GARDE OF HONOUR
GARDE DES CHAMPS (1.30) can take control for Keith Dalgleish on another tremendous card at Musselburgh.
The hurdler was a superb second to the progressive Thunder Rock here on debut for his new yard.
He should be primed and can open his account for his thriving connections.
DIAMOND STATE (1.00) looks a real gem for Lucinda Russell in the conditionals’ hurdle. The six-year-old improved again when defeating Universal Folly over course and distance.
The gelding is unexposed over 2m 4f and can defy a 7lb hike under Conner McCann.
KAKAMORA (2.00) can claim a fascinating novices’ handicap chase for Tom George. A promising hurdler, the gelding was a fine third to Our Power on his fencing debut at Wincanton. That race is working out well so this strong traveller can account for three exciting rivals.
Neil Alexander has hit top gear so ULTRA VIOLET (2.30) could shade a competitive two-miler. The hurdler was an eye-catching third behind Collingham in a decent maiden over track and trip.
There is plenty more to come from this pacey type.
EAGLEHILL (3.00) is fancied to swoop for Olly Murphy in the trappy Musselburgh Handicap Chase.
The grey produced another personal best when bolting up from Lord Schnapps at Fakenham and is open to progress over three miles so can shrug off a lenient 2lb rise.
CHAMPAGNESOCIALIST (3.30) should sparkle for John McConnell in the bumper.
The six-year-old can triumph with a repeat of last season’s efforts for Tom Taaffe.
ALPHA CARINAE (12.50) is worth punting for Team Murphy in the novices’ chase at Southwell.
The mare improved again when giving Schiaparannie most resistance over course and distance and can go one better in a slightly weaker contest.
INDEPENDENCE (3.20) gets the vote for Brian Barr in the attheraces.com Handicap Hurdle. The gelding stayed 2m 4f well when narrowly beaten by Kendelu at Taunton.