KING OF THE CASTLE
CLONDAW CASTLE (4.0) looks rock solid in the feature MansionBet Novices’ Chase at Huntingdon.
Tom George’s gelding jumped then galloped Burbank into submission at Leicester.
The seven-year-old’s trailblazing style is ideal for this venue and he can take another big step on the likely fast surface.
ERMYN’S EMERALD (2.15) can sparkle for Pat Phelan in the opening handicap hurdle.
The seven-year-old has been more professional recently and can build on his good second to
Sammylou over slightly shorter. Neil King is hitting his stride and can claim a trappy two-miler with THE KNOT IS TIED (3.25).
The four-year-old should do damage sent handicapping after chasing home the promising Lisheen Castle at Newbury. AIR DE ROCK (4.35) can keep up Venetia Williams’s hot streak in the Oxo Handicap Chase. The gelding stayed on well for second behind Early Du Lemo over two miles at Lingfield and can do better upped four furlongs.
BOND ANGEL (3.0) can soar for David Evans on a decent all-weather card at Southwell.
A dual course and distance winner, the filly is on an attractive mark after going down by a head to Mr Coco Bean here last time.
ANGEL PALANAS (4.10) can claim his fifth course success in the six-furlong handicap. Karl Burke’s gelding was just denied by Weld Al Emarat over seven here last time and can resume winning ways down in trip.
GORGEOUS GENERAL
(5.20) can take command in the lucky last for Lawrence Mullaney.
The progressive sprinter has developed a liking for this venue and still looks well treated after gamely holding off Liamba here.
■ Willie Mullins could be mob-handed as he bids to land his first Cheltenham Gold Cup.
The Closutton maestro has entered rising star Kemboy, Irish Gold Cup hero Bellshill plus Al Boum Photo and Invitation Only in next month’s Blue Riband. Mullins said Penhill and Faugheen are both primed for the Stayers’ Hurdle while Benie Des Dieux is on track to defend her OLBG Mares’ Hurdle title. The exciting Allaho is likely to go for the Albert Bartlett but Cilaos Emery could miss the Arkle due to an ankle injury. ■ Michael Bell said top stayer Big Orange has been retired due to an ongoing leg problem.