Haydock 1.30 A decent race to open todays ITV racing & it see’s a rematch between Famous Bridge / Credo & Eleanor Bob . The latter interest’s me most as she set out to make all and jumped very well until lack of a run told late on , the other two who finished in front of her had had an outing & with the jockey and trainer in excellent form she looks a strong bet for me . Advised Bet Eleanor Bob 1pt ew @ 6’1 / 11’2
Ascot 1.50 A few dodgy characters in this especially Harper’s Brook who tends to find zilch off the bridal. Triple Trade has gone up a fair chunk in the weights , while Black Gerry was totally outclassed last time out & this does look more realistic. It was a strong handicap in which Cap Du Mathan was an encouraging fourth to Boothill on his reappearance at this course last month and, with that run under his belt and reunited with Harry Cobden, he is appealing off this 2 lb lower mark. Advised Bet 1pt win Cap Du Mathan @ 3’1
Haydock 2.05 It is hard to see why Jagwar is such a short priced favourite , yes he is unexposed but he is taking on some tough opponents first time in a handicap. Bois Guillbert is a free going sort and that was his undoing last time out. Goobinator is well treated on his best hurdles form and a Flat success at Catterick in the autumn suggests he retains all his ability so he’s pretty interesting for a yard that like a winner or two at the track. Advised Bet 1/2 pt ew Goobinator @ 13’2
Ascot 2.25 A very tight looking contest with most of the runners having some sort of chance , with the likes of Champ / Paisley Park ( both past winners of this race ) well past their best these days I would be against those two. The up and comers are West Balboa & Crambo . The staying hurdle ranks are pretty threadbare at the moment but if there’s an up-and-comer it could be in the shape of Crambo, who caught the eye with his fast-finishing third in a big-field handicap at Haydock 4 weeks ago and, with the services of experienced pilot Johnny Burke enlisted, Fergal O’Brien’s 6-y-o can make his second outing at the top table a winning one. Advised Bet 1pt win Crambo @ 7’2
Ascot 3.00 Blackjack Magic won well last time out and should be in their fighting , but a steep rise in the weights for that win looks harsh. Gavin Cromwell’s Yeah Man is one I was with last time out , most unlucky ; having looked sure to go close when coming down at the final fence over C&D last time. Victtorino, who emerged on top that day also reposes . Advised Bet Yeah Man 1pt ew @ 9’2 ( firms offering 4 places )
Ascot 3.35 A very tricky handicap to solve with a whole host in with chances. I have gone through the race & I can’t find any way into the contest to make a decent pick , so I will just sit this one out