End the jumps season on a high by backing ALTO ALTO (1.50) in Sandown’s opening race.
His trainer Chris Gordon is in red-hot form having banged in nine winners from just 19 runners so far this month. Alto Alto was one of those winners when he was successful in a Plumpton novices’ hurdle three weeks ago.
His jumping was excellent, he loved the faster ground and he looked like he would appreciate the stronger pace he is likely to get here. He could easily have been given more weight for this handicap debut so he looks overpriced at 11-1. Have 2pts each-way, with Sky Bet paying out on five places.
The rest of Sandown’s card is dominated by small fields. The exception is the Bet365 Gold Cup where Alan King’s pair Potterman and Fidux interest me most but Haydock’s Flat card looks more attractive.
OO DE LALLY (2.05) is a specialist over this 7f trip having recorded all five of his victories over this distance. His come-from-behind success at Glorious Goodwood last summer worked out really well and he has the potential to hold his own in Group races.
He’s been gelded and had a breathing operation over the winter so there are reasons to think he might be capable of better still. Have 1pt each-way at 9-1, with most bookies paying out on four places.
EXMINSTER (3.15) wasn’t disgraced from a wide draw on his return to action at Beverley 10 days ago. That looked a good race for the grade and I expect Ed Bethell’s hope to improve a fair bit for that comeback run.
The cheekpieces he wears for the first time might also bring out a bit of improvement so the 8-1 on offer looks worth taking, with Sky Bet stretching to five places. Have 1pt each-way.
There should be plenty of early pace in the following race and that will suit HARTSWOOD (3.45) down to the ground. He should be much sharper for his first run of the season at Nottingham earlier in the month and he’s got an excellent record on his second start after a break.
His form in good handicaps last season give him a great chance and his trainer Richard Fahey is starting to his top gear. Have 1pt each-way at 11-1.
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