You need a horse in flying form for the Peroni Nastro Azzurro Victoria Cup, so BIGGLES (2.40) looks just the ticket.
He improved rapidly throughout last season, winning four times from just six starts.
Although he is now much higher in the weights, he showed on his final start, when runner-up behind today’s likely favourite Baradar, that he still has races like this competitive Ascot handicap in him.
His return to action at Haydock last month confirmed that opinion. He was a little keen despite chasing a fast pace and he should be spot on with that fizz knocked out of him.
Conditions will be much more testing this afternoon and that will be ideal. He thrived on soft ground last season and he also looks to have a helpful stall.
Most of the early pace seems to have been drawn towards the stands’ side, so Ralph Beckett’s mud lover should be able to sit just behind the leaders before pouncing in the closing stages.
Have 2pts each-way at 12-1. Plenty of bookies are paying out on six places with Sky Bet going seven.
I’ve a sneaky feeling GREEN TEAM (1.30) will also appreciate the testing conditions.
He hasn’t raced on anything near as soft as he’ll be faced with today but he is bred to like the ground. The way he gallops also suggests the recent rain could be in his favour.
This will be his first British start for Ian Williams after four races in Dubai. He was set some lofty tasks in Group races for previous trainer Owen Burrows and this is more his level. Have 1pt each-way at 20-1.
Haydock hosts a rare mixed card with the Pertemps Network Swinton Hurdle the feature race.
PARRAMOUNT (3.15) is just the type to enjoy this big-field handicap.
He finished tailed off in a similar race at Aintree’s Grand National meeting but he simply went off way too fast in a contested lead.
The quicker ground he faces today will also be much more to his liking. This half-brother of that wonderful staying mare, Snow Leopardess, clearly has plenty in his favour.
It’s also good to see his trainer Charlie Longsdon among the winners in recent weeks. Have 1pt each-way at 12-1. Most bookies are paying five places with Sky Bet stretching to six.
