Best Of Bets

Tag: four to follow

  • Four To Follow – Jumps Finale

    Four To Follow – Jumps Finale

    The finale to the jumps season is here, as permutations may happen over the course of seven races. Willie Mullins and Dan Skelton are neck and neck in the trainers championship with the Irishman sending a battalion over to retain the crown. Who will emerge victorious after a long and enduring jumps season?

    The First Warrior

    2:25 – Oaksey Chase (Grade Two) – Gaelic Warrior @ 5/4 (Betfred)

    If you have a Grade One horse, who’s still full of running at the end of the jumps season, why not utilise him? Gaelic Warrior was a bit hit and miss over the Winter, but when stepping up to three miles he relished every inch of ground to win the Aintree Bowl. This trip may be a little shorter, but that won’t be to any consequence as he seems to get any trip Mullins throws at him. The title by this point will be halfway across the Irish Sea.

    Jumps Fitz

    3:00 – Select Hurdle (Grade Two) – Kitzbuhel @ 6/4 (Betfred)

    Kitzbuhel looked awesome on Irish debut and then followed up in a Grade Three before markedly stepping up in trip and finishing fifth in the Liverpool Hurdle three weeks back. The hood is applied for the first time and stepping back in trip will be more suitable, but will take on a Dan Skelton mare who is more used to these sorts of trip. But Mullins horses can do incredible things when asked.

    Just The Usual

    3:35 – Celebration Chase (Grade One) – Jonbon @ 4/7 (William Hill)

    The mad statistic that will forever follow Jonbon around is that he has won at every track outside of Cheltenham. And Sandown is more than just a happy hunting ground for him after scoring here five times and landing two Celebration Chases. This time he’ll be partnered with Mark Walsh, who is a multiple Grade One winner and a revered name in jockeys in Ireland. Not a bad way to try and go for a hat-trick of Celebration Chases.

    Dancing For Gold

    4:10 – bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Dancing City @ 7/1 (William Hill)

    Willie Mullins has 10 runners in this race. TEN. Half The Field. If that doesn’t tell you that he wants to win the trainers championship again, nothing will. So who has his best chance. Is it Paul Townend on High Class Hero? Rachael Blackmore on Lombron? Klarc Kent going one better than his Scottish National second?

    Dancing City, I believe, is his best chance and the horse that fits the bill out of all the others. He’s a Grade One winner, and makes handicap debut too so will bring a mountain of form into this race. He was last seen falling behind Caldwell Potter and made a bit of a mess to the race to leave the Nicholls’ horse out in front. There’s no doubting he will have been schooled for this jumping test of epic proportions. And if he gets it right, there might not be any stopping him.

    The Brits can’t be discounted too rightly. Handicapper extraordinaire Victorrino makes a first appearance since the Cheltenham Festival, when pulling up in the Ultima Chase. However, he loves going right-handed on a track given his heroics at Ascot in the early part of the season. Surprisingly, this is a first visit to Esher btu will enjoy it’s jumping test and it’s good ground, which is of high importance. 14/1 (Betfred).

    Good old Monbeg Genius has put a decent shift in this season. Second in the mud at Haydock at the start of the season, fourth in the foggiest of Welsh Grand Nationals and blitzing the field in the Midlands Grand National. He pulled up at Aintree and didn’t particularly like to jump the unique fences. Back to normality, he’s down to a nice mark of 145, within the handicap, and will enjoy a marathon trip. 33/1 (General).

    The very best of luck!

  • Four To Follow – Irish Grand National

    Four To Follow – Irish Grand National

    An Easter Monday special as the whole of Ireland heads to Fairyhouse for the final Grand National of the jumps season, the Irish Grand National. Many heroes have been made from this race and have even won Gold Cups and Aintree Nationals. Who will add their name to the illustrious list.

    Baggins?

    2:40 – O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey Juvenile Hurdle (Grade Two) – Its Bilbo @ 9/4 (William Hill)

    Surprisingly, Willie Mullins has not succeeded in this race since 2019 when French made landed the spoils. It always seems to be his eighth or ninth string of juveniles so it’s not worth trusting Blue Lemons. Instead Its Bilbo looks more solid. Broke his maiden on soft ground at Punchestown before finishing fifth in a Grade Two. Then beaten a head last time out, this could be his chance to shine.

    Finally, It’s Mee

    3:50 – Rathbarry & Glenview Studs Hurdle (Grade Two) – Kopeck De Mee @ 5/2 (William Hill)

    Kopeck De Mee has been a funny character since arriving from France. Completely bombed in the Martin Pipe but then somehow rebounded no end to finish a neck second in a handicap hurdle at Aintree. Maybe out of a handicap, Kopeck De Mee can fulfil his full potential after scoring at Listed level in France.

    If the ground let’s down Kopeck De Mee, Lantry Lady is a useful each-way alternative. Won last years Red Mills Trial Hurdle by 9.5L on deep going before finishing fifth in the Mares Hurdle. Was meant to go chasing this year, but that came to a screeching halt when she finished 25L behind Fun Fun Fun. Back over hurdles at an optimum distance she can’t be overlooked. 8/1 (William Hill).

    All Heart

    4:20 – Fairyhouse Chase (Grade Two) – Heart Wood @ 5/6 (General)

    Dropped in grade, no obvious threats from the Willie Mullins yard and finishing second in two Grade One’s this year points to all things Heart Wood in the Fairyhouse Chase. Ground shouldn’t be a problem after beating Corbetts Cross at Wexford on soft ground back in October. He also has a big weight allowance and is one of the highly rated horses in the race. Henry de Bromhead could have a big day in the spotlight if all goes his way.

    Welsh Rare-bit

    5:00 – Boylesports Irish Grand National (Grade Three) – Haiti Couleurs @ 7/1 (William Hill)

    Winning this race for Haiti Couleurs will undoubtedly be one of the stories of the season in terms of how quick and how big a horse can progress. Racing in a class three hurdles and chases all season before hacking up by 4.5L in the National Hunt Chase. Captain Cody and Klarc Kent from that race completed the one-two at Ayr last week in the Scottish Grand National, the form all points in the direction of the Welsh-trained wonder.

    The Irish won’t want the prize heading over the Irish Sea and Daily Present for Paul Nolan will lead the charge of those at an each-way price. Another who won at Cheltenham, narrowly by a neck in the Kim Muir. Interestingly he pulled up in last year’s Irish Grand National off a mark 10lbs lower than today. However, the ground may be more suitable and has made considerable progression this season. 16/1 (William Hill).

    Willie Mullins is never out of the conversation, no matter the race. Sa Majeste may have been one of the more fancied handicap runners at the Festival, and placed a far way behind Daily Present in third in the Kim Muir. However, previous to that picked up a significant three-mile Rated chase win at Fairyhouse. That doesn’t put Sa Majeste totally out of the picture. 16/1 (William Hill).

  • Four To Follow – Kracking Kempton & A Little Bit Flat

    Four To Follow – Kracking Kempton & A Little Bit Flat

    There might not be any Cheltenham fancies here, but there’s still some fantastic races in their own right. This includes this ultra-competitive Ladbrokes Trophy Handicap Chase with three Grade Two’s to also be sorted out. And there’s a reminder that the flat is creeping closer with the Winter Derby.

    Kempton

    Prayer’s Answered

    2:40 – Pendil Novice’s Chase (Grade Two) – Imperial Saint @ 5/2 (General)

    Rubaud doesn’t look like a chaser, for some reason. L’Eau Du Sud was eased up which flattered the 1L gap between the two at Warwick two weeks ago and it’s interesting that he’s stepped up to this trip for the first time.

    Imperial Saint looks more trusted, with three victories this season including one on a flat track over two-and-a-half miles at Aintree. He also placed in a Cheltenham handicap chase on Trials Day which was an attractive run. There’s a possibility that he could go to the Turners Novice Handicap, and it may be worth a good outing here to get a good mark.

    Flying Fancy

    3:00 – Dovecote Novice’s Hurdle (Grade Two) – Tripoli Flyer @ 3/1 (William Hill)

    Despite carrying a penalty, Tripoli Flyer deserves a crack at a Grade Two, and it looks winnable too. He’s seeking a hat-trick after ultra-impressive wins by 29L at Market Rasen and 16L in the Scottish Supreme Novice Hurdle. Both have come right-handed, so will be suited to the track and the ground is in his favour too. Ultra consistent, it’s a surprise he’s not favourite.

    Return Of The Power?

    3:35 – Ladbrokes Trophy Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Our Power @ 8/1 (William Hill)

    Our Power was the winner of this race in 2023 and has only had four runs after a long break away from racing. This season he’s placed second, both in Cheltenham handicap chases. It was confirmed that this was to be his Gold Cup, and there was no intention of him going to any bigger targets. If you look back to his 2023 run, the conditions are similar. The same mark, with a three-pound claiming jockey on board, and good ground to work on. It’s all set up for him to exploit.

    Beachcomber is another to consider after winning by 10L in a handicap chase over course and distance. On recent form, it looks like he prefers going right handed, so this test will be perfect for him. He’s still got a good mark which will make him competitive and there’s no reason why he shouldn’t finish outside the top-three. 8/1 (William Hill, BetVictor).

    Down in the weights, Charlie Uberalles makes some appeal. He won narrowly by a neck at Doncaster in a three-mile handicap chase and moves up a lenient four pounds. With 70 days away from the track, you could argue that this is a race he’s been aimed at. He’s won right-handed and will appreciate the good ground too. Each-way claims at 14/1 (General).

    Southwell

    It’s in the Name

    3:15 – BetUK Winter Derby (Group Three) – Royal Champion @ 11/8 (William Hill)

    Royal Champion certainly lived up to his billing winning the Listed Quebec Stakes at Lingfield. The form from that race took an almighty boost when Tyrrenhian Sea went and won next time out. It seems he’s not only found his level, but his surface and his new yard will be all the better for it. Expect to see much more of him in G2 & G3’s this season, and maybe the odd G1 too, particularly after he placed second in the G1 Woodbine Mile in Canada when under th

  • Five To Follow – Bumper Track Day

    Five To Follow – Bumper Track Day

    It’s a bumper’s day racing with graded action from three tracks across the country. Plenty of clues a are up for Cheltenham, plus the Grand National with the Trial race at Haydock Park. The final Grade One takes place at Ascot and so much more in between. First stop, Haydock.

    Haydock

    Port The Call

    2:40 – Rendlesham Hurdle (Grade Two) – Beauport @ 2/1 (General)

    It’s another interesting move from Beauport not take a chasing appointment, but it’s clear that trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies wants to protect that mark. But his hurdles mark puts him in this grade and is top-rated today. A clear stayer, and with rain forecast, loves testing ground. One of the obvious choices for the afternoon, particularly placing third in the G1 Long Walk Hurdle.

    Indiana Dream is an interesting selection with only five runs in his entire career. A former Willie Mullins lodger, he transferred to the O’Neill’s where he finished fourth on return from 407 days away. That run in the Fleur De Lys can be excused as a blow out, and might fancy his chances back tackling hurdles. He has a high rating and dominated on his only start on heavy ground. Surprise at 22/1 (William Hill).

    Useful Git

    3:15 – Grand National Trial Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Git Maker @ 11/2 (BetVictor)

    Git Maker is one of seven in the race who are entered in the flagship contest in April. But Git Maker along with four others need a big win to increase their chances of making the final 34. Git Maker has only had one run this season, which was a blowout over hurdles at Windsor. He’s clearly talented at the marathon trips finishing runner-up in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham followed by a third in the Scottish Grand National. He should be on song for a big race today.

    Famous Bridge can be considered after two decent placed efforts this season. He finished a long distance third in the Tommy Whittle over Christmas over course and distance and has the cheekpieces applied for the first time. He holds an entry in the National and Hemmings horses and the National go hand in hand. Heavy ground will not be a problem and watch for another big performance. 9/1 (BetVictor).

    Fontaine Collonges won over course and distance in a memorable 40 minutes for Venetia Williams on Betfair Chase day at Haydock in November. With the rain due to arrive, it would be silly not to back one of her horses that can handle this type of deep ground. Out of the others, he looks to have a better chance of getting in the National, but a good placed effort will see him higher on the list. 18/1 (William Hill).

    Rocket On The Track

    3:50 – Prestige Novice’s Hurdle (Grade Two) – Moon Rocket @ 9/4 (General)

    Moon Rocket fought out a tough finish in the G2 River Don at Doncaster a few weeks ago, but lost in the photo-finish. The likelihood is that he can go one better having finished 3.25L ahead of the rest of the field. Whilst he might not be Albert Bartlett material, against some of the Irish competitors, he can put himself into the each-way picture with a good performance.

    Ascot

    Pic That Out Again

    3:37 – Ascot Chase (Grade One) – Pic D’Orhy @ 7/4 (General)

    Others will side with Cotswold Chase winner L’Homme Presse, but on clear evidence he hates going right-handed. This was the case last year, in the two King George’s and even when he won here as a novice over course and distance. Corbetts Cross is taking an unusual route to what might be the Gold Cup, and Pic D’Orhy adores this track and right-handed tracks in general. This is his Gold Cup and makes sense in this contest.

    Wincanton

    Ripe And Golden

    1:36 – Kingwell Hurdle (Grade Two) – Golden Ace @ 9/4 (General)

    Whilst Burdett Road is a worthy favourite, he has to give weight away. And a full eight pounds goes to Golden Ace, who drops in trip after surrendering her unbeaten record at the start of the season. Those runs came over two-and-a-half miles, and she should the two-mile trip here. Plus, this has been noted as a definite stepping stone to the Festival. With a big allowance and plenty of form at this trip, she can upset Burdett Road to take this at full advantage.

    The very best of luck!

  • Four To Follow – Cheltenham Trials: Week Three

    Four To Follow – Cheltenham Trials: Week Three

    More Cheltenham trialling action to come this Saturday at both Newbury and Warwick, with the feature William Hill Hurdle taking centre stage, as well as the Denman and Game Spirit Chases. Plus, Mares action at Warwick featuring a Willie Mullins entrant. Tips are found below.

    Newbury

    Not So Brave

    2:25 – William Hill Denman Chase (Grade Two) – Djelo @ 4/1 (William Hill)

    This race is competitive but shouldn’t throw up any Gold Cup contenders so let’s appreciate the race in its own right today. Bravemansgame has not looked himself at all this season and I’m not a fan at all. Hitman, whilst second in this race, appreciates less trip. Eldorado Allen and Sam Brown are both handicappers and Le Patron should not be involved in a race like this.

    That leaves us with Djelo and Ga Law. Djelo was floored by Protektorat in the Fleur De Lys and Windsor but still finished 21 lengths ahead of the third placed horse. The trip will be ideal on a flat surface and already took at Grade Two out this season with the Peterborough Chase. This rates an ideal opportunity in a weak-ish field.

    Ga Law should get his ground today, after he was pulled out of the Cleeve Hurdle on Cheltenham trials day. On what is home turf for Jamie Snowden, this race will have been in the back of his mind and if he places in this field, it shouldn’t do too much harm for his mark for a run in the Festival Plate, if he’s sent there. Nice price at 8/1 (William Hill).

    Libberty Bell

    3:00 – William Hill Game Spirit Chase (Grade Two) – Libberty Hunter @ 3/1 (General)

    This race is now wide open, with the absence of Sir Gino. Even for a one raced novice over fences, he would still outclass this field. But now it’s a case of who can fill his shoes? I’ve gone with an ultra-consistent horse Libberty Hunter, who finished third at Aintree in a Grade One. On return in handicap company, he bolted up at Cheltenham to win handsomely by four lengths. He’s best seen fresh and has taken 56 days in between races, so looks a great chance.

    The Tizzard’s target this meeting well and JPR One won’t be without a shout. He beat Matata last season in Grade Two company and beat Djelo (see above) in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter at the start of this season. He then took part in the Tingle Creek, where the form is handsome with both Jonbon and Solness winning three Grade One’s between them. 9/1 (General).

    Three So Bad?

    3:35 – William Hill Hurdle (Premier Handicap) – Mirabad @ 16/1 (William Hill, Boylesports)

    This race is all about trends. Horses have to be ideally rated between 130 and 149, aged between five and seven, and ideally at the start of their hurdling careers. Mirabad checks these boxes. Now a second season novice, although was running in novice races in November. He’s still relatively unexposed in handicap company, finishing third at Ascot and winning at Cheltenham. He hasn’t been seen since, which shows that they have aimed him at this race given his impressive performances recently. He’s won first-up off a break and has to be considered, even at double-figure prices.

    Secret Squirrel cannot be ignored. Not because he’s favourite, but because he also fits those trends. Even with a penalty, he’s well handicapped and Hughie Morrison has had two winners from seven runners recently, so the yard place their horses well. He stayed on strongly at Windsor and what’s to say he can’t do it again. 5/1 (William Hill).

    I am not abandoning Minella Missile either. Excuse her first run back at Windsor, she will now strip fitter and be of notable danger. She is Grade Two winner over hurdles, and represents the archetypal Graded horse in a handicap. She looked very talented that day and many dismiss her chances. Do so at your peril. 28/1 (William Hill).

    Warwick

    Lovely Outfit

    2:40 – Unibet Mares’ Hurdle (Listed) – You Wear It Well @ 5/1 (William Hill)

    With the Kingmaker an open and shut case, this looks the best race of the afternoon at Warwick. Gala Marceau will headline the field but returning after 280 days, I feel a Kargese-esque performance may befall her. You Wear It Well carries a penalty but positively returns to hurdling. She drops in grade, in this sphere, and can put an iffy chasing career behind her to return to her favoured profession.

    The very best of luck!

  • Four To Follow – Dublin Racing Festival: Day Two

    Four To Follow – Dublin Racing Festival: Day Two

    What and incredible day’s racing yesterday, with Majborough, Final Demand and Galopin Des Champs all putting on impressive performances to shake up the Cheltenham markets and stirring the souls. More on offer at the Dublin Racing Festival today, and there may be a few to take on as well.

    Burn Baby Burn

    1:10 – Ladbrokes Novice Chase (Grade One) – Ballyburn @ 5/6 (General)

    After Sir Gino wiped the floor with him, people dismissed Ballyburn as a good chaser. That’s simply not correct, he’s not good enough over two miles. The likelihood is that he will now go to the Brown Advisory now the two-and-a-half mile chase is a limited handicap. He faces stablemate Impaire Et Passe who has a Grade One in his book, but Ballyburn can stay this trip and he will still improve more with his jumping. He’s not a forlorn hope.

    Keep an eye out for Croke Park. Once muted as a fantastic buy and a potential Gold Cup horse, he’s yet to reach those heights. However, in his chasing record he is three from three picking up two Grade One’s in the process. Yes, Mr Mullins dominates this meeting but Gordon Elliott horses are still good enough at this level. A two-time Grade One winner should not be 16/1 (William Hill).

    Open The Bordes

    1:40 – Tattersalls Ireland Novice Hurdle (Grade One) – Kopek Des Bordes @ 11/10 (William Hill, BetVictor)

    The Supreme is still very much an open race at this stage, and many will have noted Kopek Des Bordes at the start of the season being the number one pick for this race. Only one run over hurdles saw how big of an engine he has, even his jumping was a little sketchy. He will improve for that debut run and the form has been franked by Kawaboomga. A big performance here, puts him right in the picture.

    Shocks A-Plenty

    2:10 – Dublin Chase (Grade One) – Quilixios @ 12/1 (General)

    It’s a question of why I should back them at the top of the market. Gaelic Warrior has a poor record here and is an untrustworthy horse in general. Marine Nationale has never looked the same since returning from injury and Solness did not strike me as a horse that can repeat that Grade One feat. El Fabiolo may be a little rusty on return as well.

    So I’ve opted for Quilixios who is a very good horse in his own right. He comes back from a break but was last seen finishing second to Jonbon, who has franked the form, and was ahead of Solness who also boosted that form. He thrashed Marine Nationale in the Barberstown Castle Chase at the start of the season and may provide another Grade One shock.

    And running on for a place will be the Champion Chaser, Captain Guinness. Henry de Bromhead has the best record of not winning this race, placing in most of these renewals since it’s inception. It does take a while for Captain Guinness to find form, but often runs a good race in behind so that he’s finely tuned for the Spring assignments. Discount at your peril at 33/1 (William Hill, BetVictor).

    Old Reliable

    3:20 – Irish Champion Hurdle (Grade One) – State Man @ 11/8 (BetVictor)

    Paul Townend has chosen State Man for a few reasons. One, there is no Brighterdaysahead. Two, he’s top-rated even with Lossiemouth’s allowance. Three, he knows that this is State Man’s final chance at glory before Constitution Hill. Lossiemouth will have her days, but State Man knows his way around Dublin and Leopardstown. Get the odds-against whilst you can, because he’s still the king in Ireland.

    The very best of luck!

  • Five To Follow Dublin Racing Festival Day One

    Five To Follow Dublin Racing Festival Day One

    The road to the Festival starts now. After Cheltenham we have a double helping of trials over in Ireland with the highly prestigious Dublin Racing Festival. Plus Grade One action in the UK comes in the form of the Scilly Isles Novice’s Chase. Jam-packed action on the way.

    Dublin Racing Festival

    Victory Shout

    1:15 – Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Solicitors Novice Hurdle (Grade One )– Sounds Victorious @ 7/1 (William Hill)

    This race often throws a slight upset to proceedings, with only four favourites winning in the past 10 years. However, there does seem to be a trend with horses winning over two-and-a-half miles particularly over Christmas and New Year. Sounds Victorious ticked that box when getting off the mark over hurdles at Fairyhouse on New Year’s Day. He has the pedigree to stay further and often a Mullins second or third pick comes up trumps at this meeting.

    At a price, I like Sommesky. Henry de Bromhead is often the bridesmaid at the Dublin Racing Festival with Willie Mullins taking all the plaudits. But Sommesky can fly under the radar at a big price. He improved stepping up in trip winning at Limerick impressively by 6.5L over Christmas and also has a three-mile pedigree. Worth a place at 20/1 (William Hill, BetVictor, Boylesports).

    Lady Of The Land

    1:50 – Spring Juvenile Hurdle (Grade One) – Lady Vega Allen @ 100/30 (Betfred, Boylesports)

    There’s been a lot of chat around Lady Vega Allen, more than stablemate Sainte Lucie. It’s clear that Willie Mullins and the team like her a lot and expect a lot of potential to come from her once she grows further into her racing. Last time over course and distance she was narrowly beaten by a short head to Hello Neighbour. With Mullins the trainer to follow, Lady Vega Allen can go one better and land her first big prize.

    If You’re Young Enough…

    2:55 – Irish Arkle Novice Chase (Grade One) – Majborough @ 4/6 (William Hill, Unibet, Boylesports)

    I immediately fell in love with Majborough when he made his debut at this Festival last year and was even more impressed, not just in the Triumph Hurdle but, on chasing debut. Despite Ile Atlantique making big strides over fences including landing the Racing Post Novice Chase and the highest rated in the field, it’s clear that Majborough is an impressive talent as a novice chaser at five-years-old.

    Champion Once More

    3:30 – Irish Gold Cup (Grade One) – Galopin Des Champs @ 4/7 (Unibet)

    He will win. Galopin Des Champs is the most talented chaser this decade. Unbeaten at Leopardstown and an outright champion, the rest won’t lay a glove on him.

    But who will finish in behind, is the real question of the race? I’ve gone with Monty’s Star to place in the top-three. He was beaten by Embasssy Gardens at Tramore, in a slight shock given that Tramore is Henry de Bromhead’s local track but this progressive eight-year-old is consistent. Whilst he may not grab a Grade One the best he can finish is runner-up. He ran a cracker at the Punchestown Festival and was runner-up at Cheltenham too. Arguably with that run behind him he should improve and finish best of the rest at 11/1 (William Hill, Boylesports).

    Sandown

    Baie All The Way

    2:35 – Scilly Isles Novice’s Chase (Grade One) – Jango Baie @ 5/6 (General)

    Whilst I have been impressed with Handstands, I don’t consider him to be Grade One material. Whilst Jango Baie, looked like a professional making his debut at Cheltenham. Without Impaire Et Passe in the line-up it becomes a much easier task for the Seven Barrows team and is top rated. Kalif Du Berlais looks for the hat-trick but untried at two-and-a-half miles casts doubt.

    The Very Best of Luck!

  • Four To Follow Cheltenham Trials Week One

    Four To Follow Cheltenham Trials Week One

    The road to the Festival starts now. We begin at the home of jumps racing for the prestigious Trials Day, where plenty of clues will be laid out for many of the graded contests. Plus there’s some Northern Trails up at Doncaster where the feature handicap of the day is the Great Yorkshire Chase. Let’s dive into it.

    Cheltenham

    Roko Redemption

    1:50 – Betfair Exchange Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Iroko @ 9/2 (General)

    There’s plenty to like about Iroko’s chances and he should suit this trip over the fences. He was a former winner over the Martin Pipe and has been seen staying further. But this looks ideal. He can recover after being very unlucky falling at Ascot just before Christmas. This rates an exciting opportunity to possibly to put him in the Ryanair, or the Plate if he’s not successful.

    Imperial Saint is possibly the most likeable horse going this season. Three wins from four starts has seen him skyrocket up the rankings and he’s won in imperious style too. On Boxing Day, he recorded that third victory at Aintree for the third time. There may be an argument that he prefers flat tracks to more undulating ones like Cheltenham, but he’s a relentless galloper which will suit him on the New Course. 5/1 (Unibet).

    Lay Down The Law

    3:35 – Cleeve Hurdle (Grade Two) – Ga Law @ 9/1 (BetVictor)

    This looks to be the most competitive Cleeve Hurdle in recent years. Both Crambo and Strong Leader, Grade One winners in their own right, have a poor record at Cheltenham. Ga Law is more likely to be seen over fences and ran a great race in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. This run will protect his handicap mark and will be feared now tackling hurdles.

    Potter Trials

    4:10 – AIS Novice’s Hurdle (Grade Two) – Potters Charm @ 5/6 (Unibet)

    Potters Charm is possibly the most exciting novice hurdler in Britain at the moment and will rival any Irish raider at the Festival. For now, he returns to a track where he’s won at twice this season over both two and two-and-a-half miles. Now a Grade One winner over two miles, he steps back up in trip in what should be a successful trial.

    Wade Out is quite exciting as a novice hurdler. He should be respected from the Olly Murphy stable and has won twice this season, placing second at Ascot. This is a big step up in trip and grade but will give it a good crack. Possible pace angle as well, given the fact he set a slow pace at Lingfield previously and may make it difficult for the rest. 14/1 (General).

    Doncaster

    Forward Showing

    3:15 – Great Yorkshire Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Forward Plan @ 11/2 (BetVictor, Betfred)

    Forward Plan has a great record at this track with one win and two placings at Doncaster in three outings here. He just lost by a nose in last year’s contest and is back to a similar mark with a claiming jockey taking 10 pounds off. He races consistently in these sorts of handicaps and will not be far away once more.

    Each-way value falls the way of Idalko Bihoue. He’s lightly raced and hasn’t found a win since Cheltenham in November 2023. He has fallen sharply in the handicap and races off an attractive mark. The ground a Doncaster very rarely turns soft and if he’s got plenty of gallop in him he may need it, as the final fences up the homestraight may be missed out due to low sun. 12/1 (BetVictor).

    Tightenourbelts seeks a hat-trick and is up in grade today. Last time he was very impressive at Ludlow beating Neon Moon by 13L. Looks to be in the form of his life and looks to relish this trip, plus is relatively unexposed too with only three starts over three miles and two wins. More than an each-way shot. 14/1 (General).

    The Very Best of Luck!

  • Four To Follow Bets Been A While

    Four To Follow Bets Been A While

    It’s only been the two weeks since a Four To Follow, however we return to action with a bang with the Grade One Clarence House Chase featuring a ding-dong battle between two heavyweight chasers. Plus a surprise entry in the Warfield. Then Haydock has some good premier action with the Peter Marsh Chase included.

    Ascot

    Back After A While

    1:40 – Warfield Mares’ Hurdle (Grade Two) – Kargese @ 4/7 (BetVictor, Boylesports)

    It’s surprising that Kargese reappears here, just a little over eight weeks until the Cheltenham Festival. She’s a two-time Grade One winner and placed behind both Majborough and Sir Gino in two other Grade One’s. Against the British Mares’, she should find this an incredibly easy task. Especially, making her appearance after a while off the track.

    Once more I am sticking with Punchestown Festival winner Casa No Mento to record her best finish this season. She didn’t offer much over fences at Bangor and pulled up on reappearance in a Listed hurdle at Kempton. However, she seems to go better right-handed which suits today after picking up wins at Hereford and Punchestown earlier in her career. On song she’s the best of the Brits. 10/1 (General).

    Trés Bon

    3:32 – Clarence House Chase (Grade One) – Jonbon @ 8/13 (General)

    It’s a two-horse race at the end of the day, but it’s a race we have dreamed of. The late Shishkin got the better of this Irish foe two years ago, but he ran game that day in defeat. In the Hilly Way, Energumene was much the best and the form has worked out with Banbridge (who unseated at the last that day) winning the King George subsequently. Plus, unlike Jonbon, he does have that title of Champion Chaser, for which he did not earn by divine right.

    However, Jonbon has looked a different beast this season. He made all and was always doing enough in the Shloer Chase at Cheltenham, before routing the field in the Tingle Creek Chase. Many will say that his opposition has never really been quality, but he has beaten Grade One chasers throughout his career. He has every right to collar Energumene, who is two years his elder. Nicky Henderson always does well with top level two-mile chasers. Jonbon can carry on the tradition.

    Haydock

    Heroic Surprise?

    1:55 – Rossington Main Novice’s Hurdle (Grade Two) – Dedicated Hero @ 4/1 (General)

    Favourite Royal Infantry has the course and ground knowhow and demolished the field back in November and has the addition of an in-from jockey. Yet I find myself drawn to Sandy Thomson’s talented novice. Dedicated Hero has been seen best over two miles and won his last Kelso maiden hurdle by 7.5L on soft ground. He’s continually progressive, and it what looks like a weak renewal of the race there could be some advantage to him.

    Royale Return

    2:30 – Peter Marsh Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Royale Pagaille @ 2/1 (General)

    Four-time course and distance winner Royale Pagaille has won this race twice carrying top weight twice on particularly heavy ground. He still showed he’s got plenty still left in the tank and has the beating of the young whippersnappers who concede weight from him all round. It will not make a difference to someone who is undoubtedly a Haydock legend.

    Who could potentially rival him? Well, Iwilldoit has been in some good form of late particularly producing an eye-catching run in the Welsh National coming from the clouds, literally, to place third. Undoubtedly a staying chaser who may have spring targets in mind and this may potentially prove to be a difficult task nonetheless. 9/1 (General).

    The Very Best of Luck!

  • Four To Follow New Year Same Outcome

    Four To Follow New Year Same Outcome

    A Very Happy New Year to all viewers of the is page. I hope you’ve all will celebrate wisely and responsibly today with a few winners to pocket the first round of drinks of the year. Today we’re back at Cheltenham for some more competitive action, weather permitting. Let’s make it a winning start to 2025

    Power Through The Year

    1:30 – Betfair Handicap Chase – Our Power @ 100/30 (BetVictor)

    Our Power ran a fantastic race at this venue last time out when placing 3L second to the hat-trick achieving King Turgeon in December. He still looks to be on a competitive mark with the talented conditional Dylan Johnston taking a further three pounds off. With rain expected to cover the country, including Prestbury Park, over New Year’s Night the conditions may pave to be beneficial for Sam Thomas’ ten-year-old.

    Major Return

    2:05 – Betfair Exchange Handicap Chase (Premier H’cap) – Colonel Harry @ 7/2 (General)

    Colonel Harry couldn’t replicate what Datsalrightgino could do in the Coral Gold Cup previously. But, stepped back to a more comfortable two-and-a-half miles may bring out the better in him. He falls sharply in the handicap and this looks to be more at this level. The last time he raced at Cheltenham was in a Grade One contest, but it’s clear that he was aiming too high. This is a perfect opportunity.

    Dan Skelton has won this race twice in the past ten years. And on a big raceday like this, a winner from his stable would not go amiss. Midnight River won here on this card two years ago. He’s now three pounds higher than that mark and without many of the regulars in a Cheltenham two-and-a-half mile contest, he can run into the places. 10/1 (General).

    New Year Fireworks

    2:40 – Betfair Exchange Handicap Hurdle – One Big Bang @ 3/1 (Unibet)

    The combination of Harry Cobden and James Owen is one that cannot be ignored. When the best jockey rides one of his talented hurdlers, it usually comes out on top. One Big Bang enjoys soft ground and performed admirably at Haydock previously in a race that cut up and finished well ahead of the rest. More soft ground is expected and he can go one better.

    From that same race Catch Him Derry ran too quickly off the sharp bend at Haydock. Ignore that run and look back at previous form when winning on soft ground at Ayr back in April. He’s due a big performance and we didn’t see the best of him on the cut up ground that Haydock produces, and on a galloping track it might be better suited. 5/1 (General).

    Salivating

    3:15 – Relkeel Hurdle (Grade Two) – Salver @ 5/2 (Boylesports)

    Last year’s Festival saw Salver place behind two Grade One winners in Majborough and Kargese on soft ground in the Triumph Hurdle. His best performance came at around this time last year in the Finale Juvenile Hurdle at Chepstow on deep ground too. Handicap company didn’t help him first time out, even though he was admirable in fourth, and graded company will bring the best out of him.

    The Very Best of Luck!