Mr sure to be in the mix at Ludlow

Tips: Novices’ Chase a far more suitable test for Paul Nicholls’ runner after Ales fail

MR MIX can enhance his 50% strike rate over fences with victory in the Rowles Fine Art Novices’ Chase at Ludlow.

Paul Nicholls’ runner was a bit up and down over hurdles and has continued in that vein over fences, showing a likeable attitude to win on his debut before being soundly beaten at Chepstow.

He bounced back at Wincanton but then found the challenge of the Badger Ales Trophy far too much last time, pulling up when it was clear he had no chance. This appears a more suitable test.

BUSTER THOMAS can step up on his debut effort over fences in Haydock’s Liverpool University Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA Novices’ Chase.

The six-year-old looks a horse of potential for Emma Lavelle and after winning one of his two hurdles starts last term, he shaped with promise on his first chasing outing last month.

While he was well beaten in third behind Wotzizname at Exeter, he looked as though he badly needed the run and a spin over fences will also have helped to sharpen up his jumping.

In what is likely to be a close contest, SPIDER’S BITE can take the honours in the Watch Racing UK In Stunning HD Novices Hurdle at Haydock.

Third last time out at Aintree, Richard Johnson has again been booked and he can improve on that showing to add another win to his record. SELECTIONS HAYDOCK: 12.50 Un Guet Apens, 1.20 Buster Thomas, 1.55 Shivermetimbers, 2.25 Morney Wing, 3.00 Spider’s Bite, 3.30 Clan Legend.

LUDLOW: 12.30 Iniesta, 1.00 Polo The Mumm, 1.30 Canoodle, 2.05 Audacious Plan, 2.35 Mr Mix, 3.10 Winido, 3.40 Sea Story.

DOUBLE: Temeraire and Mr Mix.