HOME ON THE RANCH
RANCH HAND (1.50) can give Andrew Balding a rare winner over hurdles on a cracking card at Haydock.
Talented on the Flat, the gelding beat the promising Dock Road in good style on his timber bow at Exeter. The fouryear-old jumped beautifully that day so he can follow up in a fascinating introductory contest.
The Betfair Veterans’ Handicap Chase is also trappy but I’m rowing in with INDY FIVE (2.20). He caught the eye when held by Just Your Type on debut for Tom Symonds at Uttoxeter.
The gelding remains nicely unexposed for his new handler so the 10-year-old can go one better on the likely soft surface.
OSCARS LEADER (2.55) can extend Jennie Candlish’s winning run in the Betfair Handicap Hurdle. The gelding was unlucky to run into the progressive Mister Coffey on his return in a hot contest at Sandown. The seven-year-old still lurks on an attractive mark so can resume winning ways under the skilled Sean Quinlan.
MISS GEMSTONE (12.55) can sparkle for thriving handler Kim Bailey at Ludlow. The sixyear-old can build on her excellent second behind Dubai Outlaw on her chasing debut at Stratford.
MIRANDA (1.30) can bag the feature mares’ handicap hurdle for Paul Nicholls.
The five-year-old can resume her rapid rise over timber after a fine second on the Flat at Nottingham.
Fergal O’Brien’s CHAMPAGNE WELL (2.35) is the call in a fascinating beginners’ chase.
The seven-year-old should relish tackling three miles after his terrif ic third behind Remastered at Carlisle.
KABRIT (3.10) can shade a tricky three-miler for handler Alistair Ralph.
The gelding is open to progress as a stayer after his game second to Belatrix Lestrange over track and trip. Team Crisford remain in fair form so can score at Lingfield with MAKE IT RAIN (12.0).
The fast-improving filly can defy a 6lb hike for slamming Candelisa over course and distance last month.
The Bombardier Handicap is very tight but I’m siding with Ian Williams’ EJTILAAB (1.40) who cosily defeated Highfield Princess at Chelmsford. The handler can double-up in closing two miler with MONJENI (3.20).