Racing

Kempton Place 6 Preview | 23rd March

By Steven Dowler

14.00 Virgin Bet Maiden Hurdle

I’ll take a chance on LOUSTIC DU CHATEL, who has shaped well on both starts in this sphere and might be able to open his account. He was a good winner on debut at Ascot in a bumper and retains potential, so he looks set to make a major impact under Tom Bellamy.

Tips: LOUSTIC DU CHATEL

14.30 Virgin Bet ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle

This looks a tricky-little event but the vote goes to FOUNTAINS BLENHEIN. He wasn’t disgraced when runner-up at Taunton last time out and should be better over this longer distance. With his jockey taking off an additional 7lb, the seven-year-old can see off his two market rivals.

Tips: FOUNTAINS BLENHEIN

15.00 Virgin Bet Daily Extra Places Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

None of these can be ruled out so a tentative vote goes to KOTARI. The seven-year-old ran well for a long way when third at Plumpton last time out and might be able to get into a rhythm being at a track that suits those up with the pace. Open to further improvement, a bold showing could be firmly on the cards.

Tips: KOTARI

15.30 Virgin Bet Supports Safe Gambling Handicap Chase

SOUTHOFTHEBORDER has been winless since scoring on his first couple of starts but he’s made the frame on numerous occasions and the drop in grade off this reduced mark could see him go close. It’s only a matter of time before everything falls right for him, so hopefully he can show his true colours.

Tips: SOUTHOFTHEBORDER

16.05 Virgin Bet Handicap Chase

ANNSAM has C&D-winning form off a higher mark and looked set to make it two wins on the bounce before falling at Sandown when last seen. He’s been given plenty of time since and could go well under Sean Bowen.

GUSTAVIAN is having a good season, backing up his Badger Beer win with two good efforts in defeat. He should prove difficult to beat off an unchanged mark. The 11-year-old has a lot in his favour and might be able to dictate if Annsam doesn’t pressure him for the lead.

Tips: ANNSAM & GUSTAVIAN

16.40 Virgin Bet Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

HE’S A LATCHCO went close in a slightly stronger event at Plumpton last time out and the winner has since run well to boost the form. Despite going up 2lb, his rider can take off 8lb, and he’s down in both trip and class. I see no reason why he can’t pose a serious threat.

Tips: HE’S A LATCHCO