Nap Of The Day
Ascot today is where my NAP comes from, Coco Gin looks a fair price to claim the 7-runner handicap at 2.35. Pulled out of the more competitive Greatwood Hurdle on account of the ground, Ascot’s surface looks a lot more to his liking and this much easier assignment is a very winnable race.
Dropped two pounds for his seasonal reappearance at Ffos Las, Fry is bound to have had a view to needing that to put her spot on for the Cheltenham race and this coming just 6 days later is no issue. I think he could be one for the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury later in the season.
Are Small Field Grade Ones A Worry?
Saturday, we have a couple of Grade One races over both sides of the Irish Sea. Both have just four runners with the Morgiana Hurdle betting headed by State Man, and the Betfair Chase which sees Bravemansgame take on Protektorat.
My view is this, realistically you only need two good horses to make a race. The Charlie Hall this year was a great example of that, an even better one was the Champion Chase at Down Royal recently. The key for me is, avoiding short price favourites which provide uncompetitive action.
My field size concerns would be more at the younger end of the sport than open company Grade Ones. Ascot’s card on Saturday will see just one race with each-way betting for three places, just five run in the Novice Hurdle and three in the Novice Handicap Chase! That is a huge concern for me, far from singling out Ascot this is an issue seven days a week with British Racing and at some point, the powers that be will have to address a declining horse population, coupled with trainers running their horses less.
Dan Skelton discussed the point earlier in the week in an interesting fashion and the clip below is well worth a watch.
The Must Watch Race Of The Day
Some nice types have previously won the opening race at Ascot today including the late Many Clouds, Beat That and last year’s winner, Crambo.
It is a must watch on replay race at least as plenty of the big yards are represented. Welcom To Cartries is a big money purchase who has joined Paul Nicholls for connections who love winners at this meeting. Montys Soldier, Pep Talking and Ideal Des Bordes are all winning pointers who deserve respect.
This race certainly can throw up a nice winner and needs to be one you watch on Friday.
*Prices subject to change
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