This is a modest Class 5 handicap hurdle over a staying trip, and with a Very Weak pace forecast, race positioning could prove key. Horses able to race handily or travel strongly near the front may have a tactical advantage. Several arrive with questions to answer, but a handful look well-treated or interesting on past…

A competitive renewal of the Louise Keegan Handicap, a Class 2 contest for three-year-olds over the extended seven furlongs, where tactical positioning could prove decisive given the predicted steady early pace. With several unexposed types returning from breaks, market moves could be especially informative. — Leading Contenders El Burhan (George Boughey / Jim Crowley)Timeform Adjusted…

The Ormonde Stakes has long been a reliable early-season test for older middle-distance stayers, with past winners including the likes of Hamish and Japan. Aidan O’Brien has landed this race three times in the last six renewals, and he sends a strong contender again in Illinois, a colt with Classic form and high-level stamina credentials.…

The Listed Dee Stakes is often used as a springboard to the Derby and other major middle-distance targets, and Aidan O’Brien has a notable record in the race, having won it seven times in the past ten years, including with Capulet (2024), San Antonio (2023), and Circus Maximus (2019). This year’s renewal features a typically…

2yo, 5f110y, £20,616 | Going: Good | Surface: Turf13 declared | Draw Bias: Strongly favours low numbers | Pace: Even — This is a traditionally informative early-season 2yo maiden at Chester, often won by a smart prospect, and the 2025 renewal again features a mix of once-raced types with experience and a clutch of interesting…

This mares’ handicap hurdle brings together a small but varied field, featuring a mix of exposed campaigners, lightly raced improvers, and a couple returning from layoffs. With a very weak pace forecast, positioning could prove decisive over this sharp right-handed track. — Key Contenders OF COURSE YOU CAN (Timeform adjusted 122)Neil Mulholland’s mare has had…

A typically competitive edition of the CAA Stellar Handicap opens ITV’s coverage from Chester. A sharp five furlongs around the Roodee places a premium on early speed and a good draw, though with a very strong pace forecast and strong draw bias against high numbers, there may be a set-up for a closer if the…