It’s the last day of ITV racing before Christmas, so no better time to get a few quid in the kitty for the festive period.
ITV show four races at Ascot and two at Haydock Saturday, so let’s get straight into the action.
The 1.50pm at Ascot is a handicap chase over 2m3f. I’ll have a few quid each-way here on DE DOLLAR MAN, who ran really well when he was fourth on his seasonal debut at Newbury. There are some in here open to much improvement, but if they do not come up to scratch he could be hard to keep out the frame at least on that effort for Evan Williams.
Next at Ascot is the Grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle over an extended 3m at 2.25pm. Call me Lord has to prove stamina, but might well be good enough. I’ll give another chance to last year’s hero SAM SPINNER, who did not run well at all at Newbury on his debut. He jumped badly that day, but is proven here and I’m sure he’ll improve for that effort.
The 3.00pm at Ascot is a Listed Handicap Chase over 3m. THOMAS PATRICK ran a shocker in the race at Newbury most know as the Hennessy, but prior to that he had looked good when second to Elegant Escape at Sandown. He’s another I’m backing each-way in the hope he’s much better than the last effort for Tom Lacey suggests.
And finally at Ascot there’s a near 2m Grade 3 handicap hurdle at 3.35pm. WESTERN RYDER can go close here at decent odds. The Warren Greatrex runner was far from disgraced at Cheltenham last time behind Brain Power, and a decent pace here will help him as he stays this trip and further. Every chance of gaining a place. Back him each-way.
Meanwhile at Haydock, ITV broadcast a handicap hurdle over 2m3f at 2.05pm. CHTI BALKO has to give weight away to all his rivals, but he’s in good shape for Donal McCain and was a fine third behind Black Mischief at this track last time. He could easily dominate this small field.
And finally, the 2.40pm at Haydock is the Tommy Whittle Chase over 2m7f. DUEL AT DAWN pulled up when last seen, but prior to that he appears a progressive stayer for Alex Hales. The stable is in good form this season and this is very winnable.
So best of luck and pray for Christmas Yeeehaaas with bells on. You hear me Paddy?
*Prices correct at time of publishing
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