on his debut back in the spring and might be the one to follow Gordon Elliott's charge home unless the betting speaks in the favour of Jessica Harrington point recruit Beau Walking.
Smart bumper sort POUR LES FILLES was a beaten favourite at Punchestown on hurdling debut but can make amends back in trip
(2) Caithness 3/1, Made all and forged clear in good style in the closing stages when opening his account in a C&D maiden hurdle (good to firm) last month. Mark for this handicap debut is no gift, but he still has low mileage and is certainly one to consider. Yard also represented by Our Marty. Fourth time lucky when making all in C&D maiden on reappearance; could be more to come.
2
2nd (15) (12/1 +52%) El Jefe
12/1(+52%)
(15) El Jefe 12/1, Posted one of last season's better efforts when third of 10 to Duyfken at Perth in April. However, he was nearer last than first when returning to action at Uttoxeter earlier this month. Third to Duyken at Perth but well held on return; 7lb out of handicap.
3
3rd (7) (14/1 -87%) Duyfken
14/1(-87%)
(7) Duyfken 14/1, Fair form on the Flat in France and gradually progressed over hurdles last season, opening his account at the second attempt in handicap company at Perth (16.2f, good to soft) when last seen in April. More needed up 4 lb here, but he's only a 4-y-o and there could be more to come. Ended last season with 2m Perth handicap win; lightly raced and could be more to come.
4
4th (8) (8/1 +43%) Ring Of Beara
8/1(+43%)
(8) Ring Of Beara 8/1, Fair winner at 7f on the Flat and made the frame on all but one of his 5 starts in this sphere last season. Won't be found wanting fitness-wise (creditable fifth on the level at Catterick earlier this month) and he needs considering. Fair over hurdles last season and arrives fit from Flat; only a 4yo so may be more to come.
5th
5th (6) (11/1 -38%) Cuzco Du Mathan
11/1(-38%)
(6) Cuzco Du Mathan 11/1, French recruit who produced much his best effort so far on these shores when bolting up in the first-time visor at (17.2f, soft) in August. Predictably hit hard by the handicapper (up 12 lb), but he will be a threat nonetheless if able to build on that. Much improved to win Cartmel under Leah Noreci latest; needs to show he can back that up.
6th
6th (9) (16/1 +36%) The Navigator
16/1(+36%)
(9) The Navigator 16/1, Has dipped in the weights, now 17 lb lower than for his success in a 5-runner handicap hurdle (21f, good) here last September, but he needs to bounce back in a significant way following low-key efforts on the Flat and over fences (refused last time) in recent months. Not convincing on Flat/over fences lately but well treated on best hurdle form.
7th
7th (3) (40/1 -264%) Ravenscar
40/1(-264%)
(3) Ravenscar 40/1, Fairly useful Flat performer who gained victory number 3 over hurdles at Doncaster in March. Good third in handicap hurdle here (18.1f, good) the following month and each-way shout if ready to roll back from a 6-month break. Won twice last term and third here when last seen in April; claims if primed for return.
8th
8th (5) (80/1 -567%) Valence D'aumont
80/1(-567%)
(5) Valence D'aumont 80/1, Enhanced good strike rate over fences when landing a Newcastle handicap in December 2021, but subsequent absence is an obvious concern, for all that he resumes in this sphere on a potentially handy mark. Absent since winning a chase in December 2021; watching brief the percentage call.
9th
9th (10) (22/1 -10%) Boundsy Boy
22/1(-10%)
(10) Boundsy Boy 22/1, Off the mark in a 15.8f Huntingdon handicap in February and runner-up 3 times since. By no means disgraced starting out for this yard when fifth of 12 at Sedgefield (16.8f, good to soft) recently and should make his presence felt. Only fair start for new yard at Sedgefield recently but has dropped back to his win mark.
|PU|
|PU| (4) (11/2 +50%) Parvos
11/2(+50%)
(4) Parvos 11/2, Fair hurdler in Ireland, placed 3 times in maiden/handicap company earlier this year. Shade below par at Killarney (22.2f, good) when tried in cheekpieces (discarded here) on latest start in May, though, and improvement needed on debut for new yard. Placed in handicaps in Ireland and may have more to offer for Sandy Thomson; check betting.
|PU|
|PU| (13) (11/1 +45%) Our Marty
11/1(+45%)
(13) Our Marty 11/1, Made a winning start over hurdles at Perth last autumn, but it would be something of an understatement to say that he's hasn't built on that since and it's probably best to look elsewhere. Patchy record; return to 2m may help after stopping quickly over 2m5f here but very risky.
|PU|
|PU| (12) (13/2 +19%) Bella Bluesky
13/2(+19%)
(12) Bella Bluesky 13/2, Opened hurdles account here in February 2022 and looked set double her tally following a wind op back at this course (21f, soft) last time, only for a lack of peak fitness to tell late on. Won't be lacking in that regard now and she's one to be interested in. C&D winner; travelled well when third over 2m5f here latest; gets the nod back at 2m.
|PU|
|PU| (1) (16/1 -100%) Telhimlisten
16/1(-100%)
(1) Telhimlisten 16/1, Progressed well from a low base over hurdles during the spring, winning 4 times, and easy winner of a 3-runner affair on first completed chase start at Plumpton in April. Excuses on debut for new yard at Kempton the following month, but resumes in this sphere on a tough-looking mark. Thrived for Jennie Candlish in spring but off since fourth in chase on yard debut in May.
|PU|
|PU| (11) (16/1 +0%) Noble Annys
16/1(+0%)
(11) Noble Annys 16/1, Showed ability in bumpers in Ireland, but she hasn't threated in 3 starts since switched to hurdles and needs to raise her game now pitched into a handicap. Brian Hughes up when third in novice latest and he retains ride for this handicap debut.
|PU|
|PU| (14) (50/1 -100%) Propagation
50/1(-100%)
(14) Propagation 50/1, Long-standing maiden miler on the level and hard to make case for here judged on what he's shown in maiden/novice company. 24-race maiden but recent Flat efforts creditable ahead of this handicap hurdle debut.
LTO Selection:
15:14 Kelso Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
Now that the penny has dropped for CAITHNESS after a taking success over C&D last time out, there should be plenty more to come from the seven-year-old on his handicap debut. Placed here over further in April and relatively consistent last season, Ravenscar is a key threat, along with Telhimlisten, who returns to hurdles having won his last four in this sphere. Others to note include Cuzco Du Mathan, Duyfken and Valence D'Aumont.
BELLA BLUESKY shaped well following a wind op here last time, only giving way in the closing stages having looked the most likely winner between the final two flights. She is taken to strike, perhaps at the chief expense of Caithness, who has more on his plate than when landing a C&D maiden last month but he remains unexposed. Ring of Beara is third choice ahead of Cuzco du Mathan and Duyfken.
Caithness and bDuyfken\p are respected but the suggestion is BELLA BLUESKY who shaped well over a longer trip here recently.
(3) Aberama Gold 4.5/1, Dual winner for Keith Dalgleish in June and took his form to another level for his new yard with further success over C&D and in Stewards' Cup (heavy) at Goodwood. Form has dipped off of late but is proven under conditions and is back on a decent mark. Won the Stewards' Cup in August but unable to replicate that form on his four runs since.
2
2nd (7) (6/1 +8%) Glorious Angel
6/1(+8%)
(7) Glorious Angel 6/1, Completed hat-trick on the AW in January and came close to ending losing run the last twice, short-head second of 9 to Vintage Clarets in handicap (17/2) at Catterick (5f, heavy) last week, just failing. Player. Twice went very close last week (including on heavy) and she's respected up 2lb.
3
3rd (2) (5.5/1 -10%) Vintage Clarets
5.5/1(-10%)
(2) Vintage Clarets 5.5/1, Four wins from 12 runs this year and is ending the season on a roll, career best when winning 9-runner handicap (11/2) at Catterick (5f, heavy) 7 days ago by short head from Glorious Angel, just holding on. 3 lb rise may prove enough to prevent the hat-trick, though. Has won his last two and can be bang there once more.
4
4th (9) (5/1 +38%) Manila Scouse
5/1(+38%)
(9) Manila Scouse 5/1, Back-to-back wins at Haydock (heavy)/Chepstow in August. Mixed record off revised mark since, 2 lengths fourth of 9 to Vintage Clarets in handicap at Catterick (5f, heavy, 10/3) 7 days ago. Solid fourth to Vintage Clarets at Catterick last Saturday and might not be far away.
5th
5th (1) (5/1 +23%) Intrinsic Bond
5/1(+23%)
(1) Intrinsic Bond 5/1, Won the Great St Wilfrid at Ripon for Tracy Waggott last summer and took his form to a new level when landing Ascot handicap for new yard in July. Smart effort when close third in Portland here last month but below par both starts since. Up and down of late and below par last time, but in the mix on close third in the Portland.
6th
6th (10) (25/1 -25%) Copper Knight
25/1(-25%)
(10) Copper Knight 25/1, Veteran who picked up another win at York in July before defying a penalty at Pontefract a week later. Last 3 starts suggests he has gone off the boil, however. Dead-heated in this in 2021; fair fifth last Saturday but needs to build on that run today.
7th
7th (4) (28/1 +58%) The Ridler
28/1(+58%)
(4) The Ridler 28/1, Useful at 2 yrs who caused a surprise when winner of the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot last summer. No show in 3 starts this term, though, so plenty to prove. Won last season's Norfolk but has struggled on his three starts this season.
8th
8th (6) (12/1 -33%) Call Me Ginger
12/1(-33%)
(6) Call Me Ginger 12/1, Won the Portland here last season off similar mark and picked up wins at Chester and Ascot last month. Not seen to best effect last 2 starts but ground is a slight concern. Three-time course winner; didn't enjoy clear run at Ascot last time and not written off.
9th
9th (5) (13/2 -8%) Desperate Hero
13/2(-8%)
(5) Desperate Hero 13/2, Winner at Newbury in August and confirmed himself still on the upgrade when resuming winning ways at Nottingham (5f, soft) 10 days ago with a bit in hand. Must be respected. Made it two wins from his last three starts when scoring on heavy at Nottingham recently.
10th
10th (11) (16/1 -60%) Count D'orsay
16/1(-60%)
(11) Count D'orsay 16/1, Creditable 1½ lengths third of 9 to Vintage Clarets in handicap (16/1) at Catterick (5f, heavy) 7 days ago but up against from 4 lb out of the handicap here. Good third to Vintage Clarets last Saturday; out of the handicap here but not ruled out.
LTO Selection:
15:20 Doncaster Handicap (Class 2) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
The key piece of form to focus on in this contest could be Vintage Clarets beating GLORIOUS ANGEL (second), Count D'Orsay (third) and Copper Knight (fifth) at Catterick last week in heavy conditions. The vote goes to the Grant Tuer-trained filly, as she was only beaten by a short head and gets an 1lb pull in the weights with the winner, which can see her reverse that form to go one better. Call Me Ginger has dropped to a tempting mark and also has to be respected.
Competitive stuff but ABERAMA GOLD won the Stewards' Cup off 1 lb lower under similar conditions so is taken to bounce back. Improving 3-y-os Desperate Hero and Glorious Angel head the dangers.
The piece of form that appeals most is the close third of INTRINSIC BOND in the Portland here last month, and he earns the vote.
(1) Butch 3/1, Progressive hurdler last season who made the most a good opportunity in convincing style up in trip on his return at Southwell (24.3f) 25 days ago, well on top finish. Remains open to further improvement. Burdened with a double penalty but unexposed at 3m and he already looks useful.
2
2nd (3) (9/4 -105%) Antrim Coast
9/4(-105%)
(3) Antrim Coast 9/4, Confirmed the abundant promise of his hurdling debut when impressive winner of 19-runner maiden at Punchestown (20f, good) 18 days ago, storming clear. Will stay beyond 2½m and remains capable of much better. Readily accounted for bumper winners from top yards when off the mark at Punchestown.
3
3rd (4) (7/2 +0%) Reverend Hubert
7/2(+0%)
(4) Reverend Hubert 7/2, Fairly useful winner at 2m on Flat and confirmed previous hurdling promise when making the most of a good opportunity at Downpatrick (21.7f, good) in August. Built on that when third in a stronger race at Listowel since and ought to be very competitive again. Improving Irish novice and form of latest third at Listowel has been franked.
4
4th (2) (5/2 +55%) Lisnamult Lad
5/2(+55%)
(2) Lisnamult Lad 5/2, Made the most of another good opportunity to take his hurdling record to 3 wins from 4 starts in 5-runner novice at Ludlow (21.2f, good) 17 days ago, pushed out. Faces a stiffer task here but it's possible the step up to 3m could bring about further improvement. Upped in class with penalties but improving and stable has a good record in this race.
5th
5th (5) (22/1 +21%) Track And Trace
22/1(+21%)
(5) Track And Trace 22/1, Expensive purchase who built on an encouraging hurdling debut after 11 months off when shading a tight finish in a 5-runner novice at Warwick (21f) 33 days ago. This is much tougher but he's open to further improvement providing he stands more regular racing. Narrow Warwick winner; down the pecking order on form but has potential.
6th
6th (6) (50/1 +24%) Thirtyfour Thirty
50/1(+24%)
(6) Thirtyfour Thirty 50/1, Telescope gelding who confirmed his bumper debut promise when off the mark in game fashion at Worcester in July. Shaped as if still in good form on first run since leaving Nigel Twiston-Davies when second at Stratford subsequently but starts out over hurdles in a warm-looking event. Useful bumper form but he's being asked a stiff question on hurdling introduction.
LTO Selection:
15:35 Cheltenham Novices Hurdle (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
REVEREND HUBERT has done well since joining the Charles Byrnes stable and the form of his recent third at Listowel stands out, with the winner going in again subsequently at Listed level. The five-year-old looks set to relish the step up to three miles, while the same may be said of the Punchestown winner Antrim Coast. Improvement is required from Lisnamult Lad if he is to get involved after easy victories in weak contests at Ludlow and Hexham. An impressive winner at Southwell last time out, Butch cannot be ruled out either.
An interesting small-field novice. ANTRIM COAST has made a highly promising start to his career over hurdles, confirming his debut promise when storming clear at Punchestown 18 days ago and, with much better still to come, especially now stepping up in trip, he's difficult to oppose. Butch is another progressive sort who warrants plenty of respect, as does Reverend Hubert, who ran well in a warmish race at Listowel last time.
The Irish look strong here and everything suggests that this longer trip will trigger a positive response from REVEREND HUBERT.
(1) The Big Chap 7/2, Useful chaser. 2 wins from 6 runs this season. Career best when winning 13-runner novice chase at Fairyhouse (16.5f, soft, 50/1) 21 days ago. More needed under a penalty here but has to be taken seriously all the same. Jumped great when causing Fairyhouse upset; interesting to see how he fares under penalty.
2
2nd (5) (12/1 +40%) Hartur D'arc
12/1(+40%)
(5) Hartur D'arc 12/1, Fairly useful hurdler. Hooded for 1st time, third of 5 in minor event hurdle (18/5) at Killarney (22.8f, good to soft) 27 days ago. Makes chase debut and down in trip. Improvement needed. A 113-rated hurdler opposable on chasing debut here.
3
3rd (3) (6/1 -50%) Clifton Warrior
6/1(-50%)
(3) Clifton Warrior 6/1, Useful hurdler. Good second of 10 in novice chase (5/4) at Tipperary (17.5f, soft), conceding first run. Off 6 months but will have every chance if fully tuned-up. Beaten favourite on both chase outings in the spring but sets a fair standard.
4
4th (8) (7/4 -7%) Spillane's Tower
7/4(-7%)
(8) Spillane's Tower 7/4, Useful winner at 19f over hurdles. 16/1, good second of 9 in novice hurdle at Punchestown (16f, good to soft) when last seen in April. Likely to play a leading role if his jumping passes the test now switched to fences. 130-rated hurdler seemingly the pick of the McManus trio on jockey bookings for chase bow.
5th
5th (4) (7/1 +22%) Hands Of Gold
7/1(+22%)
(4) Hands Of Gold 7/1, Useful hurdler. Latest win in hurdle at Naas in February. 11/4, seventh of 11 in handicap hurdle at Naas (19f, soft). Off 7 months ahead of this chase debut. Passed over by Mark Walsh. Progressive 128-rated hurdler late last season; type to make a chaser and respected.
6th
6th (9) (33/1 +34%) Steppenwolf
33/1(+34%)
(9) Steppenwolf 33/1, Fair winner at 19f over hurdles. 40/1, fell in novice chase at this course (18.5f, heavy) 25 days ago. Others make greater appeal. Failed to complete on two of three attempts chasing including early faller here latest.
7th
7th (7) (15/2 -36%) Snake Oil
15/2(-36%)
(7) Snake Oil 15/2, Promising individual. Fairly useful winner at 20f over hurdles. Fourth of 7 in novice chase (6/4) at this C&D (heavy) on debut over fences, not knocked about. Off 12 months. Open to improvement in this sphere. Absent since disappointing favourite in this race last year; hard to be confident in.
8th
8th (6) (22/1 +33%) Pour Pavore
22/1(+33%)
(6) Pour Pavore 22/1, Fairly useful hurdler. 25/1, eighth of 14 in novice chase at Kilbeggan (19.1f, good to soft) 169 days ago. Should progress in due course but others preferred on this occasion. Yard also saddles Steppenwolf. Chase runs in the spring modest and looks a more likely type for handicaps in due course.
9th
9th (2) (16/1 -33%) Battle It Out
16/1(-33%)
(2) Battle It Out 16/1, Lightly-raced winner over hurdles. Career best when winning 12-runner novice hurdle at Cork (20f, heavy, 2/7), kept up to work. Off 7 months ahead of this chase debut. Mark Walsh prefers Spillane's Tower. Absent since Cork maiden hurdle win in March; owner also runs two others here.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
CLIFTON WARRIOR was beaten less than a length into second in a couple of beginners' chases at Limerick and Tipperary in March and April respectively. Trip and ground are ideal for him, and he won his maiden hurdle off a break before. Spillane's Tower showed plenty of ability over flights and could be just the type to do well over fences. The Big Chap has to give weight away to the field after winning a beginners' chase in Fairyhouse, however, that was a more-than-creditable effort and he's certainly a player. Hands Of Gold won twice over hurdles last season and is another interesting recruit to chasing, while Battle It Out switches to the bigger obstacles after getting off the mark in a maiden hurdle at Cork in March, so is entitled to respect. Snake Oil was a warm order to make a winning debut over fences in this race a year ago but finished fourth and, therefore, a watching brief may be in order.
SPILLANE'S TOWER is Mark Walsh's pick of the three JP McManus-owned runners and could take plenty of stopping if he takes to fences at the first attempt. The 5-y-o progressed in four runs over hurdles last season, culminating in a solid second in a Punchestown novice, and he could make up into a useful chaser. Clifton Warrior has found just one too good on each of his two starts over fences and is feared most ahead of The Big Chap, who recently belied odds of 50/1 in a Fairyhouse maiden chase.
Fairyhouse winner The Big Chap should go well but preference is for chasing debutant SPILLANE'S TOWER
(1) Certain Lad 10/3, Group 3 winner in 2020 and still capable of very useful form, underlined by his latest success in a 12-runner event at York last time. Should go well again. Won on soft ground at York a fortnight ago and has to be respected in follow-up bid.
2
2nd (5) (5/2 +17%) Mustazeed
5/2(+17%)
(5) Mustazeed 5/2, C&D winner. Latest win at Newbury in May. 3/1, creditable fourth of 8 in handicap at Newbury (10f, heavy) 35 days ago, very slowly away. Should feature if the pace is sound. Reluctant to get going at Newbury last time but did well to finish 4th.
3
3rd (4) (5/1 +9%) Bill Silvers
5/1(+9%)
(4) Bill Silvers 5/1, Well bred and much improved from debut when landing 7f course maiden in the mud in April. Struggled up in grade at Goodwood a month ago on only subsequent start and mark demands more. Won maiden here; improvement needed off opening mark but this 3yo is unexposed.
4
4th (2) (6/1 -20%) Euchen Glen
6/1(-20%)
(2) Euchen Glen 6/1, Useful handicapper and a credit to connections for all he's on a long losing run. Good fourth in Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot last time and likely to give another good account. On long losing run but went very close on latest handicap start and handles heavy ground.
5th
5th (8) (6/1 +25%) Bucephalus
6/1(+25%)
(8) Bucephalus 6/1, Made a winning debut for this yard over C&D in the spring and back on track when second at Windsor. Not seen for 5 months, however, and he's out of the weights. 4lb out of the handicap but, crucially, he should be right at home in the conditions.
6th
6th (6) (13/2 +41%) Faylaq
13/2(+41%)
(6) Faylaq 13/2, Now 27 runs since his last win in 2019 but he has run with credit in the main since joining this yard, twelfth in the Cambridgeshire at Newmarket last time. 7yo who is without a win since 2019 but has run some good races this year; not discounted.
LTO Selection:
15:50 Doncaster Handicap (Class 2) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Certain Lad did it nicely when scoring over an extended 1m2f at York earlier in the month and he has to be respected off a 5lb higher mark, but carrying top-weight in these conditions could catch him out. Therefore, the vote goes to MUSTAZEED, who wasn't disgraced when fourth in a similar event at Newbury last month and this C&D winner could be ready to strike off the same rating with Kieran Shoemark back in the plate. Bill Silvers won a maiden over 7f here and is also of interest on his handicap bow after failing to fire in Listed company at Goodwood last month.
MUSTAZEED is still not fully exposed for his current stable and, if the pace is solid, he might be able to resume winning ways in a tightly-knit affair. Recent-winner Certain Lad is an obvious danger and Euchen Glen should give his running again.
Testing ground brings out the best in BUCEPHALUS (nap), who defied an absence to win over C&D on soft going in April.
(2) Iorangi De L'isle 11/4, €46,000 3-y-o, Lauro gelding. Half-brother to 4 winners, including fairly useful chaser Desque de L'Isle, stays 2¼m. Successful on second of 2 starts in Irish points (Dec 2022). One for the shortlist on Rules debut given connections. Won completed start in Irish points; should play leading role on hurdle debut for new yard.
1
1st (9) (3.33/1 +17%) Old Gregorian
3.33/1(+17%)
(9) Old Gregorian 3.33/1, Showed improved form when second of 11 at Perth (16.2f, soft) on his final run in bumpers in April. Should have a future over jumps. Bumper form short of some these but stable been farming novice hurdles in North lately.
2
2nd (1) (6/1 -50%) Doyen Du Bar
6/1(-50%)
(1) Doyen Du Bar 6/1, Well prepared to make a winning bumper debut at Carlisle in March 2021 and ran at least as well in defeat over C&D just over a year later. Off a further 19 months but still needs a close look on hurdle debut. First and second in bumpers a year apart; off another 19 months ahead of hurdle debut.
3
3rd (10) (4.5/1 +36%) Lacila Blue
4.5/1(+36%)
(10) Lacila Blue 4.5/1, Low-key start but was steadily finding her feet towards the end of last season, shaping well in a warmish race on her handicap debut over C&D prior to not being seen to best effect at Perth. Should have more to offer this season. Twice third over hurdles but the form is modest; probably vulnerable.
4
4th (3) (1.25/1 +79%) Rob Roy Macgregor
1.25/1(+79%)
(3) Rob Roy Macgregor 1.25/1, Related to a couple of winners and made the perfect start to career when scoring in a Carlisle bumper in March. Found it tougher under a penalty at Hexham but is very much bred for the NH game. Bumper winner in the spring; rates a decent hurdle prospect.
5th
5th (5) (25/1 +0%) Skiddaw
25/1(+0%)
(5) Skiddaw 25/1, Cost plenty but offered little in a Worcester bumper on debut 12 months ago. Well held on bumper debut for Philip Hobbs a year ago.
6th
6th (7) (15/2 +6%) Wainwright
15/2(+6%)
(7) Wainwright 15/2, €14,000 3-y-o, Mount Nelson gelding. Dam, well held in bumper, half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/chaser (2m-2¾m winner) Cruchain. Newcomer from top northern stable. From a respected stable but possibly more one for the longer term.
7th
7th (8) (150/1 -20%) Halfway House Lad
150/1(-20%)
(8) Halfway House Lad 150/1, Showed nothing in 5 hurdle starts last season. Significantly back down in trip. No worthwhile form last season; big outsider.
8th
8th (4) (125/1 -150%) Ruleout
125/1(-150%)
(4) Ruleout 125/1, Modest in bumpers and ran to a similar level when third on Sligo hurdling debut back in July 2021. Pulled up after a clumsy display at Cork 3 weeks later and probably needed the run returning for a new yard after 27 months off when well held at Sedgefield recently. Tongue strap on for 1st time. Off over two years prior to well held on recent yard debut; tongue-tie on; lots to prove.
LTO Selection:
15:54 Kelso Maiden Hurdle (Class 4) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
DOYEN DU BAR may have a 572-day absence to overcome, but he shaped with plenty of encouragement when last seen over C&D in a bumper and the fact he won well on his debut at Carlisle is another plus. The son of Doyen may be able to strike on his first go over hurdles, with point-to-point recruit Iorangi De L'isle looking best placed to chase him home. Old Gregorian and Rob Roy Macgregor have the form to get involved as well.
Winning-pointer IORANGI DE L'ISLE has a good pedigree and shouldn't lack for fitness, so he's taken to make a successful start under Rules for a yard that seems to be finding form again. Rob Roy Macgregor is a bumper scorer who's bred for the NH game, while Lacila Blue should have further improvement in her this season.
Irish point recruit IORANGI DE L'ISLE gets the nod for Donald McCain, with confidence increased should the betting vibes be strong.
(3) Flooring Porter 6/4, Dual Stayers' Hurdle winner at the festival but unable to complete a hat-trick of wins in that race this year when fourth. Finished third a month later in Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree and last seen down the field at Auteuil 5 months ago. Fancied to make his mark sent chasing under a new pilot. Top-class staying hurdler; 8yo who should take to fences.
2
2nd (2) (11/4 +58%) Broadway Boy
11/4(+58%)
(2) Broadway Boy 11/4, Rangy sort who proved progressive over hurdles last term, career best display when gaining his third success from 7 starts at this venue (3m) in April. Made an impressive winning return/chasing debut at Worcester (23f, soft) recently and he's open to further progress. Progressive hurdler who won well on chase debut; stable jockey rides their other.
3
3rd (4) (9/4 +25%) Weveallbeencaught
9/4(+25%)
(4) Weveallbeencaught 9/4, Added to his bumper success when scoring over hurdles at this track on New Year's Day but hasn't really built on that, pulled up in the Sefton well last seen in April. Is a point winner, so this switch to the larger obstacles could well have a positive effect. Irish point winner; good flashes of form over hurdles and he's a chaser on looks.
4
4th (1) (17/2 -21%) Toss Again
17/2(-21%)
(1) Toss Again 17/2, Fairly useful hurdler who has quickly made into an even better chaser, winning maiden at Limerick in May and competitive handicap at Galway in August. No match for sole rival Salvador Ziggy in novice at Killarney 9 weeks ago and likely to come up short again here. Has made an excellent start over fences but looks up against it with his penalties.
LTO Selection:
16:10 Cheltenham Maiden Chase (Class 2) 24f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Dual Stayers Hurdle winner FLOORING PORTER is impossible to ignore on his chasing debut and, assuming he carries on with his usual dominant style of running, this could be a straightforward task. Fellow Irish raider Toss Again has already won twice over fences and is feared most. Broadway Boy won well on his chasing debut and can fend off his stablemate Weveallbeencaught to be best of the rest.
Plenty of intrigue despite the small field and it's dual Stayers' Hurdle hero FLOORING PORTER who is selected to make a winning chasing debut teaming up with Keith Donoghue for the first time. Nigel Twiston-Davies saddles a couple and it's Weveallbeencaught who gets the nod over stablemate Broadway Boy for the forecast spot.
Flooring Porter goes chasing with his powers perhaps on the wane and preference is for the more lightly raced WEVEALLBEENCAUGHT.
(1) Buddy One 3.5/1, 9/2 and tongue strap on for 1st time, good third of 13 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (20f, soft) 35 days ago. Expected to be bang there. Top-weight very consistent but handicapper giving him no leeway.
2
2nd (6) (6/1 +0%) Gabbys Cross
6/1(+0%)
(6) Gabbys Cross 6/1, 28/1, creditable seventh of 17 in handicap chase at Listowel (24f, soft) 38 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Jumping let him down in valuable handicap chases of late; back hurdling off 20lb lower.
3
3rd (5) (20/1 -25%) Shadow Rider
20/1(-25%)
(5) Shadow Rider 20/1, Off 10 months. Switches from chase to hurdles. First run for yard after leaving W. P. Mullins (pulled up all 3 starts last season). Makes handicap hurdle debut. Ex Willie Mullins; back hurdling on first start for yard and hard to be confident in.
4
4th (14) (25/1 -25%) Missiee
25/1(-25%)
(14) Missiee 25/1, Latest win in hurdle at Limerick in December. Respectable 12½ lengths sixth of 11 to Alpesh Amin in handicap hurdle at Limerick (21f, heavy, 7/1). Off 7 months. Absent since midfield behind Alpesh Amin at Limerick in March, looks to have a bit to do.
5th
5th (11) (14/1 +44%) Ballyadam Destiny
14/1(+44%)
(11) Ballyadam Destiny 14/1, C&D winner. 7/1, creditable 5 lengths third of 11 to Alpesh Amin in handicap hurdle at Limerick (21f, heavy). Off 7 months. First run for yard after leaving Denis Hogan. Not taken lightly. Last year's winner when later disqualified for banned substance; don't rule out.
6th
6th (9) (22/1 -144%) Alpesh Amin
22/1(-144%)
(9) Alpesh Amin 22/1, Career best when winning 11-runner handicap hurdle at Limerick (21f, heavy, 4/1), always holding on. Off 7 months. Respected. Ended last season on a high; 5lb rise plenty fair and could go close if forward enough.
7th
7th (7) (11/2 +8%) Lord Snootie
11/2(+8%)
(7) Lord Snootie 11/2, Tongue strap on for 1st time, creditable fifth of 25 in handicap hurdle (9/1) at Punchestown (23.6f, good to soft), finishing well. Off 6 months. Should have more to offer. Progressive stayer last season, trip here a bit on the short side for seasonal return.
8th
8th (8) (15/2 +6%) Krabat
15/2(+6%)
(8) Krabat 15/2, One win from 23 NH runs. Thirteen runs since last win in 2022. 4/1, good second of 7 in handicap hurdle at Gowran (20.3f, heavy) 29 days ago. Enters calculations. Laudable Gowran comeback second; up 3lb but should go well.
9th
9th (15) (12/1 +33%) Coventry
12/1(+33%)
(15) Coventry 12/1, Fifteen runs since last win in 2021. Below form well-beaten eighth of 14 to West Is Awake in handicap hurdle (9/2) at Fairyhouse (24f, soft) 26 days ago. Regressive this year and hard to fancy from 5lb out of handicap.
10th
10th (10) (11/2 +45%) West Is Awake
11/2(+45%)
(10) West Is Awake 11/2, 1 win from 1 run this season. 12/1, career best when winning 14-runner handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse (24f, soft) 26 days ago, readily. Player. Easy Fairyhouse comeback winner up 13lb so lot more required here.
11th
11th (3) (20/1 -122%) Santonito
20/1(-122%)
(3) Santonito 20/1, Latest win in hurdle at Clonmel in December. Last of 5 in novice hurdle (10/1) at Navan (22f, heavy). Off 7 months. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Has work to do. Returns with questions to answer off what looks a high enough opening mark.
12th
12th (13) (20/1 +0%) Jay Jay Zee
20/1(+0%)
(13) Jay Jay Zee 20/1, Winner in hurdle at Ballinrobe in April. Fourth of 6 in novice hurdle (9/1) at Downpatrick (21.5f, soft) 43 days ago. 4yo not progressing at any real rate; opposable on second handicap attempt.
13th
13th (12) (33/1 +0%) Wa Wa
33/1(+0%)
(12) Wa Wa 33/1, Creditable twelfth of 19 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (23f, good, 33/1) 18 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Not easy to make a case for. Will need to come on plenty for recent Punchestown comeback run to feature.
14th
14th (4) (33/1 -230%) Cayd Boy
33/1(-230%)
(4) Cayd Boy 33/1, Ninth of 10 in handicap chase at Cork (17.6f, good to soft, 11/4) 13 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Up in trip. Mixed form chasing, first hurdles start here in 18 months.
|PU|
|PU| (2) (40/1 -150%) El Barra
40/1(-150%)
(2) El Barra 40/1, Useful hurdler/smart chaser at best for W. P. Mullins. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Market should guide after 10 months off for new yard. Ex Willie Mullins; first hurdles start since April 2021 so potentially well handicapped.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
BUDDY ONE has been a model of consistency in competitive handicaps at the big festival meetings this year and was placed on soft ground in 2m4f events at both Cheltenham and Aintree in the spring. The selection also shaped well at this venue in August when making the frame behind Ifiwerearichman and should be spot on for this having also been placed at Listowel last month. Lord Snootie is a very interesting raider for Christian Williams. The point-to-point winner stays well having won over 3m2f on soft ground at Warwick last season and was putting in his best work at the finish last time at the Punchestown Festival. Santonito won a 2m3f Clonmel maiden last term but disappointed subsequently when upped in trip while Krabat, Alpesh Amin and Missiee all appreciate testing ground conditions.
BUDDY ONE was a good third under this rider at Listowel 5 weeks ago and should go well again. Lord Snootie and Krabat head the dangers.
Preference is for recent hurdles form, notably that of KRABAT, second to a well-handicapped sort at Gowran over this trip
(6) Zip 6/1, C&D winner who shaped as if still in good form when seventh of 17 in handicap (20/1) at York (7f, soft) 35 days ago. On a good mark and one to bear in mind. He's a two-time C&D winner on soft/heavy ground and could go well with conditions to suit.
2
2nd (4) (10/1 +29%) Autumn Festival
10/1(+29%)
(4) Autumn Festival 10/1, Got off the mark for the season at Beverley in September before finding only one too good under a penalty at Ayr. However, came home last of 12 in handicap at York (7.9f, heavy) 15 days ago. Needs to bounce back. Tailed off at York latest but blew the start; running well previously & could bounce back.
3
3rd (1) (5/1 +9%) Maywake
5/1(+9%)
(1) Maywake 5/1, Most consistent this year, including 7f wins at Thirsk (heavy) and Sandown (good to soft). Found out off this mark in the Challenge Cup last time, though. Below par at Ayr last time but good campaign otherwise; could be a player if bouncing back.
4
4th (10) (12/1 +40%) Danzan
12/1(+40%)
(10) Danzan 12/1, Capitalised on the drop in grade in fine style at Thirsk in June and was placed twice there late summer. Last 3 efforts short of best, though. Below best on last three starts but well handicapped and he has C&D form on heavy.
5th
5th (3) (4/1 -20%) Wobwobwob
4/1(-20%)
(3) Wobwobwob 4/1, Proved better than ever when landing 25-runner Ayr Silver Cup in September. Disappointing in Coral Sprint Trophy at York last time but good chance if bouncing back in these calmer waters. Flopped at York a fortnight ago but in fine form previously and not written off.
6th
6th (8) (14/1 -75%) Oso Rapido
14/1(-75%)
(8) Oso Rapido 14/1, Proved better than ever when winning 5-runner handicap at Catterick (6f, heavy, 3/1) last week, always holding on. Nudged up 3 lb and should remain competitive under similar conditions. Enjoying good campaign and made all on heavy ground at Catterick last time; strong claims.
7th
7th (2) (9/2 +18%) Racingbreaks Ryder
9/2(+18%)
(2) Racingbreaks Ryder 9/2, Completed a four-timer at Ascot (7f) in May. Out of sorts in stronger company since but this does at least represent a drop in grade. 3yo who won his first three handicaps in the spring, but unable to threaten since.
8th
8th (7) (14/1 -75%) Able Kane
14/1(-75%)
(7) Able Kane 14/1, Course winner who wasted no time getting back to form when third of 7 in 7f handicap at Leicester (heavy) 11 days ago. Obvious player off same mark. Third at Leicester last week but likes it there and has won just one of his last 16 starts.
9th
9th (9) (12/1 -85%) Be Proud
12/1(-85%)
(9) Be Proud 12/1, Recorded back-to-back wins here in the summer and, after a couple of lesser efforts, looked as good as ever when scoring at Ayr (6f, heavy) 16 days ago. Back up in the weights but could go well again returned to this venue. 6f heavy-ground win at Ayr recently; good record here.
10th
10th (5) (16/1 +0%) Scottish Summit
16/1(+0%)
(5) Scottish Summit 16/1, Likeable veteran who resumed winning ways at Thirsk (7f) in May and bounced back to form after a couple of lesser efforts when sixth in 17-runner handicap at York (7f) 35 days ago. 10yo who returned to form when sixth of 17 at York and might not be far away.
LTO Selection:
16:25 Doncaster Handicap (Class 3) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 3 race.
OSO RAPIDO was successful by a length over 6f at Catterick on his latest outing and he was only put up 3lb for that effort. The six-year-old should have no issues with this step back up in distance and he could be the one to beat again here. Autumn Festival failed to fire over a mile at York last time, but he is better over this shorter distance and could get involved based on his penultimate effort when second at Ayr. Wobwobwob could also get involved based on his penultimate start when victorious in the Silver Cup but he is 4lb higher now.
ABLE KANE quickly got back on track when third at Leicester 11 days ago and a reproduction of that form could see him notch a second win of the season. Zip shaped well on his most recent outing at York and is one to bear in mind having slipped below his last winning mark, while Wobwobwob can have a big say too if returning to his Ayr Silver Cup form.
The cheekpieces have been a positive for AUTUMN FESTIVAL, who had an excuse at York last time, and he can bounce back with a win.
(6) Fearless Action 10/1, Yet to improve from a promising second at Sedgefield on his chasing debut, though was given a considerate return from a summer break when seventh of 11 in handicap chase (14/1) at Cartmel (17.3f, soft) 61 days ago. Cheekpieces on 1st time. Needs to bounce back. Has gone the wrong way in his five runs over fences and he needs to turn things around.
2
2nd (7) (5/1 +29%) Hector Master
5/1(+29%)
(7) Hector Master 5/1, Rergressive over hurdles and came home second of 4 finishers in most testing conditions at Perth on chase debut 31 days ago. Remains to be seen how much he achieved there and others are preferred. Chased home an impressive stablemate on his chase debut at Perth; in the mix back in trip.
3
3rd (8) (10/3 +52%) Baron Briggs
10/3(+52%)
(8) Baron Briggs 10/3, Placed in a point and shaped better than the distance beaten suggests when third over 23.4f here on chase debut back in April, just unable to see the trip out after making good progress before 2 out. Drop in trip could suit here and has since has a wind-op, so isn't discounted. Showed promise in a hunter chase here in April and needs a close look on his return.
4
4th (4) (7/2 +53%) Take Centre Stage
7/2(+53%)
(4) Take Centre Stage 7/2, Scopey sort was placed twice in handicap hurdles last winter and appeals as the type to make a better chaser, so merits consideration on chase bow after a 6-month break. Mixed record over hurdles but he needs watching in the market on his seasonal/chase debut.
5th
5th (3) (12/1 -50%) Jackhammer
12/1(-50%)
(3) Jackhammer 12/1, Winner on the Flat in June and has matched hurdles form in 3 chase starts so far. Not disgraced back on the Flat on his most recent outing but doesn't really strike as one to progress much further in this sphere. Unexposed over fences but he needs improvement back in this sphere.
6th
6th (5) (18/1 -200%) Fathers Advice
18/1(-200%)
(5) Fathers Advice 18/1, Long-standing maiden hurdler but down to a career-low mark and found only one too good for the fifth time in his career at Cartmel (17.2f) in August. Unseated early here since but isn't discounted on chase debut. 0-18 over hurdles and he unseated here last time; comes with risks on chase debut.
7th
7th (10) (16/1 +36%) King Of The Hill
16/1(+36%)
(10) King Of The Hill 16/1, Maiden Irish pointer achieved nothing in 3 novice hurdles last season and looks very tricky to fancy making the quick switch to chasing. Didn't show much over hurdles last season and needs major improvement on his chase debut.
|PU|
|PU| (1) (10/3 -11%) Augharue
10/3(-11%)
(1) Augharue 10/3, Ex-pointer shaped best on his second chase start when runner-up in 6-runner handicap chase (9/2) at Hexham (15.6f, heavy) 14 days ago, looking in control until year-long absence told near finish. Leading plater with that now under his belt. Unexposed chaser who went close at Hexham on recent comeback; up 3lb but he's a big player.
|PU|
|PU| (9) (18/1 +45%) Goodoldbill
18/1(+45%)
(9) Goodoldbill 18/1, Successful in Irish points but has looked decidedly limited over hurdles, faring no better after a wind-op at Hexham when last seen. Needs switch to larger obstacles to bring about plenty of improvement. Irish point winner but no joy over hurdles and needs a transformation on his chase debut.
LTO Selection:
16:29 Kelso Handicap Chase (Class 5) 17f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
AUGHARUE was recently collared in the dying strides at Hexham and Stuart Coltherd's gelding may find some compensation by landing this contest off only 3lb higher. That was the six-year-old's first run of the season and any natural improvement may see him get the better of chief rival Hector Master. The gelded son of Masterstroke ran his best race under Rules when runner-up on his chasing bow at Perth last month and there might be more to come. Fathers Advice could also have a say on his debut over fences.
AUGHARUE showed plenty to be positive about at Hexham earlier in the month, and provided there's no 'bounce' on his second start after a year off, he looks to set a reasonably strong standard. Take Centre Stage ended last season poorly but had shown ability in the winter and appeals as one who should do better over fences, with Baron Briggs another to consider on his second chase start.
Preference is for AUGHARUE, who has had only two starts over fences and went close at Hexham on his recent comeback.
(18) Betty's Tiara 22/1, Half-sister to a bumper winner and followed suit at the first time of asking in a 10-runner event at Stratford 58 days ago. Reasonable claims as she bids to defy a penalty. Dug deep to win at Stratford; likely to need a lot more if she's to follow up here.
1
1st (1) (18/5 +35%) The Kemble Brewery
18/5(+35%)
(1) The Kemble Brewery 18/5, Created a good impression when landing 8-runner bumper at Huntingdon (15.8f, good to soft, 11/4) on NH debut. More to come after 6 months off, so worthy of respect. 120,000euros 3yo; was merely shaken up to make a winning debut at Huntingdon.
2
2nd (17) (10/1 +38%) Valgrand
10/1(+38%)
(17) Valgrand 10/1, €35,000 3-y-o, Bathyrhon gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful 2¼m hurdle winner in France Vaugeoise. Dam, winning hurdler in France, also 16.5f winner on Flat. Runner-up sole start in Irish points (Mar 5). Point second could be working out better but open to improvement now with top yard.
3
3rd (11) (9/1 -50%) Martin Plage
9/1(-50%)
(11) Martin Plage 9/1, €16,000 3-y-o, £110,000 4-y-o, Buck's Boum gelding. Dam, French hurdler (2¼m winner), sister to fairly useful 15f hurdle winner in France Plus de Sivola. Easily beat only other finisher sole start in points (Apr 2) and appeals as a notable Rules debutant. Beat one other finisher in a British point and later sold on for £110,000; stable in form.
4
4th (14) (50/1 +24%) Strong Foundations
50/1(+24%)
(14) Strong Foundations 50/1, €31,000 3-y-o, Malinas gelding. Dam showed nothing sole start in bumpers. Runner-up sole start in Irish points (Feb 5). Wears tongue strap. Probably beaten by a decent horse in his Irish point and should have a future.
5th
5th (15) (66/1 -32%) The Northernlights
66/1(-32%)
(15) The Northernlights 66/1, £26,000 3-y-o, Califet gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler/useful chaser Youcantcallherthat. Dam (b89) bumper winner. Runner-up sole start in point bumpers (May 13). Runner-up in a point bumper in May, proving no match for the comfortable winner.
6th
6th (2) (18/1 -50%) Willsburg
18/1(-50%)
(2) Willsburg 18/1, Half-brother to smart chaser Wyck Hill and made the ideal start when landing a 7-runner event at Warwick 7 months ago. Open to improvement and not discounted. Didn't look short of speed when running out a 9l winner at Warwick; penalised.
7th
7th (3) (12/1 +25%) Ballyvango
12/1(+25%)
(3) Ballyvango 12/1, Half-brother to a bumper winner and there was promise amidst greenness when fifth in a good race at Kempton 7 months ago. Likely to step up on that. Ran a nice first race to be fifth of 17 at Kempton in March (soft), keeping on.
8th
8th (13) (33/1 +0%) Stay If U Want To
33/1(+0%)
(13) Stay If U Want To 33/1, Related to a bumper winner and offered some encouragement when fourth at Ludlow 6 months ago. This is likely to prove too competitive for him, though. Lacked the gears to land a serious blow when beaten about 10l at Ludlow in April.
9th
9th (5) (2/1 +20%) Catch Yourself On
2/1(+20%)
(5) Catch Yourself On 2/1, €60,000 3-y-o, Noble Mission gelding. Half-brother to numerous winners, including Seismic Wave. Dam 6.5f-1m winner in France. Worth chancing to make a winning debut. 60,000euros 3yo; Flat-bred gelding from top yard and he's of obvious interest.
10th
10th (12) (14/1 -40%) Soir De Gala
14/1(-40%)
(12) Soir De Gala 14/1, Showed something to work on when third at Wincanton on debut, albeit with the run of things from the front. Off 6 months since but, given his connections, he's worth a chance to improve. Had wind surgery since finishing third at Wincanton; the second won next time.
11th
11th (16) (40/1 -21%) Tout Sur Moi
40/1(-21%)
(16) Tout Sur Moi 40/1, Showed a bit to work on when fourth on debut at Warwick 7 months ago but a lot more is required if he's to feature in this. Racing too freely didn't help when a weakening fourth at Warwick; can improve.
12th
12th (7) (200/1 -100%) Hawk Stone
200/1(-100%)
(7) Hawk Stone 200/1, €9,500 3-y-o, Diamond Boy gelding. Dam unraced sister to useful hurdler (stayed 25f) Orbys Legend. Not an obvious sort on paper. 9,500euros 3yo; trainer 0-11 in bumpers during recent seasons; hard to warm to.
13th
13th (4) (14/1 +44%) Call To Duty
14/1(+44%)
(4) Call To Duty 14/1, Out of a winning hurdler and offered encouragement when third at Taunton 6 months ago. Open to improvement and worthy of consideration. Came from off the pace for third of 13 on debut at Taunton (good to soft) in April.
14th
14th (10) (9/1 +25%) Jackson Lamb
9/1(+25%)
(10) Jackson Lamb 9/1, Showed plenty when second of 11 in bumper at Roscommon (15.3f, good to soft) on NH debut 81 days ago. Significant that he's made the trip over and he warrants strong consideration. Runner-up at Roscommon and his yard won this last year with Encanto Bruno.
15th
15th (8) (16/1 +36%) Highway One O Five
16/1(+36%)
(8) Highway One O Five 16/1, Half-brother to 4 winners and showed up well when third on both starts to date. Hasn't been seen for 6 months but stable should have him tuned up. Well related and placed in bumpers last season, on good at Kempton and soft at Plumpton.
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 2 race.
Catch Yourself On represents Wilie Mullins and this son of Noble Mission is a must for consideration. However, there are dangers aplenty and a chance is taken on THE KEMBLE BREWERY building on his debut Huntingdon success under a 4lb penalty. A 120,000-euros purchase, the selection coped with cut in the ground on that occasion and looks an interesting prospect. Jackson Lamb and Call To Duty are others to consider.
CATCH YOURSELF ON is related to numerous winners and should have enough speed for this discipline, so he's capable of making a winning start at the possible expense of point-recruit Martin Plage. Several of the others are closely matched on form but Jackson Lamb is open to improvement, so he's another one to consider.
With his Flat pedigree, CATCH YOURSELF ON could have a speed edge over those with stouter pedigrees. The market needs checking.
(9) Shotgun Jack 17/2, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. 40/1, respectable fifth of 11 in handicap hurdle at this course (16.7f, heavy) 25 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Glimpses of ability; 2m at this track last time was too sharp and this trip suits better.
2
2nd (14) (9/2 +18%) Getaway Master
9/2(+18%)
(14) Getaway Master 9/2, Bit below form third of 11 in handicap hurdle (4/1) at this course (16.7f, heavy) 25 days ago. Significantly up in trip. Not taken lightly. Probably found 2m here a bit sharp last time and this trip should suit better.
3
3rd (5) (7/1 +7%) Meehall
7/1(+7%)
(5) Meehall 7/1, C&D winner. 17/2, respectable fifth of 18 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (24f, soft) 36 days ago, no extra before last having had plenty of use made of him. Not out of things. Won a division of this race last year off a mark of 82; solid runs in defeat this year.
4
4th (10) (12/1 +40%) Well Polly
12/1(+40%)
(10) Well Polly 12/1, Below form sixth of 10 in handicap hurdle (17/2) at Clonmel (24.2f, heavy) 30 days ago, headway after 3 out but his effort proving short-lived. Others make much more appeal. Has been regressive this year; was poor at Clonmel last time and has to rebound.
5th
5th (4) (10/1 +17%) Jeriko De Baune
10/1(+17%)
(4) Jeriko De Baune 10/1, Had displayed only minor promise previously but looked set to run best race yet when unseating 2 out at Listowel (3m) 5 weeks ago. Interesting if the market speaks in his favour here on the back of that. Shaping better at Listowel last time when badly hampered two out; same mark; considered.
6th
6th (17) (15/2 +85%) That's Me Finished
15/2(+85%)
(17) That's Me Finished 15/2, Has made little impact in varied events over hurdles so far, merely passing beaten rivals when seventh of 10 in handicap at Cartmel (22.1f) in August. Looks to be up against it. Maiden has been well beaten on all starts and makes little appeal.
7th
7th (11) (25/1 -25%) Black Barrel
25/1(-25%)
(11) Black Barrel 25/1, 17/2, below form seventh of 15 in handicap hurdle at Kilbeggan (24.4f, good) 50 days ago. Needs a couple of these to falter. A close 4th at Sligo in August but below that level at Kilbeggan two weeks after.
8th
8th (8) (66/1 -230%) Le Boulevardier
66/1(-230%)
(8) Le Boulevardier 66/1, 100/1, eighth of 12 in novice chase at Tipperary (19.5f, soft) 116 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles. Back up in trip. Needs a couple of these to falter. Well held over hurdles and fences earlier this year after a long absence; more needed.
9th
9th (6) (20/1 +20%) Mermaids Cave
20/1(+20%)
(6) Mermaids Cave 20/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Bit below form twelfth of 22 in handicap hurdle at Punchestown (20f, good, 40/1) 18 days ago. Improvement required from this sort of mark. Well beaten in a Punchestown handicap; up in trip but plenty more required.
10th
10th (7) (6/1 -33%) Jacks Fancy
6/1(-33%)
(7) Jacks Fancy 6/1, Lightly-raced maiden. 8/1, best effort to date when third of 18 in handicap hurdle at Listowel (24f, soft) 36 days ago, forced to switch and one paced. Less exposed than most and she's one to consider. Best efforts have come on last two starts, including here; needs a bit more but considered.
11th
11th (2) (15/2 -50%) Pour The Wine
15/2(-50%)
(2) Pour The Wine 15/2, Good third of 15 in handicap hurdle at Killarney (22.8f, good to soft, 22/1) 27 days ago, close up approaching the last and keeping on. Has to be taken seriously with a repeat. Fine 3rd on return from a year's absence at Killarney; this ground may not fully suit.
12th
12th (3) (25/1 -56%) Merry Moves
25/1(-56%)
(3) Merry Moves 25/1, Winner in hurdle at Limerick (22f, heavy) in March. Not matched that level in trio of starts since, reportedly suffering breathing problem (on back of 6 months off) when thirteenth of 14 in handicap hurdle at Thurles (23f, soft) 9 days ago. This should reveal more. Won a Limerick handicap over 2m6f in March; well below that level in three runs since.
13th
13th (1) (16/1 -100%) Knocknagappagh
16/1(-100%)
(1) Knocknagappagh 16/1, Remains a maiden after 18 NH runs. Second of 14 in novice chase at Tramore (21.7f, heavy, 15/2) on debut over fences 16 days ago. Switches from chase to hurdles and she's not out of things. Maiden was a fine 2nd on chasing debut at Tramore last time and is one to consider.
14th
14th (12) (25/1 +24%) Crimson Chief
25/1(+24%)
(12) Crimson Chief 25/1, Course winner. 20/1, pulled up in handicap hurdle at Listowel (24f, soft) 36 days ago, losing place early final circuit. Others preferred. Course winner over 2m6f last year on good ground; soundly beaten since.
|PU|
|PU| (13) (20/1 +9%) Back The West
20/1(+9%)
(13) Back The West 20/1, Remains a maiden after 16 NH runs. Respectable tenth of 23 in handicap hurdle at Naas (23.6f, soft, 40/1) in March, weakening before the last. Needs to step up following a break. Tailed-off in this race on testing ground last year and only one run since; best watched.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
The lightly-raced JACKS FANCY has shaped well since upped in trip and sent into handicaps on her latest two starts including at this venue last month. The Henry de Bromhead-trained mare didn't enjoy the clearest of passages at a crucial stage when third to Ragin Cajun over this distance at Listowel with Meehall about eight lengths behind in fifth. Getaway Master finished in front of the selection in that aforementioned 2m6f race here and was again placed when returning to this venue over two miles earlier this month. Pour The Wine showed promise on just her second handicap start last year when third at Sligo and ran a cracker after an absence of over 12 months when beaten less than a length behind Londonofficecallin over 2m6f at Killarney.
POUR THE WINE produced her best effort to date on the back of 13 months off when third over shorter at Killarney 4 weeks ago, and provided she can stand more regular racing, she could be up to building on that on her first crack at 3m. Jacks Fancy, Meehall and Getaway Master are others to consider in what rates a tricky affair.
It could be worth taking a chance on JACKS FANCY improving enough to score. His form is going in the right direction.
(2) Look Back Smiling 5/1, Latest win at Leicester in August. Has remained in form since, finishing well when fifth at York last time. Could make his presence felt if things drop right. Has blown the start a couple of times recently; therefore comes with risk.
2
2nd (10) (3.2/1 +9%) Astral Spirit
3.2/1(+9%)
(10) Astral Spirit 3.2/1, 3/1, good second of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (7f, soft) 12 days ago. Still unexposed and another step forward could see her go one better. Placed in five of her seven outings; bred to take well to this scenario; may be the answer.
3
3rd (11) (4.5/1 +50%) Mister Sox
4.5/1(+50%)
(11) Mister Sox 4.5/1, 15/2, career best when winning 9-runner handicap at Catterick last month and backed it up with a solid showing at Chester. Handles testing ground well and is likely to be on the premises. In-form 3yo; upped further in grade but receives weight all round; could go well again.
4
4th (6) (33/1 -32%) Shandy Star
33/1(-32%)
(6) Shandy Star 33/1, Struggling for form at present and others make more appeal. Plenty to find on 2023 form and has something to prove over this trip.
5th
5th (7) (16/1 -129%) Beauty Choice
16/1(-129%)
(7) Beauty Choice 16/1, Has hit top form lately and got the race run to suit when scoring at Pontefract last time. Remains on a handy mark and expected to go well again. Regained the winning thread at Pontefract 19 days ago; still on a workable mark.
6th
6th (3) (15/2 +53%) Archduke Ferdinand
15/2(+53%)
(3) Archduke Ferdinand 15/2, Scored over C&D in August and back on track when respectable fourth at Newcastle last time. Not discounted. C&D winner on good going in August; now 5lb higher and faces very different ground.
7th
7th (8) (12/1 -100%) Sir Maxi
12/1(-100%)
(8) Sir Maxi 12/1, Likeable type who enhanced an excellent record at Pontefract when successful there earlier in the month. Every chance he'll go well again. Similar chance to Beauty Choice, having won at Pontefract 19 days ago; in the mix.
8th
8th (1) (6/1 +33%) Broken Spear
6/1(+33%)
(1) Broken Spear 6/1, Scored at Leicester in May but has been more miss than hit subsequently. Has tasted success her in the past, however, and his mark is reasonable. Has some good form at Doncaster, including close third in this contest 12 months ago.
9th
9th (9) (18/1 -80%) Ray Vonn
18/1(-80%)
(9) Ray Vonn 18/1, Winner at Nottingham in October. 25/1, eighth of 12 in handicap at Kempton (7f) 10 days ago. Others make more appeal. Sole attempt on heavy ground resulted in his 6f win at Nottingham three starts ago.
10th
10th (5) (9/1 +0%) Deputy
9/1(+0%)
(5) Deputy 9/1, Back-to-back winner last autumn and built on promising reappearance effort when second over C&D in May. Hasn't fired since. Has form figures of 212 over C&D, the win gained in this race last year; respected.
LTO Selection:
16:58 Doncaster Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
SIR MAXI was rewarded for his respectable fourth-placed finish in the Bronze Gold Cup at Ayr in September when landing the spoils at Pontefract earlier this month. A 4lb rise in the ratings for the Richard Fahey-trained gelding looks more than fair and he's fancied to follow up in this contest. Maiden Astral Spirit has posted some creditable efforts in defeat of late and her turn shouldn't be far away, with last-time-out winner Beauty Choice making most appeal of the remainder.
ASTRAL SPIRIT is less exposed than most and produced her best effort to date when second at Yarmouth last time, so she's a confident choice to go one better at the possible expense of recent Pontefract winner Sir Maxi. Beauty Choice is another one to consider.
The signs look good for ASTRAL SPIRIT, who is taken to get off the mark. The 2022 winner Deputy is feared most.
(1) Almarada Prince 4/1, Followed up Thirsk maiden success by winning 7-runner minor event at Hamilton (5f, good to firm, 6/4) 53 days ago, responding well. Progressing well recently and is likely to give bold bid again under double penalty. Big penalty for two turf wins but useful and progressive and there could be more to come.
2
2nd (11) (16/1 +20%) Bella Bisbee
16/1(+20%)
(11) Bella Bisbee 16/1, Foaled April 12. 30,000 gns yearling, Muhaarar filly. Half-sister to several winners, including winner up to 7f Sterling Knight and winner up to 6f Charmed, both useful. Dam 1m winner who stayed 1¼m. Yard not overly renowned for winning debutants but worth a market check nonetheless. 30,000gns half-sister to six winners; bred to have a future but useful standard to aim at.
3
3rd (6) (2/1 +43%) Invincible Aura
2/1(+43%)
(6) Invincible Aura 2/1, Fine second of 8 in nursery at Pontefract (6f, good to soft) last month but not quite in same form when mid-field in valuable sales race at Newmarket (6f, good to firm) 21 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Player in this company. Ran well at Pontefract on nursery debut (RPR 80; hung left); tough task latest; e-w claims.
4
4th (9) (11/2 -10%) Delicacy
11/2(-10%)
(9) Delicacy 11/2, Twice-raced maiden. 10/3, went backwards from debut when sixth of 12 in minor event at Newbury (6f, good to firm), albeit spared hard race once held. Off 123 days. Still worth considering baring in mind debut promise. Two 6f runs in June, failing to build on debut promise (AW) at Newbury when last seen.
5th
5th (4) (66/1 -200%) Split The Profit
66/1(-200%)
(4) Split The Profit 66/1, Twice-raced maiden. Ran to barely modest level when tenth of 15 in minor event (200/1) at Windsor (6f, good to soft) 12 days ago. Hard to fancy. Well beaten in two 6f novices this autumn; can't be recommended.
6th
6th (2) (5/2 +72%) Eighth Army
5/2(+72%)
(2) Eighth Army 5/2, Twice-raced maiden. Much improved from debut when sixth of 11 in minor event (20/1) at Kempton (6f) 36 days ago but another step forward is required again. Promise in two 6f runs last month; more to come and he's one of the likelier types.
7th
7th (5) (80/1 -264%) Berry Clever
80/1(-264%)
(5) Berry Clever 80/1, Twice-raced maiden. 150/1, still needed experience when sixth of 11 in minor event at Kempton (6f) 10 days ago. Others preferred, Big prices and little impact in two 6f novice events this autumn; hard to fancy.
8th
8th (3) (80/1 +0%) Rothay Park
80/1(+0%)
(3) Rothay Park 80/1, Showcasing colt. 125/1, eleventh of 12 in minor event at Kempton (6f) on debut 24 days ago, slowly away. Looks one for the longer term. 125-1 and always out the back on this month's Kempton debut (6f); one for the longer term.
9th
9th (7) (14/1 +22%) Maith An Farhh
14/1(+22%)
(7) Maith An Farhh 14/1, Twice-raced maiden. 12/1, showed more than debut when fifth of 9 in minor event at Wolverhampton (7.2f) 35 days ago, never nearer. Needs to progress again. Not beaten far over 7f last time but form doesn't look reliable; not bred to sprint either.
10th
10th (8) (25/1 -14%) Rishi
25/1(-14%)
(8) Rishi 25/1, Foaled April 25. £30,000 yearling, Massaat gelding. Half-brother to 2-y-o 7f winner Falcon Brook. Dam, 6f winner, half-sister to 5f winner Captain Dunne and 7f-1m winner Raadobarg (both smart). Yard's youngsters often need time. £30,000 half-brother to 7f AW winner Falcon Brook (RPR 76); likely a longer-term prospect.
11th
11th (10) (40/1 -122%) Jailbird
40/1(-122%)
(10) Jailbird 40/1, Twice-raced maiden. 40/1, fifth of 7 in maiden at Newmarket (7f, good to soft) 15 days ago. Hooded for 1st time. More needed. Modest form in two 7f events at Newmarket; hooded today; one for handicaps after this.
12th
12th (12) (80/1 -220%) Lammas Park
80/1(-220%)
(12) Lammas Park 80/1, Foaled March 20. 21,000 gns yearling, Advertise filly. Half-sister to 2-y-o 6f winner Ange de L'amour. Dam, 5f winner, half-sister to smart winner up to 7f Nufoos. Others make more appeal than this newcomer on paper. 21,000gns half-sister to a 6f winner; dam a useful sprinter; yard not renowned for 2yo joy.
LTO Selection:
17:00 Chelmsford Stakes (Class 5) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
Almarada Prince completed a double when landing a novice contest at Hamilton last month and merits respect in his current form, but the son of Prince Of Lir may prove vulnerable carrying a double penalty in this event. INVINCIBLE AURA finished a respectable 11th in a valuable auction race at Newmarket earlier this month and he makes plenty of appeal in these calmer waters. Eighth Army and Delicacy are others to note after displaying ability on their respective appearances to date.
INVINCIBLE AURA held viable excuses on account of his disadvantageous draw and the quicker ground when only mid-field in a valuable sales event at Newmarket last time, so is given the chance to get the better the doubly-penalised Almarada Prince. Delicacy showed ability on her debut in the summer and also isn't ruled out of getting back on track after a break.
Invincible Aura and Eighth Army can feature but the promising ALMARADA PRINCE may be able to concede the weight all round.
(5) Jem In Em 13/8, Bumper winner shaped well despite a barely adequate test when third of 8 in novice hurdle at this course (20.9f, good to firm, 5/2) 46 days ago, a patient ride not really bringing his stamina into play. Type to improve back handicapping over longer trips. Shaped like a stayer here last month and looks interesting back in a handicap at new trip.
2
2nd (6) (7/4 +50%) Haveyougotmymoney
7/4(+50%)
(6) Haveyougotmymoney 7/4, Gained reward for several good efforts in defeat when landing 11-runner handicap hurdle at Southwell (24.3f, good to soft, 7/2) 25 days ago, staying on well. Very much at home over long distances and can go well again from 5 lb higher mark. Has done well since wind surgery and he won by 4l at Southwell last time; respected up 5lb.
3
3rd (9) (12/1 -100%) Dequall
12/1(-100%)
(9) Dequall 12/1, Largely consistent in defeat over hurdles in early-2022, running respectably when third of 9 in handicap hurdle at Perth (23.9f, soft) when last seen. Best watched after 18-month absence. C&D winner but he returns after a long absence and has work to do in this competitive race.
4
4th (8) (8/1 +20%) Onestepatatime
8/1(+20%)
(8) Onestepatatime 8/1, Won twice over fences at Sedgefield in January and only narrowly failed to complete the hat-trick there in March. Unsuited by right-handed track at Carlisle on next start and is interesting from lower hurdles mark. Well handicapped on best chase form and she's not ruled back over hurdles on her return.
5th
5th (7) (20/1 -67%) Theirshegoes
20/1(-67%)
(7) Theirshegoes 20/1, Took a step forward despite still doing plenty wrong under pressure when on handicap debut third at Perth and made the frame again at Newcastle next time. Respected after summer break. Still lightly raced but has a bit to prove upped to this trip after 165 days off.
6th
6th (3) (20/1 -43%) Niceandeasy
20/1(-43%)
(3) Niceandeasy 20/1, Dual-winning chaser in the first half of 2022 but jumping errors consistently proved an issue last year. Back over smaller obstacles for the first time in almost 2 years and is worth a market check. Generally struggled last season and has something to prove back over hurdles on his return.
7th
7th (4) (8/1 +0%) Nights In Venice
8/1(+0%)
(4) Nights In Venice 8/1, Placed 3 times around 3m late last season, looking as good as ever when second of 6 in handicap hurdle (3/1) at Newcastle (23.7f, good to soft). Off 6 months and has been raised another 3 lb but merits respect nonetheless. 0-12 but he had a near-miss at Newcastle (2m7f, heavy) in final run last term; key player.
LTO Selection:
17:04 Kelso Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) 26f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
HAVEYOUGOTMYMONEY has travelled with more ease since being campaigned over a longer distance at Hexham last month and Paul Robson's charge is taken to shrug off a 5lb rise for his victory at Southwell earlier in October. Nights In Venice was far from disgraced on his runner-up efforts at Carlisle and Newcastle at the end of the last season and he shouldn't be far away if returning in the same heart, while Theirshegoes makes some appeal now upped in trip.
JEM IN EM looks every inch the type to improve now tackling longer distances and Lucinda Russell's gelding is fancied to make a winning return to handicap company. Haveyougotmymoney has improved since switching to staying trips and rates as a threat in his bid to follow up from his Southwell success, with the consistent Nights In Venice another with sound claims.
Top of the list is HAVEYOUGOTMYMONEY (nap), who was as good as ever with his comfortable win at Southwell.
(2) Butcher Hollow 2.75/1, €7,500 3-y-o, £200,000 4-y-o, Kingston Hill gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to useful hurdle winner (stayed 3m) According To Dick and fairly useful hurdler/chaser (stayed 29f) Prideofthecastle. Easy winner sole start in points (Feb 5). Worth chancing on Rules debut. Tallow point' winner fetched £200,000; interesting on rules debut.
2
2nd (9) (3.5/1 +71%) The Other Mozzie
3.5/1(+71%)
(9) The Other Mozzie 3.5/1, Once-raced maiden. 7/1, fifth of 15 in bumper at Tipperary (18f, heavy) on NH debut 177 days ago. May do better. Enough on Tipperary debut in May to suggest he'll feature here under Derek O'Connor.
3
3rd (8) (4.5/1 -64%) Tactical Affair
4.5/1(-64%)
(8) Tactical Affair 4.5/1, Once-raced maiden. 15/2, fifth of 16 in bumper at Punchestown (16.4f, good to soft) on NH debut. Off 6 months. More to come and worthy of respect. Goffs Land Rover Bumper fifth looks the best form on offer here; obvious chance.
4
4th (10) (25/1 -178%) Thegraveyardbookie
25/1(-178%)
(10) Thegraveyardbookie 25/1, Twice-raced maiden. 14/1, sixth of 9 in bumper at Listowel (16f, soft) 40 days ago, running on. Not discounted. Promise both starts; remains open to improvement and has to be considered.
5th
5th (7) (9/4 +44%) Sportinthepark
9/4(+44%)
(7) Sportinthepark 9/4, (Production):€70,000 3-y-o, €170,000 4-y-o: first foal: dam unraced sister to useful bumper winner/useful hurdler (2m/23f winner ) Oscarteea, and closely related to high-class hurdler/smart chaser (2m-25f winner) Identity Thief: runner-up sole start in points (Apr 21). Points' second fetched 170,000euros; hooded for rules debut.
6th
6th (1) (125/1 -150%) Brave Crogha
125/1(-150%)
(1) Brave Crogha 125/1, Lightly-raced maiden under NH rules. Seventh of 9 in bumper (66/1) at Cork (19f, good to soft) 13 days ago. Needs to do more. Cork run 13 days ago a small step in the right direction but still best watched.
7th
7th (6) (16/1 -14%) Mount Anglesby
16/1(-14%)
(6) Mount Anglesby 16/1, €70,000 3-y-o, Sholokhov gelding. Closely related to fairly useful 3m chase winner Call The Tune, and half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Apache Creek. Makes some appeal on paper. 70,000euros 3yo for whom market best guide on debut.
8th
8th (4) (33/1 +18%) Howdoyalikeherhome
33/1(+18%)
(4) Howdoyalikeherhome 33/1, Once-raced maiden. Eighteenth of 22 in bumper at Punchestown (16.4f, good to soft, 66/1) on NH debut. Off 6 months. Tailed off on debut at Punchestown festival in April; best watched on return.
9th
9th (5) (14/1 -17%) Jassur Des Brosses
14/1(-17%)
(5) Jassur Des Brosses 14/1, €17,000 3-y-o, Magneticjim gelding. Dam unraced half-sister to fairly useful hurdler/fair chaser in France (17f-21f winner) Up To You and fairly useful French 2¼m hurdle winner Volluto. Market best guide on debut.
The chart reads from right to left to today's race.
BUTCHER HOLLOW made a big impression when easily landing a point-to-point at Tallow in February and was snapped up by current connections for 200,000 pounds at Cheltenham later that month. There is some substance to the form as the second gave the useful Intense Approach a fright next time in a point and the third ran well in a Ballinrobe bumper. Tactical Affair has the best piece of bumper form having finished a creditable fifth in the valuable Goffs Sales race at the Punchestown Festival and Gordon Elliott's charge is sure to have benefitted from that experience. Sportinthepark shaped with promise on his only point start in April and was sold for 170,000 euros at Punchestown the following week, while Mount Anglesby is a half-brother to two jumps winners and cost 70,000 pounds at the Derby Sale last year.
Having run out an easy winner of a point, BUTCHER HOLLOW has been picked up for a hefty sum, and this looks a good chance to maintain his unbeaten record switched to Rules. Fellow point recruit Sportinthepark is an obvious danger and Tactical Affair looks the pick of those with bumper experience.
Fifth in the Goffs Land Rover Bumper at the Punchestown festival, TACTICAL AFFAIR could prove the one to beat
(3) Thunder Roar 2/1, Lightly raced for this stable and got back to winning ways with the help of the stewards at York earlier this month. Should go well again.
2
2nd (7) (6.5/1 +46%) Muntadab
6.5/1(+46%)
(7) Muntadab 6.5/1, 3-time C&D winner. Eleven runs since last win in 2022. 20/1, respectable fourth of 13 in handicap at Ayr (7.2f, heavy) 16 days ago. Return to this track is in his favour and he's worthy of consideration despite his advancing years.
3
3rd (11) (2.5/1 +50%) Lockdown Lass
2.5/1(+50%)
(11) Lockdown Lass 2.5/1, Gained more reward for her consistency when winning 12-runner handicap (7/2) at Chester last month and effort best excused (did too much too soon) there last time. One to consider.
4
4th (4) (16/1 +36%) Ugo Gregory
16/1(+36%)
(4) Ugo Gregory 16/1, Latest win at Haydock (7f) in August and twice finished runner up in handicaps at Chester/Beverley before a couple of lesser efforts. Needs to bounce back.
5th
5th (9) (22/1 +33%) Alexa's Princess
22/1(+33%)
(9) Alexa's Princess 22/1, Made a fairly encouraging return from 11 months off when fifth in handicap at Carlisle (6.9f) in September but proved disappointing when last of 8 in handicap at Newcastle (7f) 29 days ago. Needs to leave that in her wake to figure here.
6th
6th (8) (9/2 +55%) Ring Of Gold
9/2(+55%)
(8) Ring Of Gold 9/2, Highly reliable and shaped as if still in good orrder when fifth at Chester last time, not ideally placed. Should be thereabouts if the race is run to suit.
7th
7th (1) (12/1 +0%) Gainsbourg
12/1(+0%)
(1) Gainsbourg 12/1, Won twice at Ayr in July but hasn't fired since, including over hurdles at Kelso last time, Others make more appeal.
8th
8th (6) (28/1 -155%) Bobby Shaft
28/1(-155%)
(6) Bobby Shaft 28/1, Won twice in 2020 but showed nothing on return from a huge absence at Newcastle 176 days ago. Plenty to prove.
9th
9th (10) (100/1 -52%) Beylerbeyi
100/1(-52%)
(10) Beylerbeyi 100/1, Badly out of sorts and makes little appeal.
LTO Selection:
17:28 Doncaster Handicap (Class 4) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 4 race.
THUNDER ROAR gained a second success of the season when being awarded the race in the stewards' room at York recently and the four-year-old must hold every chance of going in again off only 3lb higher. Challet has yet to get his head in front this season but has displayed enough ability to warrant consideration, with the return to 7f likely to aid his cause, while Dark Side Thunder and Muntadab could also have a say in proceedings.
CHALLET was running well through the summer and he's handicapped to win, so he's worth taking a chance on having likely been primed for a big run after a couple of months off. Thunder Roar is an obvious danger having scored (promoted) at York last time and Dark Side Thunder also merits respect.
A turf win still eludes RING OF GOLD but this looks a good opportunity and the return of Joanna Mason in the saddle is a bonus.
(4) Agostino 11/8, Shaped as if still in good form when fourth of 10 in handicap at this C&D (11/4) 23 days ago (blindfold removed late and short of room home turn), so merits consideration. 15-race maiden but series of good recent runs on AW; vulnerable to anything progressive.
2
2nd (3) (22/1 -38%) Habooba
22/1(-38%)
(3) Habooba 22/1, First run since leaving A. Bin Harmash when ninth of 12 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f, 50/1) on UK debut 69 days ago. Back down in trip. Very hard to make a case for. Well-beaten 50-1 shot on her British/stable debut ten weeks ago (1m); too much to prove.
3
3rd (2) (9/1 +25%) Sir Rodneyredblood
9/1(+25%)
(2) Sir Rodneyredblood 9/1, Six-time course winner. 12/1, sixth of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (5.1f) 19 days ago. Cheekpieces back on. Can give a good account without posing serious threat to principals. Conditions to suit and dropping into Class 6 company will help this six-time course winner.
4
4th (7) (14/1 +0%) Indie Skies
14/1(+0%)
(7) Indie Skies 14/1, Thrice-raced maiden. 200/1, fifth of 12 in maiden at Windsor (6f, good to firm) 19 days ago, never nearer. Makes handicap debut. Easy to look elsewhere. Faces his first realistic chance on this handicap debut; not solid but worth market check.
5th
5th (1) (7/1 -100%) Fletcher's Flight
7/1(-100%)
(1) Fletcher's Flight 7/1, Thrice-raced winner. 13/2, improved again when won 8-runner minor event at Redcar (6f, good) 39 days ago, comfortably. That was a weak event, though, and he'll likely need a bit more to defy this opening mark. Made all dropped to 6f at Redcar last month; could have been let into handicaps lightly.
6th
6th (5) (6/1 +14%) Miss Gallagher
6/1(+14%)
(5) Miss Gallagher 6/1, One of lesser efforts when eighth of 11 in handicap (10/1) at Kempton (7f) 40 days ago. In decent form prior, so not fully ruled out if able to bounce back quickly. Ten-race maiden; failed to fire last time and drop in trip/class not enough to tempt.
7th
7th (6) (3/1 -20%) Corinthia Knight
3/1(-20%)
(6) Corinthia Knight 3/1, Sixteen runs since last win in 2022 but has been placed on each of his last 4 outings, again running well when second of 15 in handicap at Windsor (6f, good to firm, 4/1) 19 days ago. Has to be taken seriously. Engaged 7.45 Wolverhampton Friday. In good form off his higher turf mark this autumn; non-runner 7.45 Wolverhampton Friday.
8th
8th (8) (33/1 -32%) Bobby On The Beat
33/1(-32%)
(8) Bobby On The Beat 33/1, Course winner. Placed twice in the spring but currently badly out of sorts, only ninth of 10 in handicap (50/1) at Yarmouth (7f, soft) 12 days ago. Hard to fancy. Risky but he's down in the weights and this return to Class 6 company will suit.
LTO Selection:
17:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 6f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
AGOSTINO ran better than the beaten distance on his fourth-placed finish over C&D recently after being slowly away due to the blindfold being stuck. The Robert Cowell-trained inmate has been found a suitable opportunity to get off the mark. Fletcher's Flight makes his handicap debut off what appears to be a fair mark and is entitled to be in the mix following his Redcar victory, while others to note include Miss Gallagher and Indie Skies.
CORINTHIA KNIGHT has been knocking on the door of late and this appears to represent a fine opportunity for him to notch a first win of the year. Agostino is also going through a good spell at present and rates as the main danger, with Sir Rodneyredblood a pick for third on account of his good course record.
Sir Rodneyredblood will be a danger to all but handicap newcomer FLETCHER'S FLIGHT can follow up his Redcar novice win.
(7) Enrico Caruso 7/1, Looked badly in need of the experience when fifth of 6 in minor event (4/1) at Lingfield (10f, AW) on debut 32 days ago, very slowly away. Will surely improve on that initial effort, possibly by quite a bit. Slowly away/green when never-dangerous fifth of six at Lingfield; could improve markedly.
2
2nd (8) (9/4 +55%) Incremental
9/4(+55%)
(8) Incremental 9/4, Showed promise when fourth of 6 in minor event (9/1) at Kempton (10f) on debut 7 months ago, slowly away. First run for yard after leaving John & Thady Gosden (35,000 gns) and has been gelded. Left the Gosdens for 35,000gns after quite a promising debut fourth; shortlisted.
3
3rd (10) (7/4 +13%) Lord Melbourne
7/4(+13%)
(10) Lord Melbourne 7/4, 9/4, showed bundles to work on once more when second of 4 in maiden at Pontefract (12f, good to soft) 19 days ago, outstayed by a stronger stayer but pulling clear of rest. Remains capable of better and may prove hard to beat. Distinct promise at Salisbury and Pontefract; still has potential; looks the one to beat.
4
4th (1) (5/1 +38%) Man Of Monaco
5/1(+38%)
(1) Man Of Monaco 5/1, Improved from debut when won 5-runner minor event (13/2) at Beverley (9.9f, heavy) 38 days ago. Likely to improve. Improvement when winning at Beverley; open to further progress but gives weight all round.
5th
5th (14) (20/1 +29%) Karriewhitchit
20/1(+29%)
(14) Karriewhitchit 20/1, Dubawi filly. Sister to 2-y-o 7f winner Kazimiera and useful 1m-1¼m winner Franz Kafka and half-sister to useful 1¼m-1¾m winner Charles Kingsley. Wears hood and interesting to see which way she goes in the betting. Refused to enter stalls on intended debut at Yarmouth in August; now sports a hood.
6th
6th (5) (12/1 +40%) Assail
12/1(+40%)
(5) Assail 12/1, £130,000 yearling, No Nay Never gelding. Closely related to 1½m winner Sarsons Risk and half-brother to 7f winner Mayne and 2-y-o 1m winner Glengowan. Dam, 1½m winner, sister to smart 1½m winner Say. Newcomer; some appeal on pedigree and yard has been in excellent form over the last month.
7th
7th (13) (11/1 -10%) Daydream Express
11/1(-10%)
(13) Daydream Express 11/1, Twice-raced maiden. Sixth of 12 in maiden (3/1) at Kempton (7f) 12 days ago, left poorly placed. Significantly up in trip. Worth another chance to build on her debut promise. Failed to build on debut run but this step up in trip could be in her favour.
8th
8th (6) (66/1 -313%) Didactic Patrick
66/1(-313%)
(6) Didactic Patrick 66/1, 66/1, showed some ability when third of 5 in minor event at Lingfield (10f, AW) on debut 6 weeks ago, not knocked about. Some promise when third of five at Lingfield on debut but that wasn't a strong race.
9th
9th (3) (200/1 -100%) Total Master
200/1(-100%)
(3) Total Master 200/1, 50/1, offered little upped markedly in trip 2 years on from his debut when last of 5 in minor event at Ripon (12f, soft) 4 weeks ago. Soundly beaten in two runs two years apart; impossible to fancy.
10th
10th (11) (150/1 -50%) Sir Cilia
150/1(-50%)
(11) Sir Cilia 150/1, Twice-raced maiden. Hooded for 1st time, first run since leaving Eve Johnson Houghton after 5 months off when thirteenth of 14 in maiden at Windsor (8.1f, good to soft, 80/1) 12 days ago. Back up in trip. Has beaten only one home in two runs at Windsor, hooded on latest; lots to find.
11th
11th (12) (150/1 -355%) A Touch Of Silver
150/1(-355%)
(12) A Touch Of Silver 150/1, 40/1, fared little better than on debut after 4 months off when fifth of 6 in minor event at Epsom (10.1f, good to firm) 27 days ago. Long odds and scant promise in novices over this trip at Windsor and Epsom.
12th
12th (4) (66/1 -371%) Apolo
66/1(-371%)
(4) Apolo 66/1, Twice-raced maiden. 7/2, ran no sort of race when last of 10 in minor event at Windsor (10f, good to soft) back in June. First run for yard after leaving John & Thady Gosden (9,000 gns) and has been gelded. Well bred; went backwards after promising debut for the Gosdens; has since been gelded.
13th
13th (2) (250/1 -150%) Manny Boy
250/1(-150%)
(2) Manny Boy 250/1, 300/1, showed a bit more than on debut when ninth of 12 in minor event at Kempton (8f) 52 days ago. Back up in trip. Well held at triple-figure prices in AW maiden/novice and difficult to recommend.
LTO Selection:
18:00 Chelmsford Stakes (Class 5) 10f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
LORD MELBOURNE posted another creditable effort in defeat when runner-up in a maiden contest at Pontefract earlier in October and a similar level of performance for the son of Wootton Bassett may be enough to earn a breakthrough success here. Incremental was beaten just under two lengths on his debut at Kempton in April and could offer the most resistance to the selection, shortly followed by penalised-winner Man Of Monaco, who displayed a willing attitude in his victory at Beverley last month.
Plenty in with chances but LORD MELBOURNE showed bundles to work on once again when runner-up at Pontefract recently and, with further progress on the cards, he's fancied to make it third time lucky dropped back to 1¼m for his all-weather debut. Incremental showed promise amidst greenness when fourth at Kempton back in April and he may emerge as the main danger having been gelded/moved yards since. Daydream Express and newcomer Karriewhitchit round off the shortlist.
Despite the big field, this is not a race with much strength in depth and LORD MELBOURNE has solid claims.
(3) Hey Lyla 4/1, 7/1, below form when eleventh of 12 in handicap at this course (10f) 23 days ago. Others more persuasive. 12lb below last winning mark, but better at 7f and not the only front-runner in the field.
2
2nd (4) (5/2 +58%) Emma Emilleen
5/2(+58%)
(4) Emma Emilleen 5/2, Bounced back to form returned to all-weather when fourth of 14 in handicap (7/1) at Kempton (11f) 12 days ago. Back down in trip. Fancied to feature for her in-form yard. Has been racing over further lately, but may get a good pace to aim at; shortlisted.
3
3rd (5) (13/2 +19%) Tamaluk
13/2(+19%)
(5) Tamaluk 13/2, 9/1, again offered something to work on when seventh of 12 in handicap at Lingfield (8f, AW) 23 days ago. Place claims. 0-10; ran well on penultimate start, but not so good last time and isn't progressing.
4
4th (8) (20/1 +0%) Sparkling Spirit
20/1(+0%)
(8) Sparkling Spirit 20/1, Below form when seventh of 11 in handicap (14/1) at Wolverhampton (8.6f) 7 days ago, badly hampered first bend. Likely to find a few too strong. 0-10 and has become inconsistent; others are more solid.
5th
5th (1) (10/1 -33%) Canadiansmokeshow
10/1(-33%)
(1) Canadiansmokeshow 10/1, Winner at Brighton in June. Added to a patchy record when fifth of 6 in handicap at Epsom (8.5f, good to firm, 9/1) 44 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Hasn't backed up her breakthrough Brighton success; something to prove on Polytrack debut.
6th
6th (7) (7/1 +30%) Cariad
7/1(+30%)
(7) Cariad 7/1, 8/1 and blinkered for 1st time, ran up to best when fifth of 11 in handicap at this course (7f) 16 days ago, keeping on well. Enters calculations from a 1 lb lower mark. 1lb below her last winning mark and may have the race run to suit; interesting.
7th
7th (6) (33/1 -50%) Impulsive Lady
33/1(-50%)
(6) Impulsive Lady 33/1, 14/1, fared no better than on handicap debut when seventh of 8 at Lingfield (7f, AW) 9 months ago. First run for yard after leaving James Tate (11,000 gns) and she's worth a second look for a yard associated with rejuvenating similar types. Regressive for James Tate and makes stable debut after nine months off; watch market.
8th
8th (2) (3/1 -33%) Creme Chantilly
3/1(-33%)
(2) Creme Chantilly 3/1, Got back on the up in no uncertain terms from a dropping mark when winning 11-runner handicap at this C&D (17/2) 16 days ago, keeping on well. 7 lb higher here but has won 2 of 3 starts on synthetic surfaces and should remain competitive. 2-2 over C&D; 7lb rise fair but the presence of other front-runners a potential issue.
LTO Selection:
18:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 5) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 5 race.
CREME CHANTILLY accounted for her nearest rival by just over three lengths over C&D earlier in the month and she was hit with a 7lb rise for that display. The daughter of New Bay may have more to come, so she could prove difficult to beat. Emma Emilleen put in a respectable effort in fourth over 1m3f at Kempton last time and is an interesting contender dropping back in trip. Tamaluk completes the shortlist.
CREME CHANTILLY got back on the up in no uncertain terms when doubling her tally over C&D earlier this month and Michael Bell's filly can make it 3 wins from 4 starts at this venue. Second choice is Emma Emilleen, who bounced back to form at Kempton recently and this drop back in trip could see her go close, with Cariad and Tamaluk taken to battle out third.
The choice is CARIAD who should be suited by the return to this trip and has dropped 1lb below her last winning mark.
(2) Style Of Life 2.25/1, Lightly-raced winner. Winner at Wolverhampton in September. 10/3, ninth of 11 in handicap at Brighton (8f, good) 18 days ago. Likely to be back on her game returned to AW. Made all at Wolverhampton last month, but couldn't dominate last time; still unexposed.
2
2nd (7) (22/1 -144%) Twilight Jazz
22/1(-144%)
(7) Twilight Jazz 22/1, Winner at Leicester in July. Last of 12 in handicap at this course (10f, 14/1) 58 days ago. Others more persuasive. Two heavy defeats since belatedly getting off the mark leave her with a bit to prove.
3
3rd (6) (4.5/1 +10%) Meng Tian
4.5/1(+10%)
(6) Meng Tian 4.5/1, Eighteen runs since last win in 2022. 7/2, bit below form fifth of 11 in handicap at Southwell (8.1f) 18 days ago. Had been in good order prior to that and shouldn't be taken lightly. Losing run up to 18, but form of latest Southwell fifth has been boosted; interesting.
4
4th (1) (2.75/1 +21%) Lost In Time
2.75/1(+21%)
(1) Lost In Time 2.75/1, Latest win at Yarmouth in July. 17/2, respectable fifth of 12 in handicap at this course (10f) 23 days ago. Should be thereabouts. Last seven starts over 1m2f including a win; claims granted a good pace to aim at.
5th
5th (4) (3/1 +0%) Asdaa
3/1(+0%)
(4) Asdaa 3/1, C&D winner. 16/1 and visored for 1st time, respectable sixth of 11 in handicap at Newcastle (8f) 8 days ago, never nearer. One to consider. Dual winner here, but on a losing run of 14 and needs a bit more to return to winning ways.
6th
6th (8) (25/1 -25%) Streetstorm
25/1(-25%)
(8) Streetstorm 25/1, 33/1, ninth of 13 in handicap at Yarmouth (10.1f, soft) 12 days ago. Back down in trip. Hard to make a strong case for. 0-12 and held since going close at Lingfield in June; look elsewhere.
7th
7th (3) (22/1 -38%) Tables Turned
22/1(-38%)
(3) Tables Turned 22/1, Last of 8 in handicap (22/1) at Lingfield (7.6f, good to soft) 89 days ago. Others more persuasive. 3lb lower than when a close fourth over 1m2f here in May; off three months; shortlisted.
8th
8th (5) (33/1 -32%) Underlay
33/1(-32%)
(5) Underlay 33/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Twelfth of 14 in handicap (66/1) at Bath (8f, soft) 26 days ago. Makes polytrack debut. Not easy to make a case for. Well beaten in four starts on turf; half-brother to a multiple turf/AW winner.
LTO Selection:
19:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 8f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
STYLE OF LIFE was victorious at Wolverhampton on her penultimate start before disappointing at Brighton when she finished ninth. The Jamie Osborne-trained filly could easily bounce back on her return to the all-weather, so she is worth siding with. The main threat is Meng Tian, who has put in two solid efforts in this grade the last twice and can be thereabouts, while Lost In Time is another to watch out for.
STYLE OF LIFE was successful at Wolverhampton on her penultimate run and, back on AW, she makes plenty of appeal in a thin race. Lost In Time is the main danger and Asdaa is worthy of consideration having shaped better than the result last time.
This can go to MENG TIAN whose latest Southwell fifth is working out well and who has dropped 23lb below his last winning mark.
(4) Grand Duchess Olga 10/3, Course winner. Winner here in September. Creditable fourth of 12 in handicap (10/3) at this course (14f) 9 days ago. Should give another good account. Consistent since cheekpieces were fitted; unlikely to be far away if staying longer trip.
2
2nd (1) (4/1 +56%) Shadowfax
4/1(+56%)
(1) Shadowfax 4/1, Eighth of 9 in handicap (40/1) at Beverley (16.2f, good to firm) 72 days ago. Hasn't been firing this year but becoming well treated. Carries clear risks (0-9; below par when last seen) but mark has tumbled and the AW suits.
3
3rd (3) (16/1 -33%) Global Wonder
16/1(-33%)
(3) Global Wonder 16/1, C&D winner. 22/1, eighth of 10 in handicap at Wolverhampton (16.6f). Off 156 days. Something to prove. Winning return from 11 months off over C&D in February; could be revived by another break.
4
4th (2) (11/4 +39%) Vienna Girl
11/4(+39%)
(2) Vienna Girl 11/4, Very good third of 12 in handicap at Southwell (14.1f, 9/1) 30 days ago. One to consider. Best Flat run when third at Southwell last month; more persuasive than most.
5th
5th (6) (14/1 -17%) Gino's Girl
14/1(-17%)
(6) Gino's Girl 14/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Creditable sixth of 10 in handicap at Kempton (16f, 25/1) 31 days ago. Blinkers on 1st time. Not discounted. Maiden; stamina still unproven at 2m; needs first-time blinkers to have positive effect.
6th
6th (7) (11/2 +0%) Mellow Mood
11/2(+0%)
(7) Mellow Mood 11/2, Fifth of 8 in handicap at Wolverhampton (16.6f, 10/3) 7 days ago. Should give her running but she's had plenty of chances from similar marks. Consistent type but 0-12; in the mix but others appeal more for the win.
7th
7th (5) (9/2 -13%) Lady Bracken
9/2(-13%)
(5) Lady Bracken 9/2, 7/2, good third of 9 in handicap at Musselburgh (16f, good to soft) 12 days ago. Still lightly raced and worth a chance to open her account. In the mix judged on recent turf efforts but yet to prove effectiveness on AW.
8th
8th (8) (125/1 -346%) Wilpena Pound
125/1(-346%)
(8) Wilpena Pound 125/1, Sixth of 10 in handicap (80/1) at Wolverhampton (14f) 19 days ago. Others more persuasive. Yet to finish in the first five after 11 attempts and hard to see him breaking his duck.
LTO Selection:
19:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 16f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
LADY BRACKEN has been thereabouts in this grade the last twice, including when beaten just over two lengths into third at Musselburgh, and she remains on the same rating. The three-year-old ought to go close with a repeat of that effort. Grand Duchess Olga takes a slight step up in distance, which could eke out more, and has to be respected. Of the remainder, Vienna Girl makes the most appeal after her third at Southwell.
LADY BRACKEN is going the right way and could be up to getting off the mark with a promising claimer taking 7 lb off. In-form pair Vienna Girl and Grand Duchess Olga are both obvious dangers.
Bred to win Group races, SHADOWFAX has been disappointing but his mark is tumbling and he could be worth chancing back on the AW.
(7) Nemorum 4.5/1, Remains a maiden after 20 starts but he does arrive on the back of a pair of creditable fourth-placed finishes over C&D. Thereabouts if in similar form Winless in 20 goes but he's running with credit over C&D at present; likely contender.
2
2nd (6) (5/1 +17%) Fast Flo
5/1(+17%)
(6) Fast Flo 5/1, Remains a maiden after 19 starts. 12/1, creditable third of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (7f, soft) 37 days ago, helped by being held up in strongly-run race. 0-19 but has been placed three times, including at Yarmouth last time; each-way claims.
3
3rd (2) (6/1 -80%) Poetic Jack
6/1(-80%)
(2) Poetic Jack 6/1, Lightly-raced maiden. Seventh of 10 in handicap at Yarmouth (7f, soft, 18/1) 37 days ago. Quickly returns to AW. Maiden; well held last time but mark is falling and doesn't have many miles on the clock.
4
4th (4) (7/4 +50%) Last Date
7/4(+50%)
(4) Last Date 7/4, C&D winner. Eighteen runs since last win in 2021. 9/2, creditable second of 10 over C&D 9 days ago, clear of rest. Likely to be in the thick of things again. Solid record on this track, second over C&D last week; high on the list in a weak race.
5th
5th (3) (20/1 -25%) Cabaret Show
20/1(-25%)
(3) Cabaret Show 20/1, Modest form. Tongue strap/cheekpieces on first 1st time, seventh of 10 on 1m Lingfield handicap debut 52 days ago. Unexposed but more needed. Has run only on the AW so far and hasn't progressed, well held on handicap debut last time.
6th
6th (5) (11/1 -38%) Equiami
11/1(-38%)
(5) Equiami 11/1, Winner at Southwell in April but well beaten on all 3 outings since. Bounce back needed. Failed to repeat form of April's Southwell win but might be revived by four-month break.
7th
7th (1) (8/1 +56%) Many Rivers
8/1(+56%)
(1) Many Rivers 8/1, Has been unable to make an impact in handicaps on turf. Remains to be seen if a switch to AW makes any difference. Seven-race maiden; has gone the wrong way since an encouraging debut.
8th
8th (8) (20/1 +0%) Alicefromumbridge
20/1(+0%)
(8) Alicefromumbridge 20/1, Poor form. Seventh of 10 in handicap at this course (1m, 66/1) 14 days ago, unable to sustain effort. Won at Lingfield early this year but has been treading water off this sort of mark since.
LTO Selection:
20:00 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 7f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
LAST DATE appears the one to beat here as the only course winner in the field having won here three times during his career. Without a win since April 2021, he was last seen finishing second here off the same mark and may have been found a race he can win. Many Rivers could be interesting with Shariq Mohd claiming 7lb from the saddle, leaving Poetic Jack as the likeliest to follow them home.
LAST DATE has refound some form lately and perhaps he can get his head back in front. Nemorum has strung a couple of decent efforts together here this autumn and is second choice ahead of Fast Flo.
There won't be many better opportunities for NEMORUM to get off the mark and he's taken to break his duck at the 21st attempt.
(1) Mick's Spirit 13/8, Eased in weights and confirmed return to form when finishing very good second of 7 in a C&D handicap 37 days ago, quickening to lead over 1f out and collared line. Of interest again now he's back in the groove. All wins at Lingfield but effective elsewhere, as when pipped at the post over C&D latest.
2
2nd (6) (17/2 +29%) Conquest Of Power
17/2(+29%)
(6) Conquest Of Power 17/2, 28/1, eleventh of 14 in handicap at Bath (5.7f, soft) 10 days ago, racing off the pace and never dangerous. Again had soft ground as a possible excuse then and switch back to an artificial surface may help now from tumbling mark. Offered little after a long absence but down in grade with headgear returned; check market.
3
3rd (4) (10/3 +33%) Josies Kid
10/3(+33%)
(4) Josies Kid 10/3, Latest win at Wolverhampton in June. Good second of 10 in handicap back at that venue (5.1f, 7/2) 7 days ago, headed last ½f. Another holding claims with cheekpieces back on. Pleasing return to action last week and headgear back on today; major player.
4
4th (2) (5/2 -53%) So Sleepy
5/2(-53%)
(2) So Sleepy 5/2, Career best when winning 7-runner handicap at this C&D (11/10) 16 days ago, leading final 100 yds and ultimately winning comfortably. Sound claims from 6 lb higher mark. Followed unlucky Lingfield defeat with easy C&D win; now 6lb higher; usually slowly away.
5th
5th (7) (8/1 -23%) Jacquelina
8/1(-23%)
(7) Jacquelina 8/1, Winner at Chepstow (5f) in June. Respectable fourth of 8 in handicap (5/2) at Yarmouth (5.2f, good) in July, no extra final 100 yds. No forlorn hope returning from 114 days off. Chepstow win in June was followed by some good runs in defeat; 114-day layoff to defy.
6th
6th (5) (40/1 -150%) Due Date
40/1(-150%)
(5) Due Date 40/1, Offered little both starts upon joining present stable in recent weeks and application of first-time visor/tongue tie needs to have serious effect if he's to figure. Finished last in two runs for new yard this month; new accessories now but easy to swerve.
LTO Selection:
20:30 Chelmsford Handicap (Class 6) 5f Race Class Flow
The chart reads from right to left to today's class 6 race.
Mick's Spirit has been frustrating recently with a third at Southwell and a nose second here last time out, but he has been put up 2lb for that and may have to settle for a place here. SO SLEEPY showed plenty of improvement to win with ease here on her latest outing and another 6lb from the handicapper may not be enough to stop the daughter of Oasis Dream from following up, leaving Wolverhampton runner-up Josies Kid as the third to consider in a tightly-matched contest.
SO SLEEPY gained deserved compensation for her unlucky defeat previously when running out a comfortable winner of a C&D handicap 16 days ago and a repeat here should see her make another bold bid from a 6 lb higher mark. Fellow in-form pair Mick's Spirit and Josies Kid head up the dangers.
Mick's Spirit went close here last time but JOSIES KID (nap) is taken to confirm the promise of last week's return to action.
Racecard Key
Ths is the racecard key.
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How to use Tomform
Please Watch this short video that will help you learn how to use Tomform.com to filter out the runners and find a winner in each race.
This is the 16:15 Kempton race from the video above backed at 28/1 earlier in the day.
About U.K Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular and historic sport in the UK, with a tradition dating back centuries. It is a multi-billion pound industry that attracts millions of spectators each year and generates significant economic activity.
There are two main types of horse racing in the UK: flat racing and jump racing. Flat racing is run on a level course and is typically shorter in distance, while jump racing involves horses jumping over obstacles and is generally longer in distance. Both types of racing are popular with spectators and bettors, and they take place at various racetracks throughout the country.
The most famous horse racing event in the UK is the Grand National, which is held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is a jump racing event that is known for its challenging course and has become a national institution in the UK. Other notable horse racing events in the UK include the Derby, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, and the Royal Ascot, held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
Horse racing in the UK is regulated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which sets rules and standards for the industry. It is responsible for the welfare of racehorses and the safety of jockeys and trainers, as well as ensuring fair and transparent racing practices.
In addition to its economic and cultural importance, horse racing in the UK also plays a significant role in the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses. Many of the world's top thoroughbreds are bred and trained in the UK, and the industry plays a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the breed.
Overall, horse racing is an integral part of British culture and a major contributor to the country's economy. It is a thrilling and exciting sport that continues to attract a loyal following and generate significant interest from spectators and bettors around the world.
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