Hi all,
As I mentioned in yesterday’s column, it’s a low-key Saturday of racing — and the threat of heavy thunderstorms makes things even trickier from a punting perspective. Let’s put it this way: it’s been a long time since I’ve drawn a blank for the day’s two biggest races — the Irish Oaks and the Super Sprint.
If I’m honest, the only thing that really interests me in the Super Sprint is whether the low draws are again at a disadvantage — as they’ve been for the last ten years.
For jumps fans craving a bit of big-race action, Market Rasen is the place to be on Saturday afternoon.
Here’s my look at the three races from Market Rasen that you can watch live on ITV:
Market Rasen – Saturday Preview
2:05 – Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) – 2m 5f
Benvoy landed a strong juvenile handicap at Ascot last time. Effective on good ground and back from a short break, he’s the one to beat — if his stamina holds.
Broughshane was in good form last autumn. He disappointed on stable debut but returns after 70 days in first-time blinkers. Yard won this race last year — interesting.
Ballygeary won over C&D from 1lb higher last June. Makes stable debut after 106 days off but is handicapped to go close if fit. Each-way chance if all eight run.
2:40 – Summer Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) – 2m½f
Sir Galahad made it 4-4 over hurdles with a smooth handicap debut win at Worcester last time. He’s up 5lb in a better race, but he’s progressive and is effective on good ground.
Castel Gandolfo loves it here. Won this last year off 5lb lower and returned to winning ways over C&D last month. Not easy to repeat last year’s success, but his liking for the track keeps him in it.
Kihavah was second to Castel Gandolfo last year. He’s 5lb worse off now, but he’s improved on the flat in the spring and he can reverse last year’s result.
Goblet Of Fire keeps improving. Third in the Swinton at Haydock and well suited to a sound surface and speed favouring track. Solid claims once more.
3:12 – Unibet Summer Plate Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) – 2m 5½f
Sure Touch won this last year off 1lb higher. Poor winter/spring form but he’s 4-4 in July/August. First-time cheekpieces. Big bounce-back to form likely.
Ballysax Hank comes over from Ireland and makes handicap chase debut. Harry Cobden booked — he’s ridden the last two winners of the race. Potential improver back up in trip.
Ceanndana caught the eye at Tipperary on return from 8-month break. The return to this trip suits. Out of the weights but should go well.
Horantzau d’Airy was back to form when runner-up at Uttoxeter last time and is on a fair mark based on Irish form. New yard and a fresh start could unlock more.
The Flier Begley is thriving — three wins from four this year, two over C&D. Up 4lb but clearly loves it here. Big shout again.
Vintage Fizz was narrowly behind The Flier Begley last time and is 1lb better off. Long losing run but Sam Twiston-Davies a notable jockey booking.
Statuario won at Perth last month and was third in this last year off 5lb higher. May need further now, but very reliable and his yard know how to win this having won the race 6 times since 2006. Each way claims.
Good luck with your Saturday bets.
John