Don't forget the name PHILLIPA SUE (2.40) ahead of the EBF BetVictor Mares’ final.
Plenty of the runners in this Grade 2 handicap hurdle would have preferred faster ground but Fergal O’Brien’s mare will have no problem with the softer surface.
She hasn’t been best served by being held up in races dominated by horses ridden much more prominently since making a winning return at Hereford in November. This big-field contest will suit her much better.
There’s every chance she is well weighted now she gets her ideal set up and talented young jockey Jack Hogan takes off another 5lbs. Have 2pts each-way at 25-1. Several bookies are paying out on six places.
Earlier on Newbury’s card, EQUINUS (1.30) is worth supporting.
He came good when upped to 2m4f on his handicap debut at Ffos Las in January.
The testing ground, longer distance and prominent ride seemed to suit him that day, so it was a surprise to see him settled off the pace early on when well beaten behind Inneston at Sandown the following month.
He’s much better than that and the market seems to have overreacted to the disappointing effort. Have 1pt each-way at 12-1. Most bookies are paying out on four places.
SIR IVAN (5.00) takes in the veterans’ chase that closes the card.
He’s started the season with a couple of fair efforts before disappointing in the veterans’ chase series final at Sandown in January but it’s too soon to be writing off Harry Fry’s 13-year-old.
His last win came at Newbury and he likes a bit of time between his races, so a two-and-half month break since his last run should be in his favour. Have 1pt each-way at 14-1.
There’s a competitive meeting at Kelso this afternoon, where HILL SIXTEEN (3.35) is my best bet.
He was touched off by Snow Leopardess in last season’s Becher Chase and he also finished a close second in the Listed Premier Chase at this track.
His comeback run, when third behind smart Sounds Russian, underlined his liking for Kelso and he’s had a breathing operation since running down the field in this season’s Becher Chase. Have 2pts to win at 11-2.
