Racing

Four to Follow over the Christmas Period

By Steven Dowler

Jango Baie – King George

26th December (Kempton)

In the main event over Christmas, I’m now drawn to JANGO BAIE. Nicky Henderson’s youngster is going from strength-to-strength and was an impressive 9 length winner on his seasonal reappearance in the 1965 Chase at Ascot. The six-year-old should have even more to offer stepping up to three miles and he’s done very little wrong so far during his career. I think he’s the biggest danger to Gaelic Warrior and worthy of an interest.

Collectors Item – Welsh Grand National

27th December (Chepstow)

Jonjo O’Neill has a good record in this marathon event, and off a low weight, COLLECTORS ITEM could go well at huge odds. He’s unproven over this distance, but has often shaped like it would suit when on a going day, likewise when staying on well to finish second in last season’s London National. I liked his comeback run when runner-up here earlier this month and that eye-catching pipe opener to have put him spot on for this assignment.

Midnight Our Fred – Paddy Power Chase

27th December (Leopardstown)

MIDNIGHT OUR FRED appears to have been laid out for what is expected to be another fiercely competitive edition of the Paddy Power Chase. I thought he ran a hell of a race to finish second in this twelve months ago. That looked a deeper event given he had the likes of Nick Rockett and Three Card Brag in behind. Off what will only be a 2lb higher figure, following a nice spin over hurdles when second last month, another bold bid could be firmly on the cards.

Storm Heart – Nevilles Hotel Premier Hurdle

29th December (Leopardstown)

STORM HEART is very lightly raced for his age but he was a top juvenile a couple of seasons ago, running well in Grade 1 events and might have been targeted at this race (only entry). He hasn’t been seen since finishing second at Leopardstown in February but fitness is unlikely to be an issue. His second in a Grade 1 here in February of last year when splitting Kargese and Majborough is smart form. Don’t be surprised to see him pose a serious threat.