There's a Storm brewing over Warwick Castle.
It’s time to man the ramparts and see off the bookies with classy RIDERS ONTHE STORM (3.15).
He won the Grade 1 Ascot Chase a couple of years ago before losing his way for Nigel Twiston-Davies.
His first run for new trainer Richard Hobson was more promising when runner-up at Aintree and he was still bang there turning for home in a hot Cheltenham handicap on New Year’s Day.
Although he faded right out of it, he had been a bit keen and that track has never really suited him.
The Virgin Bet Warwick Castle Chase should be more to his liking so have 2pts each-way at 12-1 with William Hill and Sky Bet paying out on four places.
The rest of Warwick’s card is scattered with small fields and it’s a similar story at Newbury.
The Betfair Hurdle is down on numbers but still competitive. I like Nicky Henderson’s pair of novices Broomfield Burg and, at longer odds, First Street but there are better bets on the card.
WHATSUPWITHYOU (1.50) has slipped to a nice weight and he is unexposed over 3m.
He ran a fair race when returned to hurdles at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day following a couple of tries over fences.
I’ve a feeling Newbury will suit Ben Pauling’s stayer and this doesn’t look a particularly competitive contest. Have 2pts to win at 6-1.
Bumper races don’t usually interest me too much but I like the look of the Newbury’s Listed flat race.
TOP DOG (4.45) hasn’t managed to win in three starts but his form is up there with the best in this race.
He hung over to the far side up the final climb in a hot Cheltenham bumper on his first start for Emma Lavelle and he was closing all the time when third at Ascot in December.
Unusually for this type of race, this is likely to be run at a decent pace and that will suit him. Have 1pt each-way at 10-1.
At Uttoxeter, veteran CHTI BALKO (1.58) looks ready for a revival. This isn’t a deep race and his second behind progressive Green Book at Haydock in December was a smart effort.
He’s down in grade and well treated. Have 1pt each-way at 10-1.
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