We head to Dublin for Ireland’s biggest weekend in racing. All the stable stars come out to strut their stuff before they stuff the British at Cheltenham. It’s always a good indicator to see where each Willie Mullins runner will be heading to in March, but there is a bit of value to be found in the slightly more open novice races. Plus there’s a decent card at Sandown to keep an eye on in today’s Four To Follow.
Leopardstown
Grades Count
1:20 – Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Solicitors Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) – Loughglynn @ 9/2 (William Hill)
It’s telling which horse Paul Townend picks to ride in each race for Mullins, and the market is always keen to latch on. I feel though, he’s chosen the wrong horse. Predators Gold hasn’t raced above two-and-a-half miles and was beaten, in heavy ground, last time out. The inexperience may show here.
Loughglynn is a far more accomplished novice. His win at Grade Two level at Limerick over Christmas showed that this horse has an engine to stay. It won’t be as boggy as Limerick, so has momentum to build on from his maiden win at Punchestown. Well backed Jetara has been running against the girls so far and might find this race a bit too hot.
Mullins & McManus
1:50 – Spring Juvenile Hurdle (Grade One) – Majborough @ 11/2 (William Hill)
Once again Townend has opted to go for the Gigginstown colours in Storm Heart, who looked like a Grade One juvenile when obliterating his rivals in the mud.
But there was talk of Majborough early in the season and I’ve been excited to see this horse appear. It’s a sign you’re a good horse when JP McManus buys you. It’s even better when he sends you to Closutton. It becomes even more exciting when you’re first race in Ireland is in a Grade One. If that’s how much connections think of him, there must be something in the water.
Sandown
Patron Only
2:35 – Scilly Isles’ Novices’ Chase (Grade One) – Le Patron @ 7/2 (General)
Le Patron is the only Grade One winner in the field. And despite Harry Cobden saying that Hermes Allen was at his best in the Kauto Star on Boxing Day, he still got beat. Le Patron won in bottomless over two miles, but he seemed at his best when winning over C&D back in November. JPR One gave the form a boost when winning the Lightning Novices’ Chase at Lingfield a couple of weeks ago.
The other big trend is that Paul Nicholls hasn’t won this race since 2009 and it’s unclear if this will be a stepping stone for Hermes Allen to the Festival. This is a race that Le Patron has been trained for.
Racing West
3:10 – Heroes Handicap Hurdle (Premier H’cap) – West Balboa @ 8/1 (Betfred)
West Balboa always comes alive in handicaps at this level, and she seems primed once more. After finishing way back in the Long Walk field, she’s had a rest and is back under top weight. Tristan Durell takes off a crucial three pounds to make her mark a little more accessible and she can out race this field in these conditions, which could set her up nicely for a shot at the Pertemps.
Good Luck Charm was an outside chance in the Lanzarote at Kempton but outran her odds to finish fourth and within a length to favourite Impose Toi. Stepped up in distance, she remains on the same mark and is weighted towards the very bottom of the field. She’s been priced more fairly at 10/1 (Boylesports) but has a huge chance of running to them this time around.
Equinus won by five lengths at Aintree way back in October and has had some respectable finishes in class two company. James Turner has been booked once again, and conditions will suit the Nigel Twiston-Davies horse. Extra places will useful if backing this horse at 20/1 (General).
The very best of luck!
Leopardstown and Sandown racing preview, trends and tips
This guide expands the existing Leopardstown and Sandown notes with practical angles for the weekend card and the lead into the Festival. All readers should be 18+ and are encouraged to bet responsibly; this article is informational and not a promise of returns.
Using form, trainers and ground for smarter bets
We focus on four main pillars: recent form, trainer patterns, ground suitability and market movement to find sensible plays. Keep stakes conservative, use bookmaker comparisons for value and avoid chasing losses.
Key form indicators to watch at Leopardstown
Look for horses that improve their finishing speed between runs and those that have won over similar trips in comparable ground. Recent Grade performances are particularly valuable for novice hurdlers stepping up.
Why trainer and jockey choices matter for Cheltenham
When top jockeys pick a ride it often reflects how connections rate a horse, but this should be used alongside form rather than in isolation. Trainers with a Festival focus tend to target specific prep races and this can reveal long‑term plans.
Finding value in open novice races and markets
Open novices create chances for less-fancied runners to outrun their odds, especially when market leaders have questions to answer. Backing a well-timed each-way play can be a lower-risk way to access extra places in such contests.
How Sandown form translates to Festival potential
Sandown winners with a proven leaning for speed or strong jumping often become Festival contenders, but the switch in ground and intensity at Cheltenham can expose marginal types. Use these runs to assess stamina and jumping consistency rather than relying on the result alone.
Reading betting markets and early market clues
Early moves often reflect stable confidence, while drift can indicate worry or lack of support; interpret these alongside inspection reports. Market depth is also telling—short price with heavy money suggests real belief, but it should still be tempered with form analysis.
Assessing ground, distance and stamina implications
Check official going and recent weather forecasts for both Leopardstown and Sandown, as Irish tracks dry out differently to southern England. Horses that have won on soft or heavy but also handle better ground are often the most reliable across variable cards.
Using stats to spot underrated horses and trainers
Look for trainers showing high place percentages with similar types and for jockeys who excel at a particular course or distance. Statistical edges are rarely decisive alone, but they stack with form and market info to create clearer selections.
Bankroll rules and sensible staking for weekend cards
Limit exposure by using a staking plan such as level stakes or a small percentage of your overall bankroll per selection. Avoid increasing stakes after losses; preserve capital and treat weekend betting as entertainment, not an income stream.
Interpreting recent prep runs and fitness signals
Short, sharp prep can indicate a horse is race fit, while a long layoff requires scrutiny of work reports and trainer comments. Pay attention to running style—horses that finish strongly often handle a step up in trip, whereas those who fade may need more stamina.
When to back novices and when to wait for later runs
Back novices early if the form line is solid and the market underestimates them, but wait if they are making a big leap in trip or class without clear evidence. Patience often yields better value as runners reveal themselves over two or three starts.
Spotting jockey bookings that change betting value
A top jockey switching to a runner close to race day can justify a second look, but check for reasons such as previous bookings falling through. Booking moves should complement form and trainer intent rather than drive decisions entirely.
How weather and forecast shape each race card
Persistent rain at Leopardstown can favour proven mud-lovers, while a drying Sandown surface helps speedier types; always factor this into race-by-race decisions. Where forecast is uncertain, choose lower-risk plays or reduce stake sizes.
Interpreting ground reports and going changes
Course officials’ going descriptions are the starting point; follow up with recent results to see how the going played out in practice. Some horses take mild changes in going in their stride, others require specific conditions to perform.
Bet sizing and staking plans for novice races and margins
Set unit sizes before the card and avoid over-committing on single, speculative picks in novices. Consider each-way coverage when bookmakers offer extended places to soften downside on less-certain races.
Choosing bookmakers and comparing free bet offers
Compare odds, terms and place coverage across bookmakers to make small but meaningful gains over time. Use our bookmaker comparison pages to view current free bet offers, remembering to read qualifying conditions carefully.
Exit strategies and when to concede a bad run
Accept that no strategy wins every time and establish rules for taking breaks after losing streaks to avoid emotional betting. Review selections objectively and adjust approaches based on clear patterns rather than short-term frustration.
Using formbook angles for novice hurdling events
Formbook angles like proven speed figures, chasing or hurdling pedigrees and experience at similar tracks are particularly relevant. Novices from strong bumper backgrounds or good flat form often progress rapidly when stepped up in class.
How to read sectional times and pace factors
Sectional times reveal whether a race was run at a true gallop or slowly, which affects horses that rely on a strong pace to finish. Compare sectional data to each runner’s past races to see who is likely to enjoy a stamina test or a sprint finish.
Managing emotions and avoiding tilt during matches
Stick to your staking plan and avoid chasing losses after one or two bad results; emotional betting increases risk. If you feel tilted, step away and return with a clear head and pre-defined limits.
Responsible betting reminders and safety checks for readers
Always ensure you are 18+ before using bookmaker services and set deposit, loss and time limits to control activity. If betting stops being enjoyable or causes harm, seek help via recognised support services and consider self-exclusion options.
How to compare free bets and choose fair welcome offers
Look beyond headline values to qualifying odds, wagering requirements and withdrawal conditions when comparing welcome offers. Use our comparison tools to weigh which offers suit your intended staking and to find the clearest terms for new customers.
You can explore and compare current bookmaker free bet offers on our dedicated page for fresh customer promotions, including terms and recommended choices for responsible users: bestofbets.com/free-bets. You can also review casino welcome bonuses and their terms on our casino offers page if you are interested in casino promotions: bestofbets.com/casino-bonus.
Can form and prep runs predict Cheltenham chances?
They help indicate readiness and likely race shape but should be combined with trainer pattern and ground suitability. Use prep runs as one piece of evidence rather than a definitive answer.
How should I interpret ground and going reports?
Course going descriptions are a guide; check recent race outcomes on similar going to see how horses coped. Prefer runners with proven adaptability if the forecast is uncertain.
What staking plan suits novice races and small bets?
Conservative plans like fixed units or small percentage staking protect your bankroll on unpredictable novice cards. Avoid increasing stakes after losses and keep wagers affordable relative to your funds; 18+ only.
When should I use bookmaker free bet comparisons?
Use comparisons before signing up to ensure the best terms and place coverage for the races you target. Comparing offers helps find the clearest qualifying conditions and the best fit for your staking approach.
Are jockey bookings reliable indicators of form?
They are useful signals but not foolproof; assess bookings alongside trainer comments, horse form and market movement. A top rider switching at the last minute can be a positive sign but should not override poor form.
Who should avoid betting and where to get help?
Anyone under 18 must not bet; those with gambling harms or who feel they are losing control should pause activity and seek help from recognised UK support organisations. Support and self-exclusion options are available for anyone concerned.
All betting content is aimed at readers aged 18+ and promotes responsible gambling practices. If gambling is causing you harm, please seek professional guidance and support.
