MORE RACECARDS AND SAM TURNER’S TIPS FOR ASCOT
THE past year-and-a-half has been a seriously testing time for trainer Willie Mullins, but the performances of
UN DE SCEAUX (Ascot, 3.35) have provided a constant supply of joy.
Career-ending injuries and fatalities sustained by some of the stable’s highprofile stars would have floored many a handler and left them questioning what they did to deserve such ill fortune.
To his credit, Mullins has kept his counsel, ploughed on and endeavoured to bounce back from the loss of Festival heroes Vautour and Nichols Canyon, as well as the setbacks which have beset Douvan and Faugheen, not to mention the long-term absence of jockey Ruby Walsh through injury.
But in Un De Sceaux he has a wonderfully durable performer which has, to date, stepped up to deliver on the biggest stages whenever required. Last year’s Ryanair Chase winner played a pivotal role in a glittering day three four-timer at the Cheltenham Festival which helped to erase the previous two days’ pain. Now the horse has the opportunity to complete an unprecedented hat-trick in Ascot’s Grade One feature, having comfortably landed the previous two renewals.
A 25-length defeat of Top Gamble at Cork proved the ideal warm-up for Un De Sceaux and this afternoon’s rivals are going to need a career-best to test him.
The market believes Brain Power is the chief threat to Un De Sceaux and he was in the process of running a fine race in the Henry VIII Chase at Sandown until he capsized at the last fence. Nicky Henderson’s novice probably paid for battling for the lead that day and may prove a more potent force if taking a lead from Un De Sceaux.
However, even if he is ridden patiently, it will be a surprise if he is good enough to beat the champion.
Haydock must pass an early-morning inspection, but if the frost relents then
WATER-LORD (Haydock, nap, 2.05) could be the answer to the Sky Bet Supreme Trial.
Donald McCain’s improving gelding was highly impressive over course and distance three weeks ago when galloping his five rivals into the ground.
His handler was quick to nominate this afternoon’s event as a natural stepping stone and, although First Flow sauntered to a smooth win at Newbury, the selection’s experience of Haydock’s brush hurdles and affinity for heavy ground should stand him in good stead.