Our expert has cast an eye over events and has a selection for each race.
4.20 – Support The ARC Racing Club Handicap Chase (2m)
A clear round is the bridge between SECRET MELODY and success here seemingly. He almost caused a big upset on his return at Bangor last month only to peck on landing over the last and almost unseat his rider.
He was again in a strong position since at Market Rasen only for luck to desert him when he unseated Jamie Bargary at third last. If the partnership stays intact; success surely awaits.
Tip: Secret Melody @ 5/1
4.55 – Southwell Golf Club Handicap Chase (2m4½f)
Having seemingly lacked a bit of match practice at Bangor on his return (favourite), DAMUT I’M OUT rewarded those that retained the faith with him as he won well back there last week.
The manner of his success certainly hinted that he had a good bit in hand and the 7lb penalty might not be enough to ground him.
Tip: Damut I’m Out @ 7/2
5.30 – Sky Sports Racing Sky 415 Novices’ Handicap Chase (2m4½f)
The way that DEMON D’AUNOU dispatched his rivals on chase bow at Cartmel was impressive and the third Lough Salt boasted excellent credentials in that race on his prior form around here.
Jonjo O’Neill’s runner is likely to make progress in this sphere and looks a good shout to make it 2-2 over fences.
Tip: Demon D’aunou @ 15/8
6.00 – Thank You Southwell Annual Members Claiming Hurdle (2m4½f)
This is as weak as the grade demands and it’s tough enough to create a compelling case for anything. JIMMY RABBITTE has, to this point, been undone by his jumping but if he can get that part of his assignment in order; this is a very winnable opportunity.
Tip: Jimmy Rabbitte @ 9/4
6.30 – Follow At The Races On Twitter Maiden Hurdle (2m)
Both Leroy Brown and ROCK ON TIGER come into this having finished second on their previous starts at Uttoxeter. They both look certain to make their presence felt before long.
The latter chased home a decent Flat stayer in Timoshenko, rated 86 when with Sir Mark Prescott; while the beaten horses in behind having given the form a respectable look since. He is preferred to score here for Richard Johnson.
Tip: Rock On Tiger @ 11/4
7.00 – Visit attheraces.com Handicap Hurdle Division 1 (2m4½f)
Skylanna Breeze produced a decent effort when finishing third at Wetherby last time out and a better result can be achieved in this race.
It looked like there was more to come from the Jonjo 0’Neill-trained charge during that last outing and there is every chance a victory can be chalked up today.
Tip: Skylanna Breeze @ 9/2
7.30 – Visit attheraces.com Handicap Hurdle Division 2 (2m4½f)
Again it’s hard to fall in love with any of these but perhaps the wind operation will do the trick for FANCY A DANCE. He had shown promise when second in a point-to-point but failed to ignite in three maiden/novice starts around the turn of the year.
He makes the switch to handicapping having undergone that procedure since and any progress will give him a chance in this line-up.
Tip: Fancy A Dance @ 8/1
8.00 – Final Furlong Podcast Maiden Hurdle (2m4½f)
Having won a bumper at Uttoxeter last month on second start, it’s easy to see MISS FARAGE quickly setting about her task over hurdles for the alliance of Nicky Henderson and Nico De Boinville.
She was well supported last time and took the prize from a rival that was only narrowly denied next time. This looks a pleasing opportunity for her first start over the obstacles.
Tip: Miss Farage @ 10/11
8.30 – Sky Sports Racing HD Virgin 535 Handicap Hurdle (2m)
LOVE THE WELL’s third at Market Rasen last month came after a layoff of 335 days and represented an encouraging start for his new trainer. The 18-race maiden should be fitter for the outing and with improvement for that run likely figures at the business end again here.
Tip: Love The Well @ 11/2
*All odds correct at time of writing