Rio ready to rock at Chelmsford

ROSA DEL RIO hit the bar last time out but can gain just compensation in the Support The Injured Jockeys Fund Handicap at Chelmsford.

Out of luck in three starts in novice and maiden company, Rosa Del Rio was given a mark of 67 for her handicap bow at Newcastle in January and came within a half-length of victory against a more experienced rival.

The winner, Russian Virtue, had previously won twice over hurdles and had too much in the finish, with Rosa Del Rio seemingly sure to learn plenty for the run.

Russian Virtue has since scored over hurdles again and while Rosa Del Rio would not be a superstar for the Crisford team, this looks well within her compass.

Lilikoi looked good value for her recent Newcastle win and can follow up in the Racing Welfare Handicap.

Despite being saddled with a 5lb penalty, she is technically 1lb well in after a near two-length verdict just over a week ago.

David and Nicola Barron’s mare kept on strongly and won with a chunk in hand, making back-to-back victories a live possibility.

Aztec Empire impressed on his 2023 debut and Southwell’s BetUK’s Acca Club £5 Free Bet Apprentice Handicap looks a good opportunity to follow up.

Andrew Balding’s charge showed initial promise when fourth on his juvenile debut before he missed over a year of action.

His comeback second was followed up with a seven-length romp at Kempton in January and while that was a pretty average event, he could do little more than win.

The handicapper has given him a mark of 86 off which to start and that could underestimate his ability.

Harlem Soul has a fine record at Wincanton and can add to his tally in the Jenningsbet Eastleigh Novices’ Handicap Chase.

Syd Hosie’s charge has won three of his five starts at the track, most recently scoring on Boxing Day when holding off Huelgoat by a length.

Golden Sovereign was also in action on the Boxing Day card, and he cannot be ruled out of the Dick Hunt ‘Wigmore’ Handicap Chase.