12:08 Haydock – Live Racing Streaming At CopyBet “Introductory” Hurdle

This Class 2 Introductory Hurdle, run over approximately 2 miles, serves as a crucial stepping stone for promising young hurdlers who have shown significant ability in their early careers. Featuring a select field of just three runners, this contest provides an excellent platform to showcase potential Grade 1 talent, with each contender bringing a winning profile to the race.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Smoke Trail (TimeWise Rating: 333)

An Irish point-to-point winner on yielding ground, Smoke Trail made a highly successful debut under rules at Kelso in October. In that 14-runner maiden hurdle over 2 miles on good to soft ground, the horse made all the running to secure the win. Interestingly, it was very weak in the betting at 9-1, while the favourite, a stablemate who finished second, has since come out and won, boosting the form.

2. Mydaddypaddy (TimeWise Rating: 329)

This highly promising four-year-old boasts an undefeated record from two career starts. Mydaddypaddy “won as he liked” on debut in a Huntingdon bumper on good to soft ground. According to the Spotlight analysis, when stepping up for a maiden hurdle at Carlisle over 2m1f on soft ground, “it was the same story.” The third-place horse from that race has also subsequently won, adding substance to the performance.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 4yo 2-2-16, 5yo 4-3-17, 6yo 0-1-2

• Fate of Favourites: 131211

• Trainer Records: Dan Skelton 1-1-2

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This is a fascinating clash between two promising hurdlers. Smoke Trail’s front-running Kelso victory was impressive, and the form has been franked, but the lack of market confidence on the day is a slight query. Mydaddypaddy, on the other hand, has been visually dominant in both a bumper and a hurdle, showing versatility on different ground conditions. Based on the commanding nature of its victories and its unblemished record, Mydaddypaddy appears to hold the stronger credentials and looks poised to maintain his perfect record.

Spotlight Verdict

All three could have bright futures but MYDADDYPADDY seems to stand out in terms of form and the impression he’s made, including on soft ground. Smoke Trail is slightly preferred to Kosac d’Oudairies, having seemingly comfortably exceeded expectations on his rules debut.

[Richard Austen]

From a clash of burgeoning talents over two miles, the focus now shifts to a true war of attrition at Ludlow: a three-mile handicap demanding both stamina and skillful handling from conditional jockeys.

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12:20 Ludlow – Shaun And Jane Nakash 20th Wedding Anniversary Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

This Class 5 handicap hurdle presents a stern test of stamina, run over nearly 3 miles. The race is further complicated by being restricted to conditional jockeys, whose varying levels of experience add another layer of complexity for analysis. Success in this type of contest often requires a combination of proven staying ability and a rider capable of judging the pace correctly over the demanding trip.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Tzarmix (TimeWise Rating: 237)

A winner of a 2m3f novice hurdle on soft ground in 2023, Tzarmix also demonstrated staying prowess by winning a point-to-point in April. Its most recent outing was a third-place finish in June, and the Spotlight analysis suggests it “looks in need of a favour from the handicapper,” indicating it may be burdened by its current rating.

2. Walkinthewoods (TimeWise Rating: 223)

A versatile performer, Walkinthewoods is a winner over both hurdles and fences at distances up to 2m4f. The horse’s last run was a “below par” fourth on its seasonal return at Hereford. However, it has since been dropped 2lb by the handicapper, and critically, its conditional jockey claims a “very handy 10lb,” which is expected to make the horse significantly “more competitive.”

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 4yo 0-0-1, 5yo 2-3-11, 6yo 2-1-6, 7yo 0-1-7, 8yo 0-1-8, 9yo 0-1-2, 10yo 0-0-1

• Fate of Favourites: 5223

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

The prospects of the two leading contenders hinge on their handicap marks. Tzarmix appears to have a difficult task, with expert opinion suggesting its current rating is challenging. In stark contrast, Walkinthewoods benefits from a significant weight advantage. The combination of a 2lb drop from the handicapper and a substantial 10lb jockey’s claim creates a total weight swing of 12lb, which could prove decisive. This positions Walkinthewoods as the more favourably treated horse, giving it a decisive mathematical advantage in a race of this grade.

Spotlight Verdict

A moderate race where a significant claim by his pilot, plus a 2lb drop, could make Walkinthewoods a serious player again. The slow ground is a concern for Aslukgoes, who otherwise can have a case made. The tentative suggestion is French chase winner JEU D’OPALE. Venetia Williams has had more time with him since his two February starts and, now stepped up in trip and on a workable mark, he may begin to flourish.

[Jonathan Doidge]

Having assessed a gruelling staying contest at Ludlow, we return to Haydock for another three-mile handicap, this time a qualifier for a northern series.

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12:38 Haydock – FDL Packaging Group Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

This Class 4 handicap hurdle is a true test of stamina, run over a staying trip of 3 miles and restricted to conditional jockeys. The race holds added significance as a qualifier for the Go North Brindisi Breeze Series, a valuable target for northern-based stables. The long distance poses a considerable challenge for the less experienced riders, placing a premium on judging pace effectively.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Lets Mingle (TimeWise Rating: 283)

An Irish point-to-point winner on soft ground, Lets Mingle secured its first hurdle win at Ayr before making a handicap debut at Kelso. In that race, over an extended 2m6f, the mare adopted her usual front-running style and produced a good performance to finish second. The Spotlight analysis suggests that the step up to a full 3 miles “may well suit,” indicating potential for further improvement.

2. Piaff Bubbles (TimeWise Rating: 271)

This horse’s sole career win came over this 3-mile trip on soft ground at Wetherby in January 2023. After a long absence and wind surgery, Piaff Bubbles made an “eyecatching return” at Hexham, finishing third from off the pace. Now running off a 1lb lower mark, it is expected to be “interesting back up in trip” to a distance where it has proven effective.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 5yo 0-2-4, 6yo 1-2-6, 7yo 1-1-8, 8yo 1-1-4, 9yo 0-0-3, 10yo 0-0-3

• Fate of Favourites: 021

• Trainer Records: N W Alexander 1-1-3

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This is a compelling matchup between two distinct profiles. Lets Mingle is relatively unexposed as a stayer and could find the necessary improvement for this step up in distance, making her a progressive contender. In contrast, Piaff Bubbles is a proven performer over this trip who returned from a long layoff with a highly promising run. Well-handicapped, with conditions to suit, and open to further fitness gains, Piaff Bubbles appears well-positioned to build on that encouraging return.

Spotlight Verdict

Piaff Bubbles looks set for a prominent finish but has only ever won once, whereas Small Town Hero has acquired the winning habit since his move to Ireland. The top options, however, may be LA HIGUERA, who showed his strength of stamina on soft ground on last month’s handicap debut, and Lets Mingle whose first handicap foray resulted in a good second over an extended 2m6f.

[Richard Austen]

The focus now shifts back to Ludlow for a novices’ claiming hurdle, a race with a unique set of conditions that can often produce a surprise.

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12:50 Ludlow – Marsh Commercial Insurance Novices’ Claiming Hurdle

This Class 4 contest is a novices’ claiming hurdle over approximately 2 miles. In this race type, every horse is available to be ‘claimed’ (purchased) for a pre-determined price, which often results in a lower-grade field. It presents an opportunity for connections to find a winnable race for horses that may struggle in standard novice company.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Hopeless Dancer (TimeWise Rating: 246)

After showing gradual progression to be placed in all three bumper starts, Hopeless Dancer made its hurdling debut at Ludlow over 2m5f. In a three-runner race, it finished third to a highly regarded favourite. Despite the defeat, that performance sets the clear standard in this field. The drop back in trip to 2 miles is a notable change for this contest.

2. Miracles Do Happen (TimeWise Rating: 221)

This four-year-old was placed in a bumper at Down Royal before finishing second on its stable debut at Ludlow in October. However, it disappointed on its next start at Wincanton, pulling hard before finishing last. Now making its hurdling debut in a very modest event, its bumper form gives it a chance if able to settle better.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 4yo 4-4-23, 5yo 2-2-19, 6yo 0-2-17, 7yo 0-3-6, 8yo 1-1-5, 9yo 1-1-5, 10yo 0-0-2

• Fate of Favourites: 12212611

• Trainer Records: Bernard Llewellyn 0-1-6

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

The data points towards Hopeless Dancer as the clear standard-setter in this contest. Its form, even in defeat on its hurdling debut, is superior to what any rival has achieved over obstacles. Miracles Do Happen has some bumper form but comes with significant risks after a poor recent showing where it failed to settle. While claiming races can be unpredictable, on established form, Hopeless Dancer holds the strongest claims to shed its maiden tag.

Spotlight Verdict

A race that’s unlikely to trigger many ante-post market moves and Hopeless Dancer (second choice) has an obvious chance of landing a first success. Miracles Do Happen needs forgiving her latest start but otherwise looks a contender on this hurdle debut but, in a murky affair, it may pay to take a chance on BARBIE GIRLZ, who has been given a chance by her yard at these weights.

[Richard Russell]

We now return to Haydock for a fascinating beginners’ chase featuring some high-class prospects transitioning to the larger obstacles.

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1:08 Haydock – Safer Gambling With CopyBet “Chasing Excellence” Beginners’ Chase

This Class 3 beginners’ chase over an extended 2m 5f has attracted a small but intriguing field of horses transitioning from hurdling to chasing. The race features runners who achieved a high level of form over smaller obstacles, and their chasing debuts will be watched with keen interest to see if they can translate that ability to the larger fences.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Maximilian (TimeWise Rating: 299)

A top-class staying novice hurdler during the 2022-23 season, Maximilian‘s achievements included a second-place finish in a Grade 1 at Aintree. However, its career has been interrupted since, with its only subsequent appearance being a pulled-up effort in a handicap hurdle in February. This presents very mixed messages, as its peak form is outstanding, but its recent wellbeing is a major question mark.

2. Western Knight (TimeWise Rating: 286)

A useful novice hurdler, Western Knight‘s best form was a second in a 3m Grade 2 at Cheltenham. The horse was well beaten in a Grade 1 at Aintree and followed that with a 29-length defeat on its chase debut in a warm race at Exeter last month. That run was likely needed after a break, and significant improvement can be expected.

Key Race Statistics

• No key statistics provided.

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This contest is defined by significant questions for all runners. Maximilian possesses by far the best form in the race, but that was achieved in April 2023, and a pulled-up effort on his only start since is a major red flag. Western Knight was soundly beaten on his chase debut but is entitled to improve for that experience and remains a chasing type. The Spotlight verdict leans towards the ex-French runner Just Ennemi, whose new connections paid a significant sum to retain him, suggesting a high level of confidence in his potential as a chaser. Given the uncertainties, market confidence will be a key indicator.

Spotlight Verdict

Major questions surround these three runners, who were all however given fairly bullish mentions in Stable Tours this autumn. Going to £320,000 to keep JUST ENNEMI in the stable was another statement of faith and this ex-French 5yo is the selection on his British debut, even though Maximilian has clearly the best form (albeit from April 2023) and Western Knight presumably needed the race when he ended up so well beaten last month.

[Richard Austen]

Next, the focus returns to Ludlow for a competitive staying handicap chase that promises to be a true test of jumping and stamina.

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1:20 Ludlow – Commodore Cup Handicap Chase

This Class 3 handicap chase is run over a demanding trip of 3m 1.5f and serves as a qualifier for the Challenger Staying Chase Series. The field is composed of seasoned staying chasers, many of whom have proven form over long distances and are returning to action for the season, making it a competitive and intriguing contest.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Tiny Tetley (TimeWise Rating: 307)

A likeable hurdler, Tiny Tetley is noted as not being the biggest horse, a factor that may have contributed to a challenging chase debut at Exeter last month where he struggled. Now making his handicap debut in this sphere, he faces an easier task and is expected to show his determined attitude.

2. Fortescue (TimeWise Rating: 271)

A winner of a Listed handicap at Ascot in 2022, Fortescue has put in several respectable efforts since, including a fourth-place finish over 3m4f at Cheltenham in April. He is known to perform well after a break, and with his stable in good form, he is respected from what appears to be a dangerous-looking handicap mark.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 5yo 0-1-1, 6yo 3-1-9, 7yo 3-3-17, 8yo 1-3-15, 9yo 1-1-17, 10yo 0-3-5, 11yo 0-0-3

• Fate of Favourites: 41523152

• Trainer Records: Venetia Williams 2-2-7, Dan Skelton 1-0-1

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This staying chase presents a difficult puzzle, with many runners having questions to answer. Tiny Tetley needs to prove he is as effective over fences as he was over hurdles. In contrast, Fortescue is a proven stayer who is well-handicapped and has conditions in his favour, arriving fresh from a stable currently in excellent form. Against rivals who have either struggled recently or are returning from long absences, Fortescue’s combination of class, course suitability, and stable form makes him a very solid proposition.

Spotlight Verdict

The majority of these have a question mark over current wellbeing or suitability for this trip, while Tiny Tetley needs to prove his effectiveness over fences. In the circumstances it might be worth siding with the reappearing FORTESCUE, who hasn’t won for a while but arrives from a local yard in good nick and can go well fresh. Magna Sam (second choice) also needs considering, while it wouldn’t be a surprise if Jeffery’s Cross bounced back. Straw Fan Jack also enters the argument.

[Richard Russell]

From a field of experienced chasers, we return to Haydock for a three-mile maiden hurdle where the next generation of stayers will be tested.

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1:38 Haydock – CopyBet Daily Profit Boost Maiden Hurdle

This Class 4 maiden hurdle is contested over a demanding staying trip of just over 3 miles. This distance presents a significant test for inexperienced hurdlers, requiring both jumping proficiency and proven stamina to see out the race strongly.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Sleedagh (TimeWise Rating: 284)

After a promising second-place finish in a Perth bumper in April, Sleedagh made his hurdling debut over 2m4f on soft ground at the same track. He produced a rallying effort to finish second of nine, shaping as though the step up to 3 miles would suit him well. Further improvement is expected over this longer trip.

2. Kilbakanto (TimeWise Rating: 255)

A £100,000 purchase after winning an Irish point-to-point last December, Kilbakanto made his rules debut in a novice hurdle at Uttoxeter over 2m4f. He was well-beaten into fourth place, but it would be no surprise to see him leave that performance well behind, and any market support would be an interesting signal.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 4yo 0-0-1, 5yo 2-4-15, 6yo 1-0-6, 8yo 0-1-1

• Fate of Favourites: P44

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

The two leading contenders offer a clear contrast in proven rules form. Sleedagh has demonstrated solid ability in both a bumper and a hurdle race, finishing strongly over an intermediate trip to suggest this stamina test is exactly what he needs. Kilbakanto, while a costly purchase with point-to-point form, was underwhelming on his first start under rules and requires a significant step forward. Based on demonstrated performance and clear suitability for the trip, Sleedagh holds the more compelling claims on paper.

Spotlight Verdict

The two who have done most are INISHCORKEr and Sleedagh, particularly the former with his bold show at Ffos Las last time, but Kilbakanto and Western Monkey cannot be comfortably ruled out.

[Richard Austen]

The next race at Ludlow sees the quality step up significantly, with a high-value mares’ handicap hurdle attracting a field of proven winners.

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1:50 Ludlow – Radnor Hills Mares’ Handicap Hurdle

This is a high-value Class 2 handicap hurdle exclusively for fillies and mares, run over a distance of approximately 2 miles. The race is a key target for top stables and features several proven winners, including some with excellent course form, promising a competitive and high-quality contest.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Kingston Sunflower (TimeWise Rating: 312)

This mare is in superb form, with hurdles form figures for her current yard reading P32411111. She followed a comfortable course and distance handicap win here in October with another ready success at Huntingdon three weeks ago. Despite a further 4lb rise in the weights, she has a clear winning habit and commands significant respect.

2. Walkadina (TimeWise Rating: 301)

A winner on her hurdles debut at Uttoxeter last year, Walkadina attracted market support before a solid fifth-place finish on her seasonal comeback at Cheltenham over 2m5f. That was only her second handicap start, and the drop back to 2 miles is seen as a likely positive. A key player in this contest.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 4yo 1-1-10, 5yo 5-3-17, 6yo 2-3-13, 7yo 0-0-7, 8yo 0-1-2

• Fate of Favourites: 21251122

• Trainer Records: Alastair Ralph 1-0-1, David Pipe 1-0-1, Evan Williams 1-0-1, Dan Skelton 0-2-4

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This race features a clash between a mare in the form of her life and several returning course specialists. Kingston Sunflower is on an impressive winning streak and has proven her effectiveness under various conditions. Walkadina shaped well on her return and now returns to a more suitable trip. However, the Spotlight verdict sides with Tour Ovalie, last year’s winner of this race, who is expected to return to form for this target. With former winner Magical Maggie also well-handicapped, this is a competitive affair with several strong claims.

Spotlight Verdict

Walkadina (second choice) shaped nicely on her return at Cheltenham and this drop back in trip could see her in even better light, while Kingston Sunflower has a fine strike-rate for this yard and should be a formidable foe. However, TOUR OVALIE was productive over hurdles last term, including when winning this race, and there’s a good chance she’s about to rediscover some form. Magical Maggie, another former winner of this, is handicapped to do some damage and needs monitoring in the market on her return from an absence.

[Richard Russell]

Attention turns back to Haydock for a veterans’ handicap chase, a staying contest reserved for the elder statesmen of the sport.

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2:08 Haydock – CopyBet Early Payout On Top Football Veterans’ Handicap Chase

This Class 2 veterans’ handicap chase, run over a marathon trip of 3m 1.5f, is a leg of the popular Stayers’ Veterans’ Series. The race is restricted to horses aged ten and older, bringing together a field of seasoned campaigners, many with high-class form in their younger days, for what is always a competitive and popular event.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Dunboyne (TimeWise Rating: 358)

After losing his way for a previous top yard, Dunboyne has been revitalised by his current Irish trainer, winning the Ulster National last season. He has demonstrated his wellbeing with two creditable runs this term, most recently a strong third of nineteen in the valuable Troytown Chase at Navan over 3m on heavy ground. He appears to be in prime condition for this drop in class.

2. Ilikedwayurthinkin (TimeWise Rating: 277)

A durable veteran, Ilikedwayurthinkin was awarded a 3m5f contest at Cartmel in May. His latest performance, a creditable third at Carlisle, was a solid effort considering the race was over an inadequate 2m4f trip. The step back up to a true staying distance today will be in his favour, and he warrants close consideration.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 10yo 2-2-20, 11yo 1-4-7, 12yo 1-0-5, 13yo 0-0-2

• Fate of Favourites: 3211

• Trainer Records: N W Alexander 0-2-4

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This race presents a clear opportunity for the class-dropping Irish raider. Dunboyne brings top-tier handicap form to the table, and his recent third in the Troytown is a standout piece of form in this context. While cases can be made for all his rivals, particularly the well-handicapped Does He Know, Dunboyne is unequivocally the pick based on recent efforts and looks poised to reward his connections’ trip across the Irish Sea.

Spotlight Verdict

This year’s spectacular revival for DUNBOYNE (nap) may well be rewarded with another win. He’s easily the pick judged on recent efforts but cases can be made for all his rivals, among whom Does He Know is feared most.

[Richard Austen]

From the veterans, we switch focus to a competitive novices’ handicap chase back at Ludlow over the minimum trip.

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2:20 Ludlow – EK Mowers And Machinery Novices’ Handicap Chase

This Class 4 novices’ handicap chase is contested over approximately 2 miles, providing an opportunity for less experienced chasers to compete in a handicap for the first time. The race will test both the speed and jumping accuracy of a field of developing steeplechasers.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Devon Dude (TimeWise Rating: 252)

A bumper winner who showed fair form over hurdles without winning, Devon Dude made his chase debut at Chepstow 12 days ago. He had weakened when falling at the last fence in that 2m4f contest, and the drop back in trip today could prove beneficial as he seeks to translate his potential to the larger obstacles.

2. Nordic Tiger (TimeWise Rating: 241)

A three-time hurdle winner in 2024, Nordic Tiger‘s form tailed off towards the end of last season. He now makes his chasing debut after a 256-day absence. While he has questions to answer regarding his current form, he runs for a top stable and returns on a potentially handy handicap mark, making any market support significant.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 5yo 1-2-7, 6yo 1-0-5, 7yo 0-0-4, 8yo 2-0-3

• Fate of Favourites: 3421

• Trainer Records: Evan Williams 1-0-2

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This is a trappy contest where most have questions to answer. L’Empire Vert retains potential despite a fall last time out, while Devon Dude could improve for the drop in trip. However, the most interesting contender is Nordic Tiger. While he returns from a break with something to prove, he is well-handicapped on his best hurdles form and represents a yard adept at readying one for a chase debut. His market strength will be a crucial guide to his chances.

Spotlight Verdict

This is trappy. L’Empire Vert (second choice) retains potential over fences, despite having a wild guess at one and coming down last time, while Disco Annie is an interesting first runner at this track for Rebecca Menzies. Devon Dude also needs considering but a chance is taken that NORDIC TIGER can put last season behind him and come back to form on his first go over fences.

[Richard Russell]

The action returns to Haydock for another Go North Series qualifier, a handicap hurdle over an intermediate trip.

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2:38 Haydock – CopyBet Acca Boost Up To 100% Handicap Hurdle

This Class 4 handicap hurdle, run over approximately 2m 3f, is a qualifier for the Go North Cab On Target Series. The race has attracted a competitive field of established handicappers, many of whom have proven form in similar contests, setting the stage for an open and informative event.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Haarar (TimeWise Rating: 291)

A consistent performer over hurdles, Haarar has recorded three wins from twelve attempts in this sphere. He was the runner-up in this very race last year off a similar mark and comes into this contest with solid each-way claims as he steps back up to his preferred trip.

2. Gege Ville (TimeWise Rating: 286)

A very lightly raced nine-year-old, Gege Ville won on his handicap debut over this course and distance on heavy ground last December. He followed that with a good second at Ayr in February on his only other start since. He returns from an absence but is only 3lb higher than his last win and has proven he can perform well when fresh.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 3yo 0-0-1, 4yo 0-1-9, 5yo 1-4-10, 6yo 3-1-11, 7yo 0-4-14, 8yo 0-0-3, 9yo 3-1-7, 10yo 0-0-1, 11yo 0-0-1

• Fate of Favourites: 452532U

• Trainer Records: Donald McCain 1-2-5, Nicky Richards 1-0-3, Micky Hammond 0-1-1, Sam England 0-1-1

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

While several runners hold each-way claims, the data points towards Gege Ville as a leading contender. Despite his age, he has had only seven career starts and remains unexposed. His victory over this course and distance on heavy ground last season is a significant piece of form, and his subsequent second-place finish confirms his ability. If fully fit after his break, his progressive profile makes him a formidable opponent in this field.

Spotlight Verdict

Most have each-way claims. GEGE VILLE has had only seven races, despite being a 9yo, and he will be ready to run well if last season’s two handicaps are anything to go by. Both were on heavy going and the first was a C&D win. October’s runaway Hexham winner Knomorediamonds (second choice) is not passed over at all comfortably, though, while the veteran West To The Bridge surging back to form is a distinct possibility and How About No may well have more to offer. Haarar and Blue Fin were second and third in this race last year.

[Richard Austen]

From Haydock, we head back to Ludlow for a competitive handicap hurdle where several runners are looking to return to winning ways.

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2:55 Ludlow – Christmas At Ludlow Handicap Hurdle

This Class 5 handicap hurdle is run over the minimum trip of approximately 2 miles. It features a field of largely exposed handicappers, where small changes in form, weight, or conditions can make a significant difference. Success often goes to a horse who is well-treated on past form and ready to strike.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Mad Maxios (TimeWise Rating: 260)

An unexposed hurdler, Mad Maxios followed up a win at Chepstow in April with a good second-place finish on his seasonal return at Warwick four weeks ago. That performance came in a handicap and attracted market support, suggesting he was expected to run well. As a lightly raced four-year-old, further improvement is highly likely.

2. Wild Goose (TimeWise Rating: 244)

After a solid second-place effort at Chepstow in April, Wild Goose made a mistake on his seasonal return at Worcester and weakened. However, he is lightly raced and makes his handicap debut today from a potentially workable mark. The application of a first-time tongue-tie could unlock the necessary improvement.

Key Race Statistics

• No key statistics provided.

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

In a race where many have questions to answer, the progressive profile of Mad Maxios stands out. His recent second-place finish was a creditable effort, and as a young, unexposed hurdler, he has significant scope to improve past his current handicap mark. While Inion Tiogair is in good form and Zucayan is a course specialist, the forward momentum and potential of Mad Maxios make him the most compelling contender.

Spotlight Verdict

Zucayan (second choice) can’t get enough of this place and needs respect on his first visit since winning here in May, while Inion Tiogair is knocking on the door and should get off the mark over hurdles soon. However, MAD MAXIOS (nap) was a creditable second last time and probably has more to offer. Wild Goose also has untapped potential, while a better effort from Midnight View wouldn’t be a massive surprise.

[Richard Russell]

The day’s penultimate analysis takes us back to Haydock for a competitive handicap chase where two contenders are chasing a hat-trick.

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3:12 Haydock – BOG Today For Tomorrow With CopyBet Handicap Chase

This Class 4 handicap chase, run over approximately 2m 4f, serves as a Go North Monet’s Garden Series Qualifier. The competitive field includes several recent winners, all looking to continue their progress up the chasing ranks, promising an exciting and informative contest.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Fat Harry (TimeWise Rating: 286)

This eight-year-old has shown much-improved form on his two chase starts this season, recording back-to-back wins. After a well-backed victory at Sedgefield, he followed up at Newcastle, where he made most of the running. The Spotlight commentary notes that he “was much too strong for his rivals last time,” suggesting he may be capable of defying a further 7lb rise in the handicap.

2. Hitthehayson (TimeWise Rating: 270)

After securing two hurdle wins in the autumn, Hitthehayson made a successful transition to fences on his debut at Fairyhouse just 12 days ago. Competing over 3 miles on heavy ground, he demonstrated impressive stamina to win. The expert analysis suggests there is a “good chance he will remain on the upgrade” as he gains more experience over fences.

Key Race Statistics

• No key statistics provided.

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

This is an intriguing clash between two horses seeking a hat-trick of wins. Fat Harry has proven his effectiveness at this 2m4f trip with two commanding victories and appears to be in the form of his life. Hitthehayson, while dropping back in distance, brings formidable stamina to the table, having won over 3 miles on heavy ground. While Fat Harry’s form is solid, Hitthehayson’s unexposed profile and proven stamina over further on heavy ground suggest he possesses greater scope for improvement. On potential, the Irish raider may hold the edge.

Spotlight Verdict

Competitive. Carrigmoorna Rowan was back to form at the first attempt for his new yard 11 days ago but preference is for this autumn’s improvers FAT HARRY, Jaipaletemps and Hitthehayson who were all last-time-out winners, with Fat Harry having left slightly the best impression but all three looked capable of better still.

[Richard Austen]

The final race of this analysis takes us to Ludlow for the Mares’ Open National Hunt Flat Race, a traditional “bumper” where future stars are often unearthed.

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3:27 Ludlow – Rowles Gallery Mares’ Open National Hunt Flat Race

This Mares’ “Bumper” is for fillies and mares with no prior experience under rules, aside from other National Hunt Flat races. With limited form to analyze, assessment relies heavily on performances in point-to-points, pedigree analysis, and any market confidence from respected stables. These races often unearth future stars of the jumping scene.

TimeWise Top-Rated Contenders

1. Seven Stars (TimeWise Rating: 260)

On her debut, Seven Stars ran an excellent race to finish a close third in a junior bumper at Kempton in March. The Spotlight analysis notes that the form of that race has “worked out” well, with other runners going on to perform with credit. She has since undergone wind surgery, which could bring about further improvement on her return.

2. Hey Flint (TimeWise Rating: 224)

Hey Flint made her debut at Aintree in October, where she was ultimately beaten by 26 lengths. This performance was underwhelming, and the expert commentary suggests she has a “bit to prove after that” and needs to show significant improvement to be competitive.

Key Race Statistics

• Age Group Trends: 3yo 0-0-2, 4yo 1-2-7, 5yo 0-0-2

• Trainer Records: Harry Derham 1-0-1, Dan Skelton 0-1-1, Neil Mulholland 0-1-1

Overall Assessment & Spotlight Verdict

Analyst’s Assessment

Based on their single racecourse appearances, there is a clear distinction between the top two contenders. Seven Stars produced a highly promising debut in a race whose form has proven to be solid, and she has the potential to be a key player. In contrast, Hey Flint was soundly beaten and offers little encouragement on form. On paper, Seven Stars holds far superior claims and sets a strong standard for the newcomers to aim at.

Spotlight Verdict

An interesting mares’ bumper. Seven Stars (second choice) is from a family her trainer knows well and there was plenty to like about her debut third in March, while Frost Moon, Gowitdflow, For A Moment and Malina Road all showed promise in points. However, it’s easy to be seduced by the paper credentials of newcomer JULIO COOLIO and she gets the vote to go in first time. Tulira is another debutante who needs considering.