Jump Racing Is Back!

Hi all,

Good news jump racing is back! Both Ffos Las and Fairyhouse passed morning inspections, ensuring some great action in the UK and Ireland today. Only Chelmsford’s all-weather card still awaits confirmation as I post this.

If Chelmsford goes ahead, ITV Racing will broadcast an expanded 11-race programme—a welcome treat after last week’s blank Saturday.

Inside today’s main piece, I’ve highlighted three key jump races at Ffos Las and the feature at Fairyhouse.

Firstly, apologies to readers for missing a few jump racecourses from yesterday’s list. I’ll blame the editor—only joking! Rest assured, I’ll update the list next week.

On a brighter note, I’m glad to see that some of you are still enjoying my musings despite the occasional oversight. Thanks for sticking with me!

Ffos Las

1:15 – Grade 2 Towton Novices' Chase

Relocated from Wetherby, this Grade 2 now takes centre stage at Ffos Las. Handstands is the standout contender following his Grade 2 win at Sandown last month. If he jumps as cleanly, he’ll be tough to peg back. Cherie D'Am, last seen impressively winning a Mares Listed Chase at Warwick, looks the main threat despite carrying a 5lb penalty. Saint Davy, third to Handstands at Sandown, enjoys a 5lb pull and could close the gap this time.

2:58 – Handicap Hurdle – 3m

Mahland ended last season on a high, scoring a career-best over C&D in April. Proven on soft ground, he’s a strong player today. Up For Parol, while winless in 14 starts, showed promise when second at Sandown on his return last month. The step up in trip and his yard’s good form could work in his favour.

3:31 – Handicap Chase – 2m

Keep Running was a runaway 17-length winner at Ludlow last time. A 7lb rise and stronger opposition make this tougher, but his good jumping could give him follow up.

Fairyhouse

1:45 – SBK Dan & Joan Moore Memorial Handicap Chase (Grade 3)

This looks like the day’s most exciting race.

Hunters Yarn brings Grade 1 novice hurdle form to the table. He won a C&D beginners’ chase on this card last year but struggled against Energumene at Cork on his seasonal return. With that run under his belt, he’s a big player on handicap chase debut. His yard also won this race last year.

For value, consider Rebel Gold and Captains Nephew. Rebel Gold, the 2022 winner, is now 4lb below his last winning mark. While his age might catch up with him, he thrives at this track. Captains Nephew caught the eye when only fading late in the Foxrock Handicap Chase at Navan. Back to his best trip, he could be dangerous.

I’ll be back on Monday with a look back at the weekend’s action.

Good luck with your Saturday bets!

John