Politologue a French fancy at Ascot
Paul Nicholls’ Politologue looks a youngster of immense potential and he is out to confirm that promise in the Mitie Noel Novices’ Chase at Ascot.
Beset by problems since moving from France, in fleeting glimpses he looked a nice horse. On his chasing debut at Haydock he looked an absolute natural, slamming the useful Vintage Clouds by ten lengths without coming off the bridle.
He does not turn six for another couple of weeks so keeping him at this intermediate trip of just over two and a half miles looks a good move for now. Hopefully he confirms the impression he made on Merseyside.
Thomas Campbell looks the one in the Sky Bet Supreme Trial Novices’ Hurdle for Nicky Henderson.
The Seven Barrows handler did have stablemate Jenkins engaged in this but after just one run, where he did jump very novicey, it seems wise to run Thomas Campbell who has a touch more experience.
He is far from the finished article himself of course, and was more impressive on his second outing in a better race with a penalty which suggests he will only improve for more experience.
Stablemate Lough Derg Spirit is the better fancied of the pair but despite earning quotes for the Supreme after his first win, Henderson already views him as a chaser.
As usual conditions will be fairly testing at Uttoxeter but that will suit Albert D’olivate in the Betfred “Wishes You A Merry Christmas” Handicap Chase. Robert Walford’s charge will be fitter for his first run of the season at Exeter when a very creditable third and his only win to date came on heavy ground.
Red Gunner looks just the type with which William Haggas excels and he takes the eye in the 32Red.com Nursery Handicap at Wolverhampton.
Fourth on his racecourse debut at Doncaster at the end of the turf season, he then stepped up a furlong in trip to seven at Wolverhampton last time out and, despite hanging to his left, won by three-quarters of a length.
Red Gunner is in the right hands, is bred to improve with experience and an opening mark of 79 could be workable.