TROPICS TO BEAT THE CHILL

Tropics can continue to cock a snook in the direction of Father Time when he rocks up at Lingfield tomorrow.

What trainer Dean Ivory would do for a few more horses in his yard like this old boy, who happily ended a lengthy winless run at Wolverhampton two weeks ago.

The nine-year-old son of Speightstown had threatened to take top spot throughout the autumn, but he made no mistake at Dunstall Park with a length-and-a-half defeat of Rajar, who is no mug.

Tropics has gone up 4lb for the six-furlong Betway Sprint Handicap, but he has shown over the years he is capable of winning back-to-back races.

It should not be forgotten, either, that he is rated vastly lower compared to his glory days, when he reached a career-high mark of 116. Moreover, Jack Duern’s 3lb claim will once again come in very useful.

Colin Tizzard’s Kilbricken Storm should solve the conundrum that is the Challow Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury.

The six-year-old has made breathless progress this season and ought to be good enough to land what is hardly an epic renewal of the Grade One.

Sunshade must have a cracking chance of Listed honours in Taunton.

Nicky Henderson’s filly is unbeaten in three starts and looked especially sharp in a small novice hurdle at Market Rasen on December 7.

The totetrifecta Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle seems the logical next port of call for the royal runner, who should not be unduly knocked off her stride if the ground remained soft.

Isaacstown Lad can gain redemption when he returns to Haydock for a handicap hurdle over two miles and seven furlongs.