Preview of the 1:55 Newcastle Mares’ Handicap Hurdle

The 1:55 at Newcastle today is a competitive Class 4 Mares’ Handicap Hurdle over 2 miles and 190 yards, contested by five runners. With soft ground and nine hurdles to navigate, stamina and jumping fluency will play a key role. Here’s a breakdown of the key contenders and their chances.

Ascending Lark (13/8 favourite) is an exciting prospect, returning to action after a layoff. Trained by Harry Derham, this 7-year-old mare is unbeaten in her two hurdle starts, both over 2 miles on spring ground. She now steps into handicap company off an OR of 113. While she hasn’t run on soft ground before, her strong maiden and novice hurdle victories suggest she has untapped potential. If she handles conditions, she could prove hard to beat.

Fromheretoeternity (9/4) is a proven performer at this level. She has thrived since joining Jennie Candlish, securing three wins this season. Last time out, she looked set for second in a Listed contest at Haydock before falling at the last. Returning to handicaps, she carries top weight of 12-0 but has shown she can handle soft ground and remains a major threat.

Hard As Nails (5/1), trained by Fergal O’Brien, is a consistent performer who won a handicap hurdle at Stratford in October. However, she found testing conditions at Sandown too much on her last outing. Dropping slightly in trip today may help, but her ability to cope with soft ground is still in question.

She’s Notjoeking (4/1) represents Lucinda Russell and Conner McCann. A lightly raced 5-year-old, she was a good second at Kelso last time. Carrying just 10-12, she is the lowest-weighted runner and could continue to progress, though she faces some better-rated rivals.

Belle Of Annandale (10/1) has struggled for form this season but steps back up in trip, which should suit. With Brian Hughes booked, she may outrun her odds, but her recent performances suggest she is up against it.

Verdict: Ascending Lark is the one to beat on her handicap debut, with Fromheretoeternity her main challenger. She’s Notjoeking offers each-way value.