April 20 / 15.35 Ayr

15.35

Soft

Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £112540
  • 3m 7f 176y
  • Class 1
  • 26 runners
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Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 26 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Mostly cloudy

8/1 (Won)

  • Win: £19.20
  • Place: £4.60

Form: -682F1

Last run: 19 days

W: 10st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
6yo who's had only nine races; sent chasing this term, easily best of his five chase runs when upped markedly to 3m on latest start and winning by 12l from the front in a nine-runner handicap at Fairyhouse (heavy); has a much higher mark today and he'd be the first 6yo to win this since Earth Summit 30 years ago, but that latest display showed major staying potential.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

7th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 150y

14:17 Navan

Macdermott

11st 4lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Progressive last season when stepped up in trip; won by 12l from the front in nine-runner 3m handicap chase at Fairyhouse at the beginning of April; became the first 6-year-old to win the Scottish National in 30 years, led four out and stayed on resolutely to win by a nose; trip may be inadequate.

10/1

7

7th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 150y

14:17 Navan

Macdermott

11st 4lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Progressive last season when stepped up in trip; won by 12l from the front in nine-runner 3m handicap chase at Fairyhouse at the beginning of April; became the first 6-year-old to win the Scottish National in 30 years, led four out and stayed on resolutely to win by a nose; trip may be inadequate.

10/1

1st

11

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Macdermott

10st 7lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

6yo who's had only nine races; sent chasing this term, easily best of his five chase runs when upped markedly to 3m on latest start and winning by 12l from the front in a nine-runner handicap at Fairyhouse (heavy); has a much higher mark today and he'd be the first 6yo to win this since Earth Summit 30 years ago, but that latest display showed major staying potential.

8/1

33/1

  • Place: £6.20

Form: 47-110

Last run: 84 days

W: 10st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Ended his time with Nicky Henderson under a cloud but emerged for new yard with wins in October and December; the latter followed wind surgery and came at Newbury (3m2f, soft; furthest he's been) where he emerged best in a fine scrap as the first two drew well clear; this 5lb higher mark may well underestimate that performance but he needs to bounce back from a disappointing show at Doncaster in January.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

17th Nov 2024

Good

3m 3f 71y

Class 1

14:55 Cheltenham

Surrey Quest

10st 9lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

midfield, dropped to rear and detached from 10th, still plenty to do 3 out, headway from 2 out, went second final 110yds, stayed on

7/1

2nd

5

17th Nov 2024

Good

3m 3f 71y

Class 1

14:55 Cheltenham

Surrey Quest

10st 9lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

Won at end of last year on first two runs for this yard (2m7f/3m2f, good to soft/soft) and ran mighty race when going very close in the Scottish National (4m, soft) in April; the lack of a recent run and the forecast good ground are queries today, but this 7yo could have more to offer this term.

7/1

2nd

20

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Surrey Quest

10st 3lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Toby Lawes

Ended his time with Nicky Henderson under a cloud but emerged for new yard with wins in October and December; the latter followed wind surgery and came at Newbury (3m2f, soft; furthest he's been) where he emerged best in a fine scrap as the first two drew well clear; this 5lb higher mark may well underestimate that performance but he needs to bounce back from a disappointing show at Doncaster in January.

33/1

6/1

  • Place: £2.60

Form: 11-162

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Mastered Whacker Clan two out in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham (3m2f, soft) five weeks ago and beat him 18l into third, facing an impossible task however against Inothewayurthinkin who has since added an impressive Grade 1 novice win at Aintree; has never been further than that big-race second over 3m2f but has had entries in major staying handicaps and may well be suited by today's test.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

19

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Git Maker

10st 3lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Jamie Snowden

Mastered Whacker Clan two out in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham (3m2f, soft) five weeks ago and beat him 18l into third, facing an impossible task however against Inothewayurthinkin who has since added an impressive Grade 1 novice win at Aintree; has never been further than that big-race second over 3m2f but has had entries in major staying handicaps and may well be suited by today's test.

6/1

3rd

19

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Git Maker

10st 3lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Jamie Snowden

Mastered Whacker Clan two out in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham (3m2f, soft) five weeks ago and beat him 18l into third, facing an impossible task however against Inothewayurthinkin who has since added an impressive Grade 1 novice win at Aintree; has never been further than that big-race second over 3m2f but has had entries in major staying handicaps and may well be suited by today's test.

6/1

2nd

19

14th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

17:30 Cheltenham

Git Maker

11st 1lb

J: Mr William Biddick

T: Jamie Snowden

Last year's hat-trick of handicap chase wins (2m7f/3m1f, soft/good to soft) came in small fields and he was a soundly beaten sixth of ten at Ascot (3m, good) in December last time; however, he's better than that and may be able to rediscover his previously progressive ways now back from a break.

20/1

25/1

  • Place: £10.80

Form: 6-3F32

Last run: 21 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Bumper win in March 2022; has had only six races since and failed to win but he's been competitive sent chasing this season, beaten a neck on handicap debut at Fairyhouse (2m5f, heavy) three weeks ago; 2m7f performance the time before backs up the suggestion that serious stamina tests could suit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

13

7th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 150y

14:17 Navan

Klarc Kent

10st 6lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: W P Mullins

Bumper winner in March 2022; no further success; however, competitive over fences last season, beaten a neck on handicap debut at Fairyhouse; stayed on for fourth behind stablemate Macdermott in Scottish Grand National; flopped when favourite at Punchestown festival.

10/1

10th

13

7th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 150y

14:17 Navan

Klarc Kent

10st 6lb

J: Michael O’Sullivan

T: W P Mullins

Bumper winner in March 2022; no further success; however, competitive over fences last season, beaten a neck on handicap debut at Fairyhouse; stayed on for fourth behind stablemate Macdermott in Scottish Grand National; flopped when favourite at Punchestown festival.

10/1

6

1st Dec 2024

Yielding

3m 5f 160y

13:05 Fairyhouse

Klarc Kent

10st 12lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Bumper winner in March 2022; no further success; however, competitive over fences last season, beaten a neck on handicap debut over 2m5f at this venue; stayed on for fourth behind stablemate Macdermott in Scottish Grand National; flopped when favourite at Punchestown festival; sole runner for champion trainer.

5/1

Form: 65/PP7

Last run: 41 days

W: 10st 11lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Unraced beyond 3m2f; sole chase win (12 races) was the 2021 Munster National over 3m at Limerick (soft) and that's his career-best form by some way; off 699 days before this season and he got round for the first time since on latest start, albeit beaten 22l; tongue tied in that race and today; edging down the weights but it's hard to be confident of a sufficient revival.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Ontheropes

11st 11lb

J: Kieran Callaghan

T: W P Mullins

pushed along early, in touch with leaders, pressed leaders on outer 5th, disputed lead 7th, led before 8th, 4 lengths ahead when fell 5 out

25/1

23

31st Jul 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

19:10 Galway

Ontheropes

10st 3lb

T: W P Mullins

Won 2021 Munster National (his only success in 15 chase starts) and has contested many top handicaps since; a close fifth in the Scottish National; poor at Punchestown when the race may have come too soon; badly hampered at third in Midlands National; third reserve.

11th

8

12th Jul 2024

Good

3m 1f 80y

19:55 Kilbeggan

Ontheropes

10st 9lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Record of 1-14 over fences but that win was in the 2021 Munster National and has contested some high quality races since; a close fifth in the Scottish National but poor run at Punchestown might have come too soon; a chance if at best

7/1

Form: 2P-333

Last run: 63 days

W: 10st 10lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Just 6-1 for the Martin Pipe at last year's Cheltenham Festival on handicap debut but ran poorly; back to form when third in small-field beginners chases at Gowran Park (2m4f, heavy) on last two outings and going beyond 2m4f may well be overdue, but those runs are no proof that he can cut it in this very different race; tongue-tie (worn on debut) is back on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

16:15 Punchestown

Spanish Harlem

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Third in small-field beginners' events at Naas and Gowran Park (twice) on first three chases starts; stayed on from two without posing a threat when ridden by Paul Townend in the Scottish National, ending up around 8l sixth behind stablemate Macdermott; Townend deserts for Glengouly now.

8/1

6

4th May 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

16:15 Punchestown

Spanish Harlem

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Third in small-field beginners' events at Naas and Gowran Park (twice) on first three chases starts; stayed on from two without posing a threat when ridden by Paul Townend in the Scottish National, ending up around 8l sixth behind stablemate Macdermott; Townend deserts for Glengouly now.

8/1

6th

6

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Spanish Harlem

10st 10lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Just 6-1 for the Martin Pipe at last year's Cheltenham Festival on handicap debut but ran poorly; back to form when third in small-field beginners chases at Gowran Park (2m4f, heavy) on last two outings and going beyond 2m4f may well be overdue, but those runs are no proof that he can cut it in this very different race; tongue-tie (worn on debut) is back on.

9/1

Form: P-3P52

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Acts on soft; fourth in the 3m Grade 1 novice hurdle at 2022 Cheltenham Festival; mostly chasing since and failed to beat a rival in four runs in 2023 but he's been working his way back to form in his two runs this year, second at Sandown (3m) latest; back up 3lb but going beyond 3m1f for the first time is an attractive move.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

17th Nov 2024

Good

3m 3f 71y

Class 1

14:55 Cheltenham

Ballygrifincottage

10st 11lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Failed to win last season but ran some big races, including in the Scottish National (4m, soft) where he was bang there three out only to weaken; stayed on for respectable fourth at Chepstow (2m7f, good) last month when back from a break and today's trip could be ideal; possible player.

8/1

Form: 2-P23P BF

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Remote second in the Welsh National (near 3m7f, heavy) and back in top form when third at Haydock (near 3m5f, heavy) next time; pulled up in his other two starts this term, latest when Midlands National favourite (signs of post-race heat stress); 4m should suit but this season presents rather a mixed story.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 1-8480

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Good fourth at Doncaster (3m, good to soft) in December but backward steps in major handicaps both starts since; latest was the 3m2f Kim Muir at Cheltenham and that's the furthest he's been; it's possible that soft ground has been against him but he may get that again here.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

3

30th Jun 2024

Good

3m 2f 13y

Class 2

15:00 Uttoxeter

Whistleinthedark

10st 7lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: L J Morgan

Creditable fourth at Doncaster (3m, good to soft) in December and ran well for a long way before fading into ninth in Scottish Grand National in April but disappointed when dropped in grade at Market Rasen last week and will need to up his game here.

20/1

Form: 21-1P4

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Both chase wins were over 3m in the mud at Uttoxeter; bled from the nose in the Welsh National at Christmas; back in serious contention when next seen in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy; tongue tied first time) five weeks ago but ran out of steam behind three of these approaching the final fence and, although this race is a bit shorter, that performance leaves him with a bit to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

10th Dec 2024

Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

14:12 Uttoxeter

Autonomous Cloud

12st 0lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

Disappointing back over fences at Bangor last month but now returns to the scene of all his best form over fences, having won twice and finished fourth in last season's Midlands National; big run expected.

9/2

4th

1

10th Dec 2024

Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

14:12 Uttoxeter

Autonomous Cloud

12st 0lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

Disappointing back over fences at Bangor last month but now returns to the scene of all his best form over fences, having won twice and finished fourth in last season's Midlands National; big run expected.

9/2

6

13th Nov 2024

Soft

3m 0f 30y

Class 2

13:25 Bangor-on-Dee

Autonomous Cloud

11st 4lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

His reappearance third came in a small-field novice hurdle (following wind surgery) and he's a superior chaser who was fourth in last season's Midlands National; could have a big run in him if stripping fitter this afternoon, as 3m on soft ground is about ideal.

7/2

Form: 122123

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 3lb

8 yo Mare

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Rock solid this term, showing herself in a particularly favourable light with serious stamina tests in the mud for major handicaps at Warwick (won), Haydock (second) and Uttoxeter (third to Beauport and Mr Incredible) on last three outings; had a clear lead for most of the closing stages last time (4m2f, heavy) and another bold show would not surprise under this 2lb higher mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 1f 125y

Class 2

15:40 Haydock

My Silver Lining

11st 0lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

Well beaten in the Scottish National in April and pulled up on reappearance at Wincanton four weeks ago; however, she may have needed that latest run and she had a superb campaign last season, with one of her two wins (good/soft) coming in the 3m5f Classic at Warwick; not written off.

9/1

6

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 1f 125y

Class 2

15:40 Haydock

My Silver Lining

11st 0lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

Well beaten in the Scottish National in April and pulled up on reappearance at Wincanton four weeks ago; however, she may have needed that latest run and she had a superb campaign last season, with one of her two wins (good/soft) coming in the 3m5f Classic at Warwick; not written off.

9/1

4

27th Oct 2024

Good

3m 2f 162y

Class 3

15:15 Wincanton

My Silver Lining

11st 6lb

J: James Best

T: Emma Lavelle

never going well, raced in last, pulled up after 14th

13/2

OUR TIP

Form: 4-113P

Last run: 38 days

W: 12st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 158

Form & Verdict
Acts on soft; a leading staying novice hurdler last term and the same as a novice chaser this season, although he did not show it with first-time cheekpieces at Cheltenham Festival last month (scoped dirty); tops the weights after his Graded events but a win today is not entirely ruled out, as it's long appeared that an outright test of stamina would suit him well.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Stay Away Fay

12st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Acts on soft; a leading staying novice hurdler last term and the same as a novice chaser this season, although he did not show it with first-time cheekpieces at Cheltenham Festival last month (scoped dirty); tops the weights after his Graded events but a win today is not entirely ruled out, as it's long appeared that an outright test of stamina would suit him well.

14/1

1

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Stay Away Fay

12st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Acts on soft; a leading staying novice hurdler last term and the same as a novice chaser this season, although he did not show it with first-time cheekpieces at Cheltenham Festival last month (scoped dirty); tops the weights after his Graded events but a win today is not entirely ruled out, as it's long appeared that an outright test of stamina would suit him well.

14/1

6

13th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 0f 110y

Class 1

14:10 Cheltenham

Stay Away Fay

11st 7lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Won last year's Albert Bartlett and has developed as expected switched to fences this season; won at Exeter and Sandown (3m Grade 2, soft) before third in Cotswold Chase here (3m1f, good to soft) against more experienced sorts; fast finish that day would not have suited and cheekpieces go on now; the one to beat if stamina comes into play, as it often does in this race.

5/2

Form: 23U-2U

Last run: 7 days

W: 11st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
Placed in major handicaps on his three completions for this yard and the three non-completions weren't his fault, hampered when unseating at the Chair at Aintree last week (10-1); towards rear at the time having been very slow to stride following the standing start; that was four weeks after his Midlands National second (4m2f, heavy) which came after 336 days off; connections thought he'd improve fitness-wise after that run but now it remains to be seen how he's come out of last week's race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

11st 9lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Placed in major handicaps on his three completions for this yard and the three non-completions weren't his fault, hampered when unseating at the Chair at Aintree last week (10-1); towards rear at the time having been very slow to stride following the standing start; that was four weeks after his Midlands National second (4m2f, heavy) which came after 336 days off; connections thought he'd improve fitness-wise after that run but now it remains to be seen how he's come out of last week's race.

10/1

2

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Incredible

11st 9lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Placed in major handicaps on his three completions for this yard and the three non-completions weren't his fault, hampered when unseating at the Chair at Aintree last week (10-1); towards rear at the time having been very slow to stride following the standing start; that was four weeks after his Midlands National second (4m2f, heavy) which came after 336 days off; connections thought he'd improve fitness-wise after that run but now it remains to be seen how he's come out of last week's race.

10/1

18

13th Apr 2024

Heavy

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Mr Incredible

10st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Placed in major handicaps on his three completions for this yard and the two non-completions weren't his fault, including as the saddle slipped when he was running a big race in last year's renewal; not seen again until his Midlands National second, so he's proved himself at 4m2f on heavy ground; now he has to do it all again four weeks later and the standing start might be a concern for one who used to have problems setting off in his races and still has issues at home, but he's a player if, as connections expect, that latest run improves his fitness.

12/1

Form: -17371 C

Last run: 13 days

W: 11st 3lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
2-3 over fences at Ayr and his fifth chase win came at Carlisle (3m, heavy) 13 days ago; missed this race last year because of good ground, so the furthest he's been is still 3m2f, over which he twice strode out well to win on soft at Kelso; has a career-high mark but the longer trip is interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

26th Oct 2024

Good

3m 2f 39y

Class 2

15:55 Kelso

Elvis Mail

11st 12lb

J: Bruce Lynn

T: N W Alexander

Won this last season (soft) off 3lb lower when returning from a similar break and went in again at Carlisle in April (heavy) before struggling in the Scottish National; likeable type who runs this track well but would prefer easier ground ideally.

11/2

3

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Elvis Mail

11st 3lb

J: Bruce Lynn

T: N W Alexander

2-3 over fences at Ayr and his fifth chase win came at Carlisle (3m, heavy) 13 days ago; missed this race last year because of good ground, so the furthest he's been is still 3m2f, over which he twice strode out well to win on soft at Kelso; has a career-high mark but the longer trip is interesting.

50/1

3

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Elvis Mail

11st 3lb

J: Bruce Lynn

T: N W Alexander

2-3 over fences at Ayr and his fifth chase win came at Carlisle (3m, heavy) 13 days ago; missed this race last year because of good ground, so the furthest he's been is still 3m2f, over which he twice strode out well to win on soft at Kelso; has a career-high mark but the longer trip is interesting.

50/1

Form: F-52P1

Last run: 35 days

W: 11st 1lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Nearly always ridden by Jordan Nailor; barely went a yard in Warwick's Classic Chase in January but he was second at Sandown (3m4f, heavy) the time before and in top form to win the Midlands National from Mr Incredible at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy) five weeks ago; up 5lb today but clearly a force in these long-distance races on his day.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 5f 94y

Class 2

14:05 Ascot

Beauport

12st 0lb

J: Mr Toby McCain-Mitchell

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

When good he's really good, as he showed in winning last season's Midlands National (4m2f, heavy) despite conceding ground jumping to the right; does have his share of off days and difficult to know what mood he'll be in, but right-handed tracks may suit him best now and his new partner takes off a handy 7lb.

9/2

1st

1

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 5f 94y

Class 2

14:05 Ascot

Beauport

12st 0lb

J: Mr Toby McCain-Mitchell

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

When good he's really good, as he showed in winning last season's Midlands National (4m2f, heavy) despite conceding ground jumping to the right; does have his share of off days and difficult to know what mood he'll be in, but right-handed tracks may suit him best now and his new partner takes off a handy 7lb.

9/2

4

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Beauport

11st 1lb

J: Jordan Nailor

T: Nigel Twiston-Davies

Nearly always ridden by Jordan Nailor; barely went a yard in Warwick's Classic Chase in January but he was second at Sandown (3m4f, heavy) the time before and in top form to win the Midlands National from Mr Incredible at Uttoxeter (4m2f, heavy) five weeks ago; up 5lb today but clearly a force in these long-distance races on his day.

16/1

Form: 11249- C

Last run: 371 days

W: 10st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Stays 3m and goes well on soft/heavy; the switch to chasing last term went swimmingly, including two impressive wins at this track, before heavy defeats in better races on his last two outings; should have brought potential to this second chase campaign but he's not raced for a year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

4

6th May 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

14:45 Down Royal

Gold Cup Bailly

11st 0lb

J: Ben Bromley

T: S R B Crawford

prominent, weakened after 3 out, just held third

13/2

3rd

4

6th May 2024

Good

3m 0f 0y

14:45 Down Royal

Gold Cup Bailly

11st 0lb

J: Ben Bromley

T: S R B Crawford

prominent, weakened after 3 out, just held third

13/2

Form: 241123

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 6lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won regional Nationals over 3m4f/3m5f at Fakenham, Sedgefield and Fontwell, the last two in small fields in the mud last autumn; never better than on last two starts when placed in the Sussex National at Plumpton and the 4m1f Eider (third to Anglers Crag) at Newcastle, but to win this requires a fair bit better still.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Tommie Beau

12st 0lb

J: James Best

T: Seamus Mullins

In front when running out three from home in cross-country race at Cheltenham last month; otherwise a productive and consistent sort over hurdles/fences; each-way possibilities, even off top weight.

8/1

1

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Tommie Beau

12st 0lb

J: James Best

T: Seamus Mullins

In front when running out three from home in cross-country race at Cheltenham last month; otherwise a productive and consistent sort over hurdles/fences; each-way possibilities, even off top weight.

8/1

2

15th Nov 2024

Good

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

14:55 Cheltenham

Tommie Beau

10st 5lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Seamus Mullins

Game front-runner who stays very well and has been in career-best form over hurdles and fences this season, winning three times; very respectable third in Durham National at Sedgefield (3m5f, good) last month; can make a bold bid if he takes to this new discipline.

5/1

Form: -FPU21

Last run: 40 days

W: 10st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Held up; first three attempts at 3m4f/3m5f did not work out but last month he had a fourth go at it and was produced late for a tidy win at Taunton (soft); back up 5lb near career-high mark but could have more to offer in long-distance chases.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Broken Halo

11st 4lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Had wind surgery (his second) since last run; scored over 3m4f at Taunton (soft) in March and was still going well (4l down, disputing third) when falling two out in this contest last year; shortlisted.

7/1

6

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Broken Halo

11st 4lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Had wind surgery (his second) since last run; scored over 3m4f at Taunton (soft) in March and was still going well (4l down, disputing third) when falling two out in this contest last year; shortlisted.

7/1

13

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Broken Halo

10st 5lb

J: Bryony Frost

T: Paul Nicholls

Held up; first three attempts at 3m4f/3m5f did not work out but last month he had a fourth go at it and was produced late for a tidy win at Taunton (soft); back up 5lb near career-high mark but could have more to offer in long-distance chases.

40/1

Form: P3-313

Last run: 39 days

W: 10st 5lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Upped to nearly 3m7f for the Devon National at Exeter (heavy) in February and made all to win by 60l; that's not the easiest form to pinpoint (he has a 15lb higher mark today) and he did not reproduce it when third to a runaway winner in the NH Chase at Cheltenham (3m6f, heavy; first-time cheekpieces) 18 days later, but this very lightly raced 8yo could have more to give.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Mr Vango

11st 6lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Lightly raced 8yo; absent since pulled up in the Scottish National when the ground possibly wasn't deep enough; now goes in tongue-tie; outstanding in the Devon National at Exeter (3m6f, heavy; won by 60l) in February and has major claims on that form.

4/1

1st

4

7th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

3m 4f 146y

Class 2

15:35 Sandown

Mr Vango

11st 6lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Lightly raced 8yo; absent since pulled up in the Scottish National when the ground possibly wasn't deep enough; now goes in tongue-tie; outstanding in the Devon National at Exeter (3m6f, heavy; won by 60l) in February and has major claims on that form.

4/1

14

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Mr Vango

10st 5lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Mrs Sara V Bradstock

Upped to nearly 3m7f for the Devon National at Exeter (heavy) in February and made all to win by 60l; that's not the easiest form to pinpoint (he has a 15lb higher mark today) and he did not reproduce it when third to a runaway winner in the NH Chase at Cheltenham (3m6f, heavy; first-time cheekpieces) 18 days later, but this very lightly raced 8yo could have more to give.

14/1

Form: 7-1111

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 4lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Had wind surgery last August and is 4-4 for his new yard since; first three of those were over about 3m-3m2f on good to soft but he coped admirably with a move up to 4m1f on heavy in the Eider at Newcastle last time, confidently ridden to challenge three out and to overcome an error two out by getting up close home; up another 8lb but remains capable of better and may well extend his winning sequence.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

6

30th Nov 2024

Good

2m 7f 91y

Class 1

15:20 Newcastle

Anglers Crag

11st 2lb

J: Craig Nichol

T: Brian Ellison

Won last winter on first three starts for this yard (2m7f-3m2f, good to soft) and made it 4-4 in the Eider here (4m1f, heavy) in February; unraced on good ground; may have been ready for a break when pulled up in the Scottish National; he might have more to offer this season but needs to be at the very top of his game on his reappearance.

12/1

8th

6

30th Nov 2024

Good

2m 7f 91y

Class 1

15:20 Newcastle

Anglers Crag

11st 2lb

J: Craig Nichol

T: Brian Ellison

Won last winter on first three starts for this yard (2m7f-3m2f, good to soft) and made it 4-4 in the Eider here (4m1f, heavy) in February; unraced on good ground; may have been ready for a break when pulled up in the Scottish National; he might have more to offer this season but needs to be at the very top of his game on his reappearance.

12/1

16

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Anglers Crag

10st 4lb

J: Henry Brooke

T: Brian Ellison

Had wind surgery last August and is 4-4 for his new yard since; first three of those were over about 3m-3m2f on good to soft but he coped admirably with a move up to 4m1f on heavy in the Eider at Newcastle last time, confidently ridden to challenge three out and to overcome an error two out by getting up close home; up another 8lb but remains capable of better and may well extend his winning sequence.

10/1

Form: -U4251 D

Last run: 77 days

W: 10st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
7yo who's in his first season chasing; upped in trip and switched to front-running with a first-time visor in the Edinburgh National at Musselburgh 11 weeks ago and he took the field apart, moving 21l clear in the closing stages; that was over an extended 3m7f on good to soft, but he has been placed on soft; up 14lb today but that latest performance could hardly have been more authoritative.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 5f 94y

Class 2

14:05 Ascot

Inis Oirr

11st 0lb

J: Alan Doyle

T: Lucinda Russell

In a first-time visor (retained since) he won last season's Edinburgh National at Musselburgh by some 21l (3m7f, good to soft); has made a solid start to this campaign at about 3m and returning to further this afternoon has to rate a positive.

11/2

6

23rd Nov 2024

Good

3m 5f 94y

Class 2

14:05 Ascot

Inis Oirr

11st 0lb

J: Alan Doyle

T: Lucinda Russell

In a first-time visor (retained since) he won last season's Edinburgh National at Musselburgh by some 21l (3m7f, good to soft); has made a solid start to this campaign at about 3m and returning to further this afternoon has to rate a positive.

11/2

3rd

1

17th Oct 2024

Good

3m 0f 110y

Class 3

15:42 Carlisle

Inis Oirr

12st 0lb

J: Derek Fox

T: Lucinda Russell

in touch with leaders, headway and led before 1st, rallied when headed 2 out, weakened final 110yds

9/4

Form: 931173

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Progressive last year, making all at Tramore (2m5f, soft) in August and Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) in October; returned to Cheltenham last month for the Kim Muir (3m2f, soft) and made most, finishing third of 22 but he was 18l behind the runner-up Git Maker, so needs to step up on that and it's the furthest he's been.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

8

2nd Aug 2024

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

Whacker Clan

11st 3lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

prominent, went second before 2nd, led after 3rd, not fluent and headed 7th, hampered by faller 5 out

10/1

22

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Whacker Clan

10st 2lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Progressive last year, making all at Tramore (2m5f, soft) in August and Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) in October; returned to Cheltenham last month for the Kim Muir (3m2f, soft) and made most, finishing third of 22 but he was 18l behind the runner-up Git Maker, so needs to step up on that and it's the furthest he's been.

12/1

22

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Whacker Clan

10st 2lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Progressive last year, making all at Tramore (2m5f, soft) in August and Cheltenham (3m1f, good to soft) in October; returned to Cheltenham last month for the Kim Muir (3m2f, soft) and made most, finishing third of 22 but he was 18l behind the runner-up Git Maker, so needs to step up on that and it's the furthest he's been.

12/1

Form: 4-1P12

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Won a maiden hurdle on sole start on soft; ran poorly on second outing this term but the other three yielded two wins and a good second; first-time visor for 4l win at Doncaster (good) in January and first-time blinkers when front-running second at Kempton (good to soft) five weeks ago; both were 3m and, although 2lb out of the handicap here, the move up in trip is interesting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

4

8th Nov 2024

Good

3m 0f 54y

Class 3

15:35 Exeter

Egbert

11st 8lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Alan King

Second-season chaser whose good days last season read well, twice winning and once runner-up; threw in a couple of shockers as well, though the Scottish National last time was tough; blinkers tried the last twice are replaced by a visor, in which he's 1-1; also won first time back last season; if in the zone he's entitled to go well.

8/1

5th

4

8th Nov 2024

Good

3m 0f 54y

Class 3

15:35 Exeter

Egbert

11st 8lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Alan King

Second-season chaser whose good days last season read well, twice winning and once runner-up; threw in a couple of shockers as well, though the Scottish National last time was tough; blinkers tried the last twice are replaced by a visor, in which he's 1-1; also won first time back last season; if in the zone he's entitled to go well.

8/1

23

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Egbert

10st 2lb

J: Brendan Powell

T: Alan King

Won a maiden hurdle on sole start on soft; ran poorly on second outing this term but the other three yielded two wins and a good second; first-time visor for 4l win at Doncaster (good) in January and first-time blinkers when front-running second at Kempton (good to soft) five weeks ago; both were 3m and, although 2lb out of the handicap here, the move up in trip is interesting.

40/1

Form: F-0PP3

Last run: 20 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
Won at Fairyhouse (3m5f, soft) for Gordon Elliott in December 2022; right out of form in his seven subsequent races for that trainer and sold for £5,000 this January; first run for new yard was much more positive but he needs to build seriously on that Ffos Las third and position 5lb out of the handicap does not help; 7lb claimer is recruited.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

27th May 2024

Good To Soft

3m 5f 80y

Class 3

15:30 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 6lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

led, not fluent and briefly headed 10th, pushed along before 16th

7/1

2

27th May 2024

Good To Soft

3m 5f 80y

Class 3

15:30 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 6lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

Won't fail through lack of stamina but was pulled up on final two starts for Gordon Elliott during the winter and has not yet built upon his fairly respectable stable debut in March; tailed off when fourth of five here on Saturday (3m1f, good to soft); needs a sudden revival.

7/1

4th

4

25th May 2024

Soft

3m 1f 107y

Class 3

17:40 Cartmel

Punitive

11st 3lb

J: James Bowen

T: Peter & Michael Bowen

led, headed 5th, not fluent 9th, lost second 11th, soon nudged along, lost third after 12th, lost ground quickly from 14th, tailed off from 3 out

11/2

Form: 923P-6

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 2lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

25

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Secret Reprieve

10st 2lb

J: James Turner

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.

66/1

25

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 7f 176y

Class 1

15:35 Ayr

Secret Reprieve

10st 2lb

J: James Turner

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing, or recaptured his form, since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021; 2lb lower today, even from 5lb out of the handicap; two places last winter but pulled up in the 2023 Midlands National and well beaten behind Ballygriffin Cottage at Sandown when next seen nearly a year later.

66/1

6th

8

9th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 0f 37y

Class 3

16:10 Sandown

Secret Reprieve

11st 9lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Evan Williams

Has not had much racing since winning the Welsh Grand National in January 2021, running respectably twice last winter but beaten some way out in the Midlands National when last seen in March; well handicapped but seems fragile and probably best watched after nearly a year off.

16/1

Form: 916126

Last run: 19 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 127

Form & Verdict
December's hurdle win saw him 5-4 favourite when returned to chasing (first time since 2022) off a lower mark for Grand National Trial at Punchestown (3m3f, heavy) in February and he came 16l second of 15; needs better than that but took a backward step when 26l sixth under Kieran Callaghan in the Irish National itself (3m5f, heavy) 19 days ago; 5lb out of the handicap.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

24th Nov 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 3

14:00 Uttoxeter

Wellhavewan

11st 12lb

J: Charlie Maggs

T: Rebecca Menzies

Listed hurdle winner last December for Willie Mullins; departed that yard for £11,000 and no form as yet for current stable (2m7f hurdle/3m5f chase); no real significance in another headgear switch.

25/1

6th

2

24th Nov 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 3

14:00 Uttoxeter

Wellhavewan

11st 12lb

J: Charlie Maggs

T: Rebecca Menzies

Listed hurdle winner last December for Willie Mullins; departed that yard for £11,000 and no form as yet for current stable (2m7f hurdle/3m5f chase); no real significance in another headgear switch.

25/1

7

20th Oct 2024

Good

3m 5f 48y

Class 2

16:20 Sedgefield

Wellhavewan

10st 5lb

J: Jamie Hamilton

T: Rebecca Menzies

Won three times over hurdles for Willie Mullins last year and he's well treated on that form; made stable debut over hurdles at Uttoxeter a fortnight ago (soundly beaten) and could improve for that first outing since May, but jumping has been an issue over fences; sometimes wears cheekpieces and now has visor first time; something to prove.

12/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £731.10
Straight Forecast £350.59
Tricast £3142.17
Trifecta £9321.50

Selections

LAMBOURN:

Git Maker

RP RATINGS:

Mr Vango

Telegraph:

Mr Incredible

The Sun:

Macdermott

The Times:

Spanish Harlem

THE NORTH:

Inis Oirr

WEST COUNTRY:

Stay Away Fay

SPOTLIGHT:

Anglers Crag

D Express:

Ballygrifincottage

POSTDATA:

Elvis Mail

TOPSPEED:

Mr Vango

Daily Mirror:

Mr Vango

The Guardian:

Mr Incredible

Daily Mail:

Git Maker

The Star:

Git Maker

Daily Record:

Git Maker