Racing

Stratford Place 6 Preview | 18th August

By Steven Dowler

14.27 D & H Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase

BALLINTUBBER BOY is unbeaten in two starts at this course, and although his jumping has let him down of late, it’s possible that he will be granted a soft lead. Topgun Simmy is rated higher and won a beginners chase when last seen in this sphere but the course specialist earns the vote.

Tips: BALLINTUBBER BOY

14.57 Racing TV Club Day Novices’ Hurdle

DON VIRGINIA opened his account in emphatic style two starts back at Southwell and wasn’t disgraced when third last time out. This will be a tactically-run contest, but he should be able to adapt to the scenario and has leading claims.

Tips: DON VIRGINIA

15.27 George & Dragon Mares’ Handicap Hurdle

HURST HILL posted a solid effort in defeat when second at this course last time out despite being stretched by the distance and had previously won with more in hand than the margin suggested at Newton Abbot. She’s only gone up a pound following her latest run and looks capable of making it two wins from her last three starts.

Tips: HURST HILL

15.57 Brian And Sheila Vaughan Memorial Handicap Chase

IN THE AIR jumped like an absolute buck when seeing off all challengers in this sphere 24 days ago at Uttoxeter. He was allowed to dictate that day and might not have it so easy in front this time, but he remains well handicapped on his peak hurdles form. It would come as no surprise to see him defy this minor 2lb higher figure.

Tips: IN THE AIR

16.27 National Racehorse Week 23rd – 31st August Handicap Hurdle

DIESEL LINE confirmed the promise that he showed on stable debut (second) when winning with so much in hand at Uttoxeter last month under James Bowen. He’s up 6lb, but I don’t think that’s beyond him, given how he did things very smoothly last time out. This improving seven-year-old is fancied to go in again.

Tips: DIESEL LINE

17.00 racingtv.com Handicap Chase

SUMMERLEAZE has drastically improved since joining the Olly Murphy team, completing a hat-trick of wins here in May and should be able to take a step forward from his chase debut at Perth last month. This looks a bit easier, so with more to come, an improved display looks firmly on the cards for this dual course winner.

Tips: SUMMERLEAZE