O’brien and Gosden go head to head in key contest for Classic clues

This weekend launches the jumping season proper with meetings at Cheltenham today and Aintree tomorrow, but there is something for everybody, with top-class action on the Flat at Doncaster, too.

The Group One Vertum Futurity Trophy at Doncaster (4.05pm), formerly the Racing Post Trophy, has proved a springboard for Classic success in recent years. In the past decade, Camelot won and went on to land the Derby and Irish Derby the following season; Kingston Hill later landed the St Leger, while last year’s contest featured a thrilling finish in which subsequent 2,000 Guineas winner Saxon Warrior fought off future four-time Group One winner Roaring Lion.

Aidan O’brien and John Gosden are responsible for the market leaders and five of the 11 runners. O’brien saddles favourite Magna Grecia, who looks sure to improve after being beaten a neck in a Group Three at Newmarket on just his second start, with Gosden relying on impressive Newmarket winner Turgenev. Both have a bright future.

At Cheltenham, Minella Rocco makes his comeback in the Matchbook Betting Exchange Handicap Chase (2.00). He was rated 166 when finishing second in the 2017 Cheltenham Gold Cup but was disappointing for much of the past season. Still only eight, he has un- dergone a wind operation, which might help him recapture his form.

At Aintree tomorrow, Cloudy Dream has his first start for trainer Donald Mccain in the Old Roan Chase (3.00). He finished second to superstar Altior in the Arkle two years ago and third in the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last season. Mccain will be keen to get off to a flying start with him.