Diamond set to shine in Stayers’

KOHINOOR DIAMOND let down her supporters last time but should be given chance to redeem herself in the Betway Stayers’ Handicap at Southwell.

The three-year-old’s record of just one win in seven outings to date is hardly encouraging, but it is interesting to see her hiked up to two miles for the first time here.

Sir Mark Prescott is a past master of such bold moves and after Kohinoor Diamond won over 10 furlongs at Chelmsford in October, he wasted little time in pitching up to a mile and a half.

The Excelebration filly has been found wanting in both outings at that distance, though, most recently when a three-length eighth after racing awkwardly in the closing stages at Lingfield.

Kohinoor Diamond is perhaps not the most straightforward of horses, but she clearly has ability and must be considered with a handy pull in the weights.

Red Stripes was just edged out by Pearl Acclaim on his most recent start at Southwell and can gain deserved compensation ina the Betway Dash Handicap.

He hung a bit in the finish that day which probably did not help his chances much and while a 3lb hike is hardly a positive, it must be remembered he was good enough to win off a perch of 84 a couple of years ago.

Copain De Classe should go well in the Sunbets Chase at Doncaster.

The five-year-old gelding found Benatar too good at Ascot last month but given that one has gone on to Grade Two success, that may have been a very decent run.

Paul Nicholls has been far from hard on Copain De Classe, having chalked up just six outings for him in two years, but he looks an animal full of potential.

Stablemate Antartica de Thaix is also respected in the Sunbets Yorkshire Silver Vase Mares’ Chase.

The seven-year-old grey made a nice return to action after a long absence at Market Rasen last month, when second to Mia’s Storm in a Listed race over three miles.

Back over an extended two and a half miles, she should take a heck of a lot of stopping.