Next Race
January 12th
Punchestown (Going; Soft, Soft to heavy in places)
Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m198y
Just six go to post and Willie Mullins holds a strong hand. Salvator Mundi came from France with a big reputation having finished just under 2l to Sir Gino on his only start there in April 2023. He made his debut for current connections when running a decent race in the Triumph Hurdle last March and then trounced the field by 64l and more in a maiden Hurdle at Tipperary last May. I'm not sure if there's a reason we haven't seen him out since May but it's not unusual for Mullins to give these young French recruits plenty of time. Kel Histoire was purchased by the McManus team after winning an AQPS Bumper in France in November 2023. The runner up won his next three starts, all Bumpers, and like the winner joined the Mullins team after those wins. Kel Histoire was given plenty of time and didn't re appear until last month when he was a comfortable winner of a Cork maiden hurdle. Sky Lord reappeared for the first time since beaten a neck by Sporting Glory in a Bumper last February and had a comfortable win of Cork maiden last month. He's related to a dew winners and Henry De Bromhead thinks highly of him. I won't besurprised to see him run a big race. Willie Mullins has won this six times in the last ten years with the likes of Min, Douvan and Impaire Et Passe and I think he can add to his tally with Salvator Mundi while Kel Histoire is a big danger.
Selection; Salvator Mundi
Best Alternative; Kel Histoire
January 10th
Ffos Las (Going; Soft)
Towton Novices Chase (Grade 2) 2m3f83y
This race has been re routed from the abandoned Wetherby card and tyhe field of seven includes a few who had been targetted at Warwick which has also been abandoned. One of those is Handstands who has to drop back in trip here. However he does have natural speed and the soft ground should bring his stamina into play. He fell first time out but atoned for that at Sandown last month when he beat Resplendent Grey over 3m on Soft ground. Cherie d'Am gets the Mares allowance. Having finished just under 2l back in third behind Johnnywho on Chase debut she won by an easy 7l at Warwick last month in a Listed Mares Chase and with the owners said to be leaving the sport they'll be hoping for some more nice Black Type wkith the Mare. Saint Davy was 4l back in third behind Handstands at Sandown on his Chase debut where he took a keen hold. He made a couple of jumping errors and his rider dropped his whip on the run to the line and it's interesting that they take the winner on again here. The remainder look to have it all to do to be involved. Slight preference is for Handstand.
Selection; Handstand
Best Alternative; Saint Davy
January 5th
Naas (Going; Soft) Inspection @ 7.30a.m.
Racing Post Novice Chase (Grade 2) 2m
Inthepocket was almost 4l back in second behind Facile Vega on chase debut in November 2023 but wasn't seen again until last October when he won in a canter by 15l from Farren Glory at Wexford. The latter won at Naas next time and was then a 6l second to Touch Me Not in the Grade 2 Craddoxtown at Punchestown with the winner going on to be runner up to the highly regarded L'Eau du Sud in the Grade 1 Henry VII Chase at Sandown last month. Firefox drops back to the minimum trip after his half length third to Croke Park in the Drinmore. It looked like he was ridden to be produced late but didn't have the speed to go by the winner and was passed close to the line by the runner up Heart Wood. On his chase debut Firefox had impressed beating Mossy Fen Park comfortably at Down Royal. Ile Atlantique was impressive on chase debut when a comfortable 9l winner over Waterford Whispers at Navan last month over an extended 2m4f. He was beaten a neck in the Lawlors here last year but was well beaten in the Three festivals. Slight preference is for Inthepocket.
Selection; Inthepocket
Best Alternative; Firefox
Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m4f
Having won his point and two of three Bumpes Jasmin De Vaux won his Maiden Hurdle at short odds when beating The Enabler by just over 4l with a tiring Workahead another 5l back in third . Those two did the form no harm winning at Leopardstown over the Christmas. However the winner didn't jump well and will have to sharpen that up in this company. Having won his first two Bumpers and been a bit unlucky at Leopardstown The Yellow Clay disappointed in the Cheltenham Bumper before finishing almost 4l back in second to Redemption Man at The Punchestown Festival . He stepped up a notch over hurdles this season winning all three starts, the first two by wide margins. He struggled a bit on his last win to get up in the shadow of the post in the Grade 2 Navan Hurdle beating Fleur In The Park a neck with Mozzies Sister a further 5l back in third. The latter was beaten 4l by The Big Westerner in the Grade 2 at Limerick at Christmas while the Navan run may have left a mark on Fleur In The Park who was 10l back in fourth. Butch Cassidy, a half brother to the ill fated Champion Bumper winner Fayonagh, has had only two starts winnining his Bumper and Maiden Hurdle. The runner up in the Hurdle has disapppointed since but the Third, Shuffle The Deck, won next time. Supersundae (not to be confused with his half brother Supasundae) was over 10l back in seventh in the Supreme at Cheltenham on his stable debut having been off the racecourse for eleven months following a second place at Compiegne. He improved for that next time winning easily at Ballinrobe in May. Wingman won a Point and two of his three Bumpers. He won on Hurdles debut over 2m4f and then went to Cheltenham for a Novice Hurdle over 2m1f where he was beaten over 7l by Country Mile who won in a canter. However the winner was well beaten in the Formby next time albeit the ground may have been against him. The Yellow Clay's experience could prove crucial if Jasmin De Vaux's jumping is not up to scatch.
Selection; The Yellow Clay
Best Alternative; Jasmin De Vaux
January 1st
Cheltenham (Going; Good To Soft)
Relkeel Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m4f56y
A tricky contest with seven going to post. Golden Ace, winner of the Grade 2 Novice Mares at the Festival in March when beating Brighterdaysahead getting 5lb from the runner up, went back to Cheltenham in April and had no trouble stepping up in trip tp 2m4f and completing a four timer. She returned at Ascot in November in the Grade 2 Ascot Hurdle and while disputing the lead at the last she weakened late on to finish 2l back in fourth behind the winner Lucky Place with Blueking d'Oroux and Colonel Mustard just ahead of her and Thunder Rock stopping quickly according to his jockey who pulled him up. She should come on for the run as her rider said she didn't get the trip on here seasonal debut and she's now 6lb better off with the winner here. Salver has been attracting plenty of support in early betting and is now favourite as I write. He won his first four starts as a Juvenile last season including the Finale Hurdle at Chepstow and finished the season just over 6l back in third spot behind Majborough in the Triumph Hurdle. He had one run this season when running off top weight in the Gerry Fielden he put in an eye catching run when after been outpaced he stayed on to be a 6l fourth. Whether the ground will be soft enough remains to be seen. The riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma that is Langer Dan is now rated 160 which is 11lb higher than any other horse in the race. Having got the job done in the Coral Cup at the festival he went to Aintree and went down by a nose and a short head to Impaire Et Passe and Bob Olinger and a couple of weeks later was no match for Impaire Et Passe finishing just over 2l back in second over 2m5f. He reappeared in the Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury in November but weakened from two out to finish 9l back in third behind Strong Leader. His Trainer believes he's a better horse in the Spring. Gowel Road has had three starts this season and finished runner up in them all. He hasn't won since his victory in a handicap chase at Ascot in October 2022 and was off for thirteen months after that. Thunder Rock has pulled up in his last two starts but won the time before that when getting the better of Minella Drama in a Listed chase at Kelso last March. The outsider of the field is Twig who pulled up last time in the Betfair Stayers at Haydock in November having finished 2l back in second behind Beacon Edge in the West Yorkshire Hurdle. Their seems to confidence in Salver but I'm not sure it will be soft enough for him so I'll go with Golden Ace who is a course and distance winner while keeping an eye on Langer Dan.
Selection; Golden Ace
Best Alternative; Lucky Place
December 29th
Leopardstown (Going; Yielding)
Neville Hotels Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m
Four runners from Willie Mullins and three from Gordon Elliott make up the seven runner field for this. Mullins has won the last six renewals and State Man the last two. State Man will surely improve for his run in the Morgiana where he finished half a length behind Brighterdaysahead who had the benefit of a run beforehand. State Man has a great record around the track and I think he'll be hard to beat. It will be interesting to see how Mystical Power performs after bombing out in the Fighting Fifth.
Selection; State Man
Best Alternative; Brighterdaysahead
December 28th
Newbury (Going; Good To Soft)
Challow Novices Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m4f118y
Seven runners are due to face the starter in a race that Paul Nicholls has won for the last four years. He relies on the expensive Regent's Stroll who he bought back for £660k at the Chris Giles dispersal last July having already won two Bumpers for Nicholl. On his only start over hurdles he was a comfortable winner by over 9l from Good And Clever who was 7l back in third behind Potters Bar in the Formby at Aintree on St. Stephens Day. The New Lion has won his only Bumper start and his two hurdle starts. On the first of those Hurdles starts he beat subsequent winner Belliano in to second place by almost 5l. He then beat previous winner Califet En Vol by 3l around this course and distance. Bill Joyce has wonn his point and two Bumpers impressively before disappointing in the Cheltenham Bumper but we can draw a line through that I think. He's won his two hurdle starts impressively including the Grade 2 Winter Hurdle where he was 5l clear of Quebecois. It's Hard To Know looks held on a line through Tamarind with the New line and according to the Bookies the rest are out of it. It's a toss up between the top three but Paul Nicholls' record in the race swings it for me with the well bred Regent's Stroll who is out of a half sister to Denman.
Selection; Regent's Stroll
Best Alternative; Bill Joyce
Leopardstown (Going; Good To Yielding)
Savill Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m7f80y
Eight go to post for this Home By The Lee and Bob Olinger renew rivalry following Lismullen Hurdle battle. Bob Olinger is 5lb better off here for just over 3l which technically gives him a slight advantage but it's all about what happens in running. Hewick runs here as connections decided not to travel to Kempton. He was beaten half a length by Envoi Allen in the Ladbrokes at Down Royal last month and back in May ran a big race in a Grade 1 Hurdle at Auteuil going down by over 1l to Losange Bleu, one of the top Hurdlers there. Asterion Forlonge has his first start since beaten over 6l by Teahupoo in the Stayers at the Punchestown Festival while Noble Yeats has his first run since since finishing down the field in the Grand National. Sandor Clegane has been disappointing over fences and reverted to hurdles three weeks ago beaten over 3l giving 5lb to the winner. I think Bob Olinger can turn the tables here.
Selection; Bob Olinger
Best Alternative; Hewick
Savills Chase (Grade 1) 3m100y
There has to be a question mark about the health of the Mullins team some poor runs from some of his string over the Christmas period but until we hear otherwise we keep going. On form it looks a match between stablemates Gallopin Des Champs and Fact To File. The latter had Gallopin Des Champs almost 3l back in third when winning the John Durkan last month but I got the impression that Willie Mullins wasn't too worried with his main focus on March. Fact To File is unbeaten in four starts over fences and found no difficulty stepping out of the Novice Grade into Open company. I Am Maximus has his first start since the Grand National and surely has that target again while Gentlemansgame has his first run since May. Grangeclare West pulled up in the John Durkan on his first start since winning the Grade 1 Novice over 3m at this meeting last year when he completed the hat trick beating Corbetts Cross. Fact To File may just shade it.
Selection; Fact To File
Best Alternative; Gallopin Des Champs
Limerick (Yielding To Soft)
Faugheen Novice Chase (Grade 1) 2m3f100y
Eight go to post and it's 10/11 Impaire Et Passe, 11/2 Sa Majeste and 10/1 and bigger the rest. . The favourite got his chase career off to the perfect start with a comfortable 12l win at Fairyhouse last month. He jumped left on occassions but was never in trouble. Sa Majeste was beaten on chase debut by Search For Glory 8l at Galway in October and then getting up on the line to beat Shannon Royale over 2m7f in Tipperary last month. The drop back in trip is a slight worry. After his win a Galway Search For Glory went down by a short head to stablemate Stellar Story in a three horse race at Punchestown over 3m. Again the drop in trip isn't ideal. Good Land had his first start since fininshing over 11l behind Impaire Et Passe at Cheltenham in March 2023 when finishing 10l in third behind Ile Atlantique and Waterford Whispers in a Navan Beginners Chase. Barry Connell had high hopes for him but injury intervened. He's worth a watch in this. Mirazur West had some decent form last season winning a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse at Easter but was down the field in the Grade 1 Champion Novice at the Punchestown Festival. He was runner up on Chase debut last month where he jumped right but the concession of 7lb to the winner was the difference. The winner has won again since in the Grade 2 mares Novice at Cork three weeks ago. It's hard to oppose Impaire Et Passe and there might be value for those who don't bet odds on with place only bets or betting without the favourite on Good Land and Mirazur West.
Selection; Impaire Et Passe
Best Alternative; Mirazur West ( without the favourite or place only)
December 27th
Leopardstown (Going; Good To Yielding)
Paddy Rewards Club Chase (Grade 1) 2m1f
Gaelic Warrior has his first start since finishing runner up to stablemate Il Etait Temps at Punchestown last May having won three of his other four starts last season. He's won off long breaks previously and if fit will be hard to beat over this trip. Found A Fifty was over 8l back in second to Gaelic Warrior at Cheltenham last March but has won his three starts since. Dinoblue wears a first time tongue tie and gets the Mare's allowance. She won last year's running on this but meets stronger opposition this time. She was 10l behind Enurgumene in the Hilly Way at Cork three weeks ago on seasonal debut. Marine Nationale resumed after an extended break when a over 7l back in second to Quilixious at Naas last month and the latter was a remoted 8l second to Jonbon in the Tingle Creek three weeks ago. It's hard to oppose Gaelic Warrior over this trip.
Selection; Gaelic Warrior
Best Alternative; Found A Fifty
Future Champion's Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m
Just seven go to post and it's Gordon Elliott versus Willie Mullins. Elliott has the first two in the betting with Bleu De Vassy and Romeo Coolio. Bleu De Vassy has won his two starts over hurdles this season with ease, the latest at Navan in the Grade 3 For Auction. Romeo Coolio is the pick of Sam Ewing. Following his 18l win at Down Royal on hurdles debut last month he went to the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse and in what turned out to be a bit of a sprint he was caught for a bit of toe and finished over 2l behind the winner with Sea Of Sands, who is another who would benefit from a stronger gallop, a further 3l back in third. Karniquet won his only statrt for current connections when easily accounting for his rivals in a Tramore Maiden Hurdle last month. He was runner up in his two starts in France but this is a bigger test. Karafan was almost 6l behind Kala Conti in the Grade 3 Juvenile Hurddle here last Christmas and was given a break until earlier this month when he won his maiden at Clonmel. While I think Romeo Coolio will get further in time, if he gets a strongly run race here he could be good enough.
Selection; Romeo Coolio
Best Alternative; Blue De Vessy
Limerick (Going; Yielding To Soft)
Dawn Run Mares Novice Chase (Grade 2) 2m6f120y
Only seven runners her and it loks to be between three of them. Derek O'Connor won on Bioluminscence on her only start in a point back in November 2022 and takes the ride here for her Chase debut. She's only had five starts since that win winning two hurdles , including a Grade 3 around this course and distance last March, and runner up in two. She hasn't run since pulling up in the Grade 1 Mares at Fairhouse last March. Shecouldbeanything has been kept busy since finishing third in a Listed Mares at Killarney in May and this will be eleventh start since then. On her latest she was a 5l last of five o Croke Park in the Drinmore at Fairhyouse earlier this month. That came after she had run up a four timer. Paggane makes her chase debut for Willie Mullins. She's won two and been placed five times over hurdles but would need to take a big step forward to win this I think. Nonetheless it's interesting that the Trainer starts her off over fences in this Grade. Kiltealy Park won her only start over fences getting up on the line by a short head at Clonmel earlier this month and should appreciate this step up in trip. Bioluminescence would probably prefer a lot softer ground so Shecouldbeanything could be the one to be on providing a busy year hasn't taken it's toll.
Selection; Shecouldbeanything
Best Alternative; Kiltealy Park
Chepstow (Going; Soft)
Finale Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m
Nine go to post and French challenger Nietzche Has is the early favourite. He's had just six starts winning three and ben placed in his last two. It can be hard sometimes to get a handle on French form. He beat Willy D'Houell back in April but the latter was too keen for his own good today. On his latest start Nietzsche Has was beaten just over 1l in an Auteuil Grade 1 with the two finishing a long way clear of the rest. He goes to Stud after this. The Gredley Family and James Owen have some good juveniles and rely on Opec here. She's a very well bred filly being a full sister to Allmankind out of a full sister to successful Stallions Beat Hollow and Court Cave. She fell on debut over hurdles when 12l ahead going easily at the second last but she made up for that winning her subsequent three starts. On her latest she beat Prairie Moon by 8l with her more fancied stablemate back in third. The second and third haven't done much for the form in their next starts. Hot Fuss was rated 95 as a 2yo and finished up on the flat with an 88 rating after a few placings in valuable handicaps. On his hurdle debut he mad mistakes at the final two flights to finis a 4l second to East India Dock who went on to beat Static by 18l next time and is as low as 6/1 for the Triumph Hurdle. Hot Fuss went on to beat Galactial Charm at Sandown three weeks ago and the latter won at Fontwell today at short odds on. Melon was only rated 65 on the Flat and won his only start over hurdles when winning at Doncaster two weeks ago. If you were to go on ratings Nietzsche Has should win this comfortably but at the prices Hot Fuss is good each way value at 7/1 with Bet 365.
Selection; Hot Fuss (half a point each way 7/1 Bet 365)
Best Alternative; Opec
Kempton (Going; Good)
Wayward Lad Novices Chase (2m)
Just four go to post and it's a match between Sir Gino and Ballyburn got his chase career off to a winning start with a comfortable win at Punchestown last month.. The drop back in trip is a slight worry as most of his wins have come over further. Sir Gino is unbeaten in five starts and gets 6lb form Ballyburn. However it's his first start over fences. He showed his well being when winning the Fighting Fifth Hurdle last month. Rubaud is another making his chase debut and will be looking from crumbs from the table while Brookie looks outclassed. It's a toss of a coin between the top two but the benefit of a run just swings it in favour of Ballyburn.
Selection; Ballyburn
Best Alternative; Sir Gino
Desert Orchid Handicap Chase ( Grade 2) 2m
Since winning at Newbury in March, Martator has done nothing but improve in his next four starts winning all and rising 33lb in the handicap to a mark of 151. On his latest start he wa sa comfortable 11l winner from Kotmask with Sans Bruit a further neck back in third. The latter is now 12lb better off. Boothill was having his first run after a wind op when finishing over 1l back in second behind Jonbon in the Shloer Chase at Cheltenham last month. He'd a disappointing end to last season but looks like he's returning to his best. Edwardstone fell four out in the Tingle Creek three weeks ago having finished just over 2l behind Jonbon in the Shloer. He has to concede weight all around and could be vulnerable to improving younger horses. Editeur Du Gite seems to have lost his way and has Pulled Up three times in his last four starts. He has a few wins around here but he doesn't appeal. Soul Icon is on a nice weight but has five runner up spots in his last six starts and was beaten a long way last of four on his last. I'm a big fan of Boothill but he has to concede 9lb to a younger horse in Martator who could still be improving.
Selection; Martator
Best Altrenative; Boothill
December 26th
Kempton (Going; Good)
Kauto Star Novices Chase (Grade 1) 3m
The Jukebox Man put in a terrofic round of jumping to beat Masaccio by 2l at Newbury four weeks ago. However he had a tendency to jump left at a lot of his fences and he hung left on the run in which won't be ideal around Kempton. He finished second behind Stellar Story and Dancing City in the two Grade 1 Novice Stayers at Cheltenham and Aintree. He likes to race prominently and the way he travelled last time and his jumping will be a huge asset around here. Hyland has won three of his four starts over fences. On his latest, a Listed race at Cheltenham, he just did enough to hold on from Resplenedent Grey. He's another who likes to race prominently and has the benefit of experience. Connections aren't aftraid to take on The Jukebox Man again with Masaccio. He was staying on the last day although I don't think he jumping at times was as fluent as the winner. He had beaten Twinjets 2l on his only other start over fences. His trainer feels the step up in trip should suit. White Rhino won five of his twelve hurdle starts, all handicaps, and ended with a mark of 128. He now runs off 141 having won his two Novice Handicap chases but this is a big step up for him. Welcome To Cartries came over from Ireland with a big reputation and a very big price tag if rumours are to be believed having won his only point by 16l. He was given a wind op before his debut for current connections and having been placed on debut won next time and then was runner up to Kerryhill in the Grade 2 River Don. However he disappointed at Ayr and had another wind op over the summer' He weakened in the final 100 yards at Sandown on his re appearance three weeks ago and is best watched. I was impressed with The Jukebox Man the last day and given that he should improve for that run he gets the nod.
Selection; The Jukebox Man
Best Alternative; Hyland
Christmas Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m
Only four go to post but it is a mouth watering affair. the big question is how will Constitution Hill perform after a twelve month lay off since sluicing home in last year's race by 17l. He's had a wind op since and we don't know what else has kept him off other than the Virus in Seven Barrows last Spring. For me he's best watched here. Lossimouth gets the 7lb Mare's Allowance and was impressive when winning the Hattons Grace four weeks ago by almost 4l from Teahupoo. Held up by Paul Townend she cruised upsides Teahupoo going to the last and was never asked a question. It was like a piece of work at home and you couldn't but be impressed. Interesting to see the 4yo Burdett Road here. Following his 10l runner up spot to Sir Gino at Cheltenham last January he was given a break until July at Ascot where he had the first of his five starts on the Flat. He resumed hurdling at Cheltenham last month getting home by half a length in a Grade 3 Handicap conceding weight to all his rivals. However, like the only other starter Lump Sum, he has a fair bit to find on ratings. Lossiemouth for me.
Selection; Lossiemouth
Best Alternative; Constitution Hill
King George VI Chase (Grade 1) 3m
Eleven are declared for this and Spillane's Tower is favourite following his run in the John Durkan where he split Fact Or File and Galloping the Champs going down by a neck to the winner. That was his first run since April so he'd be expected to come on for it. Banbridge was well beaten the only time he ran over 3m on the track. On his lastes start he was challenging Enurgumene at the last in the Hilly Way when the latter carried him right and he became unbalanced jumping the fence and unseated his Jockey. He had been well beaten the run before that by Found A Fifty at Navan in November. The ground will be in his favour but this is a stiff 3m. Grey Dawning had a gruelling race in the Betfair at Haydock last month and he looked legless on the run to the line, going down by 2l to the winner Royale Pigaille. Il Est Francais is reported to have bled on his latest start when pulling up at Auteuil. Two runs before that he had also disappointed. He looked a super star when winning the Kauto Star on this card last year but I prefer a watching brief for this run. L'Homme Presse has been lightly raced in recent seasons and has his first start since a 15l fourth in the Gold Cup last March. He had his first start last season in January and won having been off the track for thirteen months. The stable has been hoovering up some big pots lately. The negative is he jumped left in this back in 2022 eventually unseating at the last when a couple of lengths down and clear of the third. Envoi Allen won the Ladbroke at Down Royal last month beating Hewick half a length with the favourite Gerri Colombe running abysmally. Bravemansgame has become a bit of an enigma and hasn't won in nine starts since winning this race in 2022. He had wind surgery over the summer and had to reasonable runs fiNishing second to The Real Whacker in the Charlie Hall and third in the Betfair. The latter could outrun his big price with Patrick Neville's stable hitting form again after a lean spell last season. Corbetts Cross has worn a hood for his last three runs but it is left off herE. He won the National Hunt Chase at the Festival by 17l in March before going down by almost 3l to Gerri Colombe in the Bowl Chas eat Aintree. An out and out stayer he could benefit from a strong gallop. There are two other French starters but both need big improvement. Hopefully Spillane's Tower will handle the ground and is the selection.
Selection; Spillane's Tower
Best Alternative; L'Homme Presse
Aintree (Good To Soft)
Formby Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m209y
Seven got to post and it has the makings of a cracking contest. Potters Charm has won all three hurdle starts including the Grade 2 over 2m5f at Lat Months Cheltenham meeting. He may have been flattered by the winning margin as the runner up, Valgrand, tried to make all and was haded two out and weakened and probably didn't stay while the third, Gale Mahler was probably feeling the effects of a busy summer campaign as she disappointed next time also. Country Mile is two from three over hurdles beating previous winner Wingman by over 7l at Cheltenham two weeks ago on Good To Soft ground over 2m1f. On his penultimate start he was a 3l runner up to Roadlesstravelled at Haydock on Soft over an extended 1m7f having made a bad mistake at the last. The latter is also three from three and hus jumping over the last two at Haydock was better than the runner up. Celtic Dino is two from two over hurdles and two from three in Bumpers. On his last start he beat subsequent winner Wade's Out by over 4l at Ascot while he beat Ma Shantou 14l into second on his penultimate start with the latter winning his next two starts. Miami Magic is two from two over hurdles and both weere impressive wins of 10l and 12l. He was beaten a head in a Bumper here in May so acts on the course. Junker d'Allier has gone off favourite for his two starts over hurdles and duly obliged. He won a Novice at Bangor on the second of them with plenty in hand so it's difficult to say how good he is other than it's notable Olly Murphy runs him here. I'll take a chance with Celtic Dino.
Selection; Celtic Dino
Best Alternative; Roadlesstravelled
Leoardstown (Going; Yielding)
Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m
Willy De Houelle will have nine opponents to beat if he's to justify favouritism for this and he wears a first time hood. He had two runs in France before joining the Ricci/Mullins team. He won the first with the runner up winning four times since. On the second he was beaten 2l by the useful Nietzsche Has having jumped left and mad a mistake at the last. On his only start in Ireland he jumped left on occasions and made a number of mistakes and finished over 1l behind the winner Naturally Nimble who had the benefit of a previous run but is 3lb worse off here. Hello Neighbour makes his debut over hurdles having won his two starts on the flat and it may be significant that Gavin Cromwell runs him here. Market moves should be noted. Murcia makes her debut for Mullins having had four starts in France winning once and third in the others. By a top sire in Doctor Dino she runs in the colours of Kenny Alexander and gets a valuable Fillies allowance. Its Bilbo had Naturally Nimble 26l back at Punchestown on his only start in Ireland having finished over 8l behind Willy De Houelle at Compiegne on his only other start where he took a keen hold. It's possible some of the others can be involved but I think the winner will come from one of the above and slight preference is for Willy De Houelle.
Selection; Willy De Houelle
Best Alternative; Murcia
Racing Post Long Distance Novice Chase (Grade 1) 3m100y
Only four going to post here and three of then trained by Gordon Elliott. Croke Park was good in the Drinmore over 2m4f where he made all and had to battle hard to beat Heart Wood a neck. Prior to that he had won his chase debut by three parts of a length also at Fairyhouse. He was reported to have blood in both nostrils after that win. Brghterdaysahead beat Slade Steel 4l over 2m4f on his only Chase start and should relish the step up in trip. Stellar Story, who got up on the line to beat The Jukebox Man in the Abert Bartlett at the Festival, won on his only chase start getting the better of stablemate Search For Glory by a short head in a messy race at Punchestown. Buddy One has been disappointing in his last two starts over fences having won on chase debut at Galway in October. He had some decent form in open company over hurdles but is probably best watched here. Slight preference is for Croke Park.
Selection; Croke Park
Best Alternative; Brighterdaysahead
Limerick (Going; Yielding To Soft)
Lyons of Limerick Novice Hurdle (Grade 2)
Just six go in this and it looks a close enough affair. The Big Westerner is a half sister to Stay Away Fay and has had just two career starts winning a Point, after which she was bough for £120k, and then winning a Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown by 1l with the next finisher 9l further back. Minella Sixo has won two and been runner up twice in his four starts over hurdles having won his only point. He was runner up to Potters Charm at Cheltenham back in October before beating Mister Pink half a length at Thurles and then finishing over 2l behind Pray Tell in a Grade 3 at Cork eighteen days ago. Fleur In The Park was beaten a neck by The Yellow Clay in the Grade 2 Navan Hurdle three weeks ago over 2m4f with Mozzies Sister 5l further back. Fleur In The Park has some good bumper form to go with his hurdles form and he is the selection.
Selection; Fleur In The Park
Best Alternative; The Big Westerner
December 21st
Ascot (Going; Good To Soft)
Long Walk Hurdle (Grade 1) 3M97Y
Ten runners go to post for this and among them is last year's winner Crambo. However, unlike last year when he had two runs prior to it he comes here off the back of an extended break having finished 46l behind Strong Leader in the Grade 1 Liverpool Hurdle last April. He did win first time out last year but that was off a fifty day shorter break. Strong Leader got off to a winning start for the season when beating Monmiral at Newbury last month. He was beaten by Blueking d'Oroux over 2m4 here last year but has improved for the step up to 3m. The Wallpark has won his last four starts and has since been bough by J.P. McManus. Since joining Gordon Elliott in May last year he has won seven times but this is a big step up from Handicaps. On his last start he beat Gowel Road by over 2l at Cheltenhakm which earned him a 7lb rise in the Handicap. Charles Byrnes sends over Shoot First who won the Grade 3 Handicap Hurdle at Haydock last month. That was his second start after a two year lay off and he has obviously had issues as this will only be his tenth start and he'll be 9y0 in January. Another Irish runner is Hiddenvalley Lake who has his first start since finishing almost 5l behind Strong Leader at Aintree in April. Prior to that he had won the Grade2 Boyne Hurdle at Navan. He goes well when fresh so market moves should be noted. Paul Nicholls is sticking to hurdles with Blueking d'Oroux. He was over 10l back in fifth in this last year behind Crambo having beaten Strong Leader over an extended 2m3f the run before in the Grade 2 Ascot Hurdle. He's had a prep run when beaten 1l in the same race last month. Stii a 5yo he should keep improving and might be worth each way value on this ground and on a racecourse he obviously likes. Kateira gets the 7lb Mares allowance. She's had two runs this season finishing almost 5l behind Beacon Edge in the Grade 2 over 3m at Wetherby early last month and then went to Kempton almonst four weeks ago and won a Mare's Listed Hurdle. She beat Jango Baie at Aintree last April and could well be in the mix. Botox Has was beaten 11l in this last year and pulled up behind Strong Leader at Aintree in April. On his only start this season he was 20l behind The Wallpark at Cheltenham in October. Beauport has had eleven starts over fences since he last ran over hurdles back in April 2022. He won three of his chase starts and had reached a mark of 148 over hurdles so it's interesting to see him back over the smaller obstacles. The Durkan's send over Eagle Fang but he has a bit to find on ratings. Blueking d'Oroux raced keenly in last year's race and hopefully he'll settle better here and if he does I think he's good each way value.
Selection; Blueking d'Oroux ( Each Way 10/1 Paddy Power)
Best Alternative; Strong Leader
December 20th
Ascot (Going; Good To Soft)
Noel Novices Chase (Grade 2) 2m3f175y
Just four to face the starter for this and it is a tricky event. Johnnywho got his chase career off to a winning start when winning a three horse race over 2m4f at Carlisle but was no match for the impressive The Jukebox Man at Newbury last month. He ran a couple of decent races in Graded company over hurdles last season and was beaten just 2l in the Challow behind Captain Teague. My only concern is that his trainer stated after that Carlisle win, which was on Good To Soft, that he might prefer more give over that trip. Rare Edition wears a first time tongue tie. He beat Rambo T a short head on Chase debut over 2m on Good ground last October and the runner up went on to win next time. Rare Edition was well held by the Bucksy Des Epeires next time over 2m3f. He's drifted a bit in the betting today also. Personal Ambition won three of his five starts over hurdles inncluding a Grade 2 at kelso where he beat Jango Baie by half a length. His trainer Ben Pauling has a strong hand in this division with Handstands and The Jukebox Man. He was beaten 1l on Chase debut by Lookaway in a two horse race and then could only manage a 7l fourth place behind Kalif Du Berlais at Newbury. Both those runs were over 2m. Mark Of Gold makes his chase debut at the age of 7yo having won seven of twenty starts over hurdles and three of twelve starts on the Flat. He'd a highest rating of 141 over hurdles and it's interesting that the Moore's start him over fences at this level. He's probably best watched here and at the moment is a drifter in the betting. Given the comments of his trainer after his win at Carlisle it might not be soft enough for Johnnywho and slight preference is for Personal Ambition.
Selection; Personal Ambition
Best Alternative; Johnnywho
December 14th
Cheltenham (Good To Soft)
Bristol Novices Hurdle (Grade 2) 3m
Seven go to post for this with the prolific winnir Skyjack Hijack the early favourite. He's run nine times since June and has won his last six climbing 42lbs in the ratings. He's been winning his races by wide margins although I suspect he was flattered by his win at Exeter as he had the benefit of race fitness and it remains to be seen if he can continue his progress. Clondaw General won his Point last January with a couple of winners coming from those in behind. He was bought by current connections for £150k after that. He reappeared last October winning a four runner Novice Hurdle and should improve for that. He has had just the two runs and both were on Soft. Western Knight has won his two hurdle starts, both coming last month. In the first he beat subsequent winner Julius Des Pictons three parts of a length with the two pulling well clear of the rest. Both wins were on Good ground and he was runner up in a Bumper on Soft. Jet Blue was purchased out of Hugo Merriene's yard last month at the Aeqana Sale for €220k and now races for trainer David Cottin and owner Caroline Tisdall who has had some good horses down the year with David Pipe. Jet Blue won twice and was placed in his other three starts for Herriene and it will be interesting to see how he matches up having not raced beyond 2m2f previously. Aboutdamntime was beaten over 3l by Clondaw Warrior in his point and won next time out in his only start over hurdles. Again he's another who has only raced on Soft. Yellow Car needs to find a bit on ratings while Stop Lass has had just the one Bumper start and is best watched. A difficult one to weigh up but Clondaw General might have more rom for improvement than some of his rivals and gets the nod with the hope that he goes in the gorund.
Selection; Clondaw General
Best Alternative; Western Knight
December 8th
Cork (Going; Yielding To Soft)
EBF Mares Novice Chase (Grade 2) 2m160y
Eight go to post for this decent pot. Only By Night got her chase career off to the perfect start when easily accounting for useful hurdler Mirazur West at Tipperary last month. The winner jumped well and travelled strongly to win going away by over 6l. She won three times before Christmas last year so maybe this is her time of year. Nara has had two runs over fences. She took a strong hold on her first start but fell five out and again ran keenly on her second and despite not being fluent at a few fences won pulling up by over 7l. Zenta was a good Juvenile hurdler winning a Grade 3 and Grade 1 and finishing third in the triumph just over 2l behind Lossiemouth. She ran in the Grade 3 Novice at this meeting last year finishing over 5l back in third and went to the Drf and Cheltenhma without success. She had a spin around Ballinrobe in a chase last May but couldn't quicken when asked. The rest look held on related form. Zenta was a classy juvenile hurdler and a return to that form could see her win here.
Selection; Zenta
Best Alternative; Only By Night
Hilly Way Chase (Grade 2) 2m160y
Six of the eight runners for this are trained by Willie Mullins and Energumene, after almost six hundred days since his last run, heads the market. At his best who would have no problem seeing off these but there must be a question of how ready he is and the fact that he is a 10yo rising 11yo. He has won this twice with Willie Mullins dominating the race with nine wins in the last ten years and all bar one were favourite. Dinoblue has been very consistent over fences winning five and being placed in the other six. She won the Grade 1 at Leopardstown last Christmas which completed a four timer for her and was subsequently placed in a couple of Grade 1's. Since winning the Bumper at Cheltenham in 2020 Ferny Hollow has only run four times the last of these in February. He's won all four but stable jockey Paul Townend has opted for Energumene. Blue Lord hasn't run since finishing 6l behind Fastorslow in last year's John Durkan. He has won off long breaks before an has master tactician Danny Mullins doing the steering. Banbridge would like it to dry out and was very disappointing in the Fortria last month. Dinoblue can take advantage of her allowance.
Selection; Dinoblue
Best Alternative; Blue Lord (Each Way)
Huntingdon (Going; Good To Soft)
Peterborough Chase (Grade 2) 2m3f189y
A tricky contest given that we have no explanation as to why Ginny's Destiny weakened so quickly at Cheltenham last month when pulling up in the Paddy Power where he went off favourite. He had improved over 20lb according to the handicapper throughout last season, initially in Handicaps, before finishing off the in two Grade 1's where he was runner up to Grey dawning and Il Etait Temps respectively. Protektorat was 0ver 17l back in sixth in the Paddy Power but had finished last season winning the Ryanair at Cheltenham and over 2l back in third to Jonbon at Aintree. That form would win this and he is rated 12lb higher that Ginny's Destiny, who gets 6lb from him, but there is a feeling that he is better going left handed and this goes right. Djelo completed the hat trick on his first three starts last season but fell after being badly hampered at the first in Lingfield next time. He was runner up and third on his next two starts both Grade 1's. He had a prep for this in the Haldon Cup at Exeter last month when he was three parts of a length back in second to JPR One who ran a decent race in the Tingle Creek today. Nickle Back beat Djelo 7l in the Scilly Ilses in February on Good ground but was disappointing on his next two starts and hasn't run since April. Minella Drama won the Old Roan at Aintree on seasonal debut last October. He's a consistent sort winning eight and placed ten times in twenty three starts. That was his first win since February last year and having to concede weight to some of his rivals might be too much. Ginny's Destiny ran poorly first time out last season but improved to win his next three starts so connections will be hoping for similar here. Dan Skelton has his string in great form and as I write five of his last six runners have won and Protektorat might just shade it.
Selection; Protektorat
Best Alternative; Ginny's Destiny
December 7th
Sandown (Going; Soft)
Henry VIII Novices Chase (Grade 1) 1m7f99y
Just five runners o to post here. L'Eau du Sud has been impressive in winning his two starts over fences this season, the latest coming in the Grade 2 Arkle Trial at Cheltenham last month where he stalked the leaders into the straight and quickened up going to the second last to win in a canter by 11l. Given the ratings of his opponents he was entitled to win it but it still looked impressive. Gordon Elliott sends over two Down Menory Lane the mount of Mark Walsh for the McManus Team. He won a Point and two Hurdle races before disappointing at Christmas. He didn't reappear until three weeks ago when he easily accounted for the useful King Of Kingsfield, who didn't jump the last too well, and Nurburgring who was over 8l back in third. Down Memory Lane travelled and jumped well and should be in the mix. Rubaud makes his Chasing debut after winning two valuable hurdle races. However looking at his form I don't think he'd want the going to go soft. Touch Me Not is the second Elliott runner. He's had two runs over fences finishing a neck second to Facile Mode in October at Punchestown and returning there two weeks ago to win the Grade 2 Craddoxstown from stable companion Farren Glory, who had won his Novice at Naas, with Nurburgring 8l back in third. Soul Icon has been second on his last five starts and has failed to win in eight starts over fences. He usually bucks out and makes the running but I think he'd prefer if there was no more rain. Down Memory Lane just shades it for me.
Selection; Down Memory Lane
Best Alternative; L'Eau du Sud
Tingle Creek Chase (Grade 1) 1m7f99y
One of the highlights of the season and Jonbon is a short priced favourite to complete the hat trick of victories in it. He got his season off to a good start when beating old rivals Boothill and Edwardstone by over 1l and three parts of a length. Quilixios put a couple of disappointing runs at the back end of last season behind him when beating Marine Nationale by over 7l at Naas last Month. His jumping was superb at Naas and with it being at a premium down the Railway fences at Sandown he should give a good account of himself. He made all at Naas and I can see him making it again here. Edwardstone has failed to beat Jonbon in four outings including last year's running of this when almost 3l back in second. He's 10yo now and despite the bullishness of his trainer he's vulnerable to the younger improvers. Boothill has finished behind Jonbon the three times they met including the 2022 running of this race. That was a fine effort in the Schloer last month, his first run back after a wind op. He had a couple of falls last season but his confidence appears ok now. JPR One had some decent form last season and was desperately unlucky in the Arkle Trial a year ago unseating his rider with the race at his mercy. He had a summer wind op and showed the benefit of it with a fine win in the Haldon Cup at Exeter last month and could be of interest to Each Way backers who don't fancy odds on betting. Master Chewy had a couple of good runs last year including a head second to Found A Fifty at Aintree. However he's held on his run behind JPR One at Lingfield on soft in January. However he is normally a good jumper which will help here. Solness has been mixing Hurdles and Fences and on his latest start he was a neck back in second behind Found Fifty when in receipt of 7lb in the Grade 2 Fortria at Navan last month. Jonbon is short enough for most punters so I recommend an Each Way on Quilixios if all eight run or without the favourite.
Selection; Quilixios (Half Point Each Way 6/1 William Hill)
Best Alternative; JPR One (Each Way)
Navan (Going; Good To Yielding)
Navan Novice Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m4f
Seven go to post for this and The Yellow Clay, who is unbeaten in his two starts this season, is a short priced favourite. He didn't have tio be at his best to win his maiden at Down Royal and the drop back in trip to 2m4f was no problem around this course three weeks ago when he was very impressive winning by 10l in the Grade 3 Monksfield. Mozzies Sister won her Point and two of four Bumpers and runner up in the other. She won her Maiden at Galway in October and takes a big step forward here. She gets 10lb from the Favourite here. Patter Merchant was beaten 14l here by Bleu De Vassy over 2m last month but had won his maiden over an extended 2m5f at Galway in October . Fleur In The Park was over 12l behind The Yellow Clay the last day. Highly unusual to see the Mullins representative at double digits in the betting buty that's the case with My Great Mate. He's plenty of racing experience winning two of four Bumpers and has won two of his five starts over hurdles and been placed in the remainder. However he was beaten a long way in two Garded Bumpers. Rockstown Girl was going ok when falling three out at Cheltenham last month while Will The Wise won his Point and Bumper before finishing 9l back in second on his only start over hurdles. It's hard to oppose The Yellow Clay who gets the selection.
Selection; The Yellow Clay
Best Alternative; Mozzies Sister
December 6th
Sandown (Going; Good To Soft)
Winter Novices Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m4f
Six go to post here and it looks a competitive race. Bill Joyce won his Point and two Bumpers before finishing down the field in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham. That may have come to quick after his win at Warwick on Heavy ground where he beat previous winner Joyau Allen by over 8l. He reappeared at Carlisle last month where he comfortably accounted for his rivals. Kingston Pride has won three of his four starts, a Point, Bumper and Maiden Hurdle the latter at Uttoxeter three weeks ago with the runner up Land Afar winning at Ludlow on Wednesday. Quebecois was runner up in his only Point before current owners bought bim for £320k. That point form seems to be working out as the first and third have both won under rules. Quebecois himself won his first Bumper before running to freely at Cheltenham and fading out of it. He resumed over Hurdles last October winning his Maiden by a comfortable 8l. Pony Soprano was obviously unfancied when third in his only Bumper start last February. He wasn't seen again until October when beating the odds on favourite Sorceleur who came out last month and won on successive days. Ballytechno didn't show much in three Bumpers when Owner ridden. He moved to James Owen's yard and was beaten 1l on Hurdles debut before going on to win his next two. The form however doesn't look particularly strong. Admiral Stewart won his Maiden Hurdle two weeks ago having finished a 9l second in a Bumper on seasonal and stable debut having been bought for £130k after winning his Point last January. Bill Joyce for me.
Selection; Bill Joyce
Best Alternative; Quebecois
Esher Novices Chase (Grade 2) 3m
Resplendent Grey started off last season with a 9l second to Captain Teague and ended it winning a Handicap Hurdle at Uttoxeter. He won on chase debut at the latter track in October and then went down by half a length to Hyland at The November Cheltenham meeting in a Listed Novice Chase where a mistake two out didn't help his chance. Handstands fell on Chase debut. He completed a hat trick of wins over hurdles last season but weakened from two out in the Gallaghers at Cheltenham. It's possible the season caught up with him. He won his point also so I expect he's been well schooled since his fall. Welcom To Cartres makes his chase debut although he did win a Point two years ago. He was off for almost a win after that Point win and had three runs over hurdles winning once and runner up twice including to Kerryhill in the Grade 2 River Don. He then disappointed at Ayr in April on Soft and has had a wind op over the Summer. Market moves should be noted. Saint Davy makes a belated debut over fences. He won his Point three years ago and wasn't seen for nother eleven months until he won a Carlisle Bumper. He went onnto win his Maiden Hurdle before disappointing at Aintree. He was off until January this year and won his first two including a valuable handicap here at Sandown before disappointing on Heavy ground at Uttoxeter. Probably best watched although market moves should be noted as he goes well when fresh. Cadell and Riskintheground don't appeal on a Soft surface. I'll take a chance with Handstands
Selection; Handstands
Best Alternative; FResplenedent Grey
December 1st
Fairyhouse (Going; Yielding)
Royal Bond Novice Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m110y
Romeo Coolio is a strong favourite here following his impressive hurdles debut at Down Royal . He's also won a point and Bumper and was runner up in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham in March. His stablemate Bleu Du Vassy has won both his starts over hurdles impressively. Willie Mullins throws five at the Elliott pair and Paul Townend has chosen Belloccio. He's had plenty of experience on the Flat winning six times raeching a high rating of 106 He's had just one start over hurdles for Mullins winning readily at Punchestown last May. The rest of the field will be race fit having raced over the summer but make little appeal. Romeo Coolio was very impressive last time and gets the vote.
Selection; Romeo Coolio
Best Alternative; Bleu De Vassy
Drinmore Chase (Grade 1) 2m4f
Six got to post but it looks a two horse race. Firefox has always looked like he'd make a chaser and he didn't disappoint at Down Royal being too good for the field. He jumped well and travelled strongly during the race. He finished last seaon finishing runner up to Mystical Power twice. Heart Wood beat Corbetts Cross at Wexford over 2m7f in October. He has plenty of experience having had six starts over the larger obstacles but I wonder if he'll find this trip a bit sharp. Firefox for me.
Selection; Firefox
Best Alternative; Heart Wood
Hatton's Grade Hurdle (Grade 1) 2m4f
Just four declared but it's basically a match between Lossiemouth and Teahupoo who is attempting to win it for the third time. You would expect Teahupoo to be fully wound up for this as connections have said he goes straight to the Cheltenham festival next. My only worry is that over this trip he may need slower ground. Lossiemouth gets a valuable 7lb mares allowance. She's won eight of her nine starts and could be deemed to be unlucky in the other. She's won over this trip before when stepping up for her last two starts. Gordon Elliott has the other two runners and maybe they might try to set the pace. There's nothing between the top two in the betting but the allowance just might swing it for Lossiemouth.
Selection; Lossiemouth
Best Alternative; Teahupoo
