March 12 / 14.40 Cheltenham

14.40

Good To Soft

Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £61897
  • 2m 5f 0y
  • Class 1
  • 28 runners
ITV
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Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 28 runners

Type: Hurdle Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

12/1 (Won)

  • Win: £21.10
  • Place: £4.30

Form: 2124-5

Last run: 313 days

W: 11st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
66-1 and came from last of seven when chasing home easy winner Ballyburn in Grade 1 novice hurdle on this card (2m5f, soft) last March; that's a good deal better than his other form, albeit confined to two other Grade 1s at the spring festivals since and managing fourth at Aintree on first occasion; off 313 days and lightly raced from top stable, so rivals can't rest easily.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

6

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Jimmy Du Seuil

11st 7lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

66-1 and came from last of seven when chasing home easy winner Ballyburn in Grade 1 novice hurdle on this card (2m5f, soft) last March; that's a good deal better than his other form, albeit confined to two other Grade 1s at the spring festivals since and managing fourth at Aintree on first occasion; off 313 days and lightly raced from top stable, so rivals can't rest easily.

12/1

8/1

  • Place: £2.20

Form: 1123-1 C

Last run: 102 days

W: 11st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
First, second and third in three hot handicaps last season (not seen after January) and he allayed any stamina doubts when back with a bang at Newbury (extended 2m4f) in November this term, reeling in the leader late on; reliable, progressive and could easily have more to give; first headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

3rd May 2025

Yielding

2m 4f 118y

17:25 Punchestown

Impose Toi

11st 5lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

prominent

6/1

2nd

2

3rd May 2025

Yielding

2m 4f 118y

17:25 Punchestown

Impose Toi

11st 5lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

prominent

6/1

4th

2

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Impose Toi

12st 0lb

J: Nico de Boinville

T: Nicky Henderson

midfield early, soon in rear

13/2

12/1

  • Place: £3.60

Form: 3327-1

Last run: 71 days

W: 11st 12lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Top weight when second from the rear in this last year, following fifth in the County at this meeting in 2022 and 2023; won a small-field conditions event at Christmas on sole start this term; brings a proud record but without that many wins and he's probably vulnerable off 4lb higher than last year.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Ballyadam

11st 12lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Top weight when second from the rear in this last year, following fifth in the County at this meeting in 2022 and 2023; won a small-field conditions event at Christmas on sole start this term; brings a proud record but without that many wins and he's probably vulnerable off 4lb higher than last year.

12/1

1st

4

31st Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 3f 0y

14:05 Punchestown

Ballyadam

11st 4lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

raced in second, not fluent 4th, ridden and pressed leader before last, led run-in, kept on well

100/30

1st

4

31st Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 3f 0y

14:05 Punchestown

Ballyadam

11st 4lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

raced in second, not fluent 4th, ridden and pressed leader before last, led run-in, kept on well

100/30

10/1

  • Place: £2.20

Form: 12-275

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 8lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Has a largely solid record and ran well over 2m3f at Haydock on reappearance; back to 2m for both starts since and he ran as if in need of further, nevertheless finishing a good fifth of 17 in top handicap at Newbury (soft; has won on good) last time; could be a leading player if he can iron out the repeated sticky jumping he showed that day.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

12

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Beat The Bat

11st 3lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Sometimes let down by his jumping and he was none too fluent at the final flight when beaten about 5l in the Coral Cup (2m5f); wasn't exactly strong through the line that day and others might see this out better at 3m.

10/1

5th

12

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Beat The Bat

11st 3lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Sometimes let down by his jumping and he was none too fluent at the final flight when beaten about 5l in the Coral Cup (2m5f); wasn't exactly strong through the line that day and others might see this out better at 3m.

10/1

4th

24

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Beat The Bat

10st 8lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Has a largely solid record and ran well over 2m3f at Haydock on reappearance; back to 2m for both starts since and he ran as if in need of further, nevertheless finishing a good fifth of 17 in top handicap at Newbury (soft; has won on good) last time; could be a leading player if he can iron out the repeated sticky jumping he showed that day.

10/1

Form: 5-3232 BF

Last run: 92 days

W: 11st 7lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Sole hurdles win (18 races) was in 2021 but he's reliable, including with third in the 2022 County here and fifth in 2024 Champion Hurdle; third of five in Ascot Grade 2 (extended 2m3f) in November was creditable but he's exposed, so needs to improve for the new trip; good claimer enlisted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

2

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

18:00 Punchestown

Colonel Mustard

11st 10lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Mrs Lorna Fowler

towards rear, headway from 2 out, disputing fourth approaching last, no extra run-in

14/1

5th

2

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

18:00 Punchestown

Colonel Mustard

11st 10lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Mrs Lorna Fowler

towards rear, headway from 2 out, disputing fourth approaching last, no extra run-in

14/1

Form: 1-4102

Last run: 18 days

W: 11st 1lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Has had only five races, all over hurdles, and won two of the first three; remote in a valuable race at Leopardstown (2m, soft) in his first handicap but an excellent second of 16 from out the back at Fairyhouse (2m4f, soft) later in February; inexperienced but promising.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

3

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Beckett Rock

11st 8lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Dual winner who has only raced six times and he stayed on well to finish sixth (just behind Beat The Bat) in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham; smacks of a horse with more to offer, especially as a stayer.

16/1

16th

3

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Beckett Rock

11st 8lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Henry De Bromhead

Dual winner who has only raced six times and he stayed on well to finish sixth (just behind Beat The Bat) in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham; smacks of a horse with more to offer, especially as a stayer.

16/1

6th

12

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Beckett Rock

11st 1lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Has had only five races, all over hurdles, and won two of the first three; remote in a valuable race at Leopardstown (2m, soft) in his first handicap but an excellent second of 16 from out the back at Fairyhouse (2m4f, soft) later in February; inexperienced but promising.

25/1

Form: 513724 D

Last run: 25 days

W: 11st 6lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Fourth in the Grade 1 Stayers' in 2021 at this meeting in his pomp but well beaten in three subsequent visits, in this race for the last two years; landed a four-runner Grade 2 at Wetherby (3m, good) in November but it would now be a surprise if this 11yo popped up in front in a Coral Cup.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

28th May 2025

Good To Firm

2m 1f 0y

16:55 Wexford

Beacon Edge

12st 0lb

J: Mr J M Halford

T: Gordon Elliott

Winner of nine races; 7-34 record over hurdles, including a four-runner Grade 2 event over 3m at Wetherby last October; ran creditably when seventh in the 26-runner Coral Cup at Cheltenham; down the field at Aintree subsequently; trip is short of his best but he won a stronger race than this over 2m2f at Ballinrobe a year ago; amateur rider, 2-11 over hurdles.

11/8

1

28th May 2025

Good To Firm

2m 1f 0y

16:55 Wexford

Beacon Edge

12st 0lb

J: Mr J M Halford

T: Gordon Elliott

Winner of nine races; 7-34 record over hurdles, including a four-runner Grade 2 event over 3m at Wetherby last October; ran creditably when seventh in the 26-runner Coral Cup at Cheltenham; down the field at Aintree subsequently; trip is short of his best but he won a stronger race than this over 2m2f at Ballinrobe a year ago; amateur rider, 2-11 over hurdles.

11/8

Form: 222-23

Last run: 81 days

W: 10st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Won debut and placed all five races since; the last three were warm handicaps, notably the Greatwood here (2m, good) penultimate start, in which he came from off pace to go down by half a length; off 81 days; youngster who's back up markedly in trip and brings potential for trainer with a fine record in Festival handicap hurdles, including winning the last two renewals of this one.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

8

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Be Aware

11st 6lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Largely consistent since debut win and gives the impression there's a race of this nature in him; outstayed over a stiff 2m5f when 3-1 favourite for the Coral Cup at Cheltenham most recently; remains of strong interest.

13/2

8th

8

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Be Aware

11st 6lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Largely consistent since debut win and gives the impression there's a race of this nature in him; outstayed over a stiff 2m5f when 3-1 favourite for the Coral Cup at Cheltenham most recently; remains of strong interest.

13/2

8th

17

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Be Aware

10st 12lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Won debut and placed all five races since; the last three were warm handicaps, notably the Greatwood here (2m, good) penultimate start, in which he came from off pace to go down by half a length; off 81 days; youngster who's back up markedly in trip and brings potential for trainer with a fine record in Festival handicap hurdles, including winning the last two renewals of this one.

5/1

Form: -P2650

Last run: 48 days

W: 11st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Second in Grade 1 novice at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) last April and returned to form when back over hurdles for fifth of 20 at Leopardstown (2m7f, yielding) in December; tailed off, however, in another Pertemps qualifier at Huntingdon in January and swaps cheekpieces for blinkers.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

8

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 180y

15:50 Fairyhouse

Staffordshire Knot

11st 3lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Bumper/maiden winner; has become rather disappointing given his initial promise and lethargic in recent races, running on all too late in the day when ninth in the Coral Cup last time (first-time blinkers); might not be good enough even if putting it all in.

20/1

9th

8

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 180y

15:50 Fairyhouse

Staffordshire Knot

11st 3lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Bumper/maiden winner; has become rather disappointing given his initial promise and lethargic in recent races, running on all too late in the day when ninth in the Coral Cup last time (first-time blinkers); might not be good enough even if putting it all in.

20/1

9th

10

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Staffordshire Knot

11st 4lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Second in Grade 1 novice at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) last April and returned to form when back over hurdles for fifth of 20 at Leopardstown (2m7f, yielding) in December; tailed off, however, in another Pertemps qualifier at Huntingdon in January and swaps cheekpieces for blinkers.

33/1

Form: 4-4244 D

Last run: 48 days

W: 11st 8lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Career-best efforts came at the Festival in Grade 1 novice hurdle and novice chase, albeit at 3m and he's concentrated on that sort of trip for last two seasons; blinkered last two starts and ran respectably; could get involved if there's a good pace at this trip for his first ever handicap.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

6

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 180y

15:50 Fairyhouse

Sandor Clegane

11st 3lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: Paul Nolan

Competitive in Grade 1s over hurdles and fences; ideally wants 3m and was found wanting for tactical speed when only tenth in the 2m5f Coral Cup at Cheltenham (his first handicap), but today's testing ground will help in that respect; blinkers worn in his last three races are removed.

10/1

Form: 0-1237

Last run: 81 days

W: 11st 8lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Disappointing at 10-1 in the 4yo event (the only time he's run in a handicap) at this meeting last year when heavy ground had seemed a plus; improved form under Oakley Brown all four starts since, albeit beaten 7l (2m4f Grade 2) and 9l (3m Ascot Grade 1) on good to soft on last two occasions and rising in the handicap as a result; further improved form is very much needed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 180y

15:50 Fairyhouse

Eagle Fang

11st 3lb

J: Philip Byrnes

T: William Durkan

Has only won a couple of minor hurdles but had raised his game in defeat this season until finishing only midfield in the Coral Cup; likely placed at best here unless the first-time blinkers can trigger something; the ground will be fine.

25/1

40/1

Form: 6-6164

Last run: 53 days

W: 10st 12lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Fourth in the 2023 Martin Pipe here but early mistakes saw him well beaten in this (14-1) last year; won off a reduced mark at Bangor in November and creditable fourth of seven at Taunton latest, but needs a return to 2023 levels.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

16

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Might I

10st 12lb

J: Sean Bowen

T: Harry Fry

Fourth in the 2023 Martin Pipe here but early mistakes saw him well beaten in this (14-1) last year; won off a reduced mark at Bangor in November and creditable fourth of seven at Taunton latest, but needs a return to 2023 levels.

40/1

4th

2

18th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

2m 3f 1y

Class 2

15:15 Taunton

Might I

11st 12lb

J: Ciaran O’Shea

T: Harry Fry

Seemingly on the downgrade now and was probably a shade fortunate when winning off reduced mark at Bangor (2m3f, good to soft) in November but put in pretty good front-running shift over 3m at Cheltenham last month and today's drop back in trip looks the right move.

11/2

4th

2

18th Jan 2025

Good To Soft

2m 3f 1y

Class 2

15:15 Taunton

Might I

11st 12lb

J: Ciaran O’Shea

T: Harry Fry

Seemingly on the downgrade now and was probably a shade fortunate when winning off reduced mark at Bangor (2m3f, good to soft) in November but put in pretty good front-running shift over 3m at Cheltenham last month and today's drop back in trip looks the right move.

11/2

Form: 153101

Last run: 73 days

W: 11st 5lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Made all for three wins over hurdles (ten attempts); raced midfield when disappointing here (3m) in October on handicap debut but followed that with a career best at Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding) over Christmas when taking 20-runner handicap by half a length under 5lb claimer, with Comfort Zone third; shoved up the weights but just a 6yo and still has potential.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

26th May 2025

Good

2m 1f 54y

18:00 Ballinrobe

Al Gasparo

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Made all for three wins over hurdles last year; career best at Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding) last Christmas when taking 20-runner handicap; dropped away in the straight in the Coral Cup; won a point-to-point for Ciaran Murphy in 2023; should make a useful novice chaser.

5/2

1

26th May 2025

Good

2m 1f 54y

18:00 Ballinrobe

Al Gasparo

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Made all for three wins over hurdles last year; career best at Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding) last Christmas when taking 20-runner handicap; dropped away in the straight in the Coral Cup; won a point-to-point for Ciaran Murphy in 2023; should make a useful novice chaser.

5/2

13th

9

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Al Gasparo

11st 5lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Made all for three wins over hurdles (ten attempts); raced midfield when disappointing here (3m) in October on handicap debut but followed that with a career best at Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding) over Christmas when taking 20-runner handicap by half a length under 5lb claimer, with Comfort Zone third; shoved up the weights but just a 6yo and still has potential.

16/1

Form: 34F5P4

Last run: 11 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Fell in his second chase; back hurdling for his three starts since, all over about 3m and he's not proven over that far but latest was a step back in the right direction (travelled best); this appears more his trip and a look at his smooth win by nearly 7l in 17-runner handicap at Sandown (2m4f, good; 7lb higher today) last April sparks major interest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

16th May 2025

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

18:20 Aintree

Ike Sport

11st 5lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Neil Mulholland

Failed to win last season but was very respectable fifth of 20 over C&D (good to soft; first run in today's headgear combination) in hot handicap at last month's Grand National meeting and again ran well when fourth at Sandown (2m4f, good) three weeks ago; good chance.

3/1

4

16th May 2025

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

18:20 Aintree

Ike Sport

11st 5lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Neil Mulholland

Failed to win last season but was very respectable fifth of 20 over C&D (good to soft; first run in today's headgear combination) in hot handicap at last month's Grand National meeting and again ran well when fourth at Sandown (2m4f, good) three weeks ago; good chance.

3/1

4th

7

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 3f 173y

Class 2

16:45 Sandown

Ike Sport

11st 4lb

J: Conor O’Farrell

T: Neil Mulholland

took keen hold, towards rear, hit 3rd

7/1

Form: 17-819

Last run: 39 days

W: 10st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Made a splash initially for Nicky Henderson last season but tailed off in May on final start for him; back with a bang to justify favouritism at Fairyhouse (3m) this January, which was followed by a respectable mid-division effort in warm 25-runner race at Leopardstown (3m); 28-1 for the latter and he's one to note for any stronger market interest this time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 3f 173y

Class 2

16:45 Sandown

King Alexander

11st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

in rear

20/1

3rd

2

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 3f 173y

Class 2

16:45 Sandown

King Alexander

11st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

in rear

20/1

Form: 11-9PF CD

Last run: 18 days

W: 10st 8lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Truncated 2023-24 campaign featured a 2m5f Grade 2 novice win here; not disgraced on Windsor reappearance (3m) after 429 days off but showing a good deal more than on last two outings would have been preferable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

12

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Minella Missile

11st 0lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

towards rear, mistake and in rear 1st

50/1

10th

12

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Minella Missile

11st 0lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

towards rear, mistake and in rear 1st

50/1

16th

22

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Minella Missile

10st 8lb

J: Adam Wedge

T: Evan Williams

Truncated 2023-24 campaign featured a 2m5f Grade 2 novice win here; not disgraced on Windsor reappearance (3m) after 429 days off but showing a good deal more than on last two outings would have been preferable.

40/1

Form: 94-017

Last run: 38 days

W: 10st 11lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Emerged as very useful Flat stayer last year on good/good to firm; returned to hurdling with a 1m7f win at Thurles (good) in January but failed to fire in a Pertemps qualifier at Musselburgh (3m, good to soft) two weeks later; 2m4f+ had held some appeal prior to that and his Flat form is eyecatching.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

(3)

30th May 2025

Good

2m 0f 0y

19:08 Down Royal

Samui

9st 6lb

J: Declan McDonogh

T: Gordon Elliott

Won the 1m2f maiden on this card last year and progressed to much better things under both codes, including placed efforts at Listed level; ran okay in his final hurdle race and this guaranteed stayer should give his running.

13/2

2

(3)

30th May 2025

Good

2m 0f 0y

19:08 Down Royal

Samui

9st 6lb

J: Declan McDonogh

T: Gordon Elliott

Won the 1m2f maiden on this card last year and progressed to much better things under both codes, including placed efforts at Listed level; ran okay in his final hurdle race and this guaranteed stayer should give his running.

13/2

7th

6

29th Apr 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 149y

15:40 Punchestown

Samui

10st 10lb

J: Mr J H Williamson

T: Gordon Elliott

midfield, outpaced after 2 out, ran on well from last, not reach leaders

16/1

Form: 24-210 D BF

Last run: 73 days

W: 11st 6lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Fourth in the Grand Annual here last March; that's over fences, in which sphere he's registered easily his best efforts, notably his clearcut win in a 19-runner Listed handicap at Navan (2m4f, soft) on penultimate start; something amiss at Christmas on latest; has a vastly lower hurdles mark in Ireland (second in a big field in November) but the British handicapper hasn't been nearly so generous.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

3

22nd Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 0f 0y

17:05 Fairyhouse

Sa Fureur

11st 4lb

J: Mr J H Williamson

T: Gordon Elliott

raced wide, took keen hold, never better than midfield

16/1

14th

3

22nd Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 0f 0y

17:05 Fairyhouse

Sa Fureur

11st 4lb

J: Mr J H Williamson

T: Gordon Elliott

raced wide, took keen hold, never better than midfield

16/1

Form: -78134 D BF

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 6lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Had wind surgery before winning in fine style at Newbury (extended 2m4f, good to soft; 10lb higher today) in December, very strong at the finish; delivered late again when respectable third over 3m at Windsor three weeks later, before looking a non-stayer over that trip at Haydock; he's been deliberately setting off in last place, which will demand some luck, but this step back in trip makes strong appeal and he could deliver a telling late challenge.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 149y

Class 1

13:20 Aintree

Jipcot

11st 4lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Had wind surgery before winning in fine style at Newbury (extended 2m4f, good to soft) in December, with creditable in-frame efforts over 3m at Windsor and Haydock on his next two starts; never involved in the Coral Cup over 2m5f at Cheltenham but this hold-up performer has claims now he's returning to 3m.

20/1

18

5th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 149y

Class 1

13:20 Aintree

Jipcot

11st 4lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Had wind surgery before winning in fine style at Newbury (extended 2m4f, good to soft) in December, with creditable in-frame efforts over 3m at Windsor and Haydock on his next two starts; never involved in the Coral Cup over 2m5f at Cheltenham but this hold-up performer has claims now he's returning to 3m.

20/1

19th

25

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Jipcot

10st 6lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Had wind surgery before winning in fine style at Newbury (extended 2m4f, good to soft; 10lb higher today) in December, very strong at the finish; delivered late again when respectable third over 3m at Windsor three weeks later, before looking a non-stayer over that trip at Haydock; he's been deliberately setting off in last place, which will demand some luck, but this step back in trip makes strong appeal and he could deliver a telling late challenge.

12/1

Form: -77633 C

Last run: 73 days

W: 10st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Won here as a juvenile and took a major 2m Flat handicap last October; throw in his third in valuable, large-field handicap hurdles at Galway (2m6f, yielding) last August and Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding; behind Al Gasparo) in late December and he needs each-way respect here as well.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

13

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Comfort Zone

11st 3lb

J: Simon Torrens

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual Grade 2 winner as a novice, since then his only success has been on the Flat (in October); third of 20 on his return to hurdling at Leopardstown (2m4f) over Christmas and he ran a long way below market expectations in the Coral Cup; even if back on song, there are stamina doubts now sent beyond 2m5f for the first time.

20/1

9th

13

1st May 2025

Yielding

2m 7f 110y

16:15 Punchestown

Comfort Zone

11st 3lb

J: Simon Torrens

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual Grade 2 winner as a novice, since then his only success has been on the Flat (in October); third of 20 on his return to hurdling at Leopardstown (2m4f) over Christmas and he ran a long way below market expectations in the Coral Cup; even if back on song, there are stamina doubts now sent beyond 2m5f for the first time.

20/1

21th

15

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Comfort Zone

10st 12lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Won here as a juvenile and took a major 2m Flat handicap last October; throw in his third in valuable, large-field handicap hurdles at Galway (2m6f, yielding) last August and Leopardstown (2m4f, good to yielding; behind Al Gasparo) in late December and he needs each-way respect here as well.

8/1

25/1

Form: P24117

Last run: 11 days

W: 10st 8lb

8 yo Mare

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Can be reluctant to race but she was a Listed Flat winner in 2023 and has scored twice over hurdles this term, latterly in new equipment (retained since) for stable debut in Listed mares' handicap at Leopardstown (2m2f, soft) in February; unable to get seriously involved at Kelso (2m; 6-1) 11 days ago but tries a new trip and can't comfortably be dismissed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

15

3rd May 2025

Yielding

2m 4f 118y

17:25 Punchestown

Vischio

10st 5lb

J: Conor Clarke

T: Emmet Mullins

Can be reluctant to race; Listed Flat winner in 2023; has scored twice over hurdles this term, latterly in new headgear (retained since) for stable debut in Listed mares' handicap at Leopardstown (2m2f, soft) in February; unable to get involved at Kelso; never a factor in the Coral Cup but can't be dismissed.

20/1

OUR TIP

Form: P84461 D

Last run: 31 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
Mid-division in the 2023 Pertemps; not the most consistent but he picks up a good prize fairly regularly, including a 2m6f Grade 2 on latest start, and has proved himself in big-field handicaps (notably under Carl Millar); the trouble is that the handicapper seems to know all about him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 180y

15:50 Fairyhouse

Maxxum

11st 8lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

None too consistent and had an off-day when pulled up in the Coral Cup; however, he's very smart when on his game and it was bordering on a career best when easily winning the Grade 2 Boyne Hurdle at Navan the time before; could go well despite an unwelcome penalty, which he didn't have when falling in this last year (running well at the time).

7/1

Form: 147-92 BF

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 0lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Handed three Grade 1 juvenile assignments last February-May, with declining returns (seventh in Triumph here); second of five to Beckett Rock at Clonmel (2m1f, soft; bad mistake three out) in January was much more like it and that was his first run for eight months; with this new trip making appeal on this handicap debut, he's one to take seriously.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

1

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 3f 173y

Class 2

16:45 Sandown

Bunting

12st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

towards rear

6/1

10th

1

26th Apr 2025

Good

2m 3f 173y

Class 2

16:45 Sandown

Bunting

12st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

towards rear

6/1

6th

3

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:15 Ayr

Bunting

11st 7lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Close second at Clonmel (made bad mistake) in January; pulled hard and pulled up in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham (2m5f) on first run beyond 2m1f but it's to his credit that he was still in the front rank entering the straight; could play a leading role now back down in trip.

7/1

Form: 38528P

Last run: 18 days

W: 10st 11lb

9 yo Mare

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Usually claimer ridden but now has Harry Cobden; the last of her ten wins was in August 2022; still shows plenty on occasions, including when seventh in the Pertemps Final last March and a close second back at Cheltenham (2m4f, good) three starts back; pulled up with cheekpieces enlisted on latest start; that headgear is now discarded but she's not the percentage call.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

19

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Anna Bunina

10st 11lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: John C McConnell

Usually claimer ridden but now has Harry Cobden; the last of her ten wins was in August 2022; still shows plenty on occasions, including when seventh in the Pertemps Final last March and a close second back at Cheltenham (2m4f, good) three starts back; pulled up with cheekpieces enlisted on latest start; that headgear is now discarded but she's not the percentage call.

33/1

2

22nd Feb 2025

Soft

2m 7f 131y

Class 2

14:32 Chepstow

Anna Bunina

11st 9lb

J: Callum Pritchard

T: John C McConnell

Usually claimer ridden; the last of her ten wins was in August 2022; still shows plenty on occasions, including when seventh in the Pertemps Final last March and a close second back at Cheltenham (2m4f) on penultimate outing; she performed far worse in the Musselburgh qualifier three weeks ago than she did last year, however, which sees cheekpieces enlisted.

20/1

8th

2

2nd Feb 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 2

15:00 Musselburgh

Anna Bunina

12st 0lb

J: Callum Pritchard

T: John C McConnell

The last of her ten wins was in August 2022 but she still shows plenty on occasions, including when a strong-finishing fourth in this race last year and a close second at Cheltenham (2m4f) on latest outing; usually claimer ridden; place contender.

10/1

Form: 15/446 D

Last run: 18 days

W: 10st 8lb

10 yo Filly

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Ended a golden spell in 2021 with 2m4f Grade 2 novice win for Tom Lacey; absent 1066 days before this season and did not see out the trip (about 3m) as well as several others in this winter's three handicaps, showing up well on first two occasions but not quite so much on latest; while this drop back in trip looks the right move, other candidates are more persuasive.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

5

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

15:30 Aintree

Lossiemouth

11st 3lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

towards rear

6/4

1st

5

3rd Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

15:30 Aintree

Lossiemouth

11st 3lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

towards rear

6/4

1st

9

11th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 3f 200y

Class 1

15:20 Cheltenham

Lossiemouth

11st 5lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Successful at the last two Cheltenham Festivals, latterly a ready winner of this on heavy ground; took her 2m4f record to 3-3 (all Grade 1s) when proving too strong for Teahupoo in the Hatton's Grace at Fairyhouse (yielding) on reappearance in November; second to Constitution Hill back at 2m in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton next time and narrowly ahead of State Man when departing four out in the Irish Champion at Leopardstown last month; hard to beat if none the worse for that heavy tumble.

4/6

Form: P-14P0 C

Last run: 116 days

W: 10st 8lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Good ground suits but he's not the easiest to predict at the best of times and has run badly in all three races since his chase win at Aintree (3m1f, good) last May; had a second wind operation before penultimate start and was back hurdling for latest; well treated on best form but the chances of his reproducing it seem to be receding.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

24th Apr 2025

Good

3m 1f 0y

Class 3

15:37 Warwick

Captain Morgs

11st 7lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Useful over hurdles and fences on his day; out of sorts since chase success last May but this is a drop back in class and mark is workable on best form.

7/1

5th

3

24th Apr 2025

Good

3m 1f 0y

Class 3

15:37 Warwick

Captain Morgs

11st 7lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Useful over hurdles and fences on his day; out of sorts since chase success last May but this is a drop back in class and mark is workable on best form.

7/1

21

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Captain Morgs

10st 8lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Nicky Henderson

Good ground suits but he's not the easiest to predict at the best of times and has run badly in all three races since his chase win at Aintree (3m1f, good) last May; had a second wind operation before penultimate start and was back hurdling for latest; well treated on best form but the chances of his reproducing it seem to be receding.

66/1

Form: U81U13

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Reserve; reverted to hurdles from fences for an easy win in seven-runner race at Doncaster (2m3f, good to soft) in January, albeit with most hurdles omitted; third off this 5lb higher mark at Ascot (good) on latest start, running on well from off the pace again, continued his solid and progressive sequence in this sphere and return to this longer trip may well help.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

15th Mar 2025

Good

2m 5f 0y

Class 2

14:45 Kempton

Classic King

11st 9lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Emma Lavelle

midfield, headway 7th

5/1

27

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Classic King

10st 6lb

T: Emma Lavelle

Reserve; reverted to hurdles from fences for an easy win in seven-runner race at Doncaster (2m3f, good to soft) in January, albeit with most hurdles omitted; third off this 5lb higher mark at Ascot (good) on latest start, running on well from off the pace again, continued his solid and progressive sequence in this sphere and return to this longer trip may well help.

33/1

5

15th Feb 2025

Good To Soft

2m 3f 58y

Class 2

14:25 Ascot

Classic King

11st 8lb

J: Rex Dingle

T: Emma Lavelle

Reverted to hurdles (from fences) last time and that easy success at Doncaster (2m3f, good to soft) took his form figures in this sphere to 1222F21; consistent and may well remain competitive.

8/1

Form: -23111 D

Last run: 18 days

W: 10st 5lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Reserve; big improver graduating from bumpers to hurdle races, winning his last three starts; latest was a 12-runner race at Kempton (2m5f, good to soft) 18 days ago in his second handicap, firmly in charge after leading approaching the final flight; up 7lb but remains capable of better.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

6

15th Mar 2025

Good

2m 5f 0y

Class 2

14:45 Kempton

Saint Anapolino

11st 8lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

midfield, headway on inner when bad mistake 7th

3/1

28

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Saint Anapolino

10st 5lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Reserve; big improver graduating from bumpers to hurdle races, winning his last three starts; latest was a 12-runner race at Kempton (2m5f, good to soft) 18 days ago in his second handicap, firmly in charge after leading approaching the final flight; up 7lb but remains capable of better.

20/1

1st

8

22nd Feb 2025

Good

2m 5f 0y

Class 3

13:15 Kempton

Saint Anapolino

11st 1lb

J: Micheal Nolan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

took keen hold, in touch with leaders on inner, mistake 4th

9/2

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £159.40
Straight Forecast £113.52
Tricast £1786.27
Trifecta £3098.50

Selections

RP RATINGS:

Beat The Bat

LAMBOURN:

Impose Toi

Daily Record:

Be Aware

TOPSPEED:

Jimmy Du Seuil

The Times:

Samui

SPOTLIGHT:

Jipcot

The Sun:

Comfort Zone

POSTDATA:

Might I

Telegraph:

Beat The Bat

The Guardian:

Beat The Bat

D Express:

Beat The Bat

Daily Mirror:

Beat The Bat

Daily Mail:

Impose Toi

The Star:

Impose Toi