BASS PLAYER

Wind op should help promising stayer to take a leading role

BANG the big Bass drum for the Betfair Exchange Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle at Haydock.

Improving BASS ROCK (2.25) (right) looked good when making a winning return over 2m4f at Carlisle three weeks ago

He will love the step up to 3m for the first time and he should sharpen up for his first run of the season.

That was his first race since undergoing a second breathing operation so, if anything has been troubling him, he seems over it.

Some of his form in novice hurdles last season still makes him nicely weighted so the 8-1 on offer looks a fair bet. Have 1pt each-way, with Sky Bet and William Hill both paying out on six places.

Earlier on Haydock’s Betfair Chase card, CHEF D’OEUVRE (12.40) must have a good chance at a track he likes.

He’s another to have had a breathing operation over the summer having won over today’s course and distance in March.

Sam England’s dour stayer was also successful in another of his three chase runs at this track three years ago and this test of stamina suits him well. Have 1pt to win at 7-1.

Donald McCain has his team in sparkling form and his MACKENBERG (1.15) looks a good bet to add another winner to the trainer’s haul.

He was consistent last season and he looked sure to improve for his

comeback run when a promising third at Wetherby last month. There looks plenty of competition for the frontrunners’ role and a strong pace would suit Brian Hughes’ mount. Have 2pts to win at 13-2.

Although he’s a shorter price than I like to focus on, I can’t let DEFI DU SEUIL (2.05) go unbacked at Ascot.

He was the top 2m chaser a couple of years ago when he won the Tingle Creek and the Clarence House Chase.

Philip Hobbs’ ace was miles below that form in two starts last season and he makes his return having had surgery to help his breathing.

He should win if anywhere near his best and he might well need this 2m5f distance now. Have 2pts to win at