Kempton’s 3.18 is a competitive but fairly typical spring handicap chase where progressive chasers tend to come to the fore. Looking at recent renewals, the race has been dominated by 7–8 year olds still improving over fences, and horses arriving in form have a strong record.
This year’s running looks tactically interesting. The pace forecast is weak, with Etalon likely to be the only natural front runner. In small-field Kempton handicaps this can often turn the race into a positional contest rather than a stamina test, meaning horses that travel well and quicken off a steady pace are favoured.
Califet En Vol sets the standard
The one who immediately appeals is Califet En Vol for Nicky Henderson and Nico de Boinville. He finally got off the mark over fences when winning over this course and distance three weeks ago, beating nine rivals in convincing fashion.
That run suggested two important things. First, Kempton clearly suits him. Second, he looks the type still improving over fences. Prior to that he had been running solid races in better novice company at Cheltenham, so a mark of 141 still looks workable.
He also fits the race trends perfectly: a 7-year-old second-season chaser with scope for improvement, coming here after a recent win.
Blueking D’Oroux a big danger
Paul Nicholls has an excellent record in this race, winning two of the last five renewals, and Blueking D’Oroux is interesting dropped back in trip.
He looked a smart prospect when winning a Grade 2 novice chase at Wincanton, before finding a Grade 1 at Kempton on Boxing Day too tough. This return to 2m4f looks ideal, and the application of first-time cheekpieces suggests connections want him sharper.
If he sits handy in what could be a steadily run race, he is the most obvious danger.
Others with something to prove
Ryan’s Rocket has ability but comes with risks. He was travelling strongly when unseating at Kempton over Christmas, but this longer trip remains a question mark, and his jumping hasn’t always been convincing.
Barlovento won over this course and distance on Boxing Day and is better than his Cheltenham run last time, but he is often ridden patiently and may find himself playing catch-up if the pace is steady.
Teddy Blue is consistent and should run his race, though he may just lack the class of the principals. The remainder look to have plenty to find.
The verdict
In a race where the pace may not be strong, the ideal candidate is a horse who travels well, handles Kempton and is still progressing. Califet En Vol ticks all three boxes.
His recent course-and-distance success looks strong form in the context of this race and there is every chance the handicapper has not caught up with him yet.
Selection: CALIFET EN VOL
Bombproof rating
Strong 💪
He has the right profile, the right track form and still looks a horse on the upgrade over fences.