Archived Quotes

Tara's Light makes her debut in this bumper. She's a Kayf Tara full-sister to two previous winners both more than useful and trained here. We're hoping she can make a positive start for Heart of the South Racing.

Waikiki Waves briefly suggested he was returning to form when 2nd at Lingfield in November, but a return trip there was a reversion to the reluctant chaser that he'd appeared to have become. Hard to predict this CD winner, but he's clearly not one to rely on nowadays.

Mystic Man was a nightmare to ride when he first arrived with us. He used to panic and throw himself about and that wasn't nice for his jockeys. Fortunately our team including Lewis and Vic have done a good job with him and now anyone can ride him. He made a noise on horrible ground at Leicester so we sent him away for a procedure and we've had to take our time so he won't be as sharp today as would have been the case. He is a good jumper and will be going over fences next season. This is his third hurdles run and he will probably fare better in handicaps in the future.

Doc McCoy is bred on the same Getaway - Oscar cross as top-class Sporting John. He was the runaway winner of a maiden point on his debut by 20 lengths, 6.5 seconds faster than any of the other three maidens on that card. He was a good 3rd on racecourse debut in the autumn and we've given him time to strengthen. He works well and should have a bright future. The race looks tight but he shouldn't be too far away.

Legal Rights won three times last winter including over this CD in February but he hasn't managed to replicate that yet this season. His mark has dropped a little and he ought to be able to be competitive at this level. Place chances.

Royal Lake didn't take to chasing so we've brought him back hurdling and he ran okay under top-weight in horrific ground at Uttoxeter, staying on strongly for sixth place at the finish. His confidence has improved for that outing so hopefully he can be competitive again at this level. 

Darebin has dropped a few pounds on the basis of his three runs from the autumn on but there was a glimmer of hope about his latest run at Sandown. He's a course and distance winner here and hopefully he can run into the frame in this smallish field.

We were disappointed initially when Inneston failed to win on stable debut, finishing only 3rd to our other ex-French newcomer Jupiter Du Gite at Newbury. He continues to work well and there's no reason to relate that run to the winner's over-exuberant defeat at Cheltenham yesterday. Hoping he can live up to his home work today. 

Isayalittleprayer had been off for almost two years when returning for a couple of runs over jumps either side of Christmas. She made little impact then but her best form of her career has been on AW so it will be interesting to see whether she retains any of that old ability.

Seasett has been very inconsistent since returning after a break in the middle of last year, although his best recent performance came over course and distance in November. He seems in good order at home and is off a mark he can definitely win from. I would not be surprised to see him bounce back today.

After two good wins including around here it was probably one run too soon when Mofada disappointed at Newcastle. He  has had a good break since and seems to be working better than ever at home. His form befiore Newcastle looked rock solid and a repeat of the Cheltenham win would see him go very close. Conditions should be fine for him and he is a massive price based on his first two novice wins.

Having started his chasing career with three wins on the bounce as a 4yo, including the Grade 2 Rising Stars at Wincanton, Ga Law went on to be placed in the Grade 1 Henry VIII at Sandown and Grade 2 Pendil at Kempton. Aimed at that year's Aintree Festival, he picked up an injury and was then off for 600 days before making a promising comeback in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree last autumn. He followed that with an emphaticc success in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November. Now up in distance and 8lb higher in the handicap it will require another big effort for him to win again but he is improving and we are very hopeful.

Animal would have gone close last time but for missing the second-last. He is likely to put in another good effort and should at least finish in the frame all being well.

Botox Has moved into a different category when winning the valuable 3m handicap hurdle at Haydock in November but could not maintain the improvement over 2m4f in a Graded hurdle here on New Year's Day. He is entitled to be tested against these star stayers back to 3m here, but he will do well on ratings to make the frame.

The nicely-bred Park This One (by Walk In The Park) arrived here after winning his English point-to-point and immediately finished 2nd before winning his bumper impressively at Exeter. He won well at Uttoxeter on his hurdles and season's debut then stepped up on that with a fine 4th in testing ground in a Grade 2 novice at Sandown. An easy winner under a penalty at Catterick soon after we believe he deserves another shot at Grade 2 company and over a suitable 3m he holds a definite each-way chance.

Moosmee has yet to win for us on the all-weather and has been difficult to train for a while. He returns in top form and with a good draw though with still a bit to prove. Not a complete surprise to see him involved at a big price if he gets away well.

Editeur Du Gite was another to shock the market by the manner of his winning the Desert Orchid at Kempton, his task made easier by Edwardstone's departure. That horse and Energumene will not be easily beaten, but he runs the track well and deserves this shot as a big pot.

Trevada has been a bit of a work in progress for after winning his bumper he was very keen over hurdles which meant his jumping went to pot. He was a good 2nd last time at Exeter and the winner has gone on to win again. He was very relaxed that day and his jumping was good so that was a pleasing effort and something to build on.  A big horse, he'll go chasing next season but he likes decent ground and that's why he hasn't run for a while.

Legends Ryde has a great jumping pedigree. She was going along nicely in her career until Covid intervened but after a frustrating season she came back to win three last winter and was 2nd in a valuable Graduation chase at Ascot. This term began with a good 3rd in another Graduation chase then she ran well back in a handicap when top-weight over an inadequate 2m4f last time at Cheltenham. This race over the Cross-Country course is over 3m6f, a trip which should suit but she is 9lb wrong at the weights. It's a big ask but she could outrun her odds if taking to the obstacles.

Wake Up Harry looked as if he was coming back to form last start and is a course and distance winner here. The wide draw is no help but he is tactically versatile and today's top rider knows him well so he should be thereabouts.

Dalamoi is a lovely horse who looks extremely progressive. If he can get over his blip last time he ought to have a great each-way chance off his light weight.

Datsalrightgino had been coming along nicely in his career, last season winning two novice hurdles including at Cheltenham. He ran well to be 2nd on chasing debut at Newton Abbot in a race that has worked out well and then won very impressively next time at Chepstow. Up 9lb for that he improved again to be 3rd at the Hennessy (Coral Gold Cup) meeting at Newbury but found 2m too quick against an improving type at Doncaster last time. This step up in trip promises to suit him and if the ground isn't too bad he should hold an each-way chance in a competitive race. 

Jupiter Du Gite caught us completely unawares when winning at 33/1 on his debut at Newbury. Making all, he won by 15 lengths, beating some well fancied older rivals including our own market leader on the day. The French import has done well at home since and hopefully he can cope with this big step up in class and show he has Triumph Hurdle potential.

It's fair to say that Poet has shown us virtually nothing since joining the stable early last year. A gloomy prospect is not improved by his poor draw. 

We've kept Visibility busy in recent months and he has generally run with credit. Versatile to trip he was third at a big price the other day over 8.5 furlongs and now reverts to 7f. Each-way hopes as ever and another win never looks too far away.

Glam Puss has made a bright start to her career, 2nd on debut and following up with a win over a mile next time. She's going up another furlong and a half but she hit the line well last time. She does give a lot of weight to unexposed 3yo's between the wfa scale and the penalty for her novice win.

Donald Llewellyn had been off for almost two years when he ran away with a 0-50 Classified at Kempton despite going into the race with a rating of 46. He's up to 56 in this handicap as a result but still looks the one to beat. Very optimistic he can follow up.

Harmonious has found winning difficult as despite seven places he's now 0-25. Recent runs have been pretty dismal and the outside draw is no bargain either.

Vintage Rascal was bought at the sales out of my neighbour Tom Ward's yard. He won first time out as a 2yo for Tom but became disappointing. He's a tall, leggy gelding and when he recently made his debut over hurdles at Fontwell unfortunately it was an incredibly rough race. He was almost brought down at the first flight and thereafter the loose horse caused havoc. He lacks confidence anyway and while he schools well enough at home, I thought it best to give him a run on the flat to help him.

Pablo Del Pueblo won readily dropped back to this distance on his return last week at Kempton and under this jockey. Has winning from here as well and is  likely to be thereabouts if things go smoothly for him. Not the most straight-forward but he has plenty of scope and his confidence will have been boosted from last time. Hopeful.

Risk And Roll had been off for four months before winning this race impressively at 33/1 last year. He has been running okay this season and again comes here after a break, albeit a shorter one. Up 9lb now, he will have no problems with the ground and Tabitha is again in the saddle. Might outrun his odds.

Imphal was one of the stable stars last season, winning four times and he was consistent through a very busy campaign. He made a low-key return recently when probably a little undercooked and we expect a better performance now on his way to another rewarding season.

Soldier Of Destiny is a Presenting gelding from a nice female family. Beaten on debut in his Irish point by high-class Gentlemansgame, he then finished 2nd in a bumper. A lack-lustre start over hurdles prefaced his being a revelation over fences, winning novice handicaps at Ffos Las and Haydock. Fifth on his comeback in the Old Roan at Aintree, he fell on his next start, so we gave him a confidence-boosting run over hurdles when he finished 2nd. Back after a recent wind-op, blinkers on and over the minimum trip, we hope he can find some form but this does look competitive.

Gentle Frank was 2nd in a point but has been unplaced in both runs over hurdles. He has shown promise though and we're hopeful he can challenge for a place here today.

We bought Auriferous, an 84-rated Golden Horn gelding out of the Andrew Balding stable in the autumn. He has shown promise schooling and as he stays two miles on the flat he should have no trouble getting the trip jumping. Hopeful on this debut.

Can't Beat History showed promise when 2nd in a bumper in Ireland but so far has found it tough going in his two runs over hurdles for us. This looks another daunting task for him.

Brilliant Blue has been gradually coming down the handicap in step with his disappointing sequence of form. He should eventually come good but it's hard to suggest that might happen now as he's shown little sign of a revival recently.

Canzone put in a better run last time and will be fitter now. I do not think the drop to 5f should be a problem so hopeful for a run in the money.

After a third four runs back at Wolverhampton, it appears Six O'Hearts has been going through the motions. Can do better and needs to!

Dark Shot has been busy lately and there's no question he's better around here than at Wolverhampton where he has now run three times without causing a ripple. Always in with a chance here and the price he is has little bearing on how he'll run. Always a possibility.

Lady Valentine is out of a half-sister to a Listed 7f winner and Group placed 5f winner, so this No Nay Never filly isn't bred to stay but some of her best flat form was over 1m6f on soft ground. She jumps well at home but was badly in need of the experience first time out, so I hope she can show improved form here.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Unfortunately Dynakite is still not showing us much. We're dropping him in class and might ride him in a different way. That said, the favourite looks very hard to beat.

Royal Razzmatazz got everything the wrong way round at Southwell last time where he ended up in front which is the last place I wanted to be. We will ride him slightly more conservatively this time and I would expect a much better run.

By Saddler Maker, Git Maker is from a very high-class French female family. He was progressive in Irish points, winning on his final appearance in that sphere and then won three of his four starts in his first season for us. A promising 2nd on his chasing debut at Sandown on this season's return, he stepped up on that to be narrowly beaten at Kelso, then deservedly got his head in front over today's course and distance. Up only 1lb for that, he has a decent chance of winning again with a bit of luck today.

Starevitch is a half-brother to French 2m1f chase winner Laskof and to the dam of top-class chaser Douvan. He won an Irish point-to-point on debut and was 3rd in a bumper at Huntingdon but picked up an injury soon after and missed all of last season. He was off for 638 days before finishing a creditable 5th on hurdling debut at Hereford just before Christmas and will have improved for that race. He is a 3m chaser in the making so the step up in trip will help. This looks competitive but he could have an each-way chance.

With two second places in three runs this term, Trixster deserves a change of luck. He's well and everything is in his favour today. We're expecting a massive run.

Everyone knows Engrave is a bit of a Chelmsford specialist but there aren't too many opportunities for her there at the moment so we're trying her at Newcastle today which I think should suit her. She is an uncomplicated ride and on a good rating now so we would be disappointed if she didn't finish in the first three.

Medrara has been really disappointing since joining my yard. I have no idea what his perfect distance is so we are stepping him right up in trip today. He doesn't look useless at home and should be better than his handicap mark but he has a lot to prove right now.

Harbour Vision had a busy late summer/early autumn and then after a break, did very well leading up to Christmas with a couple of wins around here. He wasn't beaten far last time off his raised mark and now after a four-week absence, can be fresh enough to figure here if he can get away on terms.

It's taken a while but Ornate is at last in great physical condition. He ran a blinder when 3rd at 25/1 last time; he has a nice draw and with his good CD form, he has to hold a great chance.

Canzone ran better again last time and the drop today to 5f is not a problem. He is a lot fitter now and we think he's ready to run a cracker. Nice chance at a massive price.

Shantou Sunset ran a lovely race when 4th at Ascot and was going well until pulled up sharply on this track last time. She is happy on any conditions, and particularly loves heavy ground but she needs to bounce back.

Coast is not always the most consistent, but she made all to win well over 6f here two runs back. Disappointing last time at Southwell, even though now 5lb higher than for her victory, if she can get away alertly she should not be far behind in this company at the fiinish.

Bobmahley is a lovely consistent staying chaser who ought to relish these conditions. I think he has a cracking chance and like his stable companion, has each-way chances. Maybe a 1-2?

We run two in this handicap chase. Airtothethrone is a lovely staying chaser who looks very progressive. The drop back in trip last time played against him but conditions should suit him today. Great each-way chance.

Perseverants joins Conservative in this mile handicap, returning after three months off the track. He was a decent performer in France but made little impact from his two runs for us last year. He should be better adjusted to his new life now and we're looking for an improved performance here.

Conservative is owned by the Coral Racing Club and he won once and placed five times in eight races for the Meades. He's been off for a while and starts from a tough-looking mark, but we like what we see and hopefully he can outrun his odds.

Thor De Cerisy won well around here over hurdles last time in heavy ground. He did have good form in his one chase run before that. A repeat of either performance would see him go close here, but he will need soft/heavy ground as those conditions are vital for him.

Keaden Hill has a nice pedigree and he did well to win his last two points. He needs to step up a good deal on his Rules debut to have a chance of going close to winning this.

Non-runner - meeting abandoned

Kap Chidley is a lovely young horse who ought to improve for the step up in trip and soft ground. This is a very competitive event but I'm hoping he will be bang there today. The Twiston-Davies horse is the one to beat.

Non-runner - meeting abandoned

Nordy Lordy has been struggling to find his form. I think he is best watched today and we will expect more from him when handicapping.

State Of Honor joins Nordy Lordy is this novice hurdle. He's in a similar stage to his career, is best watched and again will be more interesting when handicapping.

Non-runner  - meeting abandoned

Teruntum Star made an instant impression upon joining the stable in late summer, winning consecutive turf races at Doncaster and Pontefract. His subsequent running on AW has been very ordinary, but we know on natural ability there's no way he should be a 33/1 shot in this class - but he is!

Non-runner

Kitten's Dream was running some good races in defeat earlier in the winter often giving his rivals a lengthy start but retrieving most of the ground and appearing an unlucky loser twice in succession. In his last run, just over two weeks ago, over this CD, he finished behind three of today's opponents. He has the ability to turn it around, but it would need a fair bit of improvement for him to do so.

Race abandoned - fog.

Race abandoned - fog

Another two-pronged attack. Kodi Bear ran only once for us last year, back in March when he was 5th over this CD behind Rebel Redemption, who coincidentally re-opposes here. The weight difference is similar, so with the time off to consider too, it is difficult to see him turning that result around.

Rebel Redemption has that March win here on his honour board and also repeated over CD in August. Otherwise he has been running moderately and needs to buck his ideas up.

Shaw Park is a 4yo gelded son of Aclaim making his debut against a field of 3yo's. He concedes a minimum of 16lb and a maximum of 23lb and if he were to figure, we'd probably have a decent performer on our hands. We can dream!

Dark Shot ran his best race after a few duds when fifth at Southwell the other day. He's yet to do anything here from limited opportunities, but with him it's wise to expect the unexpected.

Daphne May is gradually coming down the handicap. It is probably unfair to judge her on her last run going up to 7f as she was slowly away and never got involved. Today will tell us if this is her trip or whether she has to go further again.

Our other runner in this is Poet, whose form for us can be summed up in a single word - dreadful! It would take a major internal rehabilitation for him to get near the principals here.

Danah Star sometimes misses the break as was the case when he was 4th, not beaten far, over this 6f two runs back. He has plenty of form lines that suggest he should go close, but sometimes too his tendency to race freely counts against him. Place chances if he does it right.

Tom Tulliver had a break of four months before his last race around Wolverhampton. He had been showing glimpses of better form in the late summer but seems to be a little off that at the moment and is a few pounds wrong with some of these in this Classified stakes.

Tequilamockingbird loves Lingfield and she would have finished closer to the favourite last time there had they gone a decent gallop. She needs to take another step forward but she's very reliable and I'm sure she'll run another big race.

Purple Ribbon is a very good filly but she will need to be, carrying top-weight in a decent handicap. She is in cracking form at home and the drop back to ten furlongs shouldn't be a problem.

Justcallmepete has exceeded our expectations since we equipped him with blinkers and his win over this CD on Sunday to complete the hat-trick suggests he's still getting better. He was on terms much earlier in that race, having got up very late the previous twice and in a five-runner field that will be a major help.

Gorak was disappointing at Wolverhampton the other day when a well-backed favourite but he had been showing plenty of speed at home and I did tell the owners the trip was a concern. He travelled well but found little off the bridle and I think the drop back in trip will suit. He is by a sprinter so there is speed in the pedigree and the first-time cheek-pieces should sharpen him up too.

Theotherside didn't run too badly when 4th of 6 on Wednesday. Just the same, he will need to find a bit more to be competitive in this tight handicap.

Recuerdame was successful in a similar race last weekend and makes a quick reappearence. He's a multiple all-weather winner who has never been better and should be thereabouts again if the race works out for him. Generally slowly away these days but finishes off strongly and his rider knows him well.

Heer's Sadie has been very frustrating. She gallops better than anything at home and has far more ability than her rating would suggest. Sam has won on her before, so we are putting on cheek-pieces for the first time and will also try different tactics on her. 

Lucky Beggar is in great condition and I'm hopeful the remarkable 13-year-old can make an impression here in his 131st career race. So far he hasn't won on AW but with nine turf wins, who's to say he won't do so one day?

Endofastorm put up a very good performance last time when winning here at 125/1. She won't be anything like that price today but is in good form at home and I'm very hopeful of a repeat.

Gerrots has had a few issues but seems to be going the right way at home. Stepping back up in trip should suit. This is something of a rebuilding exercise today and he is probably not a betting proposition.

We won one of these 0-50 Classifieds around here on Tuesday with Donald Llewellyn, a 20/1 shot after two years off the track. Big Jimbo is also a 6yo and like Donald has been off for a long time, in his case 21 months. Maybe it's asking lightning to strike twice but he has worked with that winner and the opposition looks modest albeit the favourite won the other day and is unexposed.

Mintana won well at Lingfied last week in a four-runner 3yo Classified race. She now moves back into handicaps against her elders but I'm hopeful she can put in a solid performance.

Kentucky Kingdom won around here in February but was then off the track until November. He has gradually been returning to form and last time at Lingfield would have been much nearer with a clear run. Looks about ready to get back in the winner's enclosure.

Visibility had a couple of wins around here late last year, including over CD early last month. Couldn't follow up with a penalty a few days later and remains higher than when winning, but does seem a massive price and could pinch a place.

Theotherside hasn't been too competitive lately but if she could find her best form, she is handicapped to make an impact.

Victory House has been a bit frustrating to date but I should never have run him over ten furlongs last time out when he clearly didn't stay at Wolverhampton the time before. The drop back to a mile should suit and he worked well last week. I also think he will like the small field. He should go well.

Lady Ursula was disappointing last time out and has a few questions to answer. She is not short of speed so the drop to 5f looks interesting at a track where she has run well in the past.

Bungle Boy seems to be getting the hang of things now and won nicely last time. Typically, this is another competitive handicap but today's partner Imogen, who rides him every day at home and knows him well, is very optimistic.

Donald Llewellyn's owner-breeder Chris Stedman has been incredibly patient with him, even waiting almost exactly two years for him to run again since early in his 4yo days. He returns in a race that ought to be within his range judged on what he shows at home, but the long time off is a negative.

Ornate remains in the best of  health at home. He has a good draw and the track will suit him. As ever he's an outsider in the betting but I'm confident of a good result.

Pablo Del Pueblo returns from a break and seems in good form. He can be excitable and is not the most reliable but has loads of speed and is well drawn here so no surprise to see him make a bold bid from the front.

This is the Last Chance Saloon for Cilaos Glace. He has completely lost his way on the racecourse but annoyingly he has been flying at home so he still retains plenty of ability. I wouldn't put anyone off from having a pound each way as he could easily make the frame if he got it in his head to try, but we have to accept that he will probably be retired after today and have a new career as an ROR horse. 

Obsessedwithyou is a daughter of a little known stallion Bathyrhon from a winning Sleeping Car mare. She is full-sister to Calipsa who won a hurdle race on racecourse debut in France by ten lengths. Obsessedwithyou was in pre-training last season then fairly bolted up first time in one of these Junior NH development races at Wetherby before making the running in a Listed juvenile fillies' contest at Aintree, keeping on quite well to be fourth once headed. Back down in class but carrying a 7lb penalty in soft ground won't be easy, but she is a talented filly who will give it her all.

It's a tight competitive handicap but after wins in his last two, Justcallmepete should have a leading chance. He was quite impressive over course and distance two weeks ago.

Closeness has her first start for us. She showed minor promise for previous connections but subsequently lost her way. She's had a long break so will come forward from this run. She is not well drawn. That said, if she translates what she she shows at home she is up to winning at this sort of level in due course.

Privatory lost his form after a first-time win for the stable at Sandown last March. He has been taken out of a couple of races lately on the day and hopefully conditions will be suitable today. He needs to find his good form from somewhere and this would be a good place to start.

Zhiguli did well last season winning twice but unfortunately bled from the nose during his comeback run at Ascot in November and had to be pulled up. He's had almost two months to recover and all we hope today is that he can run well and come home safe and sound.

We run two last-time winners in the Lanzarote and the class of this year's race can be gauged as neither of our runners is shorter than 20/1. Fifty Ball last appeared when winning a handicap hurdle at Ascot in March. This is a tough starting point but hopefully he can run well and offer promise for the rest of the season.

Up For Patrol has a nice jumps pedigree and won an Irish point-to-point before arriving with us upon which he won a couple of novice hurdles. Last season he won a decent handicap hurdle off 127 and was unlucky in last year's Lanzarote at Kempton, beaten eight lengths in sixth staying on late off a mark 4lb higher than today's after getting too far behind. He could run well again, despite this being his first run of the season.

Mark of Gold has been going well this season winning two out of three, but he is paying the penalty for his latest wide-margin win at Lingfield, going up 7lb. A son of Golden Horn, we're moving him up in trip and he might enjoy it. Tough task but going the right way.

Givega has enjoyed two exhibition rounds at Lingfield and Fontwell following an Irish point win for Colin Bowe. We can only assume he will be even more formidable over this longer trip and while facing stronger rivals, we do not believe he has reached his ceiling yet and go there with high hopes.

Arpina has been mainly very consistent without winning. She has run well at the track and we hope going up in distance will bring out a bit more improvement. If she gets the trip she will have an each-way chance again.

Although Haddex Des Obeaux is a novice in all regards, he looked like a hardened professional the way he jumped round the testing Doncaster chase track two weeks ago. Up 6lb for that good win we have to be hopeful he can dominate these rivals just as he did those on Town Moor.

Recuerdame had a busy winter and has generally run well on all starts. He was a winner here a few runs back and always finds his races, just needs a good gallop. The wide draw makes little difference to him with his run style and he is likely to be staying on strongly so cannot be discounted back at this slightly lower level.

Dutugamunu was pushed so wide on the home bend last time he was taken almost to the outside rail. To finish less than five lengths off the winner was highly creditable and today from a good draw and down in grade, he has a good each-way shout.

Come On Tier has been off the track for just over two years and is best watched today.

Canzone has had two quick runs lately but I still expect him to improve from last time as he had been off a long time before that. He doesn't have the greatest draw but at the price I'd recommend each-way support.

Shady Daisy is a nicely-bred young mare who finished 3rd on her racecourse debut at Newton Abbot in May, twice finding considerable trouble and unable to recover in time to get her head  in front. A month later at Stratford she had every chance at the two furlong pole but then ducked the wrong side of a marker. She is a nice mare who deserves to win a bumper.

Miss Elsa didn't like Kempton so you can put a line through that. She is much happier around here and has genuine place claims at this level.

Creationist was once rated much higher but has been in a bit of a slump since joining the stable. He resumes after almost a year off on a much reduced mark and while he will come on for the run, I give him a small each-way chance.

Kentucky Kingdom is a solid performer who should be suited by the increase in trip today. Each-way chances.

We've been delighted with the progress of Perseus Way, a winner of a juvenile hurdle at Leicester between places in two Grade 2 contests. His close 3rd in the Finale Hurdle at Chestow behind Irish-trained Comfort Zone reads very well in this company.

Non-runner

Let It Shine has shown hints of promise in bumpers/ novice hurdles but this looks a pretty deep contest. The ground will probably be soft enough for him too.

Although Superstylin won his Irish point, he has been much too free so far over hurdles. We will be looking for him to be more measured today and the drop in trip will help with that. Desperate ground last time (meeting abandoned soon afterwards) so best putting a line through that. Ultimately a chaser and will likely need a handicap mark. He does work nicely but really hoping just for a better run than anything else.

Mintana has yet to get off the mark but shows good speed at home. The 5f trip should suit her well and she has every chance of gaining those winning brackets in a tight four-horse affair.

Police aAademy ran okay on her debut  for the stable when just touched off for second at Leicester. The two mares that finished ahead of her are quite smart so that was no disgrace but I would have been happier if her jumping had been as slick as it is at home. I'm dispensing with the hood for the race but will utilise the red hood to keep her calm beforehand. Good each-way chance.

Symphorine was placed 2nd in her first start in  a bumper at Fontwell in May but she predictably found Queens Gamble much too tough in a Listed mares' bumper at Cheltenham in November. This hurdles debut also looks demanding with the favourite appearing in a different league but we hope she can show some promise for the future.

Sinurita was a well-beaten 3rd in the one Irish point she contested and ran far too free after her long layoff last time. She will need to show a great deal of improvement to get involved today and while I expect some progress from that run, it is unlikely to be enough for her to feature here.

Hector Jaguen has run behind two of our younger stable stars in his last two starts, pulling up behind Authorised Speed at Lingfield and then finishing fourth to Givega at Fontwell. He was a 66/1 chance that day and ran creditably. Now handicapping off what looks a fair mark, he could have place chances.

Legends Ryde is a beautifully-bred mare and after doing well, earning black type with a 2nd in a Listed bumper she initially struggled over hurdles. She flourished though in novice chases last season, winning three GBB races and was 2nd in a valuable Graduation chase at Ascot. She ran 3rd in another of that category on her comeback run this term and filled the same position in a Listed chase next time. Back in handicap company she was 3rd off top-weight over 2m4f at Cheltenham, a trip that was a bit short for her. This much longer test of the North Yorkshire Grand National is an unknown but she looks like she might appreciate it and if she does, she has a very decent chance.

Via Serendipity is in cracking form and comes into this race on the back of three very unlucky efforts. At his best he can go close today but he has never run at Newcastle and a lot of his best efforts have been on tighter turning tracks. That said, this place should suit his run style.

Stintino Sunset has had a break since running well on heavy ground at Leicester. She has been working well at home and will run well fresh. Hopefully she will be thereabouts in a weak-looking race.

Pirate King heads back to his beloved Lingfield and seems in good order. They went very slowly at Wolverhampton last time out which didn't suit him one bit. Rob Hornby should suit him well and he is off a competitive mark. Hopeful.

After seeming to have lost his confidence over jumps we are retuning Dirham Emirati to the level. He won a 1m4f race at Newcastle early in his 3yo season and while he never really built on it, he was quite lightly-raced. After a bright start when second on debut over hurdles on joining us, he fell next time and his two runs this season have been disappointing. Let's hope a run round Lingfield's AW track will lighten his mood.

Hul Ah Bah Loo is still a maiden but has looked as if his turn is around the corner in recent starts. Probably better suited by 7f than the mile over which he was beaten into fourth by less than a length last time. He seems at the top of his game so entitled to enter calculations at this level and looks  sure to be thereabouts.

Masqool had a great year in 2022. He is an ever reliable sort who will give it a good go even from the outside draw,

Artician was a shade disappointing here last time over slightly shorter but he did not get the best run round from a wide draw. He has plenty of ability and has slipped down the handicap so he cannot be dismissed. It would be no surprise to see him staying on well.

Unpredictable Dark Shot picked up a race over CD in October but has been very disappointing since. He is always liable to pop up when least expected but he has it all to do from his wide draw now.

Sociologist has been making the running in recent starts over varying distances, not quite getting home. His mark is gradually dropping and that gives him a small each-way shout in a competitive affair.

Six O' Hearts was never in the argument over the stiff Newcastle 6f last week but his effort three runs back over 5f around Wolverhampton gives him a glimmer in this ordinary contest. Place chances.

Lucky Beggar is in good form and the race looks okay for him. They should go fast which will help him but on the negative side he still hasn't won on all-weather.

Maclaine moves up into handicap company after winning his novice hurdle last time at Fontwell. Whilst all out that day there was plenty against him, particularly the sharp track and inadequate distance. He'd been very weak until that point but is starting to mature and it will not be until he goes chasing next season that we'll see the finished article. Hopeful of a good run on a track that will suit him much better.

Ballaquane won his first race over fences at Fontwell recently when to his credit over that trappy course he avoided making any sort of mistake, winning going away. Now he goes for a novice handicap chase up 3lb and over half a mile further which should suit him. It's a tougher test, but he should be suited by it.

Tapley ran well last time and as two or three of these look hard to beat, he is probably going for minor honours at the most again. He is best on good ground so we wouldn't want too much rain beforehand.

Dj Pete has been placed in both his bumpers to date, looking a real galloper but also still a bit of a baby. He has done plenty of schooling and while jumping very big and carefully initially, he has become much slicker but could still be quite green early on.  He's a very tall horse who does show ability, but he won't have a hard campaign this winter.

Can't Beat History was placed in an Irish bumper but was well beaten on hurdles and stable debut at Market Rasen. This looks a very tough task on second start.

Gorak is new to the yard so we are still trying to find out about him. His work has been good at home and I am happy he can be competitive off his current mark. My only question is the trip as I have a feeling I will be bringing him back in distance in time. That said, Wolverhampton is the sharpest track in the country and he has a cracking draw so he should get home today.

Apart from one run around here in October, Poet has been extremely disappointing since joining the stable. it is hard to fancy him to make a serious challenge in his present form.

The policy of UK handicappers adding a mandatory 10lb to Irish ratings makes this opening 95 mark of Fortune Cookie pretty tough. A mistake at the 6th flight at Hereford on stable debut stopped her in her tracks and she was pulled up soon after. Hopefully, a clear round today in this mares' handicap hurdle will give us a better idea of how she might progress from now on.

Robin's Dream made it to the course only once last season, at Huntingdon in May 2021 when he made all the running and winning his maiden hurdle narrowly as an odds-on chance. He's been off for 588 days and has quite a tough initial mark to go novice handicap chasing although he is bred for the job. He may just be better for this first run back anyway.

Present Value is by Gold Well out of a Presenting dam and is half-brother to World Hurdle winner Paisley Park. He made a winning debut for us when taking this race last year off today's mark. He didn't quite repeat that form in three subsequent outings and under-performed on seasonal debut as well. He's not the easiest to predict, but hopefully the blinkers could help spark a revival.

Royal Razzmatazz gave himself no chance to win on debut over this CD when falling out of the stalls. He did remarkably well to finish where he did and ran a cracker in sixth. He is well drawn today and can put that experience to good use and run a better race.

Chorlton Lane could not have been more impressive om debut confirming our opinion he is a smart horse. He beat absolutely nothing that day but couldn't have done it any more easily. Today is a tougher test as the Hughes horse is no slouch but we are hopeful our horse will be too good.

As I've said before I'm not sure Plymouth Rock is an all-weather horse. He hates Lingfield but I'll give him one more go at Kempton. He'll make the running and if that doesn't work out, then we'll wait for Brighton in the spring. His last form there would give him a very good chance in this 0-50 Classified. 

Imphal had a wonderful and busy season in 2021-2 with four wins and the other six of his ten runs all in the frame. Considering that success, to have gone up 17lb was more than fair. If he does need this first run it would be understandable but he should not be long in getting back into his stride this winter.

Hardy Du Seuil was 2nd in two 3yo bumpers in France before bolting up over hurdles at Fontainebleau. We sent him novice chasing last season to utilise his wfa advantage and he won twice and was 2nd in a Grade 2. As his jumping of fences wasn't always assured, though, we thought he would appreciate going back over hurdles where he runs off a lower mark. The ground was too quick for him in the Welsh Champion Hurdle but he ran well to be 3rd last time over 2m4f at Wetherby. He should be suited to dropping back to 2m here on deep ground and he's not without a chance in a competitive race.

Non-runner

Roman Tempest has been well beaten in maidens so looks well handicapped and has come on for his handicap debut. Yet to prove he stays this far but should do so on pedigree and could go well at a big price.

Engrave is now very well handicapped but all her best form is at Chelmsford. Unfortunately there are no races for her there at present. This is her first try on the Lingfield AW but she has performed well on the turf track there. If she handles the Polytrack she will have a good each-way chance.

Isayalittleprayer is in the process of rehabilitation after almost two years off the track before her recent comeback at Sandown when she was pulled up. She had some okay form in the past and hopefully she will be a little further along the road today.

I said to the press I thought this is a very high-class and deep Tolworth Hurdle. Authorised Speed has done everything asked of him in his first two hurdles, more than living up to the promise of his Festival Bumper 5th. His win around here is a big advantage as they will have to come up that hill and he has! 

Colonel Harry is by Shirocco, sire of Annie Power and Gold Cup winner Minella Rocco, from a wonderful female jumping family. He fell with the race at his mercy on point-to-point debut but made amends winning his next start in a very fast time. Turning to hurdles on joining us he was 2nd on debut over 2m4f on good going but bolted up on soft ground over this course and distance in November. This race has always been the target and he has blossomed since. He's a big price and needs to step up considerably in this strong Grade 1, but I thick he can.

Kiltealy Briggs is out of a half-sister to Grand National winner Ballabriggs. Having been 2nd on debut in  a bumper, he won two novice hurdles and was 3rd in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham. Then when sent novice chasing, he excelled again, winning two and placing in two Graded chases. He improved even on those efforts when returning this term, picking up a 50k race (27k to the winner) at Market Rasen and then was not disgraced up 3lb when 4th at Aintree.  This is a race with a bit less depth and he should go well.

Sopran Thor was a winner first time out last season and although he didn't manage to win again, he was generally consistent. He finished with 2nd places in two small field chases in April and resumes on a slightly reduced mark. He can go well first time and this is his trip.

High Up In The Air won a race in February 2021 but has been very disappointing since resuming this winter. He needs to find that old form from somewhere but is clearly the less likely of our two in this.

Daphne May has had a couple of runs over 6f here since being cheaply bought last backend. Up a furlong and nicely drawn, she has come down a little in the handicap but may need more help before we could expect her to start winning races.

Wake Up Harry has not shown much since returning from a lengthy absence. He is sliding down the handicap and needs to get his confidence back but retains plenty of ability. 

Poncho is by Derby winner, Motivator, sire of many good jumpers since going to stand in France. He has been placed in both runs in bumpers and we hope he can be competitive at this level in this hurdles debut.

Key Factor was moderate in points and has yet to show much in his two runs over hurdles. He's one for later on.

Villainess is out of a wonderfully-bred Listed-winning dam who has produced four winners from four runners in four bumpers. Let's hope she can follow in her siblings' footsteps by winning and hopefully picking up black type for her owner-breeder. She was a promising 2nd on her racecourse debut at Newbury in November and will have improved off the back of that. This looks the right race for her next start but there are some interesting sorts in opposition.

Bo Zenith was bought last summer after winning his only previous race in a quite valuable juvenile conest at Auteuil. Bo Zenith has been shaping well and while he has to carry a penalty it's a small field and he is clearly the one to beat.

Non-runner

Danah Star has been improving steadily while her mark has been going in the other direction. After her good 4th here the other day, she could be ready to gain that elusive first win.

Non-runner

Striking Out won a hurdle last season and returns for his chase debut after a seven-month break. He is working well and is in good nick so needs to make a start. I can't see anything beating the Venetia Williams horse, though, who gets in on 114 yet has beaten horses rated far higher in France.

Gentle Frank had form in point-to-points and ran well on hurdles debut at Uttoxeter in November. The JP/Nicky Henderson looks a fine prospect and Frank is probably best watched until he gets a handicap mark. 

After a promising first run when 2nd in one of these NH Juvenile contests at Kempton, Spirit D'Aunou was not troubled to land the odds in a three-runner edition of the same series at Huntingdon. The penalty doesn't make it easy but he appears to have the best form and any newcomer will need to have plenty of ability to challenge him.

Arpina was very consistent last year and was unlucky not to have won a race. We have given her a break and her work has been good enough to suggest she can win this sort of race. Dylan Hogan gets on well with her so we hope she has a good each-way chance again.

Zany Idea surprised us with the speed she showed on her first run. She just got tired and looked as though she didn't get the trip. We have dropped her to 6f here and hope she has learnt plenty from that first run.

Roger Pol is by prolific Grade 1 producing sire Shantou out of a Monsun mare who won on both the flat and over jumps. Among several smart siblings, he is half-brother to seven-time winner Adrrastos which we used to train. Roger Pol was 2nd, beaten narrowly in his only Irish point but won impressively on bumper debut for us  in a warm race at Worcester before not handling the undulations of Cheltenham last time out. Back in calmer waters here and on a more suitable track, he should run well despite carrying his penalty.

My Dream, who makes her debut in this bumper, is a progressive type. Judged on pedigree she is likely to improve once we send her over hurdles.

Ornate has been running consistently of late and remains in very good condition despite his busy spell. He hasn't a great draw but in an eight-horse race he represents an excellent each-way shout,

Seaston Spirit became frustrating last season having had a good campaign previously. We tried various things including hunting to perk him up but while he was always okay at home he remained less enthusiastic on the racecourse. This autumn he had a thorough overhaul and he we found he was suffering from ulcers but hand on heart I don't know if that made any difference. Keith is now in the Last Chance Saloon and if he doesn't show any vigour in the next two races he will be retired. He has always been happy in his work and schooling at home so it's impossible to know  if last season was a blip. He has done plenty of work, stays and loves heavy ground but it will be tough for all runners today.

Spitfire Girl is by Walk In The Park from a well-connected black-type winning mare. She was 2nd in three bumpers and even then looked like she had a future. It took her a few runs to get the hang of hurdling but that meant she started off on a nice mark and was just touched off in her first handicap by a short-head with a long gap back to the third horse. Up 6lb for that today, she is fresh and well and deserves to go one better here.

Noplacetobe stayed on well to be fourth at Uttoxeter and is up against several of those she met there. She handles soft ground but is untried on heavy although she should handle it. This step up in trip is a plus for her and the galloping track should be fine.

Thor De Cerisy had been running in France but did well first go back over here and has won a hurdle on this track earlier in his career too. He loves heavy ground and the worse the going, the better for him. This looks a race he ought to be competitive in, but he wouldn't appear to have much in hand of the handicapper.

Far Horizon ran well last time at Chelmsford in a race that didn't suit him as he got blocked when coming to make his challenge before staying on again late. Kempton should suit him better and he comes here in good form. Should go close.

Headley George has been off for some time and returns at a track he knows well. Had consistent form at this level and sure to make his presence felt as he comes back to form.

Although a non-winner as a juvenile, Brilliant Blue ran well enough to earn a 79 rating, but he did virtually nothing in four runs between May and July last year. The final two were especially poor and after a four-month break, returning here over 7f, he was again disappointing. We're expecting a lot more today as we appear to have BB in a better place. A first-time visor and a step up to a mile are also likely positives. 

Recuerdame has been admirably consistent this season and has plenty of form to recommend him. Vulnerable to improvers at this stage of his career and needs things to fall right but still capable when they do and hard to disregard here.

Dynakite has been disappointing since joining the team in the summer of last year. I'm hoping that the little break he's had since then will spark him into some better form, but for now he is probably best watched.

Skinflint is in good form at home and his CD 2nd on his most recent run back in Ferbruary puts him in with a live chance. While he is not only to fully trust, he has a top man onboard who is sure to get the best out of him.

Non-runner

Canzone needed the run badly last time at Southwell and has come on really good in the interim. He will strip a lot fitter today and can go close.

Six O'Hearts put in his best run to date with a staying-on 3rd over 5f at Wolverhampton two runs back. It's probably unfair to judge him on his latest run over the same CD last time as after missing the break and running very free, he was denied a run repeatedly in the straight. Up a furlong, he might do better on this stiffer, straight course.

Endofastorm ran better last time and has good form on this track. Hopeful she can show her best in which case she could run into the money.

Kitten's Dream put in a sub-par run last week, certainly compared with two strong finishes into a place the previous twice. All three times, he started very lethargically and it was unsurprising if he didn't feel quite so ready to try to retrieve the deficit a third time. A better exit would go a long way towards getting a better outcome.

Bungle Bay went close under today's rider over CD two weeks ago. This is a deep race and although he is at the bottom of the handicap his task is made more difficult by his draw in 10. Each-way chance.

Harmonious is a long-term maiden and since his latest 2nd place in August he has been running moderately at distances between 1m4f and 2m. Hard to be enthusiastic about his chance tonight.

Light Up Our Stars has won plenty of races up to a mile, both before joining us and since he's been here. Last time at Southwell he kept going well to finish a close fourth at a mile suggesting he might stay the extra distance today. Place chances if he does.

Fix At All ran very poorly at Ayr yesterday. It will take a very quick transformation for him to be involved in what looks a more competitive race, at least on paper.

Gris Gris Top showed ability in his novice hurdles but is also very fragile and has not run for a long time. This is his first go over fences. Ground and trip should be fine but is probably best watched today with all the issues we have had getting him here.

Fix At All ran better than the result last time probably not quite seeing out the trip. The drop to 2m on testing ground should be ideal. There are only four runners, so not a deep contest, and he should take all the beating.

Saligo Bay joined from the Charltons just over a year ago and has been very consistent ever since. He was awarded his latest race at Lingfield in the stewards' room and is 4lb higher now.  He should still be there with a chance but 12st in this ground is hardly a gift.

Our other runner in this race, Tara Iti has been struggling on the prevailing soft ground lately. We are claiming off him and that could help him challenge for a place.

Lady Ursula surprised me last time as she ran a cracker in the first time visor. Interestingly, her work at home seems to have improved since that run too and I think this track will suit her. If the visor works again then she can go close.

Teruntum Star, now an 11-year-old, gained the 10th and 11th successes of his long career - all on turf - in the autumn. He has now run seven times on AW and the evidence of the last three after those two recent turf wins, is that we will do well to find a race he can win over the winter.

Non-runner

It was a promising performance from American Rose last time at Wolverhampton to win her maiden. I'm not sure what she beat that day and this race will tell us how good she is. She has a widish draw but track and trip will suit her. Seems fairly handicapped with he initial mark so should be thereabouts.

Hansard joined from Charles O'Brien for whom he won a bumper. He was very impressive first time out at Huntingdon in a strong novice hurdle for the track. The Twiston-Davies horse looks decent but he will need to be.

Tenfold was a massive price at Lingfield when setting off very freely and soon pulling into a long lead. He held on for longer than expected and his late fade was understandable. There are signs he might be improving.

Fine Wine is continuing to defy the handicapper. After a busy summer on turf, when he won a good race at York, he has returned to all weather winning here and at Newcastle. He now stands on a mark of 103, but doesn't appear to be coming to the end of his tether. I'm hoping he can make it a hat-trick.

Cloud Dancer makes his debut in this junior bumper where he will meet plenty of previous winners. By Jukebox Jury from a good German family, we are hoping he will be competitive first time out.

Jessie Lightfoot is in great form and the ground will be ideal. She won impresssively last time, but is up 10lb, and while she has a live chance, she is a very short price. Hopeful.

Hey Frankie was slightly disappointing last time but she should bounce back to form in this. The Fakenham track is probably sharp enough for her but ground conditions should be fine. She stays and jumps well and while the favourite looks well in, she shouldn't be far away.

Faitque De L'Isle was too keen last time and as a result pulled his chance away far too early. Hopefully he will settle better here and the hood should help him do so. This is a weak race so if he does settle he should go close. Conditions are a slight unknown, but he has handled soft ground in France.

A Time To Shine had the whole of last season off with a tendon injury. When he runs today at Exeter he will have been off the track for 658 days. He had useful form over hurdles and when going chasing he finished second staying on well at Hereford. I ran him back at Warwick but it was too soon and he pulled up. We hope he can show promise for the future now.

Botox Has is continuing to show improvement and both this season's runs have been indicative of that progress. He is 6lb higher for his last-time win at Haydock and as a result carries 12st in a very strong race. Both his previous runs have been at three miles and dropping back to 2m4f is another extra difficulty although under these conditions they will need to stay every yard - as he will.

Nassalam had a truncated season in 2021-22 but won a couple of times. He has not been quite so sharp so far this term and we are trying first-time cheek-pieces to see if they can rekindle his undoubted talent. This is a very tough race in which for him to try to find it though.

Git Maker has a great jumps pedigree - by Saddler Maker out of a mare from a lovely French family. A winner of his final Irish point-to-point, he had a fine first season over hurdles winning three of his four starts. The highlight was his final success under a double penalty at Newcastle which made it a clean sweep of wins at all UK jumps courses for team Jamie Snowden Racing. Returning over fences, he was a promising 2nd on debut at Sandown and stepped up on that to be beaten half a length last time at Kelso. Off the same mark here, this looks a golden opportunity for him.

Park This One, by Walk In The Park, is out of an unraced sister to Listed five-time winner Santia and to smart Lord Over. He came to us after winning an English point-to-point and following a 2nd on Rules debut, impressively won a bumper at Exeter. He then won first time over hurdles at Uttoxeter before running a creditable 4th in a Grade 2 last time out. Back in calmer waters here, he should be able to defy the penalty. 

Upton Road didn't run any sort of race last time but now back to a track where he has run well before, we'll give him another chance. He jumps and stays well and also handles deep ground effectively. He is on a mark from which he is more than capable of winning and I am hopeful he will do just that.

Bobmahley appears to be in great form and all the conditions suit him today, albeit it's a competitive race. We think he has rock-solid each-way chances.

Patient Owner showed promise over hurdles last season. He's bred to be a better chaser and starts in this novice handicap off a slightly reduced mark. Each-way shout in an open event.

East Bridge makes his debut in the bumper. He's a horse we've had for two years but he's had lots of problems with his feet including a fractured pedal bone. A lovely-looking big gelding, he's a typical horse of his late owner's and while he goes nicely enough, he's a proper galloper.

We run two here also. It was only by inches that Big Bard failed to win any one of three successive sprints in the autumn, the first two at Brighton. He has disappointed more recently but Brighton form lends itself to Lingfield even on AW and the number one draw is a big help over 6f.

Multiple previous winner Daphne May is a recent bargain (we hope!) acquisition. She had a first run for us over this 6f last week, not really getting involved and most of her form is over longer distances. Hopefully she will be better for last week's run.

You Wear It Well is a Midnight Legend daughter of a black type mare that has produced three winners from four runners. She was 2nd on her racecourse debut at Ludlow and then won a bumper on her next start. We always liked her and, switched to hurdles after showing she jumps well, she won on seasonal/hurdles debut then bolted up under a penalty at Hexham. This for her too is a huge step up in class but she is totally unexposed and could be very good. 

Passing Well is by top French sire Coastal Path from a good female family. He finished 2nd in a 21-runner bumper at the Punchestown Festival last spring, despite having problems in running and fulfilled all that promise with a debut win over hurdles for us at Uttoxeter. It was always the intention to come to the Challow after that and while it's a huge step up in class, he should run a big race.

Non-runner

Generous Day took advantage of a lower mark when making all last time at Southwell, but the handicapper has not wasted time in putting him back up again. Can still be competitive as he's in great form and I'm hopeful he can at least go close again here.

Cokytho came over from France a couple of months ago after my landlord Charlie Mann bought him for a syndicate. Only four, he's already had nine runs over fences, jumps well and will need proper soft ground to show his best. Charlie points out that he's had a busy autumn and might need a break, so hopefully he'll show promise today and we can look forward to a bright future with him.

Tallow For Coal is half-brother to two black type winners and is from the female family of Denman. He won his maiden Irish point and then was placed in all three novice hurdles. He was always going to be a better chaser though and won two novice handicaps last season. He returned in style this time, winning an Intermediate chase in the manner of an improving young horse. This will be his first step into open company and 11st12lb is a daunting weight in this fiercely competitive handicap. That said, he is still a young horse with hopefully much more to come.

When Warranty joined us midway through last season,  it was a case of so near yet so far with three 2nd places in four. Since he came back in, a switch seems to have clicked and he is poised to complete a hat-trick. Up 7lb for his last win, we're claiming off Warranty today and Jamie rides Moulins Clermont.

Moulins Clermont won a couple of races in good style last season after joining from France. He had a long summer break before returning recently at Kempton. Still relatively inexperienced, he should improve for that run and the 4lb shaved off his mark will be a help in a race where we run two.

Maclaine won last time at Fontwell and while he looked all out, there was plenty against him. He's a huge horse (17hh) and the sharp track wasn't ideal and the trip too short. He's looking more furnished these days and while he won't be at his peak until going chasing next season, we are hopeful he will put in a good show first time in a handicap.

Royal Lake has had two runs over fences, slipping on landing and pulling up early on debut and then he clearly didn't enjoy his second run around here so we've reverted to the smaller obstacles. He's been much happier schooling over hurdles and has been working well. 

Victory House ran great last time and is improving with every run. We have to take on the horse that beat us last time at Wolverhampton but my fella is improving rapidly and from a lovely draw, can go very close again.

Newbury midwinter novice hurdles take plenty of winning but we like what we've seen from Inneston. Winner of his one run in a French bumper in October last year, he is a Doctor Dino half-brother to the top-class Delta Work and we are very much looking foward to his debut over jumps.

We also run the 3yo Jupiter Du Gite here for his first time over jumps and in the UK. Third on his one run in France in the spring, he gets plenty of weight as the only juvenile in the line-up. Again we're excited to get him on the track.

Amidnightstar ran well in a bumper on good ground at Stratford. Her future lies over fences where she will reach her full potential. Any experience she gets now will be of benefit to her.

Artician is starting to look better handicapped and a top rider booked so his turn is coming. Wide draw no particular help but likely to be a strong finisher and could go well if things fall right for him.

Endofatorm has been disappointing the last couple of times but her second at Southwell before that to Southwold was made to look fair form by the winner's third yesterday. Well drawn and a small each-way chance if repeating the Southwell performance.

With two wins here and several other good performances over the past couple of months, Visibility remains in good shape. This smaller field should be to his advantage and I expect another solid run this evening.

Non-runner

Jack Sprat is by prolific jumps sire Walk In The Park out of a mare from a black type family. He was backed and ridden away last season and after a winter's education made a promising debut when 4th in his bumper at Chepstow. Green and backward that day, he improved over the summer and put in an improved display at Exeter last month. I think he has progressed again and should be placed here.

Luckello is an improving mare running off a nice weight having won her last two in point-to-points. We are uncertain about the ground but are expecting a big run assuming she handles it. Solid chance.

Havanella ran well on her chase debut at Hereford, jumping well but two and a half miles is too short for her. She has been ready to run for ages but this winter has been impossible, dry ground followed by frost. At least it means she's fresh and well and hopefully she can enjoy a busier spring.

Republican has plenty of ability but he has had so much bad luck over the past couple of seasons and has completely lost his confidence. In an attempt to help him regain it, we've brought him back hurdling this season and he ran okay on debut. Hopefully as the confidence returns we can get him back to somewhere near his useful novice form.

Having been placed in a couple of bumpers, Thomas Macdonagh has won three races over hurdles and a novice chase. Unfortunately, last season was a bit frustrating as he didn't take to the Grand National fences in the Grand Sefton and it took him a while to get his confidence back. Despite this, he still ran some fine races including narrowly beaten in this race last year off 2lb higher. He needed his comeback run over hurdles last month but now back over fences, on deep ground at a track where he goes well, I like to think he can go close in this race again.

Danah Star is dropping back in trip and this more galloping track should suit her. We are putting a red hot 7lb claimer on board today and she is well worth a small each-way bet.

Justcallmepete came back to form with a brilliant run down the outside at Lingfield, getting up on the line. If he can build on that on this more galloping track, he should be thereabouts.

Slowly but surely, Fai Fai is getting closer to winning a race. He seems to be settling much better now hence we feel the step back to 6f will suit. He also drops another grade which should make things easier. He is well dfrawn too so there is plenty to be positive about.

Catesby won at Wolverhampoton in the spring but since returning from a summer break he has been way short of winning again. His mark has finally dipped below 60, his previous winning figure and hopefully there are better times ahead.

Evening Story has improved for each start and will enjoy the extra furlong. She should be competitive off her mark, but is not well drawn.

Corporate Raider makes his debut for the yard here. He has settled in well and his work has been good. We hope that the step up in trip and drop in grade will bring some improvement to his form. Hopefully he will have an each-way chance at a good price.

Our secind runner here, Southwold, won nicely on debut and should have more to come as he showed signs of inexperience that day.

We run two in this Restricted novice stakes. Glam Puss looked raw when second on debut and should improve for the extra furlong.

Mudlahhim has been a decent sprinter in his day but he seems to have completely lost his form. We are pretty much waiting for a sign that better times could be around the corner.

Kansas City Chief is a grand old favourite who turns 14 on Sunday! Age hasn't dimmed his enthusiasm and it is easy to excuse his run at Cheltenham which came too soon after a much better showing at Wetherby on seasonal return. He will love this track and ground and I think he has a small each-way chance today.

Lady Valentine is a filly by No Nay Never and while she isn't really bred to stay, some of her best flat runs have been at 1m6f on soft ground! She schools well at home and seems to enjoy her jumping so she should have a future in this discipline. She'll improve for the experience and it will certainly be interesting to see her on the track today.

Haddex Des Obeaux won a handicap hurdle in October last year after arriving from France but then had almost a year off before unseating at the last on his debut over fences at Newton Abbot when looking held. He did much better last month when 2nd at Kempton and should be ready to go one better in this tricky handicap chase.

Coastguard Station made a winning debut over fences around here last month. He's up in class today but the track and ground are ideal and he looks a nice each-way bet at 14/1.

Datsalrightgino was 2nd in three bumpers before having a fruitful novice hurdle campaign last season, winning twice including at Cheltenham. He ran well to be 2nd on chasing debut at Newton Abbot in a race that has worked out well and then won very impressively at Chepstow. Up 9lb for that, he improved again to be 3rd at the big November Newbury meeting despite finding the ground a bit too quick. Back on genuine good to soft/soft ground today he should run another big race in this competitive affair. 

Hermino AA made a promising start when 2nd on debut in an Ascot bumper last month. He has a nice French pedigree although bought in Ireland as a 3yo, and he looks an interesting contender first time over hurdles.

Heads Or Harps disappointed on first start for us when after travelling well he stopped very quickly at Worcester. He's on a recovery mission today and works like a good horse at home and impressively won his point. We will need to see more than last time though before getting too excited.

Milldam is by Martaline out of a mare from a strong winning French family. He was placed in all three starts in juvenile hurdles in France, arriving here midway through last season. He was in midfield in the Boodles at the Festival in March and although he has been 2nd and then 3rd in two runs this time, I'm not sure we've quite found the key to him. But with a first-time tongue-tie, on very testing ground and off bottom-weight in a handicap, we might finally be able to unlock the undoubted potential.

I Am Gonna Be is going the right way. Winner of her bumper at Newcastle last season, she improved on earlier hurdles form to win a 2m4f mares' novice hurdle on the same track last time. Into handicaps, she has not been harshly treated but now faced with male opposition, she will need to progress again to win.

Adamhill has yet to finish in the first four either in bumpers or his two runs in novice hurdles. He did get a little closer last time but is sure to be a big outsider again today and it will not be until he can meet his own class in low-grade handicaps that we will be holding out any extravagant expectations.

Ornate is also in great shape and for once he has a good draw from which to cast his spell of early speed. It wasn't so long ago that he added a real will to win to his best-known characteristic coming home in front at Chelmsford and hopefully he can show his celebrated qualities today.

We've been keeping Harbour Vision busy and he rewarded us with two nice wins, before falling a little below that the last twice. Inevitably his mark has gone up but he still wasn't beaten far even though 7th last time, and he is always one to consider in this type of handicap.

Kitten's Dream could have won both his last two races with even a moderately acceptable start but he has got into the habit of losing lots of ground at the traps. He did especially well last time to get so close and if he is in the same form again, he could make amends..

The legend that is Duke Of Firenze is in great shape for what is planned to be his final run before his well-earned retirement. Hopefully he can finish on a good performance, but of course he owes us nothing.

Dark Shot is always to be feared as when winning three runs back at Southwell. Two poor efforts followed including first time ever on this track before another unconvincing display back at Southwell. Could pop up at any time in this grade and he has a nice draw to take a good position going into the bend. 

Invincible Nao, winner of a novice race in France befire joining us, was well beaten first time out in a novice race over here. In that context his initial mark of 127 looked tough and although off that he did finish 3rd, he was beaten a long way and has been dropped 5lb for today. Whether that will be enough to bring him more into this argument is something we will find out today.

Non-runner

Dalamoi is an extremely exciting horse who ought to excel with this step up in trip. We are hoping for a huge run.

Super Survivor is by the sire of Grade 1 winner The Storyteller out of a winning half-sister to triple Gold Cup winner Best Mate. He was 2nd in an Irish point before joining us last summer. He had a great season's novice hurdling, winning two and finishing 2nd in the other. He is built to be a proper staying chaser so despite his lack of experience we've sent him over fences and he was an excellent 2nd on debut at Uttoxeter. He will improve for that run and should appreciate the step up in trip. Interesting.

Larry was an impressive winner of his comeback race at Ascot which must rank possibly as a career-best. We're claiming to offset the rise in his mark and hopefully he can be right in the thick of things at the business end again.

Four consecutive wins for Movethechains, all over the Lingfield 3m from October last year to February resulted in his mark going from 80 to 128 with the last 28lb coming from the final two performances. It's hard to know where they ought to place him but at no stage did he look as though going up to 3m6f would be a problem for him. Could be exciting days ahead, starting today.  

Editeur Du Gite  ran a nice third on his recent comeback at Cheltenham. This level-weights Grade 2 may stretch him a little but he has plenty of class and deserves a shot at a race of this kind.

Bells Of Peterboro won this race last year and comes here in good form. He would have preferred slower ground but has solid each-way claims anyway.

Perseus Way was promising at Cheltenham and very impressive at Leicester. This Sea The Stars gelding is clearly going the right way and is a juvenile with a future. This galloping track is made for him and we have to be hopeful he can take the next step up the ladder today.

This is a very competitive race but The Big Bote is dropping back in trip and is back down to his last winning mark having been a fair bit higher. A previous course winner, he has each-way chances with that Newcastle run in the Rehearsal Chase to tighten him up behind him.

Keaden Hill looks a lovely type but is in at the deep end in a really competitive race. Winner by a wide margin of his last two British points, it wouldn't be the biggest surprise if he were to out-perform his odds on this Rules debut.

Nordy Lordy is best watched today. He would have to improve a great deal to be competitive in this hot contest.

We bought Kap Chidley after his close second in an Irish point. He is an extremely nice type with a good pedigree. We are excited to get him started and learn about him but suspect a longer trip will suit him in time.

Invincible De Mee looks like he will need to go in lower grade handicaps to make an impact. This novice contest is a very competitive race.

Let Me Entertain U has plenty of ability but doesn't always want to put it all in. He has been running consistently of late but this race looks deeper than those he has been contesting. Ground and trip are fine and as I say, he has the ability to win if he wanted to.

Kentucky Kingdom ran well from a break last month. He should have come on from that and ought to have an each-way chance in what looks like an open contest.

Via Serendipity ran a cracker at Lingfield last time out and the form has been franked nicely since. The 9.5 furlongs around Wolverhampton will suit him well as does a small field. He can go very close again.

We run two here. Royaume Uni did well last spring and made a perfectly acceptable comeback run at Plumpton in October. Each-way hopes in an open handicap hurdle. 

Vorashann has done all his winning at Fontwell, and had two more victories there this autumn before his latest unplaced run at Sandown where he set off to make the running. He is probably our lesser chance of the pair.

Hudson De Grugy was beaten a long way in a three-horse race around here last time. He has yet to prove he stays this far and the company is pretty hot too.

Bells Of Stamford is bred for this job and it looks like he can only improve for a fence. He made a promising start to chasing at Market Rasen last month and with that experience behind him can take advantage of bottom-weight.

Boys Of Wexford won nicely last time at Uttoxeter. He remains in good form and still looks well weighted. He enjoyed forcing the pace there and I'm hopeful he can put in a repeat performance here.

Mister Tickle racked up an autumn hat-trick in staying chases last year but has been well short of that since coming back into action this year. His mark is lower though and hopefully that might encourage the start of a revival.

Representing Bob is out of a winning Bob Back mare and from the family of Gold Cup winner Synchronised - suitable for a Lincolnshire National. Green and backward in his three hurdles, he started handicapping from a favourable position and exploited that last season with three wins over fences along with two close 2nd places. Still not the finished article, we didn't overrace him and there should be more to come this time. A good 2nd on his return at Uttoxeter he followed with another and hopefully he will be ready for this step up in grade when the first-time blinkers should help him. Each-way chance.

Airtothethrone won very nicely last time out and looks to be an improving sort. We think the drop in trip should not be an issue and he goes there with strong claims.

Aviles has run in two juvenile hurdles at Fontwell and each time has come to the last flight with a chance before weakening up the hill in 2nd. Hopefully he can make it third-time-lucky today!

Animal was left with too much to do last time when he could have gone very close. Today's trip is slightly on the short side - he is better at 2 and 3/4 miles - but he has enough pace to be involved in the finish today. Each-way chances.

Legal Rights had a profitable time last winter in staying hurdle handicaps but has been a little lack-lustre so far this season. His rider reported him as running lazily last time, so we've applied first-time blinkers in the hope they make a difference. Each-way chance if they do.

Oscarsman has been running well this season and the ground should suit. He would have preferred a greater test of stamina and the race looks competitive, but with a 5lb claimer booked, he looks to have an each-way chance.

Non-runn

Yorksea ran in decent company last winter, ending with a wide-margin win on this card. He probably needed his comeback run at Newbury, but whether he can pull back all the distance by which Teddy Blue beat him is probably doubtful.

Dirham Emirati shaped promisingly on both his hurdles starts last season but was beaten a long way on last month's return to action. He looks our number three here on current form.

Non-runner

Copperfasten has plenty of ability and ought to be reasonably handicapped off this mark. She needs to step up on her last run though to take advantage of it.

It was great when Goshen showed his true self when going back to hurdles at Ascot last time after his disappointment over fences there previously. We have been wanting to try him over three miles, but it could hardly be a bigger test even if it's a smallish field. If he wins, it will open up more possibilities for him.

Can't Beat History is a promising horse who has been working well. He has some nice Irish bumper form but this is a competitive novice hurdle and he might be best watched on jumps/stable debut.

Jean Genie was disappointing last time but we think the track was too tight for him. This big, galloping circuit ought to suit him much better. Each-way claims.

He's A Latchico completed a hat-trick on all-weather early in the year and only recently returned with a low-key comeback run. He is highly tried for this debut over hurdles and may be best watched in this company.

Givega gained a big reputation when winning his one Irish point back in May and could hardly have been more impressive when winnng on his hurdles debut for us earlier in the month at Lingfield. Hopefully he can continue the upward progression by defying the penalty here.

Hector Jaguen, our other runner in this novice event, also came from the Irish pointing field where he was placed 2nd once. He has been slow to get the hang of hurdling and it will probably be in handicaps that he can be best employed later on.

I bought Vintage Rascal on spec. Our second runner in this novice contest, he has had some little niggles on the way to this debut and is very much a work in progress. Look and learn is the idea for today.

We run two in this novice race. Scrum Diddly ran in a bollocks of a race at Ascot and while he was disappointing it wasn't really his fault and he has shown us a fair bit at home. He jumps well and while I am not expecting him to win, I think he'll run a good race. 

Odin's Quest won on debut around here in January and after his break didn't do a bad job of trying to cope with his penalty when 4th at Ascot. The one with the form, but it would not be a shock if a smart unexposed one lurked somewhere in the line-up.

Boys Of Wexford won his latest race at Uttoxeter in great style. He is in good form and still weighted to go well. He enjoyed forcing the pace there and similar tactics could work again.

Masqool has done us proud this year with five wins and although he has found it slightly more difficult the last three times since his rating went into the 70's, he continues to run with credit. Two of his victories have been over this CD and it would not be a shock if this genuine and consistent performer got his head in front once more.

Mudlahhim was rated 89 when making his debut for the yard at the beginning of the year. He is now down to 66 and has offered little sign of arresting the slide. It's time he began to show something.

Ebury has had a host of good opportunities lately but continues not to make the most of them. He is liable to pop up and win one but he is rapidly losing his fan club with the number of times he has been a beaten favourite.

Sociologist has been kept busy around here of late but he has not been matching recent turf runs. He has come down a few pounds and if ridden with more restraint than last time when he went a long way clear in the first half of the race, he might last home better. Place chances.

Colonial Empire has been a model of consistency. He won impressively last time out at Leicester and with only a 4lb rise in his mark, he can come out on top in a competitive but ordinary enough handicap hurdle.

Weaver's Answer has been very immature in his runs to date in novice events. This lower-grade contest should help him find his feet and now he is in handicaps off a low mark, he will be far more competitive although it could take a race or two for him to work it all out. 

Daphne May is a four-time winning filly who reached a peak of 79 in summer 2021 with previous connections. She is now on a career-low of 60 as she makes her stable debut after being acquired for only 7,000gns this month. We are looking forward to see how she responds to her new surroundings.

Wake Up Harry was too keen over much further on return and now goes right back in distance. It's not guaranteed to suit but he should at least be finishing and does have plenty of ability.

Shantou Sunset should have come on for her stable debut when fourth at Ascot behind Coquelicot in a competitive mares' handicap hurdle. She appears in great form at home and as all conditions come alike to her, we think she has a great each-way chance here under top-weight.

It looks like Hul Ah Bah Loo's turn is not too far away as he has been running on well in his last two starts over 7f and should enjoy going up to 1m. Arguably better at this track than Kempton, he should be thereabouts if he gets a good run round. He seems in good shape at home.

Tequilamockingbird is unbeaten over course and distance and loves to come off a strong pace which she should get today, She seems in good order and is very easy to keep fit so the race delay will not have done her any harm. This is slightly tougher than the original field but she should still go well.

Galop Du Bosc is trying a much higher grade than he has been competing in, the plus side being he has a much lower weight. I think he is best watched today at this level.

Sir Sedric has to be ridden with restraint and covered up until late before coming with a run, an instruction tactic his young rider failed to listen to last time, giving him far too much daylight. Rob Hornby can be relied upon to drop him in from the one draw and hopefully bring him with one late flourish. Nice each-way price.

Harbour Vision won two in a row and looked sure to make it a hat-trick when securing a good lead from the inside in an amateur riders' handicap here last week. He runs off 10lb higher tonight than for the first of those wins and we hope his capable rider's claim will help offset that.

Amber Dew was caught only in the last strides in her penultimate run over course and distance last month, but did not run anywhere near that when 7th on her latest outing. We are trying first-time cheek-pieces tonight but her draw on the outside in nine is hardly an encouragement.

Bungle Bay is taking time to get the hang of racing but the handicapper has now given him an opening. Has ability, so with a decent passage from his plum draw he should be thereabouts tonight.

Victory House has progressed with every run and I will be disappointed if he doesn't take another step forward today. The trip and track should suit and we have a very good jockey on board. Hopeful each-way.

Non-runner

Amidnightstar is a strong mare who shaped well in 2nd in a Stratford summer bumper. Easier ground and a more galloping track should help, so with that vital experience under her belt, she should give a good account in what looks a competitive race full of well-bred types.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Isle Of Aron ran a blinder last time at Exeter and this step up in trip ought to suit him in what looks a competitive race. Solid each-way claims.

Fortune Cookie makes his debut for the stable today just 3lb off top-weight in this 0-100 handicap hurdle. Back in Ireland he was tailed off in his only handicap off a mark 10lb lower. It's hard to see how he can be a factor here and he is clearly best watched today.

Thor De Cerisy ran well when 3rd around here on his first start this season and if he can back that up today he must have a decent chance. The return to two miles should not pose any issue especially under today's conditions. He loves heavy ground - it cannot be soft enough for him!

Pappa Rocco Coco is by Shirocco out of an unraced sister to five-time winner Coco Opera, herself dam of good winners Arctic Skipper and Charlie Longsdon's Castle Robin. He looks to have plenty of speed but was green and backward on his debut and didn't handle an all-weather surface the last day. He jumps well and should have a future but it might be further down the line.

Nordy Lordy disappointed on his only previous start for us when he appeared very novicey in his running. I think he will still need the experience of today's outing.

We run two in this 0-105 handicap hurdle and while they are close together in overnight betting, they come here from widely differing perspectives. Executive Pool, by Churchill, was placed in all three runs in juvenile hurdles, a good 2nd the last twice. As a 3yo he gets a massive 15lb wfa allowance from his elders and although he is rated within 6lb of our other runner Tara Iti, he carries 21lb less. Jamie rides him.

We're claiming off Tara Iti to help reduce his big weight. Placed in both runs this autumn, he too has a decent each-way chance but it's hard to know what to expect in relation to our other runner,

Non-runner

Trixster is in great form and everything should suit him about today's race - a deal easier than the one he contested last time at Cheltenham. He has massive each-way claims.

Faitque De Lisle didn't run too badly at Leicester last time - it all happened too quickly for him over 2m6f. The step up in trip should suit him and the ground will be fine. Lucy Turner takes off 5lb which will also help. Hopeful.

Heaven Smart was 2nd in two Irish points early in the year and would have filled the same position again bar falling at the last fence on his final start. His initial 2nd over hurdles was not as good as might be imagined as he was a long way behind Scarface at Plumpton and he was very disappointing on a return trip there. He has had a break since and we are hopeful he could put in a decent effort now.

Princess Polly went through the ring at  Doncaster May sales. She is a 4yo filly by Okavango and while she has shown ability at home, the stables represented here for this newcomers' race suggest it might take a fair bit of winning. We will be loooking for an encouraging start to her career.

Starevitch is a half-brother to French 2m1f chase winner Laskov and to the dam of champion Douvan. Starevitch won an Irish point-to-point on debut and was 3rd in a Huntingdon bumper. He picked up an injury soon after and missed the whole of last season. He has been off the track for 638 days so is bound to improve for today's outing but he is in great form and should run a nice race here.

Invincible De Mee is very well bred and works nicely too but he had a fright early on in his last race and we want to restore his confidence. Best watched today.

Ornate ran another solid race last time at Southwell. He remains in good condition and as he showed two runs before when winning at Chelmsford, he still retains plenty of pace so we're hopeful of a good day with the old boy.

State Of Honor showed a bit of form in bumpers in Ireland but this is a tough race today. We will learn a bit about her, but I suspect she will be best watched on this stable debut.

Tazka was another denied a run at Lingfield yesterday. Her previous run there can be ignored and while she gets a fair bit of weight from Ozzie Man, it is hard to imagine her coping with him on these terms.

We run two in this novice handicap chase and clearly Ozzie Man has the better chance on recent form. He was off for a year before making his chase debut in October, winning that narrowly over half a mile shorter here than today, and followed up more easily at Lingfield stretching out to three miles. He still looks fairly weighted and the hat-trick is hopefully on the cards.

Le Patron won a hurdle race in the French Provinces in May and then went close when 2nd in a much stronger 15-runner contest at Auteuil the following month after which he joined the stable. Only a 4yo, he has a big weight today but we've been happy with him and hope he can go close on debut.

Judex Lefou has everything in his favour today and is extremely well handicapped but is very in and out with his running. Could spring a surprise at a big price if on a going day.

Light Up Our Stars made a winning start for the stable back in June but has struggled in recent runs. That said, he is rarely beaten far and at this level he could run into a place.

Ebonello is a gorgeous daughter of champion NH sire Presenting out of Ravello Bay, a black-type winning daughter of Supreme Leader. Ravello Bay won a bumper and novice hurdle before finishing 2nd in the Listed Mares' Novice Hurdle Final at Newbury. Ebonello was placed in two bumpers last season then won one on her return and followed that with a nice win first time over hurdles at Wincanton. She runs now against the boys where her penalty is offset by her allowance. There are some smart bumper winners and a good one off the flat too, so she'll need to improve to win again. Hopefully she will!

We thought Walk In The Wild had an excellent chance on yesterday's abandoned Lingfield card. Unbeaten in both chases since joining us, this is a lower-grade affair and his chance is there for all to see.

Mollycoddled is by the beautifully-bred stallion Dartmouth out of a winning sister to Grand National runner-up Oscar Time. She was backed and ridden away through last winter with the idea of having her ready for the new Junior NH development hurdle races. She has done plenty and jumps well but is a true NH-bred filly that will improve for the experience.

Abingworth ran better than his 50/1 odds when fourth, admittedly beaten some way, at Leicester two weeks ago. He will do better when able to compete in handicaps against his own class.

Capricorn Prince has a great record around Lingfield and we had him in there the other day when the meeting was called off. He has yet to win around here, but has been placed and if he gets a good run round, he has to be a player for a place at least.

Big Bard had a couple of near misses on turf in the autumn and was not disgraced first time back on all-weather at Wolverhampton. If he finds a little more, he should be thereabouts.

Somehow Holy Fire has managed to get herself withdrawn twice before races recently. She is the quietest horse in the yard at home so the antics at the races have been very out of character and I don't expect to see them tonight. She has been working well at home and I expect a nice debut if everything goes to plan before the race. 

Zany Idea is only a small filly but has taken time to mature mentally and physically. We've pitched her in at a realistic level but we just hope she can run respectably and show a bit of promise for the future.

Miss Elsa had been off for almost eight months before her recent run at Lingfield. In the circumstances a closing third was an excellent effort and she is fancied to run another big race today. Good each-way claims.

This is much tougher than the handicap Recuerdame won at Lingfield last week but he is a course and distance winner here and has been in great form so far this winter. He always needs luck in running with his run style but can't be ignored and is a big price here under his penalty with some of it negated by his good 3lb claimer.

Scylla is a big, backward filly we expect to do better as a 3yo. She's ready for a run and I think she'll go well.

Engrave ran well last time after a break when she normally needs the run. She has come out of her recent race well and is very well handicapped. Dylan Hogan is back on board and I think they will have a good each-way chance again.

Tequilamockingbird has won three times this year, twice over course and distance. She is only 1lb higher than for her victory last time out and she seems in cracking form at home. This is another step up in class but she should be suited to the conditions of the race better than anything else.

Capricorn Prince has been a great servant who usually runs his race around here where he is a four-time winner. After a summer break he had a warm-up at Newbury before running a good 2nd on his return here, so it was something of a surprise when he was a well-beaten favourite last time. He's had a short break since, so hopefully he can resume his Lingfield love affair today.

Heer's Sadie has been disappointing since winning at Yarmouth last year but is now very well handicapped, Sam Feilden back on board and he gets on very well with her. We just need her to show some form again and hope she can run into a place.

Dirham Emirati makes his flat-race debut for us with a high enough mark, the result of a win in a Newcastle 3yo novice early last year. He started here with a 3rd over hurdles before falling when still in contention at the final flight at Plumpton soon after. He was off the track then until last month in a novice hurdle around here when he jumped poorly and was never in contention. He may be due a break from jumping but this is a tough enough starting point back on the level.

Valorant has not been getting home in recent races at 1m. Dropping back to 7f today, we are also trying first-time blinkers in the hope they have an impact. He will need them to work as his draw, like Tom Tulliver's, is very difficult.

Tom Tulliver is our second runner in this handicap. He's been off almost four months since trailing the field around here and could well benefit from the comeback run. His chance is not helped nby a dreadful outside draw.

It was an eye-opener when Junkanoo bolted up at 28/1 first time ever on all-weather here last month. Up 4lb, he was a staying-on 2nd next time and the way he kept on suggests that up another 2lb he should not be troubled stretching out to 1m4f. We are hopeful he can regain the winning thread.

Copperknob ended a brief early-summer campaign with an easy win at Brighton and we liked his chance back from a long break at Chelmsford last week. He reared at the start that day and that ended any chance and now he is probably our second string to Junkanoo. Still a 3yo, we're claiming off him to ease his task in this tough handicap.

Non-runner

Ebury has been on a long losing run but ran his best race for ages last time, staying on into a close 3rd under Luke Morris. Luke is back on board tonight and we have to be hopeful Ebury can step into top spot.

Sycamore had winning form here in January but has run two stinkers since coming back after a long break. He needs to find his mojo if he is to take a hand here.

Medrara was very disappointing upped in trip at Lingfield last time and found next to nothing off the bridle. His best run to date was over this course and distance so we are hoping returning to it will bring some improvement.

Fai Fai is dropping down to a mark he can be competitive off now. He ran much better at Chelmsford last time and I think the drop to 5f will suit. He should take another step forward now.

Lady Ursula regressed last time and I didn't like the way she raced one bit. Hence we have reached for the visor very early. She has a fair bit to prove at the moment in my opinion.

Non-runner

Teruntum Star joins Dark Shot in this wide-open handicap. Two wins on turf in the autumn after joining us in mid-season, brought his career tally to 11 wins, but he is far less exposed on AW. His first run on such a surface for ages, two weeks ago at Newcastle, offered very little encouragement - for the moment at least.

Canzone returns after six months off following a poor effort at Thirsk. That said, it was his only run on turf in the past year and a bit and his form on all-weather around the turn of the year was much more respectable. I think you can ignore Thirsk - he is mostly an AW horse - and this is an ideal place to start off another winter campaign.

Apart from finishing fifth in the Portland Handicap at Doncaster in September, Motagally hasn't shown much sign of retaining his earlier ability. He was rated above 100 in the summer of last year in his previous stable, but needs to show much more if he is to take advantage of his slipping mark.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Although rising 13, Lucky Beggar has been doing us proud, winning at 66/1 at Nottingham and then running a creditable fourth soon after at Catterick to finish his 2022 turf campaign. Both those races were at six furlongs and I think the drop back to the minimum as he returns to AW is a positive. Hoping for another age-defying performance.

Fierce has been placed a few times already in decent company, showing ability under a variety of conditions including when third last time on heavy ground in a Newbury nursery. He is equally adept on all-weather and from the same mark of 76 against possibly weaker opposition, he is clearly the one to beat today.

Silastar was running well earlier in the summer, winning over a mile here in July. His form has been disappointing since then and he needs to recapture that level. It might not be easy from his wide draw dropping down to seven furlongs.

Artician had his first run back since his gelding operation last time and looked a bit rusty. He should be sharper for that and as he he is starting to look better handicapped, it will be no surprise to see a return to form tonight.

We run two horses on the way back here and Brilliant Blue has his first run since being gelded in the summer. He disappointed in four runs in a short spell before that and the hope has to be that the operation will have rekindled his enthusiasm and he does have a good draw to boost his chance.

El Jasor is a big, laid-back individual. He's a good-looking horse and will be a better 3yo, however he is ready for a run now. The mile at Kempton will suit him well but his biggest weapon is his attitude as he tries his heart out. I expect him to make a nice debut.

El Pequeno Pulpo has looked babyish on both starts so far and will be better once handicapping. A scopey and well-related colt who has his whole future in front of him.

Hul Ah Bah Loo looked to be on the way back on last start at Lingfield where his form is arguably better than here. He has slipped down the handicap however and if he can negate his wide draw on the way round then it will be no surprise to see him involved here.

Gerrots lost his way in the middle of the year. He seemed to be getting back on track with an improved run at Kempton last month. He has been slipping in the weights so if he can back up his last run he could be thereabouts.

Masqool is a tough, consistent horse who has been in great form throughout the year. He needs a personal best to come out on top in this off his highest career mark, but cannot be ruled out if he gets the run of the race.

Non-runner

Danah Star is a tough likeable mare who is trying a small step up in trip. She has been coming down the weights and appeals as having a small each-way chance.

Justcallmepete has been showing good solid form all season. He has a workable handicap mark and is dropping down in grade and trip today. With a clear run off the home turn at Lingfield, he should be staying on strongly and can be thereabouts at the finish.

Seneca Chief has a bit to prove at present particularly at the start and we're not convinced he really gets six furlongs. It's an easy six here though and he is well drawn.

Wake Up Harry was surprisingly keen on return here last time after a lengthy absence. He's been dropped back in distance today, hopefully to help him settle better, and he should be finishing off nicely.

We gave Catesby another chance to see whether he truly stays 7f and the evidence at Southwell in October was unpromising as he weakened after leading in the straight. One of two runners here for the stable, his wide draw is unlikely to help him either.

Mudlahhim, rated 89 at the start of the year, has been slipping down the rankings with little sign of halting the disappointing sequence. All we can do is persevere and trust he finds the spark to recapture that earlier ability. Hopefully that can start tonight.

Visibility has been running consistently lately and bounced back to winning form emphatically on Friday over CD under today's apprentice. The 5lb extra should not stop him making it five wins in 25 starts in the calendar year. Some servant!

Blazer Two was a winner at 1m4f on the turf at Leicester in July, but reverting to AW he has struggled to get involved the last couple of times at Southwell. We're trying this step up in trip and while his pedigree does not guarantee it,  he does seem to stay well so we're hopeful it will suit him.

Harbour Vision has been in tremendous form winning his last two and his latest success was spectacularly gained drawing right away over CD on Saturday. The 4lb penalty should not stop the hat-trick and in top amateur Fred Tett, he has the ideal partner to take advantage of his plum draw on the inside.

Non-runner

Kitten's Dream is one of those horses in our care that seems to run in cycles, and when he hits form you have to take notice. His third over CD a week ago after some lesser efforts was his best for a while and a repetition would enable him to go very close.

Sociologist also ran last Tuesday in a different race and although he does stay this trip, he weakened late over 12f. He had been running better on turf, notably a second at Nottingham in his previous race, and he is probably our second string here.

Ornate may not be the force of earlier days, but on occasion the veteran can show glimpses of that undoubted ability, as he did when a game winner at Chelmsford in October. He could not back that up the following week at the same track, but freshened up for today, he could make them all go again at what looks a value each-way price.

Endofastorm did better over a mile at Newcastle two runs back than on handicap debut over a furlong less at Wolverhampton. Now back at a mile, from a decent draw and in first-time cheek-pieces, she could challenge for a place at long odds in a tough-looking race for the grade.

You couldn't say Valorant is dropping down the handicap, seven runs on from his stable debut in April, he has hurtled down from 77 to 47 with no sign of promise - indeed his latest run was his worst. Help!

Pop Favorite's form is nothing to write home about and neither is his draw tonight in ten. There was some promise the last time he went over this trip two runs back when he was a decent third, but he'll need to improve on that if he is to gaiin an initial success for the stable.

We run two here and Broomy Law has by far the better of the draw. His form though has been uniformly disappointing and he will need a sudden improvement to figure today.

Duke Of Firenze ran well again at Lingfield last time. He is in great condition and confidence is high.

Henley Park looks to have lost his way in three runs since coming back from a summer break. I think we will have to wait for him to signal a return to form and until he shows signs of that, he is probably best watched.

Stormingin has been a regular ride for today's apprentice and she has taken him into a couple of places recently. Last time under an even less experienced amateur, he stayed on well from the back into a close fifth and this looks a decent chance in a moderate handicap.

Recuerdame is a multiple all-weather winner who has run well on all starts since his return earlier this year. Can meet trouble in running but this small field gives him more options. He should be involved if things go smoothly for him.

Celestial Point hasn't been beaten far the last twice and considering he was a 28/1 shot, his fifth of 16 around here in late October wasn't too bad. However it's 18 months since he got his head in front and we cannot realistically expect him to make a sudden jump back into winning form.

Heer's Sadie ran well at Lingfield on her first try at the track. She is very well handicapped now and Sam takes off a further 7lb. He gets on very well with her and won on her last year. If she can reproduce the form from then, she would have a good each-way chance down in grade.

Ricardo Ofworthing showed promise in maidens earlier this year and is likely to find things easier in handicaps. Showed good speed here on penultimate start so should run with encouragement and is sure to come on for the run. May go better than the odds suggest, although the principals are at the top of their game.

Soldier Of Destiny ran 2nd to the smart Gentlemansgame in his Irish point and filled a similat position in a bumper. After a lack-lustre start over hurdles he proved a revelation over fences and won decent novice handicaps at Ffos Las and Haydock. He was an excellent fifth in the Old Roan on his return but fell next time. Back over hurdles here, we're looking for a confidence boosting run and hopefully a win.

Non-runner

Janworth is a daughter of Norse Dancer and is a sister to our bumper/novice hurdle winner Bucko's Boy. Janworth goes well at home and should be able to win a bumper before progressing over hurdles. but she will undoubtedly improve for the experience of her racecourse debut today.

Amidnightstar was 2nd in a mares' bumper in August. It might be tough to be competitive against male opponents this time.

Jessie Lightfoot makes his stable debut after nine months off the track. A winner at Market Rasen in February, we are looking forward to seeing her ack in action today.

Harbour Vision has been very consistent of late and his latest win continues to edge up his rating. He has a difficult draw but in-form horses can often find a way throiugh. I'm hopeful he will.

Theotherside ran a couple of second places early in the year He returned below par but after two months, his run last week was a better effort. Not a totally forfon hope. 

Abbey Heights won a similar race over course and distance last time and is still improving. This is perhaps a slightly deeper contest than that but he should still be competitive.

Ahlawi won for the first time for us in his latest race here since joining earlier in the year. He is clearly the better of our two candidates. If he can get away alertly from his middle draw he could follow up.

Amber Dew is a worthy back-up to Ahlawi and certainly on his latest run when a strong finishing second it is easy to think he is running into form. I think we should back the pair singly and link them in a forecast.

American Rose is a nice filly that seems to be going the right way. We are experimenting with the drop back to 5f and she goes from a good draw, It is difficult to assess this opposition, but if she has luck in running she can be worth a small each-way bet.

Bungle Boy has been knocking on the door and dropping down the weights. He has ability and seems well so should be thereabouts. Each-way chance.

Light Up Our Stars is likely to be our number one here. Rated 76 in a 0-75. he is a class act here and has been fairly consistent since winning on stable debut at Epsom in June. Big chance.

Gypsy Whisper was kept busy on turf through the year, managing a win at Doncaster. She returned to all-weather at Newcatle and will need to improve on that effort to match her turf exploits.

Sycamore won over course and distance in January and probably needed his return after nine months off here last month over 7f. Should be fitter today but may need a run or two to get into full swing.

Coast had a couple of runs to get back in the swim after a summer break, but then she struck form last time on the same track. Her form at Southwell in the past was pretty ordinary but she goes there in good shape and it would not be a shock if she did follow up.

Amidnightstar made a promising start when a good second on bumper debut at Stratford in August and seems to have come on for that at home. It's only a small field but there are some well-bred newcomers and this could turn out to be a decent race. Each-way chance.

Janworth is by Norse Dancer from a smart jumps female family and is half-sister to our smart performer Bucko's Boy. She goes well at home and should be able to win a bumper before going hurdling but she will undoubtedly improve for the racecourse experience today.

Tanglewood Tales has been struggling to get home over a mile and a half. We're dropping him back in trip today but he will need to make a big improvement on four days ago's effort to figure.

Non-runner

This Presenting gelding is half-brother to a couple of useful winners. Second in a bumper, Soldier Of Destiny made a lack-lustre start over hurdles but proved a revelation over fences. Winner of handicaps at Ffos Las and Haydock he ran well when 5th on comeback in the Grade 2 Old Roan Chase at Aintree. We're giving him the chance of a confidence boost back over hurdles, but this is tough enough. 

Visibility has a good draw and a  nice light weight. A course and distance winner not long ago, he has a solid each-way chance on his best form.

Eva's Oskar appears to be in the same sort of form as when she was a good second in a similar race at the last meeting here. We are hoping for another big run but we could have done with softer ground.

Non-runner

The very well-connected Legends Ryde won a bumper and was 2nd in another at Cheltenham before winning a novice hurdle. Covid then interrupted her progression before she came back later to win two novice chases. Then she won three GBB races and was second in a valuable race at Ascot. After two nice third places in strong company she is now back in a handicap where she should find life easier. She would prefer softer ground though.

Madera Mist is hard to catch right but when she is on song she is capable. She loves it round here and can sometimes over-achieve. That said, it is a competitive race so we are feeling she has a small each-way claim.

Commander Of Ten ran okay when third here back in November but hated conditions when disappointing in very soft ground at Lingfield last time. He's back on a better surface here but a long way out of his depth.

Copperknob is a Churchill colt who built on the promise of his Goodwood third in early June by easily landing the odds at Brighton a few days later. Off the track since, he is up 6lb but remains a horse with a bright future in handicaps and he should go well here tonight.

Far Horizon won well at Lingfield last time, doing his best work at the finish to get up close home. The step up to 1m2f should be a plus for him. The mark of 71 looks fair and we have a good claimer taking off 5lb, which is also a help. It doesn't look a deep contest and he should have every chance.

Tawalla picked up an injury in the summer otherwise we would have seen him much earlier than this. He has done plenty of work and knows his job but as always with mine he will improve for the run.

Fierce has the most experience of these maidens and after two placed efforts in novices and a good third in a heavy-ground Newbury nursery in October, he will have his chance again today. He could be vulnerable to a unexposed improver, but it will take a decent animal to beat him.

Hill Station had been hurdling before making a return to the flat when a staying on 3rd over 1m4f at Lingfield last week. He is still a maiden under both codes but this second division of this amateur handicap gives him a good opportunity to open his account.

Engrave has had a break after two below-par runs when she was found to be unwell. She is now back to form and running in this grade for the first time in a long while. Unfortunately our usual amateur Ross Birkett who has won on her previously is banned so Simon Walker takes the reins. The only negative is that she usually needs a run after a break but hopefully she will be thereabouts even if only half-fit.

Stormingin had a busy time at the beginning of the year on all-weather, coming close to a win on a couple of occasions. He returns after eight months off in this amateurs' handicap and as he was claimer-ridden in all those starts, he looks a suitable partner for his inexperienced rider. Place chance.

Airtothethrone showed promise on jumps debut when second at Ffos Las in October last year but then was off the track for almost a year. After an encouraging comeback run, he stepped up on that first time over fences and on handicap debut last time at Ludlow, finishing third. This looks an excellent opportunity for him to gain that all-important first win.

Invincible De Mee was picked up from France in the summer after running his best race in seven when third in an AQPS bumper on a minor track. This is a pretty hot place to start him off and we will be looking for encouragement for the future from this son of Derby winner Authorized.

Let It Shine ran okay at Huntingdon last time but neither the two bumper runs nor one novice hurdle suggest he will be anywhere near good enough to be competitive here. Ground and track should be fine but he will need to take a massive step forward to figure.

Bells Of Rutland has been most disappointing on both starts since coming back from his summer break. We need to see him turn the corner in a major way before holding out much hope of imminent success.

Non-runner

The market clearly did not know what to expect of Junkanoo on his all-weather debut here three weeks ago and to be honest neither did we. He had been running without much spark having returned in the summer following almost two years' absence. He bolted up in that race, starting 28/1 and if that wasn't a fluke, which we doubt, he must have a big chance of a follow up off only 4lb higher.

Non-runner

Colombidea finds herself in a weak race but she has to run 6lb wrong as she carries a penalty for last week's win while her mark was unchanged yesterday. She has run well previously at the track and the step back up to a mile will help her. She can go well despite the big weight.

Evening Story took a step forward on her second start and should be suited by the more galloping test at Kempton. She will get further in time and another step forward here would make her competitive, judged on what the others have shown to date although most are open to improvement too.

Holy Fire is a nice filly who worked well with my runner yesterday that made eye-catching late headway at Southwell. Obviously this is her first day at school so we expect plenty of improvement to come from today's debut.

Present Value is by Gold Well and is a half-brother to World Hurdle winner Paisley Park. He made a winning debut for us, taking this race last year off this mark. He didn't manage to reproduce that form in three subsequent outings but back here and fresh, we're hoping he can repeat the winning performance from 2021.

Cilaos Glace has had his share of issues over the years and sadly as a result he has never achieved the heights his ability deserved. He still loves his work and schooling so there is no reason to be negative about today but he did pull up first time at Lingfield. He has been in cracking form on the gallops and I just hope he retains the enthusiasm on the racecourse that he shows at home.

Robbie Dazzler has been very consistent in his last two runs, stays very well and is a real battler. He has form over course and distance which gives him a solid chance here. The ground will probably be as soft as he has been on but I don't see any issues there.

Roman Tempest showed a bit more on handicap debut and the longer trip today looks likely to help. This is competitive enough for the level but he should take another step forward and it will be no surprise to see him improve from his last time fifth place and go very close.

Vanity Affair makes his debut over hurdles today. He loves cut in the ground and stays 12f on the flat so this should be a good starting point. He has schooled well at home.

Abingworth was second in the first of three bumpers last season. He was never in contention on hurdles debut at Lingfield recently but was staying on pleasingly at the finish and could improve a fair bit on that today.

Braveheart is is by Westerner, sire of many Grade 1 winners from a prolific female family.He finished 2nd in a bumper last season and then 2nd too on hurdles debut, but didn't have much luck thereafter. I'd like to think he can progress over fences this season. He ran well enough when 3rd on seasonal debut but he stepped up a gear on that, jumping fluently to win impressively at Exeter. Disappointing when never in a rhythm at Ludlow last time, now he has his winning jockey back, a stiffer track and smaller field, another win awaits if he can reproduce the Exeter performance. 

Scamallach Liath (Grey Clouds in Gaelic) ran well on debut for us at Plumpton when he was green throughout and also tended to jump to the right, hence he is running this way round today. His jumping was good if a little deliberate but overall it was a pleasing Rules debut and he stayed on well having been outpaced at the end of the back straight. He should come on for that.

Mystic Man also runs in the 2m4f novice hurdle. He started for us over a wholly inadequate (in hindsight) two miles at Southwell, because he had been a gassy, keen horse and we were worried he could over-race. As it was my team, principally Lewis Saunders, had done such a good job with him at home he was very chilled and all he did was stay on having been flat out for the majority of the race. He jumps well and I'm hoping for an improved run today but he may fare better once he's handicapped.  

After a great summer, principally around Goodwood, Aggagio's flat rating rose to 87, and he looked well treated off his108 jumps mark having won twice in novice handicap hurdles last season. We expected a big run on his return at Fontwell last month but he was far too free. Maybe with the outing behind him he can run a more measured race and take advantage of his mark.    

La Rav finally put it all together under a patient ride from his inexperienced apprentice last time after a contrastingly injudicious ride the time before. He overcame a poor draw then  - nothing changed there then! - and over a furlong less, it is vital they get a clear run round. He is effectively 5lb well in as that was an apprentice race and hopefully he has the finishing speed to overcome the shorter trip.

Dutugamunu always runs well around Lingfield where he is a dual CD winner. He's 8lb lower than for his last win and with cheek-pieces back on he has to have an each-way shout.

Sociologist hasn't competed of late but he's a horse that's equally adept on turf and AW. He has been apprentice-ridden for most of the year, and now we have professional handling, that could make a difference.

Kitten's Dream was running well through the second half of the year until a couple of lesser performances of late. He's a horse though that can always pop up at a price and tonight may be no exception, hopefully!

Dark Shot had his first run (after 102 elsewhere!) at Wolverhampton last week and it showed. The previous time he won over this CD and certainly knows his way around. You can never rule the old boy out!

Royal Razzmatazz looks to be a nice 2yo who is ready for a run. Like all of mine he will improve for his debut but a good draw helps his chances of a decent performance today.

Theotherside had a break before his latest run at York. While he ran moderately there it was a competitive, big field. He has yet to win on all-weather but his two best runs on it came on the new surface here early in the year when he was twice second. He will be fitter now and has a chance breaking that duck. 

Vision Clear has been rated much higher but he needs to recover from a couple of falls in his last two runs over jumps, both in sellers. The first came too early in the race to make a judgment but last time at Taunton he was still in with a shout when coming down at the last flight. With a safe, clear round he could have an each-way chance in this trappy low-grade handicap.

Animal was consistent last season and ran much better than his finishing position suggests on his comeback run at Bangor. He is fitter now and looks nicely weighted in the middle of this ordinary handicap. Good each-way chance.

Royal Lake slipped on landing early in his chasing debut at Exeter and Johnny allowed him to jump one more fence before wisely pulling him up. He has schooled twice since, slightly lacking in confidence the first time but good last week. We always thought he would be a better chaser, so let's hope he has a nice clear round today and we can build on that in the future.

Black Gerry has won both his starts this season and did well to beat a decent performer in Harry Redknapp's Bowtogreatness (Ben Pauling) at Exeter last time. Up 7lb for that, he will need to have improved a bit more to complete the hat-trick. Hopefully he has!

Noplacetobe is a point winner who made a decent start under Rules when third at Worcester but then disappointed at Hexham where perhaps the track didn't suit. She's back to a flatter circuit today and on first run in a handicap off what should be a nice mark for her. Hopefully the step up in trip will be a plus as well.

Spitfire Girl is by all-conquering Walk In The Park out of a black-type winning mare who is herself very well connected. Spitfire Girl was 2nd in three bumpers and looks like she has a future. She was pretty green on seasonal/hurdling debut and after a good fourth next time, found the company a little too competitive. The positive from that is she starts handicapping off a nice mark and shouldn't be too far away.

Prison Break had a solid comeback run at Hereford after a summer's break and ought to have improved for that. Conditions today are suitable and we feel he has a strong each-way claim.

Dusky Days is a full-brother to good stayer Fontsanta and is from a strong female family. He won a bumper on debut and was then 4th in a Listed bumper at Ascot. He ended last season with two seconds over hurdles and ran to a similar level when third on seasonal debut. However, he disappointed on his handicap debut when I think he sulked in a first-time tongue-tie. With that left off and down in class he should get back on track with a good run here.

Aviles tried to make all on stable debut here three weeks ago, but got tired and ended up a well-beaten 2nd. If anything, this is a stronger race and he may struggle to beat a couple of these.

Pilbara has had his share of issues and we are switching back to hurdles and over further in the hope of getting him back on track. Really wanting to see his running on and getting his confidence back. Probably best watched.

Tanglewood Tales turns out again quickly after running unplaced here last Tuesday following a near six-month break. He is bred to be useful but so far hasn't really lived up to his pedigree.

Six O'Hearts has been relatively lightly-raced so far but he has been improving with experience and was a good third around here last time. He doesn't have the best of the draw but if he gets a clearer run than last time, he ought to pick up a place at least.

Waikiki Waves had seemed to be running without too much enthusiasm but a return to Lingfield, where he usually runs well, brought a revival with a close second last time. A repetition of that run would possibly be good enough. Each-way chances.

Mark Of Gold won nicely on his seasonal comeback at Plumpton and while he didn't get in the money in the Greatwood at Cheltenham, he beat as many as beat him. Now back in his comfort zone and only 2lb higher than at Plumpton. Big weight but big chance.

Icare Grandchamp was placed in the second of his two runs in France but has disappointed in both appearances since coming over. He will need to return to the French form to figure in this.

Albert Van Ornum has been a big disappointment with two pulled ups and a remote fourth in a selling hurdle last time. We are trying him in a novice handicap chase and the fact he is as short as 5/1 indicates the quality on show. He will need to re-discover some enthusiasm to make an impact over fences.

Parikarma makes her hurdles debut as a rising six-year-old with 42 runs to her name and three wins. Two of them have come in three outings since we bought her cheaply in the summer. Although she runs off modest marks she could be the type of tough filly to make an impact jumping. This looks very demanding for a starter but we will be interested to see how she shapes today.

Non-runner

Do Your Job ended last season on a high note with two wins, culminating with an impressive performance at Ayr. He has come up a little short in two strong handicaps at Aintree this autumn but they will have brought him to full fitness. Whether he can match these on WFA terms is questionable, but he may well outrun the odds.

French import Privatory won on his career debut in a 16-runner 3yo hurdle at Cagnes-sur-Mer over the corresponding weekend last year and then switched to us, Privatory landed the odds in a five-runner race below the usual standard at Sandown in March. He has not built on that form in three runs since, including on his return at Plumpton when he finished well behind. This is something of a retrieval mission and he needs to show more to figure here. May be better for the run. 

Counteract is a burly type of horse who would have needed his last two runs, with the latest over an inadequate trip. Acts on good ground and three miles should suit him. He is back down on a reasonable mark but the race looks very competitive. I am expecting a much better run today though.

Git Maker is a son of top sire Saddler Maker from a high-class French female family. He was progressive in Irish point-to-points, winning on his final start. Upon joining us he had a great first season over hurdles, winning three of his four starts. The final win came at Newcastle under a double penalty which completed a  clean sweep of winners at every NH track in the UK for Jamie Snowden Racing. A promising 2nd on seasonal return, he has improved for that and jumped great when schooled over fences at home in the week. He should appreciate the step up in trip and as long as the ground is soft enough, he should run a big race.

Hansard was bought out of Charles O'Brien's yard after he won a bumper at Ballinrobe in the spring. Mrs Grimley, the filly that chased him over the line that day, hasn't let the form down with two good placed efforts over hurdles for Ben Pauling recently. He jumps well and we're hoping for a prominent start to hurdling.

Herecomesfreddie has had a couple of runs over hurdles and in neither did he do anything to suggest he is capable of winning a race of this description. One for handicaps later on probably.

Rhebus Road ran well first time out at Fakenham finishing second to the vastly-improved Sophosc. It's well documented that he takes a lot of work to get fit, so he was always going to improve for the outing. We then ran him back here at Huntingdon, dropping to 2m and he was readily out-sprinted by the winner. Reverting to the longer trip again he has to have each-way claims.

Spirit D'Aunou made a promising start to jumping when a close second at Kempton two weeks ago. This French-bred never ran on the flat and will have learnt a great deal from that outing. Hope he can go one better.

Pirate King ran a great race last time out after a long break. He should like this track although the only time he has raced here before he disappointed. He had been on the go for a long time then, though, and I think he was in need of a break. He seems in great form at home and we have a seriously good jockey on board. Hopeful.

Kiltealy Briggs is out of a half-sister to Grand National winner Ballabriggs. After finishing 2nd in his bumper on debut, he won two novice hurdles and was 3rd in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham. He excelled when we sent him novice chasing, winning two and placed twice in Graded events. He exceeded those achievements when winning a 50k added race at Market Rasen nicely on his return this autumn. He's up 3lb for that and on a career high today but he should run his race again. Excellent chance.  

In The Air failed to get very far on his return to action this season but did rather better at Ascot next time. He probably needs to improve a fair bit on that to be competitive here and may need some more time before returning to his best.

Bells Of Peterborough has been running well this season, and was a good second last time at Uttoxeter. He loves Chepstow, where he has won twice previously, and everything should suit him today. This is a highly competitive race, but I think he has solid each-way claims.

Lebowski won his two novice events well last season before disappointing in two better races, although he did burst a blood vessel when looking to run a big race at Sandown. If over his problems, he looks to be off a decent mark and could be well in here if he is. As to the ground, it's the softer the better for him and the trip of 2m is ideal.

Dalamoi appears to have improved at home since his very pleasing win on chasing debut at Kempton. Although up 8lb for the win, this looks a good opportunity to follow up that great start to his career over fences.

Obsessedwithyou is a daughter of Bathyrhon (by Monsun), sire of a couple of jumping Stakes winners out of a winning Sleeping Car mare. She is full-sister to Calipsa who won a hurdle on racecourse debut by 10 lengths. This filly almost matched that, winning one of the new Junior NH Development races by just short of that at Wetherby in October on her debut. She is a smart filly with an awful amount of class. This is a giant step up in grade and she has so little experience, but then she might be very good! 

Authorised Speed was fifth in the Festival Bumper at Cheltenham, but first of the home team over the line. He was most impressive on hurdles debut at Lingfield. This looks a good opportunity to get some more hurdling experience and hopefully gain another win.

Regarde is by Kapgarde out of a half-sister to a couple of winners in France and to the dam of top-class hurdler The New One. Placed in 4yo Irish points he won this spring as a 5yo. He is a strapping individual who did okay on hurdling debut when fourth at Carlisle. He got tired on the deep ground there and I suspect he needed the race more than I thought he would. We've done plenty with him since and he should be sharper this time around. The addition of a tongue-tie should help him too, so he should show improvement here today.

Poet has struggled all year at our two home tracks though mainly at Wolverhampton, and this will be a new experience. The straight course here could be to his liking and we'll be noting how he takes to it - or not!

Teruntum Star won his first two races for us on turf in September and October but found the hat-trick attempt beyond him at Pontefract. He hasn't figured in his runs on all-weather earlier in his career but he has experience of similar surfaces at home and there seems no reason why he should not be effective here. Might just need a look first.

We bought Captain's Bar in July soon after his win in a seller for Richard Hannon and he had a break before making a start for us at Southwell last month. He might take a while to get up to speed and will probably improve for the run today.

Starting in late January off 71, Fine Wine won four races between all-weather and turf by the first week in June when we decided to give him a break. He resumed off 95 last month at Southwell and won impressively, so while he is 4lb higher again, it's hard to rule him out today. Value each-way.

While Fine Wine has been going up the ratings, Motagally has been going in the other direction albeit while running in high-class handicap company. I'm sure there will be races to be won with him in the future, but his price of 100/1 suggests probably not today.

Silver In Disguise has conditions in his favour for the first time since his win over 3m6f at Chepstow last season. He will enjoy every yard of this slightly longer trip on this galloping track and he will love the ground too. Each-way claims.

Gypsy Whisper has been mainly occupied on turf - a winner at Doncaster in the summer -  but has been a little out of form since. He turns to all-weather for the first time since early in the year, and the straight mile often favours horses with high draws - he is in 11. Hoping he can start to show something as it's a long time till he can run again on turf.

Valorant is our second runner in this mile handicap. Since joining from the Charltons he has shown nothing for us while dropping a stone and a half in his rating. Sure to be a massive price once again and we have to hope he will recapture some of his old form before too long.

Darebin has plenty of experience around here but while he has won three times at Sandown it's been almost four years since that last victory. Now in the veteran stage, his mark is lower this year and he has had a couple of runs. Always likely to be in contention around here, but possibly slightly on the downgrade.

High Up In The Air won a couple of novice handicap chases here and at Fontwell in February 2021 but has appeared only sporadically since. Off for ten months before his recent pulled-up effort at Ascot, he may still need a little while to get back in the swim.

Park This One is by Walk In The Park from a high-class female family. He arrived with us after winning an English point-to-point and following a debut second under Rules, he progressed to win a bumper impressively at Exeter. He won on hurdles debut at Uttoxeter and has improved at home again since then. This move into Graded company is a big step up and he'll need to improve but he jumps and stays well and is as tough as they come. He always gives himself a chance so he's no forlorn hope!

Trevada is a difficult horse to place off his mark. We're going up a little further in trip in the hope that helps and he also has a first-time tongue-tie. Even so, I can't see him beating Henry Daly's horse on these terms.

Kansas Du Berlais was a close fourth when favourite for a Listed 3yo hurdle on debut at Auteuil. So far the form of the trio that finished ahead of him has not been spectacular but his pedigree is. By Martaline out of a well-connected mare by Poliglote, he has shaped well here and his experience will make him hard to beat today.

If Isle Of Aron can put his most recent disappointing chase run behind him, he ought to have a massive chance here. He has been in good form at home and we go there today with a degree of optimism.

Seasett ran much better last time out and I think the all-weather will really suit him and I also believe Chelmsford will work for him too. A good draw was key as he could be keen on his first time over 10 furlongs but it gives him every chance to settle. With my horses flying at present, he could go well.

Colonial Empire has been improving with his racing and after two good second places must be getting close to a win. We could have done without the 4lb rise for the near miss at Uttoxeter, but that race showed he has resilience and that will stand him in good stead today.

Adamhill is a long way behind these on anything he's shown to date. Best watched today.

Galop Du Bosc built on some easy wins in summer points with an impressive win at Chepstow on his return to racing under Rules. He has been beaten a fair way in both starts since but is fairly handicapped and can be a factor in the finish here.

Faitque De Lisle won nicely at Ffos Las in October before pulling up on very soft ground at Newcastle. Up only 4lb for the win, he will handle today's much quicker surface and in this small field has to be the one to beat.

Kotmask made a great start in juvenile hurdles last season on arrival from France, winning twice, once either side of the New Year. He found it harder going in handicaps and when returning at Ascot recently, weakened on the run-in after looking a threat turning for home. Should be straighter now and could resume his winning ways.

Police Academy won an Irish point before joining us and ran with credit when fifth on her Rules debut at Chepstow in October. She tends to be keen and gassy and Johnny gave her a lovely ride, dropping her out last, settling her, creeping into the race and finishing strongly. She jumps her hurdles very fast and over the extra half-mile today we have to think she has a good each-way chance.

Purple Ribbon is talented but extremely fragile. She got too far behind last time when running on well from the back of the field. This is a massive step up in grade for her but I don't think she's far off stakes class so it's worth a shot. She will love the track.

This is the first run for Artician since his gelding operation, coinciding with his starting to get better handicapped. He has plenty of ability and is sure to find his races though this looks tough enough. It would not be a complete surprise to see him involved if all goes well on the way round.

Recuerdame has run well on all starts since returning from a break and we think he is sure to find one of these soon. Again drawn wide, though that is not necessarily against him given his run style, but he does need everything to fall right for him.

Having been placed in a couple of bumpers, Thomas Macdonagh has won three races over hurdles and a novice chase. Unfortunately last season was a bit frustrating as he didn't take to the Grand National fences in the Grand Sefton and it took hom a while to get his confidence back. Ultimately we didn't have his beloved heavy ground on many occasions but he has shown he can win off his current handicap mark. Back over hurdles here on his seasonal return, he is bound to improve for the run, and Will takes off a valuable 10lb so he's not without a small chance, but with now only four runners, the favourite will be tough to beat and each-way betting is ruled out.

Duke Of Firenze ran really well last time at Wolverhampton, beaten only three lengths in fourth. The old boy is in great condition at home, has a good draw and we are hopeful of a big run with expectations of going very close.

London has shown some nice form but she needs to take a big step forward to win this. Small each-way claims if she bounces back from her disappointing first run at Wolverhampton following a break.

Hill Station has been hurdling of late and while it has seemed he has not been getting home too well, he would have won at Newton Abbot in the summer bar a fall at the last flight when well in command. He had his four flat runs before that jumping spell and he has certainly learnt plenty from that. Could be dangerous off that existing mark and we like him for an each-way shout today.

Via Serendipity was incredibly unlucky last time out when travelling much the best before getting stopped badly in his run. With a clear run that day he would have been in the first three and his price would have been a fraction of what it is. Ten furlongs around Lingfield suits and he can run a decent race.

Hul Ah Bah Loo is beginning to get better handicapped and ran well enough on penultimate start which was his return from a break. He is arguably better over a mile, but not without hope here if things fall right for him.

Tanglewood Tales was out of form after joining us early in the year and has a had a break over the summer. He resumes from an awful draw in a competitive race and is probably best watched.

It was pleasing that Ebury finally showed a glimpse of his latent ability, staying on well into third last night. If he is able to turn out again he will make them all go even from his poor draw.

If Ebury eats up and trots up sound after last night's improved run, he will probably take his chance again but Broomy Law has the better of the draw. That said, Broomy Law has been struggling since returning from his break and needs to show more.

Light Up Our Stars won four times between spring and early summer and has been knocking on the door just behind the leaders in recent runs. He's in a tough heat but his inside draw should help Jimmy Sullivan get him good track position. Can outrun his odds.

Landlordtothestars is a big strong lad who has been gelded since his last run. The wide draw is no help and as a result he will do well to run into midfield. One for handicaps in the future.

A winner over C/D in early July, Coast came back after a summer break two weeks ago, running better second time three days after the return. She gts an experienced rider for this amateurs' handicap and could make an impact coming home.

Capricorn Prince is ultra-consistent and versatile as to trip from 1m4f up. He shows he stays this 2m with a fine second last time and is the one they all have to beat on a track he loves.

Tequilamockingbird has had a good year winning twice. I think she is best over 10 furlongs off a decent pace and her best performance this year was over course and distance.Last time out they went far too steady for her and she couldn't get into the race from out the back. She is more than capable of winning off her current mark and can go well.

Wake Up Harry was a maiden winner here at a mile but never held it together in handicaps after that. Returns from injury now and the break has done him good. He has plenty of ability and is sure to come on for the run.

Miss Elsa has been off for a while and may just need the run but should still go okay off this handicap mark. She likes Lingfield, having won three times over course and distance.

Cafe Milano has beeen off the track for some time and is still a maiden. He often threatens to take part and goes well in the mornings so may surprise one day, but he is hard to recommend here.

Henley Park won well here in January but was less impressive in two return trips and was even more disappointing switched to the turf at Brighton last time. He is well enough handicapped and ideally drawn to stage a revival..

La Rav ran away with his rider last time, rushing up after missing the break and not getting home. He needs holding up and hopefully the kid who is on for the first time now, can do that and bring him for a late challenge. He's well handicapped if we can get it right.

Heer's Sadie has been disappointing since gaining her only career win at Yarmouth almost 16 months ago when Sam Feilden had the mount. He's ridden her plenty of times since, but four different jockeys have been on since their last time together. We go to Lingfield for the first time over 1m and hopefully the track will suit. She is very well handicapped now but needs to find that old form again.

Two more chances here. Ebury was rated in the mid-90's in his days with Martin Meade and has slipped gradually down the rankings until he's firmly in 0-55 class. He's been thereabouts quite often but hasn't managed to find that kick to win a race. Maybe the best draw and Luke Morris could do something about that tonight but we won't be holding our breath.

Our second runner here Gharbeyih ran in three novice events, all at Doncaster, earlier in the summer. There was some promise from her then and her mark of 52 looks fair. She hasn't run for five months, and we will be looking to see whether she has potential for the all-weather. Interesting.

Colombidea bumped into a useful horse last time out, but there was plenty to like about her performance as she settled much better and clearly the penny is dropping. This looks like a match race on paper between us and the third horse home last time. One For The Frog was odds-on then, but he has looked a difficult ride on both his starts and the wide draw may not be ideal.

Amber Dew runs back quickly after fading late in her race over 7f here on Saturday evening. The drop back to six will be in her favour and if the run hasn't taken too much from her, she could have place chances from the same mark.

Rebel Redemption won a four-horse race around here in August by a narrow margin but hasn't beaten a rival either at Kempton next time or after a break, on this track. He is the type that can bounce back and from the same mark, he has a favourable draw from which to outrun his odds.

After 102 career starts, Dark Shot finally gets the chance to run around Dunstall Park. A winner at Southwell last time, the handicapper has been very lenient, asking him to run off only 1lb higher. If he acts on the track, there is no doubt he is capable of being a threat.

Ahlawi had a break in the summer and came back with a good second at Southwell in October. He was less impressive there last time but he has a good draw and forms a double challenge with Dark Shot. 

Last time it looked as though the extra distance would be a plus for L'Enclume. This might be a touch of an easier assignment too.

Kentucky Kingdom has been a solid handicapper and won on his last start over this course and distance in February. he returns off top-weight but with a decent draw and we hope he will shape with promise for the forthcoming winter campaign.

Harbour Vision has been running consistently well until a slightly below par effort last time at Southwell. He is marginally better around here and if he can get away alertly from his wide draw, he could make them all go and may try to hold on in the straight.

American Rose made her debut at Leicester last month and was soon struggling. This switch to all-weather won't be any easier judged by the form of the opposition and her chance isn't helped by the wide draw either.

Big Wing was just edged out over 9.5f at Wolverhampton last time and the winner followed up the following week. I think a mile and a half around Kempton will suit him better and I'm delighted to have Jason Watson on board again. Hopeful.

Gerrots joined us from France last year and while gradually dropping down the handicap, he has been disappointing overall. We're trying him in blinkers today in the hope he improves on a moderate effort on his recent return after a break.

Upton Road has been very lightly-raced as he has had lots of issues. He ran okay for a long way before getting tired on his first run this season. The step up to 3m should help him and soft ground should be fine, but he has been given a tough enough mark for his first run in a handicap.

Lockandload showed promise in two bumpers earlier in the summer but so far has been let down by her jumping over obstacles, She has schooled better at home since we've applied blinkers and if she could put in an improved round of jumping today she could well be in the shake-up.

Perseus Way won twice from five starts for Owen Burrows and his owner sent him to us for jumping. He was rated around 80 and we started him off in a Grade 2 juvenile hurdle at Cheltenham, where despite his price of 25/1 he finished well into second up the hill. He looks a decent prospect and this appears an excellent opportunity to get him off the mark.

Masqool has been in great form this season. After three wins in a row he just was foiled in the four-timer quest with a narrow defeat at Kempton. Dangerous again tonight and should be thereabouts.

Danah Star is a tough genuine filly who is slipping down the weights. She has a nice draw so I'm saying each-way chances with a clear run.

Visibility won over course and distance three runs back and followed with a good run over slightly further before a lesser effort back at the trip last time. He is drawn next to Amber Dew towards the outside and will need to have everything go right to get back into the winner's circle from out there.

Justcallmepete didn't have much luck in running last week. He has a poor draw again but with a 1lb drop he should be thereabouts as long as he can get a clear run at the turn.

We're trying Amber Dew at seven furlongs for only the second time. It's far from certain she'll stay and if it wasn't going to be hard enough for her, of all the places to get an awful wide draw, 7f at Wolverhampton probably takes the biscuit.

The Big Bite resumes action in a very competitive Rehearsal Chase but we have to be encouraged by the form of the horses and he seems very well in himself. He has been rated higher in the past and showed a couple of times last season he retains his ability. Hoping for a share of the money on offer.

Teddy Blue made an instant impression on arriving from France running well in good-class juvenile races. He has continued to progress, winning impressively at Fontwell. He starts handicapping here off what looks a fair mark and should be a contender.

Yorksea, a winner on the flat in France for Freddy Head, showed plenty of promise when third on hurdles debut to Knight Salute. He finished his brief campaign winning at Fontwell and returns here as our second runner along with Teddy Blue. We hope he can live up to his opening mark of 123.

Porticello had an excellent first season's hurdling, going to the Triumph on the back of four wins (one in France) and a single defeat by Knight Salute. He ran a blinder at the Festival, disputing with Fil D'Or until tiring late and finishing sixth to Vauban. He's stepping up in trip but the way he finished off in heavy ground at Haydock in the Victor Ludorum suggests he's likely to stay.

Non-runner

Mofasa has done nothing wrong in his two novice hurdles, winning both. The step up to 2m6f should be fine for him and the ground should be too. He has a double penalty to contend with but is clear of these on the ratings so should take all the beating all being well.

Fix At All was a bit disappointing last season but he has had his wind done and his back looked at over the summer. His work at home is better than last season so hopefully he can take a step in the right direction today. The trip should be fine and although he would prefer the ground to be a little softer, that should be okay too.

Copper Coin usually runs his race as was the case last time when second at Uttoxeter. Good ground is important to him and he stays three miles very well. This looks a competitive race but he should have each-way claims at a decent price.

Cornicello was useful at 1m2f on the flat and was placed in four hurdle races last season. He would probably have won bar falling when in a winning position on his final start. This season he improved on his reappearance effort to win on his next run and raised only 1lb, was just denied for the follow up. He won impressively at Wincanton last week, and after the rise in his mark for Hereford he is still 4lb well in this time as the last win did not entail a penalty. If he copes with the step up in trip as the pedigree suggests he should be tough to beat as long as his busy spell doesn't catch him out.  

Non-runner

Hey Frankie did nothing wrong in her novice hurdles from 2m to 3m before  being found to have finished lame after disappointing on her handicap debut. The ground and trip should be ideal for this chase debut on this return after three months' absence. She has schooled well at home and chasing should bring out improvement in her. This looks a decent chance in an ordinary five-horse affair.

Dirham Emirati ran yesterday. A late decision will be made about his appearing again today.

Times Are Blue has run with credit in both hurdle races this season after winning a bumper last spring. He's a tall, leggy horse who is still on the weak side. He's only a four-year-old who wouldn't handle soft conditions at this stage of his career. Whilst the ground remains decent he'll continue to gain experience and hopefully get his head in front somewhere.

We supply two of the six runners in this 2m5f novice hurdle and Vic Malzard rides Newtonian, who has been very frustrating. He showed he had ability when placed in two bumpers and running okay first time over hurdles at Taunton last season. Then he fell twice in succession at Fontwell, jumping all right until losing concentration. He's been jumping the fences on the Mandown schooling ground every Thursday for two months now and had a short spell with Henrietta Knight last spring and hasn't made a semblance of a mistake. We're hoping all that preparation will have had a positive effect on him. 

Twilight Glory needs to improve on his form to date under Rules, although he did run one very decent race in a point-to-point beforehand. The smaller field and softer ground ought to help him but still he is probably best watched today.

Datsalrightgino, by Arc third It's Gino, a high-class jumps sire, is also from a smart female family. He was second in three bumpers before enjoying a fruitful novice hurdling campaign with two wins including at Cheltenham. Switched to fences he ran well when 2nd on debut at Newton Abbot and won impressively at Chepstow last time out. Up 9lb for that he runs in a seriously competitive race but is in tip top form and should run well.

Coastguard Station is in good nick and will have come on for his comeback run after a long break at Fakenham the other day. He has a live chance here hopefully with the ground ideal for him.

Non-runner

Ex-Irish pointer Tapley made an impressive winning debut in a Fontwell bumper but stepped up in class at Cheltenham, he gradually weakened after running into a challenging position coming to the straight. This is a hot hurdle race to start him in and he may also need further than the minimum later in his career. Interesting to see where he fits in here.

Walk In The Wild won around here two weeks ago when a massive price on stable/chase debut. He won't be a big price today but hopefully he can follow up as we believe he's in the same fettle.

Thor De Cerisy has shown glimpses of ability throughout his career but he is also very inconsistent. He spent last season running exclusively in France and on his first run in October last year he probably would have won but for falling at the last flight at Auteuil. He didn't match that subsequently but after a summer break he has schooled well for this return race in the UK, his first over fences. Soft ground is very important to him and he is often at his best first time out. Hopeful in a decent race. 

Dirham Emirati had a couple of hurdle runs and showed promise although whether he would have won the second time when a late faller is debatable. He's back from a break and we're taling 5lb off for Caolin. We also run Givega in this race.

Givega won his Irish point 18 months ago. He has been pleasing us and has been dominating overnight betting with Hot Rod Lincoln. We are hopeful he can make a winning start under Jamie.

I refer to my comments above on Iskar D'Airy. Issar D'Airy has many similarities with his near-namesake. As long as one of them wins, everyone will be happy! Take your pick.

Watch your bets and look closely. We have Iskar D'Airy and Issay D'Airy, four-year-olds in the same ownership, both by Derby winner Sinndar, acquired for almost identical amounts from France and with similar form credentials although Iskar is 7lb higher in the weights, and we're claiming 5lb off him. Their prices are just about the same too. You tell us!

Kalpaga needs to take a step forward again. We are hopeful of a better run today.

Bobmahley stayed on well to win on his seasonal debut at Fakenham last month. The softer conditions and stiffer track today are more suitable but this is a super-competitive race. We are hoping for a solid run and I rate him a good each-way chance. 

Legal Rights has been a regular winner both on the flat and over jumps. He has been in a relatively quiet spell but his two autumn runs over hurdles should have brought him somewhere close, although the handicapper has been careful not to give him too much rope.

Non-runner

Trevada ran better than the bare form suggests on his seasonal debut at Chepstow last month. He's a big horse that takes a lot of work and he definitely needed the outing, travelling well until blowing up three out. I was happy enough with him and he's obviously improved for that race. Hopeful of a good run today.

Spitfire Girl is by Walk In The Park out of a black-type winning sister to the Cheltenham Festival winner Son Of Flicka. This filly is half-sister to 3 winners including Bandit Country and the 135-rated Granny Biddy. She was pretty green and race-rusty on seasonal/hurdling debut but stepped up on that to be fourth last time out. This looks a warm enough race and it might be she finds her level in handicap hurdles further down the line.

Generous Day is getting to the veteran stage but he did show at times last season there is still life in the old boy. He needed his comeback run over hurdles the other day and I'm hoping we'll see a little more from him back over fences today.

Sea The Clouds is out of a half-sister to Group 2 one mile winner Echo Of Light and Listed 1m4f winer Akaram. He is half-brother to Contended, who has won over hurdles and fences and full-brother to My Mate Mozzie who developed into a Graded novice hurdler. Sea The Clouds was placed in three bumpers last season and won one on his seasonal return. He followed that with an improved display to win on his hurdles debut at Newton Abbot and was second last time out under a penalty. He enters handicaps here off a mark of 111 which looks fair and Will takes off 10lb which puts him firmly in the picture. He should be very competitive.

Moulins Clermont won two of his four races after joining the stable from France last year. He looks a decent animal on that evidence and in a tight race he should be there or thereabouts on seasonal return.

Dorking Lad was the outsider of two runners for the stable around here recently on his return to action, but stayed on very strongly into third from the last fence. With that run behind him off what looks a fair mark, he must be very competitive here.

I've taken Republican out a couple of times recently before what should have been his seasonal return because the ground turned bottomless. He's a horse I like a lot but he had no luck last season. He's in great form for this return and I'm very hopeful he will run a big race.

Jean Genie has not won in 22 starts but here he is top-weight conceding 21lb to the favourite who won last time! He's had a couple of near misses in his sequence of four second places so far this term. He deserves to get his head in front but it won't be easy.

We run two  six-year-old maidens in this novice handicap chase and they are the top two in the weights! Airtothethrone is much the less experienced of the pair. A son of Yeats, he was placed in two Irish points and went very close in the second of three runs in novice hurdlles last season. I think he'll make a better chaser and we have to be hopeful he will stay three miles. Could go close.

Hudson De Grugy is the outsider in the betting on this three-horse race but is not that far behind the favourite on ratings. and his record of four wins in eight hurdle races is creditable. He will be better for his seasonal/chase debut behind Solo at Sandown and may surprise the market.

Invincible Nao takes a 10lb penalty here for his win in a valuable novice race in France during the summer. When he made his debut last month at Ascot he found it difficult under similar circumstances but may have needed the run anyway. To offset the penalty, we're taking off 7lb with Caolin Quinn's claim and as he showed at the weekend he is a very capable young rider. 

Only five line up for this juvenie hurdle race, an unusual one in that they are rarely framed for NH bred animals. Not that ours is technically NH bred as his dam has had winners on the flat in France and his sire is dual purpose. Spirit D'Aunou has done plenty of schooling and could well figure in what might be an ordinary affair.

Colonial Empire ran extremely well last time out and looked to bump into one! We hope the step up in trip will suit and feel he has a solid winning chance.

Patient Owner is in good nick and looks to be on a workable mark. He hasn't had his required soft ground yet but conditons will be ideal today and he looks to have a small each-way chance.

Non-runner

Risk And Roll ran very well on his return at Newbury, finishing a close second under Tabitha Worsley, who rides him regularly. He has top-weight, but in a five-runner field, we have to be hopeful as long as the ground doesn't prove too tersting.

Black Gerry took his good form of last winter into a run after a break at the end of May with a comfortable win in a five-runner race at Fontwell. He returns 5lb higher in a better race, but with the horses going well, it wouldn't be a massive shock if he went close.

Boys Of Wexfod has been schooling well but hasn't shown enough yet to be of interest today.

Super Survivor is by the sire of Grade 1 winner The Storyteller out of a winning half-sister to triple Gold Cup winner Best Mate. He was 2bd in an Irish point before joining us last summer. He had a great novice hurdle season when he won twice and was 2nd on his only other start. He is a proper staying chaser for the future and I look forward to sending him novice chasing this season. He too will appreciate softer ground and further in time but this also looks an ideal starting point. 

Copperfasten won nicely last time  out and had really improved at home. We think the step up in trip and different track will suit but it is a highly competitive race. Solid each-way claims.

Passing Well is by Coastal Path, sire of many Grade 1 winners out of a winning sister to the multiple black type winning Papy Mamy. The dam is by Passing Sale, sire of Grand National winner Mon Mome. Passing Well was 2nd last time out at the Punchestown Festival in a seriously-competitive 21-runner bumper. There he was squeezed on the home turn, losing his position but then rallied to stay on and was closing on the winner at the line, after which he joined us. He jumps really well and has the size and scope to make up into a smart prospect. He'll want soft ground and further in time but this looks a nice starting point.  

Danah Star has had three runs for us since joining from France. She has been beaten by a similar amount each time and while she has not yet suggested a first win is imminent, from a decent draw she can run a solid race.

Ebury has been on a long losing run and since returning in June has gradually slipped down the handicap. He has the ability to win off his present mark and hopefully he can finally end the drought.

Justcallmepete has taken his time getting over a few hard races earlier in the year. He seems to be showing a few encouraging signs in his work now. He has a poor draw but could have an each-way chance.

Rebel Redemption won here three runs back but has been totally out of form since. Again, we're hoping that running him through his slump might bring him back into some kind of form.

Abbey Heights is a horse we've always thought a bit of and he made a decent return to action last time, making a bold bid from a wide draw. Fitness just caught him out late on.

Iconique ran very well in a better race at Chelmsford recently. I think this track will really suit her and Hayley Turner gets on very well with her. She has a lovely draw so should be able to sit closer to the pace this time. Good each-way chance.

Kitten's Dream was a winner over course and distance at the end of August and has been kept busy since, but with contrastingly modest results. He can always put in a good run and he remains reasonably handicapped.

Odin's Quest is a 4yo homebred who made a winning debut in a five-runner bumper at Huntingdon in January. He has a 4lb penalty for that and they are never easily defied, so we're taking 3lb off. A fascinating private battle between our two and hopefully one of them can win the race.

Hermino AA is a son of Derby/Arc winner Sinndar from a good French family. He went through the ring in Goffs in Ireland more than two years ago and is only now ready for his first run. Jamie rides him but we also run Odin's Quest here and there's no guarantee Jamie's on the right one.

Lasting Legacy seems to enjoy the all-weather much more than turf hence we have returned to that surface in a bid to get things back on track. Ten furlongs around Lingfield is perfect and she has a great draw. Each-way chance.

We bought Sobegrand at Ascot sales just over two weeks ago after he ran three quick races for the Gosdens. We should find a lot more about him first time in a handicap today.

Kiltealy Briggs won on his seasonal reappearance and was brave and honest that day. He's been a star for us over the years and has been placed in Grade 1 and 2 company. The only times he's disappointed have been over three miles at the Cheltenham Festival. We've tried to make him a three-miler as he's out of a sister to Ballybriggs, who won the National, but his best runs have been over shorter. He gallops and jumps and we're dropping him back to two miles which is a different approach, but hopefully it will suit on a stiff track such as Ascot. He's got no weight either so while it's a gamble it's an interesting one.

Medrara qualified for a handicap mark after his last start and we think they have been very fair in giving him 65. The step up in trip should suit and he  has a decent draw too.

After his good season in 2021-2, Goshen's comeback run on debut over fences was disappointing to say the least. This race gives him the chance to do what he does best, but maybe facing Constitution Hill is not the ideal situation for a horse with something to prove. Second would be nice!

Botox Has ran a blinder on his comeback run at Cheltenham last month. In contention all the way he was still there at the last and battled up the hill to be 2nd of 15. Up 4lb for that, which wasn't particularly kind, so we're taking 7lb off for our promising 7lb claimer Caolin Quinn, who has been in good form lately including riding a winner at Chepstow yesterday.

Non-runner

Rhebus Road ran well on his season reappearance at Fakenham last month when 2nd to the promising Sophosc. He takes a lot of work to get fit and had a good blow after the race so he'll definitely be sharper today. That race was over half a mile further than today's, but he is versatile to trip and has won over two miles around here. He won't handle anything on the soft side so hopefully conditions today will be perfect.

This will be Shantou Sunset's first run for us. She has been off the track since May, but ran well in this race last year. It looks like being hotly contested today and I will be pleased if she can be competitive and run a solid race.

Far Horizon ran okay in two novice events, A mile is probably sharp enough for him but he ran well here before and this isn't a deep race. The jockey takes 5lb off which will help as well.

Let It Shine has run okay in his two bumpers. He has schooled well at home but doesn't look good enough on what he's shown so far to be involved today. Ground and track should be fine.

Seasett was very disappointing last time out at Haydock in conditions he should have loved. We think all-weather will suit hom and I like the configuration of the track for him today. Cheek-pieces should help too. He has a few questions to answer but I am hopeful he can bounce back today.

Non-runner

Don't Tell Rosi is a nice filly just ready to get some experience and her future is all about next season. Anything she does tonight is a bonus.

Silastar won around here in July but didn't quite match that in three quick runs soon after on turf. Back at Kempton after a three-month break, he has a plum inside draw and his promising young rider, who has three wins to her credit, can claim 7lb in this apprentices' race.

Hul Ah Bah Loo looked to be on his way back to form last start and there's no reason why he won't back that up here in a similar race. The wide draw is no help but there's plenty of pace and he should stay on well if the race goes well for him. No surprise to see him involved.

In The Air was a winner in France before joining us and made an impressive start, winning comfortably at Newbury under the penalty. He ran too badly upped in class at Aintree for us to believe it was his true form and a fall first time back at Fontwell came too early to indicate how he would have fared. Still he's one we think has plenty more mileage in him.

Larry won a valuable chase over this course and distance last October but never really matched the form afterwards, although in fairness we did try him highly. If he returns in his best form he will have a good each-way chance from this mark.

Do Your Job was travelling welll until a mistake cost him any chance in the Old Roan. He has had his wind tightened since and he comes here in good form. The ground should be perfect and while it's a lot of weight, still there's room off this mark. Luca's 3lb claim and the step up in trip will help him. Very hopeful.

Zhiguli had another successful season in 2021-2 winning twice from five runs and matching his tally from the previous season. He hasn't been over-raced and has the potential to achieve more as he moves into better-class races. Today is his first run back but he made a winning return on October 31 last year, so there's grounds for optiimism for another good start.

We have a double interest here too. High Up In The Air won five races in a row two seasons ago when his rating went from 100 to 135. He ended that campaign with a remote fourth which suggested he'd done enough and it was almost a year until January before he ran again and he pulled up. This has been a similar break and he might need this run.

Midnight Centurion is out of a half-sister to the very useful bumper/hurdle/chase winner Centasia and from the family of De Soto 2nd in the Champion bumper and fourth in the Supreme Novices at Cheltenham. He finished second in both his bumper starts and was placed in a couple of novice hurdles before deservedly getting his head in front. His future lies over fences and he jumps really well. He might want further in time but this is a perfect place for him to make his chasing debut. He is off a nice mark and can be competitive.

Diyaken joined us from France after winning his only race, a 16-runner 4yo conditions hurdle over 2m2f at Compiegne in April run on heavy ground. Goken, his French-based sire, was a sprinter but on the evidence of Compiegne, it looks as if Diyaken will stay. Interesting on stable debut.

Schelem, our second runner in this, also came from France and coincidentally he too won his only race by nine lengths - the difference being it was two years ago. He has shown promise at home and in a hot race it will be instructive to see how they compare. If either won it would be great.

Inchbae has a stayer's pedigree and after running in two one-mile handicaps, I'm hopeful she can show improvement stepping up to 1m2f. Each-way chances.

Dorothee won her maiden at Yarmouth and was then off for four months before running unplaced in her first handicap at Brighton. With that outing behind her, she could challenge for a place.

Arpina ran well last time after a break. She is always competitive in this grade but hasn't had much luck with the draw here. Dylan has chosen to ride Chagal which he won on last time but I think we should be thereabouts again as Arpina is very well at home.

Henley Park won a 10f Lingfield handicap in January by a narrow margin but could not match that form for the rest of the campaign. He returns after a nine-week break able to run off a similar mark but his draw in 12 back to a mile is not a help.

Irish point winner Peaky Boy ran well in his first bumper, just bumping into one. He looks the one to beat on form and has probably come on a bit for that run. Again, he's unproven with lots of cut in the ground so that would be an unknown.

Ebonello was placed in both her bumpers last season and pleased us when coming out and winning at Sedgefield getting up close home after showing signs of greenness. She can continue to improve and hopefully can win again.

This has come down to a four-runner race. Coastguard Station heads the weights and after his promising return when third at Fakenham, he should have every chance.

Faitque De Lisle won at Ffos Las last time and is up 4lb for that which still leaves him in the 0-100 bracket. That wasn't a strong race but neither is this. Course and trip are no concern but very soft ground would be if the rain keeps coming. He's in great form and has come on again since his win but conditions are a concern.

Let Me Entertain U has lots of scope off this mark but doesn't try as hard as he might. Good to soft ground won't be a worry nor will the step back up to 3m - it's more what he decides he wants to do.

Cornicello has been running well and after winning the previous time ran another good race when second at Hereford. This is a hands and heels race and his rider is inexperienecd so we're hoping Cornicello can help him to a first career win.

You can put a line through Superstylin's last run as he pulled hard for almost two miles. A very tall horse and much more a future chaser, he does have ability but currently needs to learn to settle. Hopefully he can switch off at the back today and get into a rhythm. If he relaxes early and is patiently ridden we will see a lot better from him.

I Am Gonna Be ran well at Uttoxeter last time and the step up in trip looks like it should be a big plus. He has form on soft in a point so rain wouldn't be a huge worry at this point. This doesn't look the deepest of contests so he must have a big chance.

Big Bard is equally capable on turf and all-weather but there does seem to be a discrepancy when he encounters soft turf. After a great 2nd of 16 on good ground at Windsor when he just failed to get up, he was a disappointing favourite on the soft at Brighton. He has yet to run at Kempton which can ride slow but from a good draw he must have a decent each-way shout.

Seneca Chief missed the kick last time when finishing third over course and distance. If he can break better he should be competitive at this level.

La Rav was not beaten far last time when his jockey seemed not at full strength. His draw in 12 is not great but I rate him a good each-way bet with the boy taking 5lb off.

Ahlawi ran a good second last here month over six furlongs, staying on well at te finish. From a good draw he tries seven for the first time and if he stays he ought to have a great chance.

Our second runner Sycamore is realistically second string to Ahlawi. He was an easy winner over a mile here in January and from his higher mark, could not find the speed to supplement the win when switching back to 6f at Wolverhampton the following month. This trip is fine as is the draw but he may just need the run after the absence..

Light Up Our Stars joined us in mid-season from Tony Carroll, who kept busy while winning three times this year. He's won another as well as a couple of good placed efforts for us and if he can replicate the form he showed when second at Newcastle in September he shouldn't be far away.