MIDDLE TO FRONT
MIDDLE KINGDOM (2.10) can take another step forward in the Betway Handicap at Lingfield.
John Gosden’s three-year-old has been on an upward curve during his short career and was a good third on his comeback at Chelmsford.
The War Front colt should be primed with that run under his belt and can resume winning ways with further progress likely.
GORGEOUS NOORA (1.40) looks a typical Luca Cumani improver in the sprint. The filly just failed to reel in the useful You’re Cool at Chelmsford and can go one better for her shrewd handler.
Pat Evans’s JOEGOGO (3.10) will take plenty of catching in the nursery. The Approve gelding produced a career best from the front at Wolverhampton and can defy a 6lb hike in his current mood.
WHAT A WELCOME (3.40) can give weight away all round in the apprentices’ contest. Pat Chamings’s gelding scored with plenty in hand over 1m 2f at this venue last time and can improve again upped two furlongs.
TOWERING (1.30) can rise to the challenge for Conor Dore at Southwel l . The thriving eight-year-old was just touched off at Carlisle last month and remains wellmhandicapped on the pick of his old form.
■ Willie Mullins is looking forward to the new season with JLT Chase hero Yorkhill.
The talented but quirky gelding is working and schooling well at home although the handler is yet to decide on any concrete targets.
The seven-year-old will kick off his campaign over fences although Mullins did not rule out switching back to hurdles later in the term.
■ Yanworth is reported to be in good shape by Alan King after his recent fall at Exeter.
The seven-year-old will now try to get his fencing career back on track in the Ladbrokes Novices’ Chase at Newbury in two weeks.
■ Coneygree is returning to full fitness after being pulled up in last month’s Charlie Hall.
Mark Bradstock’s star is recovering well from the overreach he suffered at Wetherby and will take part in a schooling session at Newbury today.
All being well the eight-year-old will then attempt to defy top weight in the Ladbrokes Trophy back at the Berkshire venue next month.
■ Jessica Harrington’s Gold Cup hero Sizing John heads seven entries for Saturday’s Grade 1 Betfair Chase at Haydock.