April 27 / 15.35 Sandown

15.35

Good

bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £95659
  • 3m 4f 146y
  • Class 1
  • 22 runners
ITV
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bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 22 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

7/1 (Won)

  • Win: £9.50
  • Place: £2.60

Form: -31363

Last run: 26 days

W: 11st 9lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Grade 1 novice hurdle winner who is lightly raced in chases and ran best race yet over fences when third under Danny Mullins in the Irish Grand National (3m5f, heavy) on April 1; versatile ground-wise; one of three for Willie Mullins; could play leading role if last time hasn't left its mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Minella Cocooner

11st 1lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Delivered late to win this race on good ground last year by a neck, 26 days after his third in a heavy-ground Irish National; he shaped as if back to his best in the Grand National three weeks ago, travelling well to dispute the lead two out but ending up seventh as the 4m2f took its toll; this trip is presumably the ideal fit and, although 4lb higher than last year, a big run should be forthcoming if Aintree has not taken it out of him.

7/1

9th

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Minella Cocooner

11st 1lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Delivered late to win this race on good ground last year by a neck, 26 days after his third in a heavy-ground Irish National; he shaped as if back to his best in the Grand National three weeks ago, travelling well to dispute the lead two out but ending up seventh as the 4m2f took its toll; this trip is presumably the ideal fit and, although 4lb higher than last year, a big run should be forthcoming if Aintree has not taken it out of him.

7/1

7th

8

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Minella Cocooner

11st 2lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: W P Mullins

Third to Intense Raffles in the Irish National (3m5f, heavy) and delivered late to win the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good; 6lb higher today) later last April; Grade 1 rivals proved far too hot for him this season and he failed to trouble Nick Rockett and Intense Raffles at Fairyhouse on latest outing, but he looks a far more interesting prospect for today's assignment and this could be when he wins again.

12/1

20/1

  • Place: £5.30

Form: 86-417

Last run: 44 days

W: 11st 1lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Won Great Yorkshire Chase at Doncaster (3m, good) in January and that form has been franked by the runner-up; soft ground against him next time; fair sixth in this race last year (good to soft) and he may be able to improve upon that finishing position if good going prevails this afternoon.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

24th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

Annual Invictus

11st 2lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Returned from long absence with two below-par runs over 3m2f at Newbury towards end of last year, albeit first was in major handicap; well handicapped on old form and should be fine stamina-wise on cross-country debut but would appeal more on good ground and others have much less to prove

25/1

2nd

9

27th Apr 2024

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

15:35 Sandown

Annual Invictus

11st 1lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Won Great Yorkshire Chase at Doncaster (3m, good) in January and that form has been franked by the runner-up; soft ground against him next time; fair sixth in this race last year (good to soft) and he may be able to improve upon that finishing position if good going prevails this afternoon.

20/1

2nd

9

27th Apr 2024

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

15:35 Sandown

Annual Invictus

11st 1lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Won Great Yorkshire Chase at Doncaster (3m, good) in January and that form has been franked by the runner-up; soft ground against him next time; fair sixth in this race last year (good to soft) and he may be able to improve upon that finishing position if good going prevails this afternoon.

20/1

15/2

  • Place: £2.30

Form: 1-4127 BF

Last run: 26 days

W: 11st 5lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Sent off favourite but didn't always jump with fluency when fading into 30l seventh in this month's Irish Grand National (3m5f, heavy), which was his first run beyond 3m; something to prove today but this lightly raced 7yo looked very promising previously and represents the all-conquering Willie Mullins (one of three for yard); possible he'll bounce back with bold show.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

17th Mar 2026

Yielding

3m 2f 50y

15:38 Down Royal

Nick Rockett

11st 7lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Ended his novice season with third in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown; took his form to another level last season; backed up his Thyestes win by taking the Grade 2 Bobbyjo at Fairyhouse en route to leading home a one-two-three for the stable in the Grand National; makes a delayed reappearance after missing the John Durkan in December.

5/4

1st

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Nick Rockett

11st 8lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Capped his first season over fences with third to Minella Cocooner in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) last April and took his form to another level with two Grade 3 wins on testing ground in Ireland this year; the latest was in a good scrap with Intense Raffles, who's now a whopping 15lb better off; that helps to show that even more improvement is needed.

25/1

1st

3

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Nick Rockett

11st 8lb

J: Mr P W Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Capped his first season over fences with third to Minella Cocooner in bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown (extended 3m4f, good) last April and took his form to another level with two Grade 3 wins on testing ground in Ireland this year; the latest was in a good scrap with Intense Raffles, who's now a whopping 15lb better off; that helps to show that even more improvement is needed.

25/1

22/1

  • Place: £4.50

Form: 4352P3 C BF

Last run: 34 days

W: 10st 7lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
10yo who was a near-18l seventh in this last year and is 0-6 this season, with mistakes proving an issue; however, in the circumstances he did well to stay on for third at Ascot (3m, good) last month and perhaps the first-time cheekpieces will help him jump better; has won here on soft; chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: U3P-45

Last run: 122 days

W: 11st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Pulled up when favourite for Irish National last April and hasn't really threatened on either run this season; however, those were still fair efforts (3m1f/3m) and his saddle slipped when he was fourth at Cheltenham in October; remains lightly raced and may yet have more to offer for top Irish yard.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

10th Jul 2026

Good

3m 1f 80y

18:32 Kilbeggan

Amirite

11st 12lb

J: Patrick M O’Brien

T: Henry De Bromhead

Was in the form of his life in the spring and summer of last year, victory in this race being followed by an excellent fourth in the Galway Plate; by contrast, his spring form this year leaves plenty to be desired, but he is only 3lb higher than last year and cannot be dismissed with the stable in such form.

12/1

37

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Amirite

10st 2lb

T: Henry De Bromhead

A fluent fourth in the 2m5f Topham over these fences was the first of three big runs in good handicaps last April-July; ran creditably in one (Sandown in April 2024) of his three attempts at 3m4f-3m5f and excuses might be made for his latest two outings (first cross-country, then the mud) but other candidates are more persuasive.

80/1

Form: 514512

Last run: 14 days

W: 11st 12lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
12yo who has been in excellent form in the visor this season, winning twice (3m, soft/good) and posting a fine second at Aintree (3m1f, good to soft) a fortnight ago; he's unproven over today's longer trip but the previous evidence isn't damning and he came from well back with a strong finish last time, suggesting another crack at a marathon distance is well worth a go.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

3m 1f 214y

Class 2

15:15 Newbury

Sam Brown

12st 0lb

J: Chad Bament

T: Anthony Honeyball

The oldest of these veterans, being a 14yo, and bare form this term leaves a question mark over whether he retains the useful ability that has been present for a long time; however, won this race off 2lb higher last year (soft) and has a good chance if back on song.

9/1

10th

1

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:00 Ascot

Sam Brown

12st 0lb

J: Chad Bament

T: Anthony Honeyball

Useful for a long time but has gained last three wins in veterans' events and, having turned 14 since November reappearance, can be opposed off current mark in this field.

20/1

Form: 20-300 C

Last run: 44 days

W: 11st 7lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 149

Form & Verdict
Lightly raced since winning the prestigious Coral Gold Cup at Newbury (3m2f, good) in November 2022; hasn't threatened over hurdles on his three runs this season but his trainer excels when it comes to targeting big races; 2-2 here (soft/good to soft) and no surprise if he's in the mix back chasing.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 2

15:20 Haydock

Le Milos

11st 10lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Runner-up in the Stayers' Veterans' Final at Sandown (3m, good) in January two starts ago and he's not ruled out today; however, he's been inconsistent this season and was soundly beaten at Warwick (2m4f, heavy) in February; he may prefer a longer trip than this nowadays; fourth in this last year.

9/1

3rd

2

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Warwick

Le Milos

11st 9lb

J: Harry Atkins

T: Dan Skelton

Returned to form with creditable second in valuable veterans' final at Sandown (3m, good) last month and remains only 1lb higher than when winning this race readily by 6l a year ago (soft ground); major player, and his appeal will increase if the ground turns heavy.

9/4

Form: 035215

Last run: 15 days

W: 10st 13lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
9yo who is lightly raced for his age and won at Gowran (2m4f) last month on third chase start; creditable fifth in Topham at Aintree (2m5f) since and, while he's unraced beyond that trip and stamina is a big query, he's trained by Willie Mullins and for that reason alone is worth a second look.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12

2nd Feb 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

Aime Desjy

10st 9lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Second-season novice won a beginners' at Gowran last term before fifth in the Topham; jumping has let him down this term, pulled up at Navan and early casualty in Paddy Power here at Christmas; questions to answer.

20/1

12

2nd Feb 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

Aime Desjy

10st 9lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Second-season novice won a beginners' at Gowran last term before fifth in the Topham; jumping has let him down this term, pulled up at Navan and early casualty in Paddy Power here at Christmas; questions to answer.

20/1

18

27th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:00 Leopardstown

Aime Desjy

10st 11lb

J: Kieran Callaghan

T: W P Mullins

visibility reduced by fog, midfield, fell 5th

50/1

Form: 470575 CD

Last run: 14 days

W: 11st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Won this last year (good to soft; placed in 2021/2022); back on song with highly creditable fifth in Grand National at Aintree (4m2f, soft) two weeks ago; had a hard race then which is a worry, but he won this 12 months ago just seven days after landing the Scottish National (good); key player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

4th May 2026

Good

3m 0f 38y

Class 2

16:03 Fakenham

Kittys Light

10st 6lb

J: Jack Tudor

T: Christian Williams

Won three valuable marathons in a row in 2022-23 campaign and was honourable fifth in Grand National the following season; never really got going in 2025-25 but returns from 471-day absence on a tempting mark and will be suited by the forecast good ground; market helpful.

14/1

5th

2

18th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

13:05 Ascot

Kittys Light

11st 9lb

J: Richard Patrick

T: Christian Williams

took keen hold, raced in last

12/1

5th

2

18th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

13:05 Ascot

Kittys Light

11st 9lb

J: Richard Patrick

T: Christian Williams

took keen hold, raced in last, not fluent 4th, outpaced when mistake 14th, no impression

12/1

25/1

Form: 6F-423 C

Last run: 47 days

W: 10st 6lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
First past the post in this race in 2021 (disqualified due to interference) and 9lb lower today; this 10yo has run well in defeat on his two outings this year (3m7f/3m4f) but needs something extra in this hotter race; pulled up in this contest in 2022 and an early faller 12 months ago.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

21st Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 86y

Class 5

17:10 Newbury

Enrilo

11st 12lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Inconsistent in recent years but has always been talented and the horse who beat him on his hunter chase debut at Ludlow (3m, good to soft) has run well since in defeat (behind Bardenstown Lad who was well held last week at Cheltenham); Paul Nicholls has won three of the last six runnings of this race.

2/1

2nd

2

5th Feb 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 171y

Class 4

16:45 Ludlow

Enrilo

11st 12lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Formerly smart but inconsistent in recent years and he was pulled up in a 2m7f handicap chase on his return in October (after further wind surgery); still dangerous to dismiss in a hunter chase (debut) on the strength of his close third at Taunton last March (three runs back).

11/8

2nd

2

5th Feb 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 171y

Class 4

16:45 Ludlow

Enrilo

11st 12lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Formerly smart but inconsistent in recent years and he was pulled up in a 2m7f handicap chase on his return in October (after further wind surgery); still dangerous to dismiss in a hunter chase (debut) on the strength of his close third at Taunton last March (three runs back).

11/8

Form: 3-13P4

Last run: 14 days

W: 11st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Returned from a break with encouraging fourth at Aintree (3m1f, good to soft) a fortnight ago; stayed on well for third of 16 in Summer Cup at Uttoxeter (3m2f, good) last July, a run that can be upgraded due to jumping errors, and he's an interesting candidate; the drier the ground the better.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

3

14th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 214y

Class 2

14:05 Doncaster

Kinondo Kwetu

11st 5lb

J: Jonathan England

T: Sam England

He won two in a row in the summer (3m2f/2m7f, good) but was pulled up at Cheltenham (3m1f, good) in October and soundly beaten in the Rehearsal at Newcastle (2m7f, good) last time; needs to bounce back.

25/1

Form: P-3266

Last run: 46 days

W: 10st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
He has to improve markedly upon his last three performances (3m/3m1f, soft/heavy) to make an impact today; however, before those he stayed on well for third of four on his chase debut in a hot novice at Cheltenham (3m, good to soft) and today's expected return to better ground could help him tap back into that promise; on an attractive mark on the chase debut form.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

10

12th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Weveallbeencaught

11st 6lb

J: Mr J C Barry

T: E McNamara

Disappointing at Leopardstown in December last time but in good form previously for new yard, finishing second in the Munster National in October (3m, yielding to soft); 13l fourth in this race last year when he'd have been closer but for a bad late mistake; each-way shout if back on song.

16/1

11

19th Oct 2025

Good

3m 0f 0y

16:15 Limerick

Weveallbeencaught

11st 0lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: E McNamara

Won a 3m Doncaster novice handicap chase in fine style for Nigel Twiston-Davies in January; second-best of the home team when fourth behind Daily Present in the Kim Muir; can be expected to improve from stable debut at Listowel; prospects of reversing form with Talk In The Park.

8/1

3

27th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 6f 0y

16:30 Listowel

Weveallbeencaught

11st 12lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: E McNamara

Won a 3m Doncaster novice handicap chase in fine style for Nigel Twiston-Davies in January; not a bad effort when last seen at Aintree in April; bought for 40,000GBP at Goffs in May; worth a market check on first start for new yard.

12/1

Form: 84-221

Last run: 70 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 156

Form & Verdict
Ran well when fourth in last year's Scottish National (4m, good) and he's been better than ever this year in good handicaps, finishing second twice in a row (3m1f/3m2f, good to soft/soft) before winning at Ascot (3m, good to soft) in February; carries top weight but holds solid claims.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:00 Ascot

Threeunderthrufive

11st 7lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Two attempts in this race comprise a success in 2024 and close second last year, both off higher marks; however, has a doubt over current form and needs to stage a revival.

10/1

3

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Threeunderthrufive

11st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Fourth in the 2023 Scottish National (4m, good); commendable efforts most starts since, for instance beaten a nose by Victtorino at Ascot (3m, good; 1lb higher today) in February, but this race last year was not one of them and neither was the Grand National three weeks ago.

16/1

3

26th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 146y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Threeunderthrufive

11st 0lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Fourth in the 2023 Scottish National (4m, good); commendable efforts most starts since, for instance beaten a nose by Victtorino at Ascot (3m, good; 1lb higher today) in February, but this race last year was not one of them and neither was the Grand National three weeks ago.

16/1

25/1

Form: 9P-901 D

Last run: 42 days

W: 10st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Has won over 3m6f and he returned to form with a 4l win at Kempton (3m, good to soft) last month; he's 6lb higher in this much hotter race but his trainer has enjoyed an excellent season and stamina won't be an issue.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

1st May 2026

Good

4m 0f 218y

Class 4

19:25 Warwick

Slipway

11st 12lb

J: Miss Molly Armytage

T: James Luck

Former winner of Highland and Southern Nationals (good to soft), so surprising he didn't see out 3m here on January's hunter chase debut; back on track in a Siddington novice riders' point latest, additionally a first career success on good ground; safe ride (never falls) and not dismissed.

4/1

5th

4

23rd Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 5

16:18 Warwick

Slipway

12st 6lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Ben Pauling

Thorough stayer who was very respectable fifth of 14 in quite valuable Uttoxeter handicap (3m, good) on latest outing in May; also suited by soft ground and has big role to play if fully tuned up for hunter chase debut; blinkers removed after one use.

11/2

5th

6

3rd May 2025

Good

3m 0f 10y

Class 2

17:55 Uttoxeter

Slipway

10st 12lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Won over hurdles after wind surgery and then ran okay to be fourth over 3m at Kempton in a race he won the previous season; there's nothing wrong with his mark and always a chance that blinkers will bring him on.

16/1

Form: -P8343 D

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 4lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Won three times last season, including over 3m3f/3m4f, and following a wind op he ran well when third here (3m, good to soft) last month; proven at the trip and an each-way case can be made now back up in distance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

17th Nov 2024

Good

3m 3f 71y

Class 1

14:55 Cheltenham

Bangers And Cash

10st 2lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

This is his first run since April and he's improved for his reappearance run in each of the last two seasons; however, he returns with his stable in flying form and is on a competitive mark on his best efforts last term; won over 3m3f/3m4f in his 2022-23 campaign and not ruled out.

12/1

10

17th Nov 2024

Good

3m 3f 71y

Class 1

14:55 Cheltenham

Bangers And Cash

10st 2lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

pressed leader early, midfield 5th, collapsed when pulled up after 14th, heart attack

12/1

40/1

Form: -42722 C

Last run: 35 days

W: 10st 9lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
10yo who has run well in second on three of his last four starts (heavy/good to soft), including over 3m4f at Haydock; each-way possibilities but he might not want the ground to dry out (well beaten on good going here in February); blinkers (no positive impact in 2023 Grand National) replace visor.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

1st Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 191y

Class 4

14:55 Market Rasen

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Henry Daly

Veteran who was a very useful staying chaser in his prime but has regressed and become inconsistent; left behind in home straight at Doncaster (3m, good) five weeks ago and needs headgear switch to perk him up here.

10/1

4th

6

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 21y

Class 3

15:15 Cheltenham

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Hugh Nugent

T: Henry Daly

Six-time chase winner over 3m; began season with respectable second behind revitalised opponent at Aintree (3m1f, good) in October and should be fine stamina-wise today but his last three runs were disappointing.

20/1

4th

6

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 4f 21y

Class 3

15:15 Cheltenham

Fortescue

11st 11lb

J: Hugh Nugent

T: Henry Daly

Six-time chase winner over 3m; began season with respectable second behind revitalised opponent at Aintree (3m1f, good) in October and should be fine stamina-wise today but his last three runs were disappointing.

20/1

20/1

Form: -P4P2F

Last run: 44 days

W: 10st 10lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
10yo whose form is up and down but he's won over Cheltenham's stiff, extended 3m2f and has hinted on occasions that this sort of test may suit; stayed on well for second at Ascot (3m, good to soft) in February; prominent when falling at Cheltenham Festival last time; not ruled out each-way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

15th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 162y

Class 3

15:37 Wincanton

Rapper

10st 13lb

J: Richard Patrick

T: Henry Daly

Well handicapped on what he was doing two years ago but he's pulled up and finished last in two races after a year on the sidelines.

33/1

3rd

4

21st Nov 2024

Good To Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Warwick

Rapper

10st 13lb

J: Stan Sheppard

T: Henry Daly

Inconsistent in recent seasons but ran fairly well when third (albeit well held in the end) on reappearance outing at Aintree (3m1f, good) last month and possibilities if able to build on that performance here.

6/1

3rd

4

21st Nov 2024

Good To Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Warwick

Rapper

10st 13lb

J: Stan Sheppard

T: Henry Daly

Inconsistent in recent seasons but ran fairly well when third (albeit well held in the end) on reappearance outing at Aintree (3m1f, good) last month and possibilities if able to build on that performance here.

6/1

40/1

Form: 1216P1

Last run: 49 days

W: 10st 13lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Made it four wins for the season (all on good but has run well on soft) when comfortably beating solid yardstick at Worcester (2m7f) last August; not at that level since and extremely fortunate to win at Hereford last month, after a break, but it was over an inadequate 2m and there was encouragement in that run; Peter Bowen and Sean Bowen won this with 40-1 shot Henllan Harri in 2017 who, like this fellow, was tackling his longest trip yet; one to note.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

8th May 2026

Good

2m 7f 191y

Class 3

15:50 Market Rasen

Courtland

12st 2lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Mickey Bowen

Seven-time chase winner (once here); returned from break with disappointing effort last month but current mark is workable if subsequent wind operation and/or first-time cheekpieces prompt a return to form.

6/1

7

4th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 2

15:20 Haydock

Courtland

11st 4lb

J: James Bowen

T: Mickey Bowen

He ran well in defeat in the main last year and is effective when fresh; could give a good account on this first start since December but there's been minimal movement in his mark this season and he may again prove vulnerable in this competitive contest.

12/1

10

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:45 Ascot

Courtland

11st 1lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Seven-time winner over fences and recent placed efforts in some good 2m5f-2m7f handicaps were bordering on career-best form; highly likely to give his running once more but has an air of vulnerability about him for win purposes.

16/1

10

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 7f 185y

Class 1

15:45 Ascot

Courtland

11st 1lb

J: Shane Fenelon

T: Mickey Bowen

Seven-time winner over fences and recent placed efforts in some good 2m5f-2m7f handicaps were bordering on career-best form; highly likely to give his running once more but has an air of vulnerability about him for win purposes.

16/1

OUR TIP

Form: 3-P451

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 12lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
Won at Cheltenham (extended 3m3f, good) in November 2022, and in first-time cheekpieces he returned to winning ways at Doncaster (3m2f, soft) last month; he could have more to offer in the headgear and is not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Cheltenham

Does He Know

12st 0lb

J: Ciaran Gethings

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

Very useful staying chaser when on song and has pretty good record at Cheltenham; pulled up at Exeter two starts ago and didn't find much at the business end when third of four at Carlisle (3m, good) last month but it won't be a surprise if he runs a big race here.

11/2

3rd

1

16th Apr 2025

Good

3m 2f 0y

Class 2

16:25 Cheltenham

Does He Know

12st 0lb

J: Ciaran Gethings

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

Very useful staying chaser when on song and has pretty good record at Cheltenham; pulled up at Exeter two starts ago and didn't find much at the business end when third of four at Carlisle (3m, good) last month but it won't be a surprise if he runs a big race here.

11/2

3rd

1

23rd Mar 2025

Good

3m 0f 110y

Class 2

16:30 Carlisle

Does He Know

12st 0lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls

taken down early, raced in second, pressed leader 13th, led narrowly 3 out, headed when hit last, weakened and lost second run-in

9/4

Form: 31F-0P

Last run: 56 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Has struggled on both runs this season, but the first was his reappearance and the second was on soft ground; progressive last term and if this prominent-racer gets into a rhythm in first-time blinkers (replacing cheekpieces), he'll be just the type Bryony Frost excels with; not written off.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

1st Nov 2025

Good

3m 0f 0y

14:40 Down Royal

Flash Collonges

11st 10lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: R K Watson

Useful sort for Paul Nicholls early in his career; last win was March 2023; tailed off in a Downpatrick handicap hurdle in July on stable debut and has missed all three engagements since; completely out of his depth here.

150/1

3

1st Nov 2025

Good

3m 0f 0y

14:40 Down Royal

Flash Collonges

11st 10lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: R K Watson

Useful sort for Paul Nicholls early in his career; last win was March 2023; tailed off in a Downpatrick handicap hurdle in July on stable debut and has missed all three engagements since; completely out of his depth here.

150/1

Form: 53-UP0

Last run: 44 days

W: 10st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
First reserve; third in Scottish National (4m, good) last April; likely to be back on better ground today but has handled testing conditions in the past, so has plenty to prove in view of this season's struggles.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

11

25th May 2026

Good

2m 7f 80y

18:35 Ballinrobe

Flash De Touzaine

10st 6lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: Liz Doyle

Exposed but useful on his day; latest of three chase wins came off same mark in veterans' chase on this card a year ago; ran well in Midlands National at Kilbeggan next time and stays this far; after a layoff, ran okay at Wexford last month but probably vulnerable to those with more upside.

16/1

5th

5

10th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 100y

18:38 Wexford

Flash De Touzaine

10st 12lb

J: James Smith

T: Liz Doyle

Gained the most recent of his three chase wins in a 2m3f handicap on good ground at Ballinrobe last May; lacks a recent run but trip/ground in his favour so local challenger respected.

10/1

Form: 126-22

Last run: 12 days

W: 10st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 126

Form & Verdict
Second reserve; 4lb out of the handicap today but he's run well in defeat over 2m7f on his two starts this spring and could build on those runs now back up in trip, having won over 3m7f last March; not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

16th Oct 2025

Good

3m 0f 110y

Class 3

15:07 Carlisle

Your Own Story

11st 9lb

J: Patrick Wadge

T: Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore

9yo who has won just one of his 17 chases but he's finished second in nine of them, including at Kelso (3m2f, good to soft) in March; also effective on good ground and he won here over hurdles; not ruled out on return.

4/1

10th

14

3rd May 2025

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Your Own Story

10st 8lb

J: Patrick Wadge

T: Lucinda Russell

prominent, pressed leaders briefly 5th

10/1

10th

14

3rd May 2025

Yielding

3m 7f 68y

15:05 Punchestown

Your Own Story

10st 8lb

J: Patrick Wadge

T: Lucinda Russell

prominent, pressed leaders briefly 5th

10/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £220.40
Straight Forecast £171.00
Tricast £1288.40
Trifecta £2955.40

Selections

The Times:

Nick Rockett

Telegraph:

Amirite

Daily Mirror:

Le Milos

The Sun:

Minella Cocooner

RP RATINGS:

Kinondo Kwetu

SPOTLIGHT:

Courtland

WEST COUNTRY:

Threeunderthrufive

The Star:

Does He Know

TOPSPEED:

Annual Invictus

POSTDATA:

Enrilo

Daily Mail:

Sam Brown

The Guardian:

Nick Rockett

D Express:

Amirite

Daily Record:

Le Milos