SMARTY WILD LOOKS A REAL CHART TOPPER
SMARTY WILD (1.50) made a promising chase debut over today’s course and distance in October when staying on nicely from the rear behind Sully D’Oc.
This four-time hurdles winner seemed to lose his confidence following an early mistake at Wetherby last time out — when he finished fourth of eight — but the left-handed track would not have suited him.
The return to Ascot will help the Philip Hobbstrained six-year-old, and the likely strong pace is also in his favour.
Have 2pts to win at 15-2.
The Betfair Exchange Trophy looks a tricky affair but I can’t help having a small bet on TIME FLIES BY (3.35).
He’s yet to win in three hurdles starts but the small fields have not played to his strengths in novices hurdles.
He could easily be a fair way in front of the handicapper.
The bookies have clearly been watching but it’s still worth taking the 6-1 to small stakes, so have 1pt to win.
The ground at Haydock is sure to be extremely testing and some horses just won’t like it.
I’m keen to take on likely favourite Tegerak in the opener after he refused to go out on to the track at Cheltenham last weekend.
He likes to be held up in his races and that’s not easy to pull off at this track, so the front-running
LE LIGERIEN (11.50) should be at an advantage.
He won over this track and trip on heavy ground last season when talented young jockey Ben Jones was again in the saddle.
This is a much easier race than the one he pulled up in last time so have 1pt to win at 13-2.
CLYNE (3.15) will also love the Haydock conditions.
His last four wins have come under top weight, so his hefty anchor is not a worry.
He went well for a long way in a hot race last time and this drop in class could do the trick.
Have 1pt each-way at 12-1.