DOC ON CALL
Hobson ace could prove just the tonic for punters
GO TO the Doc for the winner of the Grimthorpe Chase.
There’s plenty of rain forecast for Doncaster overnight and that could make the ground too soft for many of the runners in this competitive handicap. Not DOCPICKEDME (3.40)
He bounced back to form when successful over 2m3f on a testing surface at Wetherby five weeks ago and he stays every inch of this 3m2f trip.
My fancy has had a breathing operation since he last ran and this will be only his fifth run for Richard Hobson.
Have 1pt each-way at 16-1. Most bookies are paying out on four places.
Earlier on the card, BABY SHALLY (3.10) will love the step up to 3m for the first time in the Listed mares’ novices’ hurdle.
She has looked a strong stayer in all three of her hurdles starts.
It was most promising she was able to win over 2m5f around Wincanton’s sharp track on her debut and she’s since run well under a penalty against useful rivals.
This is going to be a proper test of stamina, especially if the forecast rain materialises, and that will suit Anthony Honeyball’s mare.
Her win came on heavy conditions, so she won’t have any problem if it turns testing. Have 3pts each-way at 33-1.
FORTESCUE (1.20) is another at home on deep ground.
He lines up in a veterans’ race for the first time at Newbury after a couple of solid efforts earlier in the season. The faster conditions were never going to suit him at Sandown last month and he has become nicely weighted.
With title-chasing Harry Cobden in the saddle for the first time and trainer Henry Daly in good form, he should have a great chance. Have 2pts to win at 11-2. BINGOO (2.50) looks to have been saved for Kelso’s bet365 Morebattle Hurdle.
He’s won his last three races and he looked an improved performer when making a winning return in an Aintree handicap on Boxing Day.
This will be his first run since and he is unbeaten in three runs when returning from a break of two months or more. Have 1pt 11-1. each-way at Several bookies are going six places.