March 16 / 16.10 Cheltenham

16.10

Soft

Magners Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £67524
  • 2m 4f 127y
  • Class 1
  • 26 runners
ITV
View Course
Magners Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 26 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

20/1 (Won)

  • Win: £21.00
  • Place: £4.30

Form: 8F2311 C

Last run: 77 days

W: 11st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Formerly trained in Britain; has form figures of 2311 since joining Irish trainer John McConnell, the wins gained over hurdles at this track (2m4f, good; comfortably) in October and over fences at Leopardstown (2m5f, soft; easily) in late December; could well have even more to offer for current stable; interesting on return from another break.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

(17)

11th Oct 2025

Good

2m 2f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

Seddon

8st 7lb

J: Patrick McGettigan

T: John C McConnell

Can make the running; superb 2022-23 season was his best over hurdles/fences, including big-field wins at the Cheltenham and Punchestown festivals; a 10yo before his attentions were turned to the Flat and he won twice (2m1f/1m6f) last August/September; the five good handicaps since, however, have seen him comfortably held (last four were over fences); off since April; today's hood is his first ever headgear.

40/1

9th

8

30th Apr 2025

Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:05 Punchestown

Seddon

10st 13lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: John C McConnell

led, headed 4th, prominent behind clear leader 8th

14/1

10/1

  • Place: £3.30

Form: 48-212 BF

Last run: 47 days

W: 11st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser who has been nicely progressive this term, with impressive success at Chepstow (2m3f, soft) flanked by a couple of good efforts at this venue (2m/2m4f), latest behind Il Ridoto (pair well clear); remains unexposed at this trip; solid chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

6

15th Apr 2026

Good

2m 3f 203y

Class 1

14:40 Haydock

Fugitif

11st 2lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Richard Hobson

No win since late 2023 and he hasn't got a lot going this season; he had run well but looked on the retreat when unseating in Outlaw Peter's race here 11 days ago (visor replaced usual cheekpieces).

12/1

5

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 2

15:20 Haydock

Fugitif

11st 5lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Richard Hobson

Winless since December 2023 and hasn't posed a serious threat this season; however, he was best of the rest behind easy winner Guard Your Dreams at Warwick (2m4f, heavy) last time and continues to drop down the weights; handles various ground; not ruled out in first-time visor (replacing cheekpieces).

8/1

2nd

3

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Warwick

Fugitif

11st 5lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Richard Hobson

Quirky customer who is without a win since December 2023 and has become frustrating; that said, he ran well for a long way in a valuable Ascot handicap (2m5f, soft) three weeks ago and is another 4lb lower here.

15/2

20/1

  • Place: £3.90

Form: 323-15 BF

Last run: 74 days

W: 10st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser who remains open to further progress; made a winning reappearance at Exeter (2m3f, good to soft) then didn't quite get home on soft ground when favourite for C&D handicap on New Year's Day (shaped better than bare result; race won by Midnight River); possibilities granted an untaxing surface.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

35

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

10st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

11yo whose three peak ratings were recorded over an extended 2m4f in the mud at Cheltenham, notably his Plate win at the 2024 Festival (2lb higher today); flew over these fences in the Topham next time but cracked badly in the closing stages and he's not really got going this season, 14th back in the Plate last time; lots of doubts.

66/1

35

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

10st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

11yo whose three peak ratings were recorded over an extended 2m4f in the mud at Cheltenham, notably his Plate win at the 2024 Festival (2lb higher today); flew over these fences in the Topham next time but cracked badly in the closing stages and he's not really got going this season, 14th back in the Plate last time; lots of doubts.

66/1

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

11st 1lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Runs off the same mark as for his Cheltenham Festival win last year (2m4f, soft) and he was a creditable fourth of 15 in this race in 2023 (good to soft); however, he was outstayed on that occasion and this 11yo has finished down the field on both outings this year.

25/1

66/1

  • Place: £20.90

Form: 743145 D

Last run: 110 days

W: 10st 8lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser and still only a 7yo but somewhat exposed having already had 16 attempts in this sphere (three wins); form dipped in first-time cheekpieces when last seen; headgear retained; others preferred.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Gevrey

10st 5lb

J: Jake Coen

T: Gordon Elliott

Placed in the Plate here (2m4f, soft) two years ago and in Irish Grand National (3m5f, soft) a few weeks later but his form nosedived after Munster National success at Limerick (3m, soft) later in 2023; well beaten on last month's cross-country debut at Punchestown (race won by Vanillier) and arrives here with a lot to prove.

33/1

9th

3

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Gevrey

11st 11lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Has lost his form since winning the Munster National at Limerick in October 2023; pulled up three times in a row subsequently and was beaten 55l on his return to action at Navan in November; switch to the banks needs to spark a revival.

16/1

9th

3

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Gevrey

11st 11lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Has lost his form since winning the Munster National at Limerick in October 2023; pulled up three times in a row subsequently and was beaten 55l on his return to action at Navan in November; switch to the banks needs to spark a revival.

16/1

Form: 6-54F2 BF

Last run: 26 days

W: 12st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 157

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser who has shown smart form in Grade 2 events over 2m4f the last twice, proving unlucky at Thurles (would likely have won but for final-fence fall) then second at Gowran behind Ryanair contender Janadil; still unexposed at this distance; seems versatile ground-wise; has the ability to play a major role on handicap debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

9

30th Nov 2023

Yielding

2m 6f 0y

12:40 Thurles

Haut En Couleurs

11st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

took keen hold, in touch with leaders, went second from 3 out, mistake and lost ground 2 out, soon pushed along, steadied last, kept on but no match for winner

100/30

4th

1

14th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Haut En Couleurs

12st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Second-season chaser; no top weight has won this since Dublin Flyer in 1995 but he's a genuine Grade 2 performer (at least) who wasn't beaten at all far under top weight at the Cheltenham Festival (2m4f, soft) and his class should see him competitive for a long way, at the least; still only a 6yo and the chosen one of Paul Townend; jumps well; big player.

10/1

5th

1

16th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Haut En Couleurs

12st 0lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: W P Mullins

Second-season chaser who has shown smart form in Grade 2 events over 2m4f the last twice, proving unlucky at Thurles (would likely have won but for final-fence fall) then second at Gowran behind Ryanair contender Janadil; still unexposed at this distance; seems versatile ground-wise; has the ability to play a major role on handicap debut.

13/2

Form: 83-441 CD

Last run: 47 days

W: 11st 3lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Sound record (form figures 441) in major 2m4f handicaps here this season, most recently taking well to first-time cheekpieces and showing a good attitude to beat Fugitif (pair well clear) on soft ground; this youngster looks capable of further progress; respected in the retained headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

17th Apr 2026

Soft

2m 4f 110y

Class 2

15:30 Ayr

Il Ridoto

11st 2lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

9yo who hasn't been at his best this season but there have been signs of spark and he failed to stay 3m2f when well beaten at the Cheltenham Festival last time; continues to drop down the weights and could be in the shake-up back down in trip and in grade.

9/1

15th

6

12th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Il Ridoto

11st 7lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Two-time course winner (2m4f, soft/good) who, having dropped down the weights, returned to form when second here on New Year's Day (2m4f, good; albeit no match for the winner); however, he doesn't appear to be crying out for the step up in trip; faded over 3m in February 2024.

25/1

3

12th Oct 2025

Good To Firm

2m 3f 98y

Class 2

15:52 Chepstow

Il Ridoto

11st 7lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Cheltenham regular who looked as good as ever when winning Paddy Power Gold Cup there (2m4f, good) last November; only 1lb higher today but seemed in need of the run when reappearing in this event last season and perhaps this race will again tee him up for Cheltenham next month.

3/1

OUR TIP

Form: 021112 D BF

Last run: 117 days

W: 11st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Improving youngster who has form figures of 112 (all last autumn) since switched to chasing, scoring at Tipperary (2m4f) and Carlisle (2m3f) then clear second in useful handicap at Ascot (2m1f, good; winner has boosted the form since); subsequently purchased by JP McManus; should be suited by this step back up in trip and improve further; shrewd Irish trainer won this race in 2021; strong credentials.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

21st Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 1f 150y

16:58 Listowel

So Scottish

11st 6lb

J: Aidan Kelly

T: Emmet Mullins

Dual-purpose sort is on a long losing run; in action on Flat and over hurdles since a good run over fences in the spring; blinkers added now; potentially interesting, though he needs to reverse Grand Annual form with Jasko Des Dames.

6/1

10

(5)

16th Aug 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

19:37 Tramore

So Scottish

9st 2lb

J: Jamie Powell

T: Emmet Mullins

Dual-purpose sort is on a long losing run, well held in valuable 2m6f Galway handicap hurdle on latest; previous two Flat maiden runs were poor so seemingly fair bit to do off this opening mark but is unexposed in this sphere.

13/2

12th

9

2nd Aug 2025

Good

2m 6f 108y

15:12 Galway

So Scottish

11st 5lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Emmet Mullins

One of three for yard; generally out of form in 2025 in chases and on the Flat; narrowly denied in this race last year off this mark and this may have been a long-term target so would be no surprise to see a revival; interesting.

14/1

Form: -7P150 CD

Last run: 47 days

W: 11st 0lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
The winner of three major handicap chases over 2m4f at this venue, including this contest (off 2lb higher on soft ground) 12 months ago; however, his Cheltenham form this season (three visits) has taken a turn for the worse, with advancing years a likely factor (now a 12yo).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

3

19th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

13:30 Cheltenham

Coole Cody

11st 10lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

jumped slightly right throughout, led narrowly, joined 11th, ridden when headed before 2 out, weakened approaching last

10/1

8th

11

16th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Coole Cody

11st 0lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

The winner of three major handicap chases over 2m4f at this venue, including this contest (off 2lb higher on soft ground) 12 months ago; however, his Cheltenham form this season (three visits) has taken a turn for the worse, with advancing years a likely factor (now a 12yo).

25/1

10th

3

28th Jan 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

13:50 Cheltenham

Coole Cody

11st 7lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

Fortuitous success in two-runner Grade 2 at Ascot two starts ago; the winner of three major handicap chases over 2m4f at this venue, albeit off lower marks; less likely to bag another one now aged 12.

14/1

Form: -16F13 D

Last run: 85 days

W: 10st 13lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Has form figures of F13 since switched to chasing, the win registered at right-handed Punchestown (2m3f, yielding to soft); subsequent effort suggests this return to a left-handed track will suit; still nowhere near fully exposed over fences and could go well.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

4

23rd Nov 2024

Good

2m 0f 167y

Class 2

15:20 Ascot

Marvel De Cerisy

11st 10lb

J: James Reveley

T: Noel George & Amanda Zetterholm

Successful in Ireland and France; 2-2 since joining the George/Zetterholm stable, both wins in handicaps at Auteuil (2m3f/2m2f, heavy; hurdle/chase) in emphatic style; interesting contender in current form.

7/1

6th

4

23rd Nov 2024

Good

2m 0f 167y

Class 2

15:20 Ascot

Marvel De Cerisy

11st 10lb

J: James Reveley

T: Noel George & Amanda Zetterholm

Successful in Ireland and France; 2-2 since joining the George/Zetterholm stable, both wins in handicaps at Auteuil (2m3f/2m2f, heavy; hurdle/chase) in emphatic style; interesting contender in current form.

7/1

2nd

5

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Marvel De Cerisy

11st 7lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

His only win over fences (1-4) came on a right-handed track but he tends to jump left and got away with it in that novice chase; could upgrade his ninth place in the 2m4f handicap at Cheltenham but, even so, this company demands a good jolt of improvement on that form.

10/1

Form: 15-434 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 10st 6lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Did well to finish fifth, having come from a difficult position, when a 4-1 shot in this contest 12 months ago (he was bidding for a four-timer); consistent efforts this term, without showing any further progress; on a handy mark but vulnerable now aged 11.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

31

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Celebre DAllen

10st 6lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Completed on all three attempts over these fences, easily best of those efforts when close fourth in last season's Topham (2m5f, soft); has twice won well over about 3m/3m1f, including in November on sole start this term, but today's trip is a leap in the dark and this 13yo has easily his highest mark.

100/1

31

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Celebre DAllen

10st 6lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Completed on all three attempts over these fences, easily best of those efforts when close fourth in last season's Topham (2m5f, soft); has twice won well over about 3m/3m1f, including in November on sole start this term, but today's trip is a leap in the dark and this 13yo has easily his highest mark.

100/1

Form: P3-131 CD

Last run: 74 days

W: 11st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser who has a very solid record this term; performed well in major 2m4f handicaps here (good/soft) the last twice, finishing third in the Paddy Power then winning on New Year's Day; open to further progress and holds strong claims kept to this scenario.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

15th Mar 2025

Good

2m 4f 110y

Class 2

15:20 Kempton

Midnight River

11st 13lb

J: Ciaran Gethings

T: Dan Skelton

Successful in notable handicaps at Cheltenham (2m4f) and Aintree (3m1f) in the 2022-23 campaign and is well treated on that form; hasn't looked the same horse since, however.

10/1

5th

2

1st Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:05 Cheltenham

Midnight River

11st 6lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

held up in rear, slightly hampered 4 out, some headway 3 out, weakened home turn

10/1

Form: 9-2434

Last run: 40 days

W: 10st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Useful and consistent handicap chaser at about 2m; has sometimes shaped as if he'll be suited by 2m4f, including when staying-on third (off 6lb higher) in last year's Grand Annual here; appears to handle any ground; interesting on first crack at this distance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Frero Banbou

10st 4lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

10yo who won when upped to an extended 2m7f at Newcastle (good) in November and ran well when 10l second at Kempton (3m, good to soft) next time; however, below par at Doncaster (3m, good) subsequently and pulled up at Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) last month; needs to get back on track.

33/1

14

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Frero Banbou

10st 4lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

10yo who won when upped to an extended 2m7f at Newcastle (good) in November and ran well when 10l second at Kempton (3m, good to soft) next time; however, below par at Doncaster (3m, good) subsequently and pulled up at Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) last month; needs to get back on track.

33/1

20

11th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Frero Banbou

10st 10lb

J: Ned Fox

T: Venetia Williams

10yo who was below par at Doncaster (3m, good) last time but had previously enjoyed a new lease of life following a step up in trip, winning at Newcastle (2m7f, good) then runner-up at Kempton (3m, good to soft); has a consistent record at Cheltenham and he's an each-way possible if back to form.

50/1

Form: 0-235P D

Last run: 20 days

W: 10st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Regressive novice chaser, having gone backwards since his narrow defeat at Exeter (2m3f) on reappearance; in deep waters at this level and needs to turn things around in a massive way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 0f 38y

Class 5

16:50 Fakenham

Bowtogreatness

12st 6lb

J: Mr Dale Peters

T: D Peters

Winless away from galloping tracks, but recorded some of his best RPRs in Graded chases around Kempton and the Mildmay Course; still capable of fairly useful form little more than a year ago, and right in the mix if racing more sparingly with the hood debuted latest quickly discarded.

2/1

1

24th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 6f 151y

Class 3

16:50 Leicester

Bowtogreatness

12st 4lb

J: Mr Dale Peters

T: D Peters

Has made the frame in a couple of points this winter for new yard; fairly useful for previous stable and, accordingly, is one of the main players on ratings in this hunter chase debut; hood applied.

9/1

11

25th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 214y

Class 1

15:15 Doncaster

Bowtogreatness

11st 2lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

towards rear

14/1

Form: 235305

Last run: 18 days

W: 10st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Last win came at Galway in July 2021; has lacked consistency since and suffered a heavy defeat in this race 12 months ago; opposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

11th

9

3rd Feb 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 193y

13:00 Punchestown

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Talented on his day but hasn't produced his best for some time; pulled up in his last two starts in point-to-points; can only be watched on his Cross Country debut.

16/1

10th

6

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Born By The Sea

11st 4lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

midfield

12/1

Form: 41-U2P CD BF

Last run: 33 days

W: 11st 11lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
Sole completion this season came over C&D on New Year's Day when running well behind Midnight River; creditable fourth in this race 12 months ago and won a Grade 2 handicap here next time; has very good course form, therefore, but is now weighted to the hilt off career-high mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

4th May 2026

Good

3m 5f 24y

Class 3

16:38 Fakenham

Stolen Silver

12st 2lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Georgina Nicholls

Well beaten all five starts last season, the last three times in valuable chases for new stable since February; plummeting down the weights and will appreciate this ease in grade but needs a revival.

33/1

10

18th Apr 2026

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Stolen Silver

11st 2lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Georgina Nicholls

Seemingly nothing like the force of old; not proven beyond 3m either, with heavy defeats on his only two attempts at 3m1f or 3m2f; the former was on latest start when beaten 46l at 150-1 in the Ultima at Cheltenham and all this season's form suggests he will be a big outsider again.

100/1

Form: 242113 D

Last run: 125 days

W: 10st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Stablemate of Seddon; successful four times (mostly over fences) last year; respectable third in novice handicap chase here (2m4f, good) in November when last seen; faces a harder task in this field but he's consistent and could go well again.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

3

14th Oct 2025

Good

2m 0f 46y

14:35 Punchestown

Hereditary Rule

11st 8lb

J: Dylan Kidd

T: John C McConnell

Badly out of form in eight runs since winning at Punchestown festival in 2023; pulled up at Listowel last time; impossible to recommend.

50/1

4

25th Sep 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

16:00 Listowel

Hereditary Rule

11st 10lb

J: Dylan Kidd

T: John C McConnell

Poor over hurdles and fences when last seen in 2024; not easy to fancy after a long absence.

50/1

Form: 322492

Last run: 11 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Runner-up in three of his five attempts over fences, notably behind smart Mighty Potter on the first occasion; latest silver medal came in a handicap at Leopardstown (2m5f, yielding) 11 days ago; may go one better at some stage but this scenario demands more from him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

23rd May 2026

Good

3m 0f 30y

Class 2

16:10 Bangor-on-Dee

Mars Harper

11st 4lb

J: Jamie Gambin

T: Sarah Humphrey

Left Gordon Elliott after disappointing hurdle run last autumn; well beaten again on stable debut in March but, after wind surgery, he returned to chasing with a good second at Fakenham (3m, good) 19 days ago; has possibilities if he can build on that but his last win was in 2023.

7/1

2nd

2

4th May 2026

Good

3m 0f 38y

Class 2

16:03 Fakenham

Mars Harper

11st 0lb

J: Jamie Gambin

T: Sarah Humphrey

Left Gordon Elliott after disappointing hurdle run last autumn and was again well beaten when returning for new stable in March; given a wind op since and reverts to chasing on a workable mark but still looks risky.

20/1

6th

3

8th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 0y

Class 3

16:13 Warwick

Mars Harper

11st 8lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Sarah Humphrey

Best known as a chaser these days and was tailed off back over hurdles on his final run for Gordon Elliott, whom he left for £30,000; on a good mark but there's much to prove on first sighting since October.

9/1

Form: 112P-5 D

Last run: 131 days

W: 11st 13lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 156

Form & Verdict
Last two appearances came over the big fences at Aintree, pulling up then below-par fifth; last three attempts over conventional fences resulted in form figures of 112 (second in Ascot Grade 1 the final time) but that was over a year ago; change of headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

16th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 89y

Class 2

14:05 Market Rasen

Two For Gold

11st 11lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

Teenager who ran well for a long way when very respectable sixth in valuable Ascot handicap (3m, good) on seasonal debut in November; pulled up in similar race back there just before Christmas but might be aided by the refitted tongue-tie here and has slipped to a tempting mark.

20/1

1

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:45 Ascot

Two For Gold

12st 0lb

J: Ciaran Gethings

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

Second and fourth in the last two renewals of this and further enhanced his solid record here with another second over this trip in March; can see him running well again but it goes against the grain trends-wise to row in with a 12yo carrying 12st.

25/1

1

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:45 Ascot

Two For Gold

12st 0lb

J: Ciaran Gethings

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

Second and fourth in the last two renewals of this and further enhanced his solid record here with another second over this trip in March; can see him running well again but it goes against the grain trends-wise to row in with a 12yo carrying 12st.

25/1

Form: 829-27

Last run: 49 days

W: 11st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Raced mainly at longer trips; finished third in the 3m6f novice chase at this meeting in 2021; inconsistent form since, below best in the Thyestes at Gowran (3m1f) most recently; something to prove back at 2m4f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

13

2nd May 2026

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Escaria Ten

11st 7lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Hasn't won since Thurles beginners' chase win in 2020 for Gordon Elliott; some okay cross-country form in recent seasons, standout run this term when third in 3m6f Cheltenham handicap in January, tame enough Exeter effort latest when ground may have been on the quick side; others preferred.

14/1

4th

5

22nd Mar 2026

Good

3m 6f 153y

Class 3

15:02 Exeter

Escaria Ten

11st 4lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Returned to form with creditable third in cross-country chase at Cheltenham (3m5f, soft; refitted visor) in December and remains on a good mark but this veteran has become far too inconsistent to rely upon and may not be ideally suited by the forecast good ground here.

10/1

3rd

11

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

Escaria Ten

10st 4lb

J: James Best

T: Martin Keighley

Looked out of sorts when pulled up here twice in the autumn (3m1f/2m4f; had wind op in between) and can't be supported with much confidence, but is now 10lb lower than when close fourth over C&D (soft) in December 2024; swaps blinkers for refitted visor.

20/1

Form: 213422 C

Last run: 19 days

W: 11st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Useful novice chaser; won over 2m in the autumn; good second in notable novice handicap at this course (soft; behind Turners contender Stage Star) and Grade 2 event at Kempton (good) since returning to 2m4f, clear of remainder both times; still hasn't had many chances at this distance and looks capable of winning a good prize; first-time cheekpieces may eke out more progress from him; appealing type.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

0

3

27th Jan 2024

Good To Soft

3m 1f 56y

Class 1

13:50 Cheltenham

Datsalrightgino

11st 8lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Jamie Snowden

Delivered with a well-timed challenge to win major 3m2f handicap at Newbury (good to soft) eight weeks ago, proving suited by the new trip and taking chase record to 3-10; generally progressive and is unexposed beyond 2m4f; possibilities.

11/2

1st

11

2nd Dec 2023

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 1

14:50 Newbury

Datsalrightgino

10st 7lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Jamie Snowden

Unraced beyond an extended 2m4f and this is a tough race in which to test his stamina; however, he was strong at the finish when winning a Grade 2 novice at Ayr (2m4f, good) in April and may well have staying potential; might have needed his reappearance in the Old Roan and is not ruled out.

16/1

Form: -38726 BF

Last run: 80 days

W: 11st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Raced mainly at about 2m (below best over 3m in September); beaten in the last two runnings of the Grand Annual here (fell in 2021, finished seventh in 2022); disappointing favourite at Leopardstown over Christmas when last seen; something to prove back up in trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

2

28th Mar 2026

Good

2m 2f 148y

Class 5

14:15 Stratford

Embittered

11st 10lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: Syd Hosie

Scored over hurdles and fences for Eric McNamara in Ireland last summer; well beaten on both runs for his current yard recently, though he faced a very stiff task in the Plate at Cheltenham last time; back hurdling now with something to prove.

8/1

21

10th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 44y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Embittered

10st 4lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: Syd Hosie

Four chase wins at up to about 2m4f on a range of surfaces but out of sorts since the latest of them, at Killarney in August, including for new yard on Friday; often wears cheekpieces, first-time blinkers now.

100/1

7th

6

6th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 48y

Class 3

15:40 Exeter

Embittered

11st 5lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: Syd Hosie

Won a 2m1f handicap chase at Killarney last August but three heavy defeats since, with latest second remote in a claiming hurdle; first run for Syd Hosie.

25/1

Form: 42-3P2

Last run: 40 days

W: 11st 1lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Eventually pulled up in the New Year's Day contest won by Midnight River but subsequently bounced back at Wetherby (2m3f, good to soft; tongue-tie fitted) where he finished second to a progressive sort; creditable fourth in the Arkle here last year; each-way possibilities.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

20th Oct 2025

Good

2m 3f 166y

Class 3

15:40 Plumpton

War Lord

11st 11lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

Very useful chaser in his prime but last month's hurdling win at Fontwell (2m5f, good) came off a hugely reduced handicap mark and it's not easy to predict whether his revival will gather momentum.

4/1

1st

2

22nd Sep 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 164y

Class 4

17:20 Fontwell

War Lord

12st 0lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

Has been through a quiet spell but he ran respectably when fourth at Worcester (2m4f, good; tongue-tie refitted) last time; likely to need more.

13/2

6

5th Sep 2025

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 4

18:30 Worcester

War Lord

11st 6lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

Very useful chaser in his prime but this year's efforts, in three hurdles and a chase, make him tough to recommend.

14/1

Form: 9-4132 D

Last run: 146 days

W: 10st 13lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Comfortably held in handicap hurdles at the last two Cheltenham Festivals; however, looks likely to fare much better this time having achieved form figures of 132 since returned to chasing, most recently second in novice handicap here (2m4f, good) in October; goes well fresh.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

27th Sep 2025

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 3

17:10 Market Rasen

Champagne Gold

11st 7lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Very useful at peak for Henry de Bromhead in Ireland and came good for new stable at third attempt, causing 33-1 surprise with narrow success at Cartmel (2m5f, good) last month; it's hard to tell whether he'll be in the right mood again here but a 4lb rise ought to be manageable if he is.

4/1

1st

1

25th Aug 2025

Good

2m 5f 34y

Class 3

16:43 Cartmel

Champagne Gold

12st 2lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Smart in Ireland but needed to show more in his first two runs for this yard, over hurdles and fences.

33/1

1

6th Jul 2025

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 3

16:20 Market Rasen

Champagne Gold

12st 1lb

J: Henry Brooke

T: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Very useful hurdler/chaser in Ireland in his prime; finished a remote last of three runners in a 2m7f handicap hurdle last month on stable debut and return from a long absence; needed to show more.

10/1

Form: F-27P7 C

Last run: 104 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Productive novice chaser last term, though his Grade 2 success came in a weak race for the level; has a lot to find on this season's chase form, most recently well behind Shakem Up'Arry at Exeter.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

9th Jul 2023

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 3

16:40 Market Rasen

Captain Tom Cat

11st 10lb

J: Luke Scott

T: Dr Richard Newland

pressed leader, led 9th, headed 2 out, soon ridden, 2 lengths second when fell last

3/1

8

2nd Jul 2023

Good To Soft

2m 5f 34y

Class 2

14:05 Cartmel

Captain Tom Cat

10st 9lb

J: Luke Scott

T: Dr Richard Newland

Twice finished placed this spring (2m4f, soft/good) and the handicapper has given him a big chance as he's now 8lb lower; not ruled out but he has to perform better than he's managed the last twice.

14/1

3rd

2

22nd Jun 2023

Soft

2m 3f 207y

Class 4

19:40 Uttoxeter

Captain Tom Cat

11st 13lb

J: Luke Scott

T: Dr Richard Newland

Not as good as he was over fences but remains capable of useful chase form; didn't really fire here last month but still looks interesting off his lower hurdle mark; best on good ground but handles soft.

8/1

Form: -21212 D

Last run: 12 days

W: 10st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
First reserve; solid candidate who has form figures of 123221212 over fences, including two all-the-way wins this term; went very close in major handicap at Newbury (2m4f, good) 12 days ago; has form on all types of ground; ahead of the assessor (future mark 3lb higher) and still improving.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18th

17

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Gemirande

10st 11lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Won good handicaps at Ascot (2m5f, good) and Cheltenham (2m4f, good to soft) towards the end of last year; a case can be made on that form but three lesser runs have followed and he needs to get back on track.

50/1

18th

17

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Gemirande

10st 11lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Won good handicaps at Ascot (2m5f, good) and Cheltenham (2m4f, good to soft) towards the end of last year; a case can be made on that form but three lesser runs have followed and he needs to get back on track.

50/1

17th

10

13th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Gemirande

10st 13lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Found a new level of form in late 2024 with wins at Ascot (2m5f, good) and over C&D (good to soft); disappointing here next time but he was still going well when nearly down three out over C&D in January and the 6lb higher mark than for his latest win may not be beyond him; considered for yard that's won this race three times.

12/1

Form: 148414 D

Last run: 165 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Second reserve; absent since facing a tough task in Grade 3 event in October, having won a Kilbeggan handicap (2m3f, good) the time before; overall form isn't compelling; faces another stiff assignment.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

18th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 2f 0y

14:30 Thurles

Il Courra

11st 1lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: C W J Farrell

in rear throughout, became detached from 2nd, some headway halfway, no impression from 4 out, pulled up 2 out

20/1

26

16th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Il Courra

10st 2lb

J: Shane Quinlan

T: C W J Farrell

Second reserve; absent since facing a tough task in Grade 3 event in October, having won a Kilbeggan handicap (2m3f, good) the time before; overall form isn't compelling; faces another stiff assignment.

100/1

4th

4

2nd Oct 2022

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 150y

16:45 Tipperary

Il Courra

11st 2lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: C W J Farrell

in rear, headway and went fourth after 5 out, disputing third when not fluent 2 out, ridden and no extra approaching last

25/1

Non-runners

Captain Tom Cat

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £281.20
Straight Forecast £223.25
Tricast £3644.51
Trifecta £6124.50

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Datsalrightgino

RP Ratings:

Il Ridoto

Telegraph:

Fugitif

TOPSPEED:

Shakem Up'Arry

The Guardian:

So Scottish

The Times:

Haut En Couleurs

The Star:

Frero Banbou

WEST COUNTRY:

Il Ridoto

The Sun:

Il Ridoto

POSTDATA:

Datsalrightgino

LAMBOURN:

Datsalrightgino

Daily Mirror:

Datsalrightgino

Daily Record:

Datsalrightgino

Daily Mail:

Fugitif

D Express:

Shakem Up'Arry