CASTEL TO BE KING FOR DAY

IT MAY well be a low-key afternoon of National Hunt racing today but there are plenty of wagers to consider, headlined by the progressive CASTEL GANDOLFO (3.22) in the feature handicap hurdle at Kelso.

Spring ground has always brought out the best in this gelding and he took his form to new heights with a fine second to Zabeel Champion in the final of the Challenger series at Haydock.

Indeed, had he not made a hash of the second last, I suspect he would have secured a third career win.

A 2lb rise in the weights for that outstanding performance looks very fair.

There are some cracking prizes up for grabs at the Borders’ track and HIDDEN COMMANDER (4.32) should bag a nice pot in the novices’ handicap chase.

The selection has a 7lb pull for being beaten eight lengths by Castletown last time out but the key to his chance in this rematch will be his ability to settle as he was still going too freely at the second last before the petrol gauge emptied.

There are some old friends on show in the final of the hunter chase series at and likely favourite POINT THE WAY (5.07) has rock-solid claims.

The twists and turns of Fontwell Park have produced an endless number of course specialists down the years and MAWLOOD (2.04) can bounce back from some moderate runs of late.

One pound lower than for his last victory at the Arundel track and once again partnered by the excellent

Tabitha Worsley, he has top weight Limelighter to beat.

GAME SOCKS (2.59) has a cracking chance to defy top weight in the handicap chase, while JERSEY WONDER (3.49) could do likewise in the handicap hurdle.

The last named has run in some top-class staying races this term and has been given a real chance by the handicapper to win again.

Finally, a quick word on Saturday’s Cazoo Derby when I expect Sir Michael Stoute to bring back the glory days to Freemason Lodge courtesy of his impressive Dante winner

DESERT CROWN.