Cape Cova can turn rivals over
JOHn GOSdEn has made a habit of targeting the Betfred november Handicap and CAPE COVA (doncaster, 3.35) could provide the newmarket handler with more joy on the final day of the turf season.
The selection has already made a couple of winning trips to Town Moor this season and he defends an impressive course record as he bids to follow in the footsteps of Zuider Zee and Charm School in winning the prestigious handicap for his stable.
Gosden reaches for the blinkers today for Cape Cova, who raced lazily when scoring over 14 furlongs at doncaster a fortnight ago. He needed galvanising that day by Tom Queally, but displayed an impressive change of gear for a stayer and there is no doubting there is plenty of ability available for nicky Mackay to harness.
Paul nicholls dispatches runners far and wide this weekend and Silviniaco Conti will be a popular choice for many in the Jnwine.com Champion Chase. The dual King George winner possesses an excellent record righthanded and has reportedly done plenty of work ahead of his seasonal reappearance.
However, his form record following a break of more than six months now reads 31352 and I wonder if the younger legs of VALSEUR LIDO (down royal, 2.35) may have his measure.
The high-profile falling out between his former trainer Willie Mullins and owners Gigginstown Stud has seen Henry de Bromhead benefit and the seven-year-old Valseur Lido proved three miles on a right-handed track were ideal when landing the Grade One novice chase on good ground at Punchestown 18 months ago.
He saved his career-best for the ryanair Chase at Cheltenham in March, when chasing home Vautour, and again looked like three miles was a minimum requirement at Sandown in the bet365 Oaksey Chase.
It will be surprising if his new handler doesn’t have him ready first time and ready to make a statement.