Horse Racing Betting Guide
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Horse Racing Preview Friday May 16th 2008
May 16, 2008
RACING PREVIEW – 16th MAY – Aintree, Hamilton, Newbury, Newcastle, Newmarket, York
YORK
2:40 Emirates Airline Yorkshire Cup, Group 2, 1m 6f
Rod Millman’s Sergeant Cecil has taken on almost legendary status in recent seasons. Won this last year (Geordieland 2nd) but poorer form since, including reappearance over 1m 4f. Still merits respect.
Aidan O’Brien’s Honolulu put up creditable efforts to be runner-up in the Ebor (here) and 3rd in the St Leger. Looked inexperienced on occasions, and likely to improve this term.
Michael Jarvis’ Royal And Regal (formerly with Andre Fabre) won a 1m 4f Newbury Group 3 on reappearance.
Also successful in last year’s 2m Jockey Club at Newmarket. Major fancy over ideal trip.
Betting Forecast: 15/8 Honolulu, 3/1 Royal And Regal, 11/2 Sergeant Cecil, 7/1 Geordieland, 9/1 Alfie Flits, 12/1 Young Mick, 14/1 Samuel, 20/1 Veenwouden
NEWMARKET
3:00 Play Live Casino At BetInternet.com Handicap, Class 3, 6f
Wingbeat, representing Saeed Bin Suroor was an impressive winner of a backend Yarmouth maiden. May prove to even better on a sounder surface and despite a long layoff looks the one to beat on handicap debut.
Brian Meehan’s Sophie’s Girl showed steady improvement last term (trained by Peter Chapple-Hyam) including C&D 4th in November Listed race. Ran below par on debut for current yard, but chance if coming on for the run.
Betting Forecast: 9/4 Wingbeat, 5/2 Striking Spirit, 5/1 Sophie’s Girl, 11/2 Shifting Star, 8/1 Pha Mai Blue, 12/1 Vhujon, 14/1 Spanish Bounty.
NEWBURY
2:50 Swettenham Stud Fillies Trial Stakes, Listed Race, 1m 2f 6y
Kotsi looks the type to improve over middle distances. Her May Hill second sets the form standard.
Rae Guest’s Clowance may prove to be the best of those graduating from maidens, but trip could be on the short side.
Betting Forecast: 2/1 Kotsi, 3/1 Clowance, 5/1 Rosa Grace, 8/1 Ada River, Shaker, 9/1 Katimont, 12/1 Hobby, 25/1 Longoria.
NEWCASTLE
8:25 Benfield Renault Handicap, Class 3, 7f
Brain Ellison’s Daaweitza was well suited by a strong pace when winning at Catterick recently. Penalised 6lb, but given another strong gallop, should go well again.
Tom Tate’s Macedon (ex Stan Moore) is well treated on his best form, and should be competitive if fit after long layoff.
Len Lungo’s Against The Grain returned from a lengthy absence with a narrow success at Doncaster, with several winners behind. However, has only won on easy ground and probably needs rain.
Betting Forecast: 3/1 Daaweitza, 9/2 Il Castagno, 11/2 Against The Grain, 7/1 Chicken Soup, 8/1 Macedon, 10/1 Southandwest, 11/1 Baltimore Jack, Middlemarch, 12/1 Jamieson Gold, 14/1 Countdown, 33/1 Jalamid
AINTREE
7:05 Letherby & Christopher Handicap Hurdle, Class 3, 2m 1f
Paul Blockley’s Moon Star won two on the spin last term, and looks the type to follow when in form. Looked in good nick when successful at Bangor. Tony McCoy retains the ride, and may well follow up, despite 8lb higher mark.
Gary Moore’s useful Flat recruit King’s Head appeared to be getting to grips with hurdles last week and catches the eye on this swift follow-up bid under a penalty.
Betting Forecast: 5/2 King’s Head, 11/2 Moon Star, 6/1 Modicum, 8/1 Wise Owl, 10/1 Marsam, 12/1 Kickahead, 14/1 Double Vodka, The Duke´s Speech, The Rocking Dock, 16/1 Iffy, Just Intersky, 20/1 Soubriquet, 25/1 Day To Remember, Pilca.
HAMILTON
7:25 Glasgow Stakes, Listed Race, 1m 3f 16y
Mick Channon’s Meeriss won a Listed race at the end of last season. Promising return and must have claims despite his penalty.
Mark Johnstone’s Love Galore shaped nicely on his Newbury debut, and subsequent impressive winner here. Official ratings suggest he has a bit to find, but Irish Guineas / Derby entry suggest there is better to come.
Betting Forecast: 2/1 Love Galore, 5/2 Captain Webb, 4/1 Bold Choice, Meeriss, 8/1 Ellmau, 33/1 Doon Haymer, 200/1 Northwest, Premier Class.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please click here for the latest odds
Horse Racing Preview Saturday May 17th: Bangor, Doncaster, Newbury, Newmarket, Thirsk and Uttoxeter
May 16, 2008
RACING PREVIEW MAY 17th – BANGOR, DONCASTER, NEWBURY, NEWMARKET, THIRSK, UTTOXETER
N.B. – Any prices indicated, unless otherwise stated, are forecasts only.
NEWBURY
2:10 Enter The Flat ToteTentoFollow Stakes, Listed Race, 1m 5f 61y
Saeed Bin Suroor’s Regal Flush (11/10) took the step up from handicap company to finish a close 4th in the St. Leger. Should continue of the upgrade, and looks the likely winner. Tranquil Tiger, Malt or Mash and Balkan Knight all contested the same event of their last start, the Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes over 12f at Newmarket. Tranquil Tiger (11/4) stays further and a stronger gallop may have suited better. Malt or Mash (6/1) pulled very hard in the slow early stages, doing himself no favours. The versatile Balkan Knight (7/1) shaped well over an inadequate trip, going on nicely at the finish after racing at the rear of the field, following a slow start.
2:45 Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes, Group 1, 1m
A tough renewal, with little between the participants on official ratings. James Fanshawe’s Cesare (7/2 with vcbet) repeated his comeback win, in a 1m Ascot Listed race, without coming off the bridle. Seems likely to start favourite here. Henry Cecil’s Phoenix Tower (6/1 with Totesport) only just got up in Newmarket’s Earl of Sefton Stakes, finally getting a run inside the last furlong. Quickened nicely, winning with more in hand than suggested by the official distance. Excellent run after a year off, unbeaten and shouldn’t be underestimated. Sir Michael Stoute’s Rob Roy (16/1 with Stan James) made a satisfactory British return in Sandown’s Group 2 bet265 Mile. Lacking the fitness of his rivals, he nonetheless kept on well. Encouraging.
Best Prices: 7/2 Haradasun (William Hill), 7/2 Cesare(vcbet), 6/1 Phoenix Tower (Totesport), 6/1 Tariq (William Hill), 13/2 Creachadoir (Totesport), 16/1 Rob Roy, 20/1 Majestic Roi (both Stan James), Astronomer Royal (vcbet), 25/1 Medicine Path (skybet), Arabian Gleam (vcbet), 40/1 Al Qasi (888sport), 100/1 Barshiba (William Hill), ALL QUOTED.
NEWMARKET
3:35 BetInternet.com Stakes (Heritage Handicap), Class 2, 1m 6f
Luca Cumani’s Sanbuch (4/1)improved throughout last season. Effective off a strong pace. Finishing well over 12f. Seems likely to be suited by the longer trip and further improvement is quite possible. Henry Cecil’s Ajaan (9/4) is far from straightforward, as he proved again in a recent 12f handicap at Newmarket. Quickened nicely and looked like drawing clear, but hung right and then left, so may prove a trial for any rider. Has a history of hanging in front. However, if running true, would have been an impressive winner. Mark Tompkins Four Miracles (8/1) stays the 14f trip well. Takes a rise in class, having gone up 6lb in the ratings for not winning. Should go well for Jimmy Quinn.
THIRSK
4:55 Scarborough Handicap, Class 2, 5f
Richard Fahey’s Bo McGinty (8/1) makes a quick reappearance after disappointing at Southwell, where he has run so well recently. Ishetoo (5/2) improved all through last season, from ever-increasing handicap marks. Goes well fresh and has struck up an excellent partnership with Michael Stainton. Must be a danger to all. Orpenindeed (9/2) settled better last time for Kirsty Milczarek. Repeat over shorter trip could well see return to winning form.
BANGOR
5:10 North Western Area Point To Point Championship (A Hunters’ Chase), Class 4, 3m 110y
William Kinsey’s King’s Reason (25/1) is interestingly his only runner from 5 entered at the 5-day stage. G.D. Hanmer runs two, Border Fusion (3/1) and Proud Andees (14/1). The booking of the leading riders suggests that these may both go well, though Tommy Two Toes (4/1) ran a cracker at Cheltenham and surely must have some say.
DONCASTER
7:45 Doncaster Racecourse Sponsorship Club Handicap, Class 4, 6f
Michael Blanshard’s Charles Darwin (10/1) has been out of form for some time, but has slipped down the weights, takes a slight drop in class and could figure if first-time blinkers have the desired effect. John Quinn’s Winthorpe (8/1) was all out to win at Thirsk last time, and may find things tougher in a better race. Richard Fahey’s Rainbow Fox (11/4) only just failed at Thirsk, and must have every chance in an open race.
UTTOXETER
7:05 Nick Lovett Another One Bites The Dust Handicap Chase, Class 4, 2m
David Pipe’s Very Cool (8/13) put up a creditable and courageous effort to be 2nd in a 3m hurdle at Haydock. Clearly in good heart. However, one attempt ‘chasing last November was disastrous. Likely short-priced favourite. Jonjo O’Neill’s Charmahal (13/2) was a satisfactory 2nd to a stablemate of Very Cool at Wincanton recently. In first-time tongue tie, making handicap debut and the mount of Tony McCoy, he put up a greatly improved showing. Seems likely to go very close here.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please click here for the latest odds
Horse Racing Preview May 15th - Folkestone, Ludlow, Newmarket, Perth, Salisbury and York
May 15, 2008
YORK
2:40 Totesport.com Dante Stakes, Group 2, 1m 2f 88y
Henry Cecil fields the unbeaten Twice Over, narrow winner of a competitive Group 3 Craven Stakes at Newmarket in April (1m). Never too far off the pace set by River Proud, he picked up the leader running down into the Dip, but was immediately challenged by Raven’s Pass, who went a good neck up. Looked beaten, but despite edging to his right, found plenty and just outstayed Raven’s Pass in a driving finish. Sired by Observatory, he is not certain to stay the Derby distance of 12f, so this race looks ideal.
Saeed Bin Suroor is doubly represented, by Young Pretender and McCartney. Young Pretender (the mount of Frankie Dettori) was a running on 5l 5th behind stablemate Rio De La Plata in last October’s Group 1 Grand Criterium at Longchamp (7f). Dam was a 10f winner, so the longer trip should suit. McCartney was an authoritative winner of a Doncaster Group 2 in September (7f). Subsequently well-beaten in Doncaster’s Dewhurst Stakes, but softer ground may have proved his undoing on that occasion. His sire, In the Wings, is a decided stamina influence, and he remains an interesting middle-distance prospect.
John Gosden-trained Centennial showed steady improvement as a juvenile, with Group-placed form. Made a winning reappearance at Sandown, but needs to improve further to figure. However, trainer believes improvement is likely, so merits respect.
Betting Forecast: 4/5 Twice Over, 5/1 Centennial, 11/2 Tartan Bearer, 7/1 Young Pretender, 10/1 McCartney, 12/1 Frozen Fire.
2:10 ToteScoop6 Special Middleton Stakes, Group 3, Fillies & Mares, 1m 2f 88y
Sir Michael Stoute’s Promising Lead is 9lb clear on official ratings, but has a long lay-off to overcome. Stepped up on her Salisbury Listed win to be a head second in a Longchamp Group 1 last October. From a superb family, she stands out on form and is likely to be a very warm order. Richard Fahey’s Flying Clarets has an excellent record here. She may get an easy lead here, but, realistically, place prospects only.
Betting Forecast: 2/7 Promising Lead, 8/1 Flying Clarets, 10/1 Sell Out, 12/1 Under The Rainbow, 16/1 Ronaldsay.
SALISBURY
2:20 Avonbridge At Whitsbury Stud Maiden Stakes, Class 3, 2-y-o, 5f
Desire To Excel, a half-brother to classy Silver Touch was placed in a decent maiden at Newmarket. Faster ground here, but improvement likely and obvious chance.
Sun Ship has been placed twice of softish ground. Richard Hannon’s yard is renowned for improving its youngsters, but every chance on previous form anyway.
The Desert Saint’s sire, Dubai Destination, is an influence for stamina and he would have made more appeal at 6f.
Betting Forecast: 13/8 Desire To Excel, 5/2 Sun Ship, 4/1 The Desert Saint, 7/1 Russian Art, 20/1 Belle Des Airs, Mattamia, 25/1 Macdillon, Penny´s Gift, 33/1 Shiva Adiva.
LUDLOW
6:35 Tanners Wines Handicap Chase, Class 3, 3m 1f 110 yds
Paul Nicholls’ Colorado Pearl, penalised 7lb for recent Wincanton success, has had breathing problems, but must go close if as good this time.
McEvoy, from Evan Williams’ Welsh yard, won here in January from an 8lb lower mark. Feasible excuses for subsequent failures, and can give a good account on a course he likes.
The booking of Richard Johnson for Beau Supreme is interesting. Ran quite well in Hunter Chases last spring.
However, first run for new yard, in an Exeter handicap hurdle was disappointing, and races of a 9lb higher mark here.
Betting Forecast:5/4 Colorado Pearl, 9/2 Mcevoy, 5/1 Bubble Boy, 6/1 William Butler, 9/1 Surricate, 14/1 Super Judge, 16/1 Beau Supreme.
PERTH
4:10 Royal Bank Of Scotland Handicap Chase, Class 4, 3m
Lucinda Russell’s Ballynure has won his last two, but now races off his highest mark and may find this tougher. Claimer’s allowance may help. Stablemate Catch the Perk won similar chases in 2006 (C&D), is entitled to step up on well beaten latest visit, acts on any ground and respected greatly.
Peter Beaumont’s Moor Spirit has dropped to a winning sort of mark. Shaped as if last month’s satisfactory 4th would bring him on and stays this trip. Should have at least place prospects.
Betting Forecast: 4/1 Ballynure, 9/2 Paddy The Piper, 5/1 Snowy, 11/2 Catch The Perk, 8/1 Moor Spirit, 10/1 Manbow, 12/1 Professor Hegarty, Russian Sky, 14/1 It´s Blue Chip, 16/1 Possextown, 25/1 World Vision.
FOLKESTONE
7:15 Shepherd Neame United Hunts Open Champion Hunters’ Chase, Class 4, 3m 7f
Veteran Golden Jack gained first Hunter Chase success over ½m less at Wincanton, with Trade Off behind.
Longer trip unlikely to bother him and ideally served by good or faster ground.
Complete Outsider was a 3-times hurdles winner for Nick Williams two years ago.
Still on the premises when falling at Cheltenham last week and now has the assistance of the accomplished Polly Gundry. Well worth consideration.
Betting Forecast: 3/1 Golden Jack, 7/2 Trade Off, 11/2 Complete Outsider, 6/1 Candlelight Valley, 8/1 Carthago, 12/1 Millenium Way, Political Cruise, Thatlldoya, 20/1 Glory Trail, Saddlers Cloth.
NEWMARKET
7:25 Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation Handicap, Class 3, 1m 2f
William Haggas’ Kaateb progressed steadily last term, winning a 10f Sandown maiden and a Lingfield handicap (AW). Should improve this year.
Brendan Powell’s Lisathedaddy was very consistent on fast ground last year and is unlikely to be far away.
Ed Dunlop’s Jeer won a fast ground Ripon maiden last year, but has shown far better form on better ground.
Evidently retains ability after 10 months out (latest start second of nine over this trip at Doncaster). One to consider.
Betting Forecast: 7/4 Kaateb, 7/2 Sahrati, 5/1 Jeer, 11/2 Lisathedaddy, 8/1 Quince, 14/1 Invasian, 16/1 Putra Square.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please click here for the latest odds
Horse Racing Preview Wednesday May 14th - York, Exeter, Fontwell, Bath and Perth
May 14, 2008
RACING PREVIEW – MAY 14th
YORK
York features the opening day of its 3-day “Dante” meeting, with at least one Group race one each day and some classy performers on parade.
2:40 Tattersall’s’ Musidora Stakes, Group 3, Fillies, 1m 2f 88y
Generally considered a traditional Oaks trial.
Lush Lashes, from Jim Bolger’ Irish yard was a 2l 6th in Newmarket’s 1000 Guineas. Ran green (only 3rd career start), outpaced at halfway, but made strong late headway, without threatening the principals. Must go well over the longer trip, on a course which seems likely to suit.
Moonstone, from Aidan O’Brien’s in-form Ballydoyle yard, made a promising debut in a 12f Leopardstown maiden. Held up, improved inside last 3f, staying on nicely under a quiet ride from John Murtagh. Entered in English and Irish Oaks and can only improve.
John Gosden-trained Dar Re Mi was an impressive 7l winner of a 12f Sandown maiden in late April. Needs to improve significantly to take a hand, but undeniably promising.
Sir Michael Stoute’s Sovereign’s Honour was 8l behind Dar Re Mi at Sandown, but stayed on nicely and seems certain to do better with that run under her belt.
Cape Amber confirmed her home promise with a decisive success in a Newmarket maiden last August. Has plenty of scope, but a big ask on her seasonal bow.
Betting Forecast: 9/4 Moonstone, 5/2 Dar Re Mi, 3/1 Lush Lashes, 7/1 Cape Amber, 16/1 Comeback Queen, 20/1 Sovereign’s Honour, 25/1 Cruel Sea, 33/1 Sayyedati Symphony.
3:10 Duke of York Hearthstead Homes Stake, Group 2, 6f
A typically competitive sprint, as would be expected for the prize on offer.
Jeremy Noseda’s Soldier’s Tale, at the age of 7, has only seen the racecourse 8 times, due to a variety of physical problems. However, he was a courageous winner of the Group 1 Golden Jubilee Stakes at Ascot last June. His limited career suggests that fast ground may prove a problem. Has 7lb in hand, according to official ratings.
Kevin Prendergast’ s Irish raider Haatef boasts winning Listed and Group race form, though the Group 2 he won at Ascot looked sub-standard. Fast ground may not be ideal, and though a winner over 6f, may prove better at 7f.
Luca Cumani’s Balthazaar’s Gift is undoubtedly better at 6f that further. Group form as a juvenile and close up under a welter burden in last year’s Wokingham. However, disappointed badly in the Group 1 July Cup at Newmarket, and could only manage 14th of 20 on his return, in the Listed Abernant Stakes at Newmarket.
Richard Hannon’s Sonny Red (the stable selected, if jockey bookings are any guide) picked up a minor event at Nottingham, before a narrow defeat in the above Newmarket race. Held a handy position, led over a furlong out and only gave best close home. Steps up in class and has a little to find on official ratings, but should go well under Richard Hughes.
Betting: 9/2 US Ranger, 7/1 Assertive, 8/1 Haatef, Utmost Respect, 9/1 Soldier’s Tale, 11/1 Balthazaar’s Gift, 12/1 War Artist, Hoh Mike, 14/1 Garnica, Prime Defender, 16/1 Sonny Red, 18/1 Wi Dud, 20/1 Galeota, 28/1 Honoured Guest, 33/1 Beckermet, 40/1 Beaver Patrol, 50/1 Big Timer, 100/1 Rising Shadow (all Bet 365).
EXETER
3:20 Exeter Racecourse Intermediate Hunters’ Chase (Series Final) , Class 4, 2m 7f 110y
An interesting final to this series, involving a number of in-form point-to-pointers. Recent NH rules form is unfortunately lacking.
Trainer / rider Polly Gundry traditionally does well in Hunter ‘Chases, and in receipt of 6lb from the rest, Kiama looks the one to beat.
Champion James Tudor teams up with Oh Vlo, a poor third in this race last year.
Betting Forecast: 10/11 Kiama, 5/2 Candlelight Valley, 6/1 Dad Says Heazle, 16/1 Misty Brook, Oh Vlo, 20/1 Harnage, 33/1 Flinski.
FONTWELL
4:10 betNow Instant Text Betting Handicap Hurdle, Class 4, 2m 4f
Felinious, representing Jonjo O’Neill and Tony McCoy, was unlucky at Ludlow, on her first start for six months. Nearly on the floor at halfway and not fluent at the next hurdle. Ran well enough to suggest there are other races in her.
Top-weight Mr Boo, representing last year’s winning trainer, Gary Moore, returns to hurdling with a handicap mark some 22lb lower than his latest ‘chase start.
Zoe Davison’s veteran Spider Boy finally got off the mark at the 46th time of asking at Fontwell in March, following up from a 5lb higher mark at Plumpton in April. Gets on particularly well with Gemma Gracey-Davison. Seems happier running from the front in these slightly better races.
Betting Forecast: 9/4 Mr Boo, 5/2 Felinious, 5/1 Spider Boy, 7/1 Wotchalike, 8/1 Forest Silver, 14/1 Sovereign Spirit, 16/1 Aldiruos, 25/1 Lysander’s Quest, My Monna.
BATH
8:00 Michael Goodyear Be Hopeful Handicap, Class 5, 1m 5y
Paul Blockley’s Don Pietro, a non-stayer over hurdles and over 11f on Fibresand has won his last two races, moderate affairs at L’Ancresse and Wolverhampton. Evidently suited by the shorter (1m) trip, he was well-backed, positively-ridden and found extra when challenged. First win since 2006, and could well spark a revival.
Tony Carroll’s Unlimited landed a gamble at Chepstow (12/1 into 5/1) last time. Very keen under early restraint, before coming out of the pack to chase the runner-up inside the last 2f. Kirsty Milczarek had to get pretty serious, but in the end they were well in command. Follow-up not out of the question.
Betting Forecast: 5/1 Don Pietro, Millfield, 6/1 Unlimited, 7/1 Arthur´s Edge, 8/1 Cool Ebony, Merrymadcap, 12/1 Art Market, Master Mahogany, Royal Storm, 16/1 Gazboolou, 20/1 Sun Catcher, 25/1 Coup D´Etat, The Gaikwar.
PERTH
8:10 Scotbet Handicap Hurdle ,Class 3, 3m 110y
Charlie Swan’s Irish invader, Glamis Castle, made a promising return at Limerick, prominent and travelling well from 4 out until weakening before the straight. Sure to have benefitted from the run and seems certain to go well with just 10-1.
Top-weight My Arch has improved all season, goes well for Harry Haynes, and seems certain to give a good account.
Nicky Richards’ Guns And Butter has been running consistently and got off the mark here over 2m 4½f on his handicap debut last time. Well up with the pace, led 2 out and kept on well. Shouldn’t be inconvenienced by the longer trip.
Betting Forecast: 3/1 Guns And Butter, My Arch, 9/2 Glamis Castle, 5/1 Commercial Express, 10/1 Clemax, Cluthe Boy, Key Time, 25/1 Dalawan, Portavadie.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please click here for the latest odds
Horse Racing Preview Tuesday May 13th - Brighton, Southwell, Yarmouth, Great Leighs and Newton Abbot
May 12, 2008
RACING PREVIEW – MAY 13th - Click here for the best odds on all todays races
BRIGHTON
2:40 Weatherbys Finance Handicap, Class 5, 5f 59y
Wynberg was unlucky not to complete his AW hat-trick outright at Lingfield as his rider only shoved him along hands and heels and he idled when going a neck up inside the last 100yds and was rejoined on the post. He had started to put the brakes on in his previous race when getting ahead but that was early enough to be rallied. Return to 5f, on fast ground, should suit as he has plenty of speed.
Magical Speedfit showed little enthusiasm in first-time blinkers at Yarmouth and they are now dispensed with. Has not progressed since last year’s Windsor Castle Stakes, but has dropped substantially in the weights. Trainer George Margarson has a 2-10 record with his 3-y-os here over the last 5 seasons. The booking of Ryan Moore appears significant.
Betting Forecast: 9/4 Wynberg, 7/2 Baytown Blaze, Magical Speedfit, 5/1 Swindon Town Flyer, 8/1 Ben, 12/1 Only In Jest, 16/1 Sandy Par.
4:10 Weatherbys Bank Handicap, Class 5, 1m 3f 196y
The three CD winners, Bridgewater Boys, Snake Skin and Bienheureux seem likely to dominate. Bridgewater Boys won on his only previous start here, and showed decent form on the AW subsequently. Shouldn’t be dismissed lightly. Bienheureux is a triple CD winner, but now races off an 8lb higher mark, in a stronger race. Snake Skin has shown form on fast ground, but latest wins have been on soft ground. How she handles the faster conditions remains to be seen. Alan King’s Summer of Love is also of interest. A maiden for Paul Cole, but consistent hurdling form (one win). Returns to the flat off lowest mark to date. Trainer has had 4 winners this season returning from hurdling.
Betting Forecast: 11/4 Bridgewater Boys, 7/2 Bienheureux, 5/1 Summer Of Love, 11/2 Prime Number, 13/2 Sayago, 8/1 Generous Lad, 10/1 Snake Skin.
SOUTHWELL
3:20 NSPCC Full Stop Handicap, Class 3, 5f
A tight little race, with all the runners having won over course and /or distance. Xpres Maite has won 5 of his last 7 starts, the last two with plenty in hand. Has been raised 12lb and may lack the pace for this quick 5f. Tartatartufata won a hot handicap January (when out of the handicap) following up off a lower mark. Has run well on turf since. Shouldn’t be far way on return to AW surface. Gallery Girl, a Group-placed 2-y-o, was only worn down in the dying strides on her seasonal bow. Has the right racing style for this C&D and a decent EW prospect, despite lacking experience of the surface.
Betting Forecast: 7/2 Hereford Boy, 4/1 Bo McGinty, Xpres Maite, 5/1 Luscivious, Tartatartufata, 6/1 Gallery Girl, 33/1 Garstang, Tous Les Deux.
YARMOUTH
3:00 Easter Daily Press Handicap, Class 5, 7f 3y
Musaalem was a well-backed favourite winning at Warwick. Pulled hard and didn’t handle the bends particularly well. Capable of further improvement will need it with a handicap mark of 75. Im Ova Ere Dad has won on fast turf and 3lb lower here than when clear second behind an in-form rival at Southwell in December (very good strike-rate on the AW). Should be plenty of pace in the race to offset the fact that he’s never won at less than a mile. Violent Velocity arrives in good form, and claiming rider committed too early at Chepstow last week, when caught close home. Seems likely to go well.
Betting Forecast: 4/1 Im Ova Ere Dad, Violent Velocity, 9/2 Musaalem, 5/1 Grey Boy, 8/1 Hits Only Cash, 10/1 Bertie Southstreet, 12/1 Wodhill Schnaps, 14/1 Banjo Patterson, 16/1 Fiefdom, 20/1 Apres Ski, 33/1 Empire Dancer.
GREAT LEIGHS
6:50 Hunter Valley Handicap, Class 4, 1m 6f
Luca Cumani’s Boz has won six of his last seven races. His “lazy” running style gives the handicapper a tough task in accurate assessment. Still seems well-weighted after latest C&D success. Bentley Brook, a regular Southwell winner, goes well for Sophie Doyle. However, penalised 6lb for latest success and has never looked entirely happy on this surface. Peter Cundell’s Nawow has won 3 of his last 7 starts, and needed the run on reappearance. This is tougher, but likely to go well.
Betting Forecast: 13/8 Boz, 4/1 Alleviate, 7/1 Cleaver, Nawow, 8/1 Motarjm, 10/1 Proper, 12/1 Bold Adventure, 16/1 Bentley Brook, 20/1 Eumene, 25/1 At The Money, 66/1 Tashkandi.
NEWTON ABBOT
8:10 Western Morning New Original Handicap Hunter’s Chase, Class 4, 2m 5f 110 yds
Hunter ‘chase handicaps are few and far between. The presence of Armaturk leaves only the top two in the handicap proper. He looked certain to prevail on hunter chase debut at Bangor-on-Dee in February, until unseating his pilot. Twice a beaten odds-on favourite since, but goes well fresh, so a lay off of ten weeks may help. Twenty Degrees is a capable, if quirky, ‘chaser. Beaten favourite at Taunton, and no match for classy Alvino at Ludlow. Has shown best from on slower ground. The other professionally- trained runner, Tom George’s Seafield Bogie, looked a threat until fading from 3 out last week at Cheltenham. Promising rider booked and only 6lb “wrong” in the weights, so seems likely to go well.
Betting Forecast: 7/2 Red Man, 4/1 Seafield Bogie, 9/2 Armaturk, 5/1 Howard Howard, 11/2 Twenty Degrees, 12/1 Dante’s Back, Doof, 14/1 Fruitfull Citizen, 33/1 Deep King.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please click here for the latest odds
