Black Corton can shine on Kempton return

BLACK Corton can make a triumphant return to the scene of his finest hour by winning the Betway Handicap Chase at Kempton.

Paul Nicholls’ admirable performer landed the Grade One Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Christmas during the 2017-18 campaign – when he chalked up eight victories.

He has not been as prolific since then – off the scoresheet for the past 10 months since lifting the Grade Two Oaksey Chase at Sandown last April.

However, Black Corton has run some good races in defeat – like his last effort at Ascot when he was fourth to Regal Encore in a Listed handicap just before Christmas.

Dropped 2lb for that, the nine-yearold is getting back to a good mark and he will not go down without a fight in this valuable heat.

Song For Someone has decent prospects in the Betway Kingwell Hurdle – rearranged from last weekend’s abandoned meeting at Wincanton.

Tom Symonds’ improving handicapper has run very well on all three starts this season, and looks ready for this move up in class - having proved he should be fine whether the ground dries out or does not.

It may be worth taking a chance with the Nicholls-trained newcomer Solo in the Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide Adonis Juvenile Hurdle.

Commanche Red put up a careerbest display when winning over this course and distance at the big Christmas meeting, and can successfully step up in class in the Betway Pendil Novices’ Chase.

Chris Gordon’s charge beat Simply

The Betts by nine lengths, and that horse has been a good winner subsequently.

Petite Power can take the near fourand-a-quarter-mile trip in his stride to land the Vertem Eider Handicap Chase at Newcastle.

Fergal O’Brien’s 11-year-old was putting in his best work at the finish when third to Kimberlite Candy in the Classic Chase over three miles and five furlongs at Warwick last month.

That suggests Petite Power will not be fazed by this even more extreme stamina test.