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

1st

4

(3)

23rd Aug 2024

Good

2m 0f 180y

20:14 Killarney

Seddon

11st 4lb

J: Mr H C Swan

T: John C McConnell

made all, ridden over 1f out, faced challenge but kept on well inside final furlong, always doing enough

12/1

1

17th Jun 2024

Good

2m 4f 51y

19:45 Kilbeggan

Seddon

11st 12lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: John C McConnell

Had a stellar year in 2023 with festival wins over this trip at Cheltenham and Punchestown (hurdles); ran well in America in the autumn and shaped like he needed it when mid-division in Punchestown chase at this year's festival; if he's anywhere near his best with a very useful claimer on board, he'll take plenty of beating.

5/1

8th

5

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:00 Punchestown

Seddon

11st 8lb

J: Ben Harvey

T: John C McConnell

in touch with leaders, not fluent and hampered by faller 5 out

8/1

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

1

13th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Fugitif

12st 0lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Richard Hobson

His last-gasp win over Cheltenham's stiff, extended 2m4f in December (soft) provides some hope he'll see out this trip, and he's back in a handicap after being pulled up in Grade 1 Ryanair at Cheltenham last month; however, it remains to be seen if he stays and he's never shone at Aintree previously.

16/1

1

13th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

14:30 Aintree

Fugitif

12st 0lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Richard Hobson

His last-gasp win over Cheltenham's stiff, extended 2m4f in December (soft) provides some hope he'll see out this trip, and he's back in a handicap after being pulled up in Grade 1 Ryanair at Cheltenham last month; however, it remains to be seen if he stays and he's never shone at Aintree previously.

16/1

7

14th Mar 2024

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:50 Cheltenham

Fugitif

11st 10lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Richard Hobson

Seems to handle any ground; ran respectably in 2m Grade 1 contest here last time, taking Cheltenham record to 222413; has very useful handicap form over C&D, including a second-place finish in the Plate on this card last year and success (came off good pace to nose ahead final strides) in the December Gold Cup; likely to perform well, granted a strongly run scenario.

20/1

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

17th

3

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

11st 8lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

10yo who has been better than ever the last twice with wins at Cheltenham (2m4f, heavy/soft), latest in the Plate at the Festival when he went clear before appearing to idle close home; a 6lb rise for last time certainly isn't harsh and he's run well on the Mildmay course here; respected.

13/2

17th

3

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Shakem UpArry

11st 8lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

10yo who has been better than ever the last twice with wins at Cheltenham (2m4f, heavy/soft), latest in the Plate at the Festival when he went clear before appearing to idle close home; a 6lb rise for last time certainly isn't harsh and he's run well on the Mildmay course here; respected.

13/2

1st

7

14th Mar 2024

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Shakem UpArry

11st 5lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Finished an honourable third in this race (soft) last year; had a fair stab at his first run beyond 2m5f when fourth at Aintree next time (3m1f, good to soft) but was a non-stayer over 3m2f at Newbury in December and has since confirmed that 2m4f is his trip when coming clear quite readily over C&D (heavy) on New Year's Day; 4lb higher than 12 months ago but he could now be an improved performer.

8/1

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

11

12th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 1

14:50 Cheltenham

Gevrey

11st 7lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Versatile trip-wise, having been a strong-finishing fourth in the 2m4f Plate here last March, then runner-up in the Irish National (3m5f, soft); signs of further improvement when winning the Munster National in October but two pulled-up runs since temper enthusiasm for this task.

25/1

0

5

25th Jan 2024

Heavy

3m 1f 0y

14:50 Gowran Park

Gevrey

11st 5lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Second to I Am Maximus in last year's Irish Grand National; won the Munster National at Limerick in October, but failed to complete his two races on either side of that, the Kerry National and the Troytown.

25/1

0

5

19th Nov 2023

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 0y

14:30 Navan

Gevrey

11st 3lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Gordon Elliott

Second in last year's Irish National; stayed on best to land last month's Munster National; handles heavy ground but this looks tougher and an 8lb rise may be enough to anchor him.

8/1

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

3

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Il Ridoto

11st 4lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Boasts a solid record in competitive 2m4f handicaps on both courses here and he's back on the same mark off which he went so close in the big December handicap; not at his very best the last twice (behind In Excelsis Deo here last month) but couldn't put a line through him.

9/2

3

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Il Ridoto

11st 4lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Boasts a solid record in competitive 2m4f handicaps on both courses here and he's back on the same mark off which he went so close in the big December handicap; not at his very best the last twice (behind In Excelsis Deo here last month) but couldn't put a line through him.

9/2

8th

3

14th Mar 2024

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Il Ridoto

11st 8lb

J: Freddie Gingell

T: Paul Nicholls

Had stamina limitations over 3m recently; has a fine record in competitive 2m4f handicaps on both courses here but he went back up in the weights after his narrow defeat in December (soft; also effective on good to soft) and had no serious say off today's mark in this race last year.

14/1

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

2nd

14

3rd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 108y

14:30 Galway

So Scottish

10st 13lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Emmet Mullins

midfield, smooth headway and went third 2 out, led narrowly towards far side last, kept on well run-in, headed towards finish

8/1

5th

4

6th Jul 2024

Good

2m 1f 40y

17:58 Bellewstown

So Scottish

11st 9lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Emmet Mullins

in touch with leaders, no impression after 3 out

11/2

4th

4

3rd Jun 2024

Good

2m 0f 0y

15:50 Listowel

So Scottish

11st 9lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Emmet Mullins

midfield, headway and went fourth after 2 out, kept on, not reach leaders

9/2

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

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

9th

14

16th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Marvel De Cerisy

10st 13lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

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.

20/1

3rd

3

21st Dec 2022

Yielding

2m 5f 0y

12:37 Fairyhouse

Marvel De Cerisy

11st 7lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Came back strongly from a last fence fall at Wexford to decisively win a Punchestown novice last month (Gallyhill third) despite racing keenly; looks a decent novice and has every chance of following up here.

4/1

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

4th

13

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Celebre DAllen

10st 10lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

12yo; below par on last completed start (hampered/unseated at last month's Cheltenham Festival); however, he caught the eye flying home for 29l eighth in this last year on his first taste of these fences, and he loomed large two out in the Becher (3m2f, heavy) in December only to fade; bolted up on Mildmay course in October on only other visit to Aintree; interesting.

25/1

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

0

3

2nd Dec 2023

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 1

14:50 Newbury

Midnight River

11st 1lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Won at Cheltenham (2m4f, soft) on New Year's Day and bounced back from lesser run at the Festival to win another Grade 3 handicap chase at Aintree (3m1f, good to soft) in April in a first-time tongue-tie (retained since); well beaten in the Charlie Hall on reappearance but may have needed the run and he could still have more to offer over staying trips; a possible.

9/1

3rd

3

4th Nov 2023

Soft

3m 0f 45y

Class 1

15:00 Wetherby

Midnight River

11st 6lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Highly progressive chaser last season with wins in hot Grade 3 handicaps at Cheltenham (2m4f, soft) in January and at the Aintree festival (3m1f, good to soft) in April; has something to find with Ahoy Senor and Bravemansgame but they're back from breaks and it's possible they won't be at their very best; goes well fresh and unexposed over staying trips; not discounted.

11/1

1st

2

15th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

3m 0f 210y

Class 1

16:15 Aintree

Midnight River

11st 7lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Solid chance on form at about 2m4f on good and soft this winter, but a promising-looking challenge fizzled out in the Plate at Cheltenham last month and he hasn't been persevered with over 3m since his one-paced third at Uttoxeter last March; fitting a tongue-tie could help.

6/1

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

23

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Frero Banbou

10st 4lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

On a 15-race losing run and hasn't been at his very best on last three starts; however, last month's sixth in the Plate at Cheltenham was a big step back in the right direction and he's on a handy mark on form such as his third in the Grand Sefton over C&D (heavy) in November; each-way chance.

16/1

23

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Frero Banbou

10st 4lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

On a 15-race losing run and hasn't been at his very best on last three starts; however, last month's sixth in the Plate at Cheltenham was a big step back in the right direction and he's on a handy mark on form such as his third in the Grand Sefton over C&D (heavy) in November; each-way chance.

16/1

6th

19

14th Mar 2024

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Frero Banbou

10st 9lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Latest win in January 2022; the step up to 2m4f wasn't a success in last year's Plate but he ran two good races over C&D in midwinter (soft and heavy; effective on good to soft) and now 7lb lower than the latest of them; out of sorts since but not ignored for yard that has won this three times.

20/1

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

6th

4

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Bowtogreatness

11st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

towards rear

16/1

6th

4

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Bowtogreatness

11st 4lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

towards rear

16/1

11th

16

14th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

17:30 Cheltenham

Bowtogreatness

11st 2lb

J: Mr Jack Andrews

T: Ben Pauling

Last season's novice campaign concluded with good second in competitive handicap at Aintree (3m1f, good to soft) last April and he returned to form when third at Kempton (3m, soft) recently; might not be far away if proving effective on the course (hasn't shone in his two previous visits).

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

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

7th

2

(2)

16th Jul 2024

Good

1m 6f 55y

20:15 Killarney

Born By The Sea

11st 12lb

T: Paul John Gilligan

Much better NH performer but hasn't won since landing the Galway Blazers in 2021; couple of okay runs over fences of late and this likely another step on the road to Ballybrit (0-14 on the Flat).

20/1

4th

3

17th Jun 2024

Good

2m 4f 51y

19:45 Kilbeggan

Born By The Sea

10st 10lb

J: Jack G Gilligan

T: Paul John Gilligan

Without a win since landing the Galway Blazers in 2021; fine sixth in last year's Grand National; doubtless heading back to Galway next month and shaped well at Roscommon a week ago but 5f shorter trip is no help.

7/1

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

9th

2

2nd Dec 2023

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 1

14:50 Newbury

Stolen Silver

11st 2lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Sam Thomas

prominent, hampered then stumbled 1st

11/1

1st

1

14th Oct 2023

Good To Soft

2m 7f 131y

Class 2

14:30 Chepstow

Stolen Silver

12st 0lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Sam Thomas

prominent

7/1

15th

3

16th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Stolen Silver

11st 11lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Sam Thomas

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.

25/1

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

3

9th Jun 2024

Good

2m 4f 55y

14:20 Punchestown

Hereditary Rule

11st 4lb

J: Shane O’Callaghan

T: John C McConnell

midfield, mistake and unseated 1st

20/1

10th

2

21st May 2024

Good

2m 4f 134y

15:28 Punchestown

Hereditary Rule

11st 12lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: John C McConnell

Much better chaser whose highlight came when winning valuable 2m5f handicap here at last year's festival; well below best this past season, latest when attempting repeat win early this month; back hurdling here and yard seem to be coming into form so don't dismiss.

10/1

10th

2

21st May 2024

Good

2m 4f 134y

15:28 Punchestown

Hereditary Rule

11st 12lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: John C McConnell

Much better chaser whose highlight came when winning valuable 2m5f handicap here at last year's festival; well below best this past season, latest when attempting repeat win early this month; back hurdling here and yard seem to be coming into form so don't dismiss.

10/1

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

8th

3

24th Aug 2024

Good

2m 4f 180y

17:25 Killarney

Mars Harper

11st 9lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

midfield

7/1

7th

1

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Mars Harper

11st 12lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

midfield

10/1

3rd

1

9th Jun 2024

Good

2m 4f 55y

14:20 Punchestown

Mars Harper

11st 12lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

midfield

12/1

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

1

7th Apr 2024

Heavy

3m 0f 110y

Class 2

16:32 Carlisle

Two For Gold

12st 1lb

J: David Bass

T: Kim Bailey

It's possible it was the return to Ascot that prompted a revival a fortnight ago, but that close second (3m, good) also coincided with the application of a tongue-tie (retained) and he's a strong contender if repeating that latest form; also effective on heavy going and won on sole visit here.

5/2

6th

1

7th Apr 2024

Heavy

3m 0f 110y

Class 2

16:32 Carlisle

Two For Gold

12st 1lb

J: David Bass

T: Kim Bailey

led at steady pace, not fluent 12th

5/2

2

24th Mar 2024

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 2

16:30 Ascot

Two For Gold

11st 13lb

J: David Bass

T: Kim Bailey

Pulled up/tailed off elsewhere on last three starts and has plenty to prove regarding current form, but he's 1lb lower than when winning this last year (good to soft) and was a good second over C&D on his reappearance in November; could stage a revival now back here in a first-time tongue-tie.

9/2

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

10th

2

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Cheltenham

Escaria Ten

12st 0lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Martin Keighley

Smart chaser when trained in Ireland by Gordon Elliott but his two runs in France this winter (hurdle/chase) were very disappointing; sold for 30,000gns since; has a lot to prove on his debut for another new stable.

40/1

10th

2

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Cheltenham

Escaria Ten

12st 0lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Martin Keighley

Smart chaser when trained in Ireland by Gordon Elliott but his two runs in France this winter (hurdle/chase) were very disappointing; sold for 30,000gns since; has a lot to prove on his debut for another new stable.

40/1

3

29th Apr 2023

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 0y

16:25 Punchestown

Escaria Ten

11st 10lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Third in the 2021 National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham but now on a losing sequence that predates that run; best chase form has been in conditions races; lesser efforts in top-level handicaps; 50-1 when pulled-up in the Magners Plate last time.

12/1

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

6th

9

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:00 Punchestown

Embittered

11st 1lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

Showed he still had it when winning a Listed handicap chase at Navan in December; not really competitive in the Plate at Cheltenham or the Topham at Aintree. others preferred.

25/1

6th

9

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:00 Punchestown

Embittered

11st 1lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

Showed he still had it when winning a Listed handicap chase at Navan in December; not really competitive in the Plate at Cheltenham or the Topham at Aintree. others preferred.

25/1

11th

6

12th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Embittered

11st 2lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Won in good style at Navan (2m4f, heavy) in December on second stable start but this 10yo has failed to reproduce that form on his four starts since (most recently at the Cheltenham Festival) and needs to raise his game.

66/1

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

14th Jun 2024

Good

2m 0f 75y

Class 3

18:10 Newton Abbot

War Lord

11st 13lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

Smart chaser at his best; lost his way last season but seemed to have turned a corner when placed over hurdles here (2m1f, good; also suited by slow ground) last week and remains very well handicapped.

5/1

3rd

2

5th Jun 2024

Good

2m 0f 167y

Class 3

16:10 Newton Abbot

War Lord

11st 13lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

Lost his way over fences last term after a solid third in the Haldon Gold Cup in November and failed to find any spark when finishing 37l behind Uggy Uggy Uggy on hurdles return last month; well treated but needs a big turnaround in form.

33/1

8th

2

11th May 2024

Good

2m 5f 0y

Class 3

19:05 Warwick

War Lord

11st 12lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Joe Tizzard

midfield

20/1

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

8th

2

7th Jul 2023

Good

2m 3f 170y

19:23 Wexford

Champagne Gold

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

prominent, mistake and lost ground 3rd, pushed along towards rear after 4th, not fluent and reminders 7th, detached 5 out

7/2

5th

4

12th Jun 2023

Good

3m 0f 52y

17:13 Roscommon

Champagne Gold

11st 6lb

J: Mike O’Connor

T: Henry De Bromhead

Only chase success came in a 2m4f beginners' event at Wexford last July but this represents a welcome drop in class from competitive handicaps at the Cheltenham and Punchestown festivals; seemed to stay the 3m okay last time.

13/2

5th

8

29th Apr 2023

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 0y

16:25 Punchestown

Champagne Gold

10st 11lb

J: Mike O’Connor

T: Henry De Bromhead

Only chase success came in a 2m4f beginners' event at Wexford last July; fair second in a small-field handicap at Cheltenham last October; badly hampered at the first in the Magners Plate, so should not be judged too harshly on that.

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

10th

11

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Gemirande

10st 6lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Came into this in better form 12 months ago when beaten only 4l off a 4lb higher mark; has contested deep handicaps this campaign but was no closer than 17l and he's now on a revival mission with his stable enduring a rocky period.

11/1

10th

11

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Gemirande

10st 6lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Came into this in better form 12 months ago when beaten only 4l off a 4lb higher mark; has contested deep handicaps this campaign but was no closer than 17l and he's now on a revival mission with his stable enduring a rocky period.

11/1

5th

13

13th Mar 2024

Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:50 Cheltenham

Gemirande

10st 6lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Had a good 2022-23 season, winning twice around 2m4f and placed on four other occasions, including over 2m4f here (second past post but demoted to third) in April on final start; not seen again until fifth in a valuable 2m4f handicap at Newbury 11 days ago, fading as if the outing was needed; down in trip; due to be 2lb lower in future handicaps.

33/1

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