Executive Summary

The race day of Saturday, 29th November 2025, represents a pivotal moment in the National Hunt season, featuring a compelling narrative of redemption, resilience, and the rigorous test of heritage handicaps. The day’s events are dominated by two premier contests in Great Britain: the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle and the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury, each presenting a crucible for champions and a platform for emerging talent.

At Newcastle, the central focus is the return of Constitution Hill, the once-invincible champion hurdler, who embarks on a “redemption trail” following a turbulent spring campaign marred by falls and uncharacteristic performances. Trainer Nicky Henderson reports the horse is “ready to rock and roll” after a meticulous preparation that included schooling over “padded hurdles” to rebuild confidence. The champion faces a formidable challenge from The New Lion, an unbeaten Grade 1-winning novice from the Dan Skelton yard, and Anzadam, a promising raider from the Willie Mullins stable. The race is set to be a profound tactical and psychological test of whether the king can reclaim his crown.

Simultaneously, Newbury hosts the Coral Gold Cup, a historic and grueling test of stamina over 3 miles and 2 furlongs. The narrative here is defined by the immense challenge posed by the handicap system. While the race features the Cheltenham Gold Cup fourth, Monty’s Star, carrying the top weight of 12st, historical trends are starkly against him. The contest is noted as a statistical anomaly that heavily favors unexposed second-season chasers carrying lighter weights, creating a classic clash between established class and progressive, well-handicapped contenders. Horses such as The Doyen Chief and Myretown fit the winning profile and are expected to feature prominently.

Across the UK and Ireland, full cards at Bangor-on-Dee, Doncaster, Fairyhouse, and Wolverhampton supplement the feature action, providing a comprehensive day of high-stakes competition that will significantly shape the winter racing campaign.

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Newbury Race Analysis

Meteorological Context: The ground is complex, with the Hurdle course reported as Soft (Good to Soft in places) and the Chase course slightly quicker at Good to Soft. Light rain is forecast with temperatures between 2.9°C and 10.6°C. A westerly wind of 8.7 mph is not expected to be a significant factor.

11:55 Play Coral “Racing-Super-Series” Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Listed)

• Distance: 2m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £45,000

• Going: Soft

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	Spotlight Verdict
Kingston Queen	D Pipe	Jack Tudor	Productive in bumpers, winning a Listed race. Impressive 7l winner on hurdling debut at Chepstow (2m3f). High on the list.	Top of the list. Impressive on hurdling debut and should have enough speed for this drop in distance.
La Conquiere	J Snowden	Gavin Sheehan	Second in a Grade 2 bumper at Aintree. Smoothly won maiden hurdle at Uttoxeter in October. A useful prospect.	May pose the main threat. Closely matched with Kingston Queen on bumper form.
Jaminska	Mrs J Williams	Ciaran Gethings	Experienced hurdler with three wins. Close third in a Grade 2 novice at Cheltenham last month.	Has each-way claims again.
Charisma Cat	A King	Tom Bellamy	Smart bumper form, including a Listed win at Sandown. Dam won a Grade 1 hurdle. Much respected on hurdles debut.	Commands respect.
Clondaw Park	H Derham	Paul O’Brien	Won an Irish point on heavy ground and sold for £320,000. Joined a stable going places and could be anything.	Commands respect.
Whimsy	A McCann (IRE)	Alex Harvey	Experienced with 37 runs. Placed in Grade 3 hurdles on last two starts. Top on RPRs.	Best form as things stand, but others have more potential.

Spotlight Verdict: “Irish raider Whimsy has the best form as things stand but there are several promising types who could improve past her. Top of the list is KINGSTON QUEEN who was impressive on her hurdling debut at Chepstow and should have enough speed to take this drop in distance in her stride. She’s closely matched on bumper form with La Conquiere and Jamie Snowden’s 6yo may pose the main threat, with the consistent Jaminska having each-way claims. Hurdling newcomers Charisma Cat and Clondaw Park command respect in a race with some depth.” [Richard O’Brien]

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12:30 Coral Sir Peter O’Sullevan Memorial Handicap Chase

• Distance: 2m 6 1/2f

• Prize Money: £50,000

• Going: Good to Soft

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	Spotlight Verdict
Eyed	H Morrison	Jonathan Burke	Much improved over fences last season with three wins. Returned with a strong second over hurdles at Kempton.	Seriously considered. Could be set for further improvement.
Scarface	J Tizzard	Brendan Powell	Twice runner-up at this track. Respectable second on reappearance at Wincanton. Stable form is a big plus.	Represents a stable in blinding form.
Hunter Legend	Miss V Williams	Charlie Deutsch	Highly progressive. Eyecatching sixth in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham two weeks ago. 2-2 at this distance.	On the shortlist.
King’s Threshold	E Lavelle	Gavin Sheehan	Won three in a row last term, including at this track. Not disgraced on Cheltenham reappearance and could be more competitive.	Feared most.
Wiseguy	N Henderson	Freddie Gordon	Won this race last year off a 2lb higher mark. Dangerously handicapped in his bid to repeat.	The plus point is last year’s win.
Booster Bob	O Murphy	Sean Bowen	Extraordinary winner of the Greatwood Gold Cup here in March. Remains of interest over this new, longer trip.	Demands a mention.

Spotlight Verdict: “Scarface represents Joe Tizzard, who’s been in blinding form, and Hunter Legend was eyecatching with his late work in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. Preference, however, is for EYED, who made great advances last term as a chaser and could be set for further improvement following the solid effort on his recent reappearance over hurdles. King’s Threshold, another who now has a run under his belt, is feared most. Last year’s win in this race is the plus point for Wiseguy, while Booster Bob also demands a mention.” [Richard Austen]

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1:05 Coral “Daily Rewards Shaker” Novices’ Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 4 1/2f

• Prize Money: £17,000

• Going: Soft

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	Spotlight Verdict
Klimt Madrik	T Lawes	Kevin Brogan	Belied 33-1 odds when a promising fourth to Kalkbrenner at Ffos Las despite a bad mistake. Plenty of raw promise.	Might spring a surprise. Travelled smoothly at Ffos Las and would have been closer but for an error.
Kiwi Rush	H Derham	Paul O’Brien	Bumper winner and point runner-up. Trainer Harry Derham reports, “I see him as well above average.” Off since March but had wind surgery.	Second choice.
Kalkbrenner	B Pauling	Ben Jones	Irish point winner who won on hurdling debut at Ffos Las (2m4f, soft). A top contender on form and potential.	More professional than Klimt Madrik when they met but is now penalised 6lb.
Walk Tall	J Tizzard	Brendan Powell	£120,000 purchase after winning an Irish point. Dam is a close relative of Hurricane Fly. Scopey sort open to improvement.	Left a positive impression in bumpers.
Buddy Holly	N Henderson	James Bowen	110,000euros 3yo. Showed promise in a Punchestown bumper. Trainer reports he “has been jumping very nicely.”	Left a positive impression in bumpers.

Spotlight Verdict: “There is promise in every one of these runners. Assessing the degrees of promise is tricky but KLIMT MADRIK might just spring a surprise from under the radar. Kalkbrenner was much more professional when they met at Ffos Las but Klimt Madrik travelled smoothly and would have been a lot closer but for a bad error two out. The winner is now penalised 6lb, as is Kocktail Bleu after he scored at Fontwell. Kiwi Rush (second choice), Walk Tall and Buddy Holly left a positive impression in bumpers.” [Richard Austen]

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1:40 “Join Coral Bet £10 Get £50” Handicap Hurdle (ITV)

• Distance: 2m 4 1/2f

• Prize Money: £40,000 (Winner: £21,784)

• Going: Soft (Good to Soft in places)

Race Context

This Class 2 handicap over a specialist distance requires both tactical speed for the long back straight and profound stamina for the soft ground in the home straight. The race often favors unexposed second-season hurdlers over established handicappers.

Runner Analysis

Horse	Rating	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Lud’or	136	T Symonds	Caoilin Quinn	Won by a very wide margin at Bangor (soft) on handicap debut, showing major improvement. May well defy a 13lb rise.	358 (Top Rated)
French Ship	136	P Hobbs & J White	Harry Cobden	Scored in clearcut style at Cheltenham last time. A progressive 5yo with a strong jockey booking, receiving weight from rivals.	331
Guard Duty	134	E Lavelle	Gavin Sheehan	Scored on the bridle over C&D (soft) in March. Remains of interest.	307
Dominic’s Fault	119	O Murphy	Sean Bowen	Lightly raced 8yo. Was prominent when brought down at Sandown on last appearance. Unexposed and remains open to improvement.	269
Santos Blue	142	O Murphy	Mr Ben Sutton (5)	Six-time winner. Faces a stiffer task off a new mark and lacks a recent run, but the 5lb claim helps. Class act.	334
Dargiannini	141	H Derham	Paul O’Brien	Won on reappearance at Uttoxeter. Course and distance winner but is on a tough mark.	357

Expert Verdict:

• Strategic Analysis Verdict: Dominic’s Fault is selected as the winner, being unexposed, strategically handicapped, and suited by soft ground. French Ship is the main danger.

• Spotlight Verdict: LUD’OR is the selection, with the view that he “may well defy a big rise in the weights and follow up.” French Ship is second choice, ahead of Guard Duty. [Steve Boow]

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2:15 Coral Racing Club Intermediate Handicap Hurdle (Gerry Feilden) (ITV)

• Distance: 2m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £55,000 (Winner: £31,322.50)

• Going: Soft (Good to Soft in places)

Race Context

A Premier Handicap for intermediate hurdlers, serving as a bridge to elite company. It is a clash of potential stars, often featuring horses with Grade 1 aspirations. The handicap structure can significantly favor those at the bottom of the weights.

Runner Analysis

Horse	Rating	Weight	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Indeevar Bleu	126	10-11	O Murphy	Sean Bowen	Impressive bumper winner. Returned from a break and wind surgery with a smooth handicap debut win at Ffos Las. Has plenty more in the tank. Receives nearly 20lbs from top weights.	326
Indemnity	122	10-7	E Lavelle	Gavin Sheehan	Second at Ascot to a rival who followed up in the Greatwood Hurdle. Up just 1lb for that run. A leading contender.	340
Live Conti	143	12-0	D Skelton	Tristan Durrell (3)	Second in a Grade 1 at Aintree in April. Reappears with a first-time tongue strap. Has potential but needs a personal best to defy top weight.	382 (Top Rated)
Give It To Me Oj	143	12-0	G & J Moore	Caoilin Quinn	Arrives after five consecutive wins (Flat and hurdles). Reliable but faces a tough-looking mark.	374
Viyanni	124	10-9	H Derham	Paul O’Brien	2-3 over hurdles, shaping well when third to the promising Lulamba at Ascot. May not have reached his ceiling yet.	308

Expert Verdict:

• Strategic Analysis Verdict: Indeevar Bleu is the winner, identified as a potential “handicap blot” receiving a massive weight allowance.

• Spotlight Verdict: Slight preference for INDEEVAR BLEU who “cruised home on his handicap debut… and can shrug off a 6lb rise.” Indemnity is feared, while Live Conti is a promising but needs a career best. [Richard O’Brien]

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2:55 Coral Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (ITV)

• Distance: 3m 2f

• Prize Money: £250,000 (Winner: £142,375)

• Going: Good to Soft

Race Context

The definitive early-season staying chase, requiring a blend of tactical speed and profound stamina. Historical trends heavily favor second-season chasers aged 6-8 carrying under 11st 6lb, making it extremely difficult for top-weighted, established Grade 1 horses.

Key Contenders

Horse	Age	Weight	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis & Key Trends
The Doyen Chief	8	10-6	A King	Tom Bellamy	Fits every key trend for a winner (age, rating, weight). Alan King has a strong record in the race. Profile of a solid type who may still improve.
Myretown	8	10-11	L Russell & M Scudamore	Derek Fox	Progressive novice last season, winning the Ultima at Cheltenham. Ideal weight. Trainer excels with stayers. May well cope with a 15lb rise.
Monty’s Star	8	12-0	H De Bromhead (IRE)	Jonathan Burke	The class horse of the race, having finished fourth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. However, history is stacked against a horse carrying top weight.
The Changing Man	8	10-12	J Tizzard	Brendan Powell	Highly consistent, finishing second in five notable handicaps. Prepped with a solid second at Ascot. A reliable place candidate.
Blizzard Of Oz	7	11-8	W Mullins (IRE)	J J Slevin	Chase record of 33321, winning a Listed race at Wexford on return. Pedigree suggests further improvement over this longer distance. Interesting contender.
Resplendent Grey	7	11-8	O Murphy	Sean Bowen	Won the bet365 Gold Cup and a Listed chase at Carlisle on reappearance. In peak form but now carries 11-8 in the “danger zone” for weight trends.
Katate Dori	7	10-6	S Thomas	Dylan Johnston (3)	Impressive in a major Kempton handicap last season. May still have more to offer and enters calculations with a hurdles reappearance under his belt.
Inch House	8	10-2	P Nicholls	Harry Cobden	Scored twice at Newbury previously. Connections won this race last year. Has promising credentials despite being 2lb out of the weights.

Expert Verdict:

• Strategic Analysis Verdict: The Doyen Chief is the winner, fitting all key statistical trends. Myretown is a major threat, and The Changing Man is a solid each-way play. Monty’s Star is predicted to place due to the weight burden.

• Spotlight Verdict: A potential repeat of the Ultima, with MYRETOWN (nap) “likely to keep on improving” and The Changing Man holding “solid claims.” Blizzard Of Oz is third choice, ahead of Resplendent Grey. [Steve Boow]

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3:35 Coral “Pipped-At-The-Post” Payouts Handicap Chase (ITV)

• Distance: 2m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £50,000

• Going: Good to Soft

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	Spotlight Verdict
Rath Gaul Hill	S Drinkwater	Brendan Powell	Lightly raced 7yo with untapped potential. 2-2 at Newbury, including a C&D win on soft ground in February.	Very interesting candidate. Can strengthen an already excellent record at Newbury.
General Medrano	E Lavelle	Ben Jones	Easily won this race 12 months ago. Arrives after an encouraging fourth at Ascot this month. Should make a bold bid.	Has solid credentials.
Doyen Du Bar	N Richards	Harry Cobden	Consistent and progressive, winning six of 12 starts. Interesting contender on first start for a new yard.	Third on the list.
Javert Allen	Mrs J Williams	Ciaran Gethings	Front-runner who has won here before. Was better than ever when fourth at Aintree three weeks ago. High on the list.	Completes the shortlist.
Ryan’s Rocket	F O’Brien	Jonathan Burke	Plausible candidate if ready after an eight-month break. Ran a close second at Ascot 11 months ago off just 1lb lower.	Completes the shortlist.
Etalon	D Skelton	Kielan Woods	Wide-margin winner at Perth and second at Fontwell last time. C&D winner but needs a career best to defy top weight.	Timeform’s verdict selection is General Medrano.

Spotlight Verdict: “Last year’s winner General Medrano arrives after a similar preparation and has solid credentials, but even more persuasive are the claims of RATH GAUL HILL, who still has untapped potential and can strengthen an already excellent record at Newbury by making a winning reappearance. The progressive Northern raider Doyen Du Bar is third on the list on his first outing for Nicky Richards. Javert Allen and Ryan’s Rocket complete the shortlist.” [Richard O’Brien]

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Newcastle Race Analysis

Meteorological Context: The going is Good to Soft. A significant South West wind of 15.0 mph is forecast, which can act as a cross-headwind in the home straight, potentially favoring horses ridden with patience.

11:42 BetMGM EBF ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 1f

• Prize Money: £20,000

• Going: Good to Soft

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	One Day Rating
Le Beau Madrik	D Skelton	Harry Skelton	Strong form when runner-up in both bumpers, including behind a Willie Mullins odds-on favorite. A likeable prospect.	348 (Top Rated)
Gaelic Rover	R Jefferson	Jamie Hamilton	Showed promise when falling in two Irish points. Encouraging third on hurdle debut at Ayr (soft). Respected.	285
Party In The Park	Mrs A Hamilton	Danny McMenamin	Close third on bumper debut here. Open to improvement for a trainer who does well with a small string.	230
Ballyeaston	F O’Brien	Jack Hogan	Runner-up in a point and bumper before a third on hurdle debut at Aintree. May benefit from the drop in trip.	274

Spotlight Verdict: “Dan Skelton’s runner LE BEAU MADRIK has shown strong form when runner-up in both bumpers and is taken to make a winning start over hurdles. Gaelic Rover appeals as a likely improver on his second hurdle start and is feared most ahead of Party In The Park, who was a close third here on his bumper debut. Aintree third Ballyeaston can also run well.” [Ben Hutton]

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2:00 BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle (Grade 1) (ITV)

• Distance: 2m 1f

• Prize Money: £115,000 (Winner: £66,548.92)

• Going: Good to Soft

Race Context: The Redemption of a King

Arguably the most anticipated hurdle race of the pre-Christmas period, this is a referendum on the career of Constitution Hill. The highest-rated hurdler of modern times, his previous campaign was a disaster with falls and a “disconcertingly tame” run at Punchestown. He faces unbeaten novice star The New Lion and Willie Mullins’ raider Anzadam. The small field of five makes for a fragile tactical dynamic.

Runner Analysis

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Anzadam	W Mullins (IRE)	Paul Townend	Unbeaten in four starts (two in France, two in Ireland). Missed the spring festivals with a small injury but has superstar potential.	469 (Top Rated)
Constitution Hill	N Henderson	Nico de Boinville	Returns after falls and a poor run last spring. Henderson’s preparation has been rigorous, stating “He’s ready to rock and roll.” If he returns to even 90% of his peak, he is statistically superior.	366
The New Lion	D Skelton	Harry Skelton	Unbeaten Grade 1 novice winner, but drops back from 2m 5f to 2m, a bold move against a Champion Hurdler. Trainer admits Constitution Hill could be “extremely hard to beat.”	430
Golden Ace	J Scott	Lorcan Williams	Cheltenham Festival winner with recent race fitness. Receives a 7lb mares’ allowance, bringing her closer on adjusted ratings. A value play for a place.	342
Nemean Lion	K Lee	Conor O’Farrell	Grade 2 winner but looks outclassed in this company. Supplemented for the race, likely running for place money.	337

Expert Verdict:

• Strategic Analysis Verdict: Constitution Hill is the selection. The reports of his demise are likely exaggerated, and the aggressive preparation points to a statement victory. The New Lion faces a monumental ask dropping in trip.

• Spotlight Verdict: While Constitution Hill will take all the beating if close to his best, he has a point to prove. The vote goes to unbeaten youngster ANZADAM, who was “seriously impressive” last season and is preferred ahead of The New Lion. [Ben Hutton]

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3:15 BetMGM Rehearsal Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (ITV)

• Distance: 2m 7 1/2f

• Prize Money: £70,000 (Winner: £39,865)

• Going: Good to Soft

Horse	Rating	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis
Konfusion	126	J Parkinson & S Smith	Callum Bewley	Unexposed 7yo who won on reappearance at Wetherby. Unseated when favourite last Saturday due to a nod on landing, not a bad mistake. Can make amends.
Jasmin De Grugy	126	A Honeyball	Richie McLernon	Progressive 6yo who was a 12l second at the Punchestown festival. Carrying just 10-2, he is a “handicap blot” and may have more to offer.
Cruz Control	143	T Lacey	Stan Sheppard	Won at Aintree in April. Has an excellent record at Newcastle (3 wins). A leading role is expected on his reappearance.
Hang In There	152	E Lavelle	Freddie Mitchell (5)	The class act, carrying 12-0. Won at Chepstow last month but is 11 years old and vulnerable to younger, lighter rivals.
Deafening Silence	132	D Skelton	Harry Skelton	Grade 2 hurdle winner who showed promise as a novice chaser. In top hands and could be a player.

Expert Verdict:

• Strategic Analysis Verdict: Cruz Control is the winner, ticking boxes for course suitability and freshness. Jasmin De Grugy is the danger at the weights.

• Spotlight Verdict: A nod on landing caused KONFUSION to unseat last week, and the “progressive 7yo can make amends today.” The 6yo Jasmin De Grugy may be the main danger ahead of Cruz Control. [Ben Hutton]

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Bangor-on-Dee Race Analysis

Going: Soft

11:00 Wrexham Lager Maiden Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 3 1/2f

• Prize Money: £9,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Daylatedollarshort	O Murphy	Lewis Stones (3)	Winning Irish point debut. Good start to rules career when second at Plumpton. Obvious scope to improve.	276 (Top Rated)
Atlantic Lad	D McCain	Theo Gillard	Fair form, making the frame on all four hurdling starts. Leading contender who sets a fair standard.	249
Hardly Surprising	H Fry	Bryan Carver	Well-bred 4yo who won on Irish point debut. Unlucky on rules debut (badly hampered). Remains an interesting prospect.	239

Spotlight Verdict: “Atlantic Lad sets a fair standard of hurdling form and might have untapped potential over today’s longer trip but Irish point winner DAYLATEDOLLARSHORT made a promising start to his rules career at Plumpton this month and is taken to improve past him. Hardly Surprising, another Irish point winner, effectively lost all chance when hampered by a loose horse on his rules debut and is the other key player.” [Chris Wilson]

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11:30 Remembering Sally Anne Malam Novices’ Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £12,500

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Idaho Sun	H Fry	Bryan Carver	Won first two bumpers and sixth in the Champion Bumper. Smooth transition to hurdling with a win at Fontwell. Sets clear standard.	332 (Top Rated)
They Want Me	D McCain	Theo Gillard	Won his sole Irish point. Disappointing in a bumper but has had wind surgery since. Yard has a good record in this race.	176
Noble George	J Candlish	Lewis Stones (3)	Runner-up in two bumpers and made an encouraging start over hurdles. Has place prospects.	226
Stay Hopeful	H Oliver	Lee Edwards	Won last of four Irish points. Should have a future over hurdles for his new yard.	31

Spotlight Verdict: “This can go to dual bumper winner IDAHO SUN who made a good start over hurdles when landing the odds at Fontwell last month. He sets a useful standard under a penalty and should be hard to beat in his bid to make it four wins from five starts. The main threat could come from hurdling newcomer They Want Me, who won his sole Irish point and represents a yard with a striking record in this race in recent years. Others who could get involved are Noble George and Stay Hopeful.” [David Moon]

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12:02 Beryl Shaw 90th Birthday Mares’ Handicap Chase

• Distance: 2m 4 1/2f

• Prize Money: £15,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Malaita	Mel Rowley	Charlie Hammond	Back in good form on last two outings. Remains on a good mark and can make her presence felt.	278
Ilovethenightlife	J Tizzard	Rex Dingle	Kept on well for second on seasonal debut at Kempton. Slower ground may suit. High on the list.	287 (Top Rated)
Regal Renaissance	H Daly	Sam Twiston-Davies	Runner-up on last three starts. Only 2lb higher than when winning over C&D a year ago. A likely contender.	279

Spotlight Verdict: “Ilovethenightlife and Regal Renaissance (preferred in that order) seem likely to run well again but the suggestion is MALAITA (nap), who arrives here after two good efforts this autumn and is still quite well handicapped.” [Chris Wilson]

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12:37 Gaskells Waste Management Services Handicap Chase

• Distance: 3m

• Prize Money: £15,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Newton Tornado	Miss R Curtis	Jamie Brace (5)	Well backed on chase debut at Cheltenham but fell when disputing the lead. A big player if he can avoid errors.	283
Magical King	S Edmunds	Charlie Hammond	Runner-up twice in 3m hurdle handicaps. Feasibly treated if he takes to chasing.	275
Ki Woo	O Greenall & J Guerriero	Craig Nichol	Won a maiden and novice hurdle here in the spring. Switches to fences and could have a good future in this sphere.	304
Georges Saint	Miss V Williams	Miss Lucy Turner (5)	Creditable third over C&D on final run last season. Has each-way claims if he picks up where he left off.	241
Laganhill	H Daly	Sam Twiston-Davies	Unexposed 7yo who started his chase career with an encouraging fourth at Carlisle. Dangerous if stamina holds out.	312 (Top Rated)

Spotlight Verdict: “This looks a bit trappy but the vote goes to NEWTON TORNADO, who was well backed on his handicap/chase debut at Cheltenham last month and was disputing the lead when he fell four out. He could be a major force if he can avoid errors this time and he should be unfazed by this step back up in trip. Chase debutants Magical King and Ki Woo are feared most in that order, although Geroges Saint has each-way claims on his return and Laganhill is also in the mix.” [David Moon]

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1:12 Selby Rural Chartered Surveyors & Agricultural Valuers Handicap Chase

• Distance: 2m 1 1/2f

• Prize Money: £12,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Kahavari	O Greenall & J Guerriero	Craig Nichol	Unseated when travelling well in third on chase debut here two weeks ago. Could be a big factor if he puts in a clear round.	238
A Moments Madness	F O’Brien	Mr Albi Tufnell (7)	Won at Ffos Las in April and was sold for £82,000 since. Open to more progress for new yard. Interesting contender.	270
Passing Kate	M Sheppard	Lee Edwards	2-3 in chases. Returned with a bold bid for a close second at Uttoxeter two weeks ago. Respected.	273
Jour D’Evasion	H Daly	Sam Twiston-Davies	Promising fifth on chase debut at Aintree. Should benefit from that run and is in the mix.	291 (Top Rated)

Spotlight Verdict: “A Moments Madness changed hands for £82,000 after his win at Ffos Las in April and is strongly respected on his return. Passing Kate is 2-4 over fences and made a bold bid on her reappearance at Uttoxeter last month, while Jour d’Evasion also enters the reckoning along with Dan Skelton’s chase debutant Jack Black. However, the vote goes to KAHAVARI, who was travelling well in third when he unseated on his chase debut here two weeks ago and could be big factor if he can put in a clear round this time.” [David Moon]

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1:47 Wynnstay Conditional Jockeys’ Training Series Handicap Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 7f

• Prize Money: £9,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Bridget Mary	Miss R Curtis	Toby McCain-Mitchell	Second over fences here last month and reverts to hurdling on an 8lb lower mark. Needs to be taken very seriously.	256 (Top Rated)
Stamina Chope	Dave Roberts	Lewis Saunders	Made the frame on last three appearances, chasing home a progressive rival last time. Probably won’t be far away.	220
Be The Difference	P Kirby	Freddie Keighley	Won by 13l at Kelso 11 days ago. An 8lb rise asks a lot, but he features prominently.	250

Spotlight Verdict: “This could be a good opportunity for BRIDGET MARY, who was one of two to pull clear of the others when second over fences here last month and reverts to hurdling on an 8lb lower mark. Recent Kelso winner Be The Difference has been treated quite sternly by the handicapper and a bigger threat to the selection may come from Stamina Chope, who chased home a progressive rival at Plumpton last month.” [Chris Wilson]

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Doncaster Race Analysis

Going: Good to Soft

11:48 Eco-Power Group Novices’ Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £7,700

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Storming George	N King	Jack Quinlan	Won a big-field bumper here. Good run in his first hurdle race at Newbury, finishing close up behind useful opposition.	315 (Top Rated)
Filibustering	H Derham	Harry Reed	Justified short odds on hurdling debut at Kelso. His recent Bangor third was underwhelming but he should improve for it.	294
Diligent Militia	T Vaughan	James Davies	The form of his Chepstow fifth has worked out very well. Entitles him to each-way consideration.	219

Spotlight Verdict: “Filibustering could be sharper for his Bangor return but he’ll need to be if he’s to concede 7lb to STORMING GEORGE. The selection did well in bumpers and his third at Newbury was behind much respected opposition. Diligent Militia wouldn’t be without hope if repeating the form of his Chepstow fifth that has worked out well.” [Alistair Jones]

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12:22 Alan Wood Plumbing & Heating Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase

• Distance: 2m 3f

• Prize Money: £11,700

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Wolf Moon	B Pauling	Callum Pritchard (3)	Nicely progressive in novice hurdles last season. Brings plenty of promise to his chasing career as he has the build for it.	274
Josh The Boss	N & W Twiston-Davies	Mr Jamie Neild (7)	Did jump quite well when winning a match on his chase debut at Warwick.	293 (Top Rated)
Hecouldbetheone	J Owen	Jonjo O’Neill Jr	Solid chase form (2-6). Races prominently and should give his running.	290
Southoftheborder	Henrietta Knight	Brian Hughes	Steadily progressing over fences. Won’t mind returning to a longer trip.	263

Spotlight Verdict: “Tight and trappy. Hecouldbetheone and Southoftheborder have the solid chase form but both look handicapped about right. Joss The Boss did jump okay when justifying second favouritism in a match on his chase debut but this could go to WOLF MOON who has the scope to do better over fences and he did okay over hurdles.” [Alistair Jones]

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12:57 Allied Massarellas 65 Years And Counting Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle

• Distance: 2m 3 1/2f

• Prize Money: £10,700

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Crystal Days	B Pauling	Callum Pritchard (3)	Chased home good opposition at Uttoxeter, with the winner being a smart bumper performer. Respected.	267
Madame Luna	H Derham	Harry Reed	Impressed with her jumping when winning two junior hurdles last season. No doubt more to come.	289 (Top Rated)
Scavengers Reign	J Owen	Alex Chadwick (3)	Unseated when in front at halfway last time out at Huntingdon. Has form claims if that was a one-off.	277

Spotlight Verdict: “There’s not a lot between most of these so this is tricky. CRYSTAL DAYS is making good progress and they were useful mares she chased home at Uttoxeter. Madame Luna didn’t beat a lot in her junior hurdles but she was neat and tidy. Reina Del Mar, Just An Artist, Mighty Fleur and Scavengers Reign all have chances.” [Alistair Jones]

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2:07 Aalberts IPS Pegler Valves Handicap Chase

• Distance: 3m 2f

• Prize Money: £8,900

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Fierce Warrior	N Henderson	Brian Hughes	Won a 3m handicap hurdle in March. Fair chase debut over an inadequate 2m3f. Appeals most.	324 (Top Rated)
Snowy Evening	O Greenall & J Guerriero	Toby Wynne	C&D winner. Back on a good mark after a long absence. Dangerously handicapped if ready to go.	247
Broomfields Cave	N Mulholland	Bradley Harris (3)	Returns off the same mark as his last win in June 2024. Market may guide his wellbeing.	256

Spotlight Verdict: “Broomfield Cave and Snowy Evening (second choice given good course record) return from long absences but both are dangerously handicapped should they be raring to go. No Regrets isn’t the easiest to predict and Red Delta ran moderately the last time, so FIERCE WARRIOR appeals most after a solid first chase run over an inadequate trip.” [Alistair Jones]

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Fairyhouse Race Analysis (Ireland)

Going: Yielding To Soft

11:36 SIS Supporting Irish Racing Beginners Chase

• Distance: 2m 5 1/2f

• Prize Money: €12,500

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Key Analysis & Form	One Day Rating
The Big Westerner	H De Bromhead	Mike O’Connor	Point winner who won a Grade 2 hurdle. Excellent 2.5l second in the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham. Very interesting on chase debut, gets 7lb allowance.	332
Jimmy Du Seuil	W Mullins	Mr P W Mullins	Best of these over hurdles. 13l runner-up to Ballyburn in a Grade 1 at Cheltenham. Won the Coral Cup. Respected on chase debut for last year’s winning stable.	372 (Top Rated)
Jacob’s Ladder	G Elliott	Jack Kennedy	Grade 3 hurdle winner. Shaped like he would improve for his run when second on chase debut at Naas. Go well up in trip.	299
Goraibhmaithagat	C A Murphy	Mark Walsh	Stayed on for fifth on chase debut at Naas. This longer trip will suit and is preferred by jockey Mark Walsh. Could go well.	255

Spotlight Verdict: “Last season’s Albert Bartlett runner up THE BIG WESTENER, a half-sister to the classy Stay Away Fay, has always been seen as a chaser in the making and she is taken to get off to a winning start in this sphere. The Coral Cup winner Jimmy Du Seuil is feared, as is the Naas beginners’ chase runner up Jacob’s Ladder. Goraibhmaithagat should relish this longer trip and completes the shortlist.” [Dave Stephens]

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12:09 Race And Stay Irish EBF Mares Handicap Chase

• Distance: 2m 4 1/2f

• Prize Money: €30,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Miss Pronunciation	P Roche	Mark Walsh	Progressive hurdle winner. Yet to shine over fences but jockey Mark Walsh deserts a recent winner to take the ride. On a mark 10lb below her hurdles rating.	248
Kiltealy Park	P Nolan	Sean Flanagan	Won a handicap chase here in April. Solid fifth in the Galway Blazers. Should be thereabouts.	313 (Top Rated)
Mystical Goddess	H De Bromhead	Mike O’Connor	Point winner with decent graded form over hurdles. Promising chase debut at Limerick. Worth considering.	240

Spotlight Verdict: “Mark Walsh’s presence on MISS PRONUNCIATION implies that she may be expected to take advantage of a mark 10lb below her hurdles rating. Her jumping has been an issue, but she is presumably seen as being better treated than Uhavemeinstiches, ridden to win by Walsh on her chasing debut at Wexford. Course winner Kiltealy Park and the relatively unexposed Mystical Goddess are likely dangers.” [Alan Sweetman]

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12:44 EASYFIX Equine Handicap Chase (Listed)

• Distance: 2m 1f

• Prize Money: €45,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Mirazur West	W Mullins	Mark Walsh	Finished last season with a fine third on handicap debut at Punchestown. 2-2 here over hurdles. Leading chance if fit after a break.	358 (Top Rated)
Special Cadeau	H De Bromhead	Dylan Whelan (7)	Form of Roscommon Grade 3 second has been boosted. Fine effort on handicap debut at Ascot. Effectively 8lb lower with claim.	325
Champagne Mahler	H De Bromhead	Mike O’Connor	Won off 10lb lower at Gowran in March. Ran well over C&D in January. Could go well.	256
Dont Go Yet	E Cawley	Danny Gilligan	Third in this race in 2023. Should be fitter for a recent hurdles run. Place chance.	288
Ifiwerearichman	P Nolan	Richard Deegan	Interesting contender dropped in trip for his first handicap chase.	252

Spotlight Verdict: “A tricky betting heat. MIRAZUR WEST lacks a recent run but fitness shouldn’t be an issue given who trains him and he may be able to maintain his unbeaten record at this venue. A drying track would greatly enhance the claims of Special Cadeau and his stablemate Champagne Mahler is also respected, as are the locally trained Dont Go Yet and Paul Nolan’s Ifiwerearichman.” [Dave Stephens]

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1:19 Jack McInerney Memorial Hurdle (Grade 3)

• Distance: 2m

• Prize Money: €30,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis	One Day Rating
Murcia	W Mullins	Brian Hayes	Smart juvenile who won a Grade 1 at Aintree. Sets a high standard on form.	402 (Top Rated)
Wendrock	G Elliott	Jack Kennedy	Campaigned at a high level. Finished two places ahead of Murcia in the Fred Winter at Cheltenham. Should be sharper for his return run.	316
I’m Slippy	R Tyner	Phillip Enright	Looked smart when winning a valuable sales bumper here in April. Readily won a maiden hurdle at Cork. Big jump in class.	321

Spotlight Verdict: “This is likely to concern a pair who met twice as juvenile hurdlers last season. Thanks to a Grade 1 win at Aintree and a creditable Punchestown fourth, MURCIA ended the campaign on a stronger note than Wendrock, who finished in front of her in the Fred Winter. The duo enjoy a clear edge in experience over the unbeaten I’m Slippy who has shown significant promise.” [Alan Sweetman]

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Wolverhampton Race Analysis (All-Weather)

Going: Standard

4:30 Read Meg Nicholls’ Blog At betmgm.co.uk EBF Novice Stakes

• Distance: 5f

• Prize Money: £6,300

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis
Fortification	A Watson	James Doyle	£350,000 breeze-up buy. Improved when second at Ripon in June. Returns as a gelding in first-time cheekpieces. Retains potential.
Palmeira	E Houghton	Charles Bishop	Nine-race maiden but went close in a 5f Listed race at Newbury. Takes a sharp drop in grade and sets the form standard.
Havana Jag	D Cunha	George Wood	Signs of ability at Brighton and Southwell. Open to further progress and has each-way claims.

Spotlight Verdict: “Palmeira has the best form but FORTIFICATION has some potential. Archie Watson’s gelding was an expensive purchase at the breeze-ups, and after encouraging runs at Bath and Ripon in the first half of the year he can now progress past Eve Johnson Houghton’s filly, who sets the standard on her narrow defeat in a Listed race at Newbury in the summer. Market support for one of the newcomers would be significant, but as things stand third choice is Havana Jag.” [Richard O’Brien]

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5:00 Bet £10 Get £40 With BetMGM Nursery Handicap

• Distance: 1m 1/2f

• Prize Money: £7,100

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis
Lavender Gold	D Menuisier	Billy Loughnane	Plenty of promise in qualifying runs, bumping into a next-time-out winner at Ffos Las. Appeals as a likely improver in handicaps.
Urgent Call	Charlie Johnston	Jack Callan (5)	Improved when winning a Newcastle nursery 12 days ago in first-time cheekpieces. A 4lb rise looks fair.

Spotlight Verdict: “Recent Newcastle winner Urgent Call should go well again but preference is for LAVENDER GOLD, who has the profile of a likely improver in handicaps and there are AW winners in his pedigree.” [Andrew Sheret]

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6:30 Join The Midnite Movement Handicap

• Distance: 6f

• Prize Money: £6,000

Horse	Trainer	Jockey	Analysis
Sam’s Hope	Martin Dunne	Darragh Keenan	Has won three of her last four starts, the latest a ready win at Southwell. Returning to 6f should suit. Holds strong claims.
Sovereign Class	G Tuer	Oliver Stammers	Went desperately close at Newcastle last week on first attempt at 6f. Unexposed as a sprinter. Shortlisted.
Em Jay Kay	Phil McEntee	Grace McEntee	Won at Newcastle nine days ago and ran a creditable third under a penalty on Wednesday. Should make another bold bid.

Spotlight Verdict: “This looks quite competitive for the grade but SAM’S HOPE (nap) is enjoying a purple patch and she can overcome a wide draw and 6lb rise with the return to 6f in her favour. Woodhay Whisper and Em Jay Kay also come here in form but the biggest danger may be posed by Sovereign Class, who shaped well on her first attempt at 6f last week. Keep an eye on He’s An Angel in the market too, as he is well treated on last year’s best and returns from an absence with his trainer going well.” [Paul Smith]