A small but talented field lines up for this year’s renewal of the BET365 Oaksey Chase at Sandown, run over 2m6f164y. The race often favours horses with tactical speed and proven Grade 1 ability, and once again the quality looks high despite only nine runners being declared. Notably, Paul Nicholls has trained four of the last six winners of this race, a trend well worth keeping in mind.

Strongest Contender

Gaelic Warrior (TFR 180)
W.P. Mullins’ charge sets a high standard on Timeform adjusted ratings and arrives here in top form. The seven-year-old bounced back to his Arkle-winning best when taking the Bowl Chase at Aintree three weeks ago, and although this is a slightly sharper test, he has shown versatility over trips from 2m to 3m1f.
The Pace Forecast suggests a very weak early gallop, which should suit Gaelic Warrior well, given he typically races close to the pace. The Timeform profile notes he is “good-topped” and effective on good ground, with a hood and tongue-tie combination retained.
Assuming the quick turnaround doesn’t dull his edge, he sets a formidable benchmark.

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Main Dangers

Pic d’Orhy (TFR 178)
A bold, enthusiastic front-runner from the Nicholls stable, Pic d’Orhy thrives at Ascot but is versatile elsewhere too. His profile notes a commanding victory in the Betfair Ascot Chase when last seen, with breathing operations having clearly helped him sustain a stronger finish this term.
He has not been seen for 70 days, and horses returning from a break should always be monitored in the betting market for any signs of weakness or market drifts.
Still, his attacking style could see him gain a tactical advantage if allowed to dictate at the head of affairs.

Gentleman de Mee (TFR 175)
Winner of the Topham Chase at Aintree just over three weeks ago, Gentleman de Mee has proven he retains a potent turn of foot. Timeform comments highlight he had “plenty to do four out” but finished strongly to lead late on.
There is a slight concern, though, as a steadily run race may blunt his usual late challenge, and Gaelic Warrior is better placed in the expected tactical scenario. Nevertheless, he remains a major each-way player if gaps appear in the closing stages.

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Others to Note

• Appreciate It (TFR 170) showed a welcome return to form earlier this year but has been patchy over fences. He was unlucky when brought down in the Grand National last time and does possess old Grade 1 ability. Needs to prove his consistency but represents a live outsider.
• Classic Getaway (TFR 169) was respectable at Cheltenham recently and has smart form in small fields. He has, however, had issues with bleeding and must be treated with caution.

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Trends and Insights

• Paul Nicholls has trained four recent winners of this race, including Saint Calvados (2022) and Frodon (2021).
• W.P. Mullins rarely sends more than one to Sandown on this day, but this year has a strong hand with four runners.
• Horses close to the pace tend to have a tactical advantage at Sandown, especially when the pace forecast is “Very Weak.”
• Runners without a recent run, such as Pic d’Orhy and Le Patron, should be closely watched in the betting markets for signs of fitness concerns.

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Summary

In what looks a tactical renewal, Gaelic Warrior has the standout form and the ideal racing style to dominate proceedings. Pic d’Orhy rates the main threat if able to boss the race from the front, while Gentleman de Mee is an interesting danger if the leaders go harder than expected. Appreciate It is not one to be dismissed lightly, especially if the market speaks in his favour.

Patience, sharpness, and careful monitoring of the betting on the day will be key in finding an edge.