Racing
Ascot Place 6 Preview | 17th January
12.25 BetMGM Juvenile Hurdle
NOVELISTA is a fascinating hurdles debutant given how consistent he has been on the Flat. If he can translate any of that ability to this sphere, then I think he could win this opener. I’ll also play TALAKAN, who was a last-time-out winner on the Flat in France and could be overpriced on stable/UK hurdles debut.
Tips: NOVELISTA & TALAKAN
13.00 BetMGM Handicap Chase
I like two. The first one is last year’s winner IN D’OR. He’s 9ln higher this time but posted a solid effort when third at Sandown on his return last month and should make a bold bid. WELCOM TO CARTIES has only been nudged up 4lb for his gutsy win at Sandown and should have more to offer in the handicap ranks over fences.
Tips: IN D’OR, WELCOM TO CARTRIES & ISSAM
13.40 BetMGM Warfield Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 2)
LA CONQUIERE was smart in bumpers and has looked even better over hurdles, winning both starts, including a Listed event last time out. She is up in grade again, but can continue to improve and make her mark at this level. The hat trick-seeking NURSE SUSAN is feared most, though the drop back in trip could prove a question mark.
Tips: LA CONQUIERE & NURSE SUSAN
14.20 bet365 Handicap Chase
FUGITIF isn’t getting any younger, but he’s dangerously well handicapped if he can turn in one of his best efforts, as he’s down to a mark of 140. His last win was achieved off a figure of 151 and he’s placed off similar in valuable handicaps, so if the recent wind surgery has a positive impact, I’m hopeful he’ll go well. The in-form VINCENZO and C&D winner JUNGLE BOOGIE are others to consider.
Tips: FUGITIF, VINCENZO & JUNGLE BOOGIE
14.53 BetMGM Holloway’s Handicap Hurdle
MOVEIT LIKE MINNIE ran below form at Hereford last time out but he’s often run well at this venue and could bounce back. CAME FROM NOWHERE best the former last time out and is open to plenty more improvement, while top-weight TRIPOLI FLYER brings a touch of class into the event could go well off a handy mark. Three against the field in this competitive affair.
Tips: MOVEIT LIKE MINNIE, CAME FROM NOWHERE & TRIPOLI FLYER
15.30 BetMGM Clarence House Chase (Grade 1)
The feature has only attracted four runners but it’s a belter! II ETAIT TEMPS has beaten JONBON the last two times they have met and it could be a similar story, though Harry Cobden does make the latter of interest. The thriving THISTLE ASK could be granted a soft lead and is not out of this in his bid for six straight wins, while the drop in trip could see GIDLEIGH PARK ruffle a few feathers.
Tips: II ETAIT TEMPS, JONBON, THISTLE ASK & GIDLEIGH PARK
