HILLHOUSE QUARRY HANDICAP CHASE (2m4f, Good to Soft)
12 runners | Even pace predicted

This is a competitive and deep renewal of the Hillhouse Quarry Handicap Chase, a race that has historically rewarded trainers like Dan Skelton (4 wins in the last 10 runnings) and proven 2m4f handicappers peaking in spring.


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Strongest Contender: RISKINTHEGROUND (Trainer: Dan Skelton | Jockey: Harry Skelton)

Timeform TFR: 149 | OR: 127

A serial winner through the 2024/25 season, Riskintheground comes in off the back of an eye-catching fifth at Newbury where he finished with running left. His hold-up style is ideally suited to the evenly-run race predicted here, and he’s well handicapped off 127. Skelton targets this race, and this gelding could be ready to peak again after that prep run. Timeform highlight: “Caught the eye last time, finishing with running left.”

> ProHandicap Take: Ideal setup, trainer has a plan for this type, strongest figure in the field, and looks to be timed to strike.




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Main Dangers

LEADER IN THE PARK (Trainer: Ben Pauling | Jockey: Ben Jones)

Timeform TFR: 145 | OR: 129

Shaped like the best horse in the race when third to Walk On Quest at Kelso, only fading late after cutting out strong fractions. Returns here fresher and sharper. Progressive profile and races prominently, but could get softened if pressured early. Timeform note: “Shaped well when fading late; jumped and travelled with fluency.”

> Trainer note: Ben Jones has a 37% strike rate when riding chasing favourites.




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NED TANNER (Trainer: Nick Alexander | Jockey: Danny McMenamin)

Timeform TFR: 144 | OR: 122

Twice a winner already this season and landed a tidy race over C&D last time. Handles testing ground, stays further, and often travels well. Jumping can be his Achilles’ heel, but he’s on the up. Timeform note: “Quickened clear when produced to lead 2 out. Travels strongly.”

> ProHandicap Angle: Consistent improver with course form – classic profile for a spring pot.




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CREBILLY (Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill | Jockey: Jonjo Jr.)

Timeform TFR: 141+ | OR: 136

Back in calmer waters after contesting the Ultima at Cheltenham, where he didn’t stay. Huge run prior to that in the Plate (2nd of 21), and now drops back to 2m4f – much more suitable. Could be the class angle if bouncing back. Timeform note: “Good second in Plate Handicap Chase at Cheltenham; didn’t stay latest.”

> ProHandicap Note: Top 2m4f handicap form. Huge player if not feeling the effects of March.




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WALK ON QUEST (Trainer: Lucinda Russell | Jockey: Patrick Wadge)

Timeform TFR: 147 | OR: 124

A progressive novice who rattled off four straight wins before pulling up at Uttoxeter. That can be forgiven given the soft ground and step up to 3m. Back to a more suitable trip and track he’s won on. Timeform note: “Well below expectations last time, but previously progressive.”

> ProHandicap Take: Big turnaround possible. Watch market.




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Also Noted:

VINTAGE FIZZ (TFR 144) – Game second in the Grand Sefton, consistent but may not have the same ceiling.

GELINO BELLO & PERSIAN TIME – classy types on old form but appear completely out of sorts now.



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Trainer Trends – Past Winners

Dan Skelton (RISKINTHEGROUND): 4 past winners in the last decade. Very strong signal.

Ben Pauling (LEADER IN THE PARK & DENSWORTH): Has his string flying, but Densworth looks a prep run type here.



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Verdict

The improving Riskintheground is primed for a return to form and looks ideally set up for a late swoop in this evenly-run race. Leader In The Park and Ned Tanner are both right in the mix, with the former having strong tactical speed and the latter boasting track form and momentum. Crebilly is the wildcard, while Walk On Quest is the bounce-back play if forgiven his PU.