Tips through the card at Plumpton
I shall be rising early on Monday to pop along to Plumpton races and so the selections that will make or break my pre-Christmas week are posted below;
12.30 – Enough possibilities in the opening novice hurdle and not an easy start to the card. Of those with form, Dark And Dangerous looks the strongest option with the more exposed Hi Note looking one to field against. There are a couple of interesting newcomers though in Ministry and WEST BRIT. The latter was the best of these on the flat and is highly regarded by his trainer Charlie Longsdon so hopefully he can make a winning debut.
1.00 - Cucumber Run is a young, prolific, progressive horse from the top yard of Nicky Henderson. So long as his jumping holds up, he ought to be winning this but backing inexperienced novice chasers at long odds-on is only for the brave. Instead, a small interest on the second favourite SPEAR THISTLE at around tens time the price appeals. Been around more than Cucumber Run and will need this to be one of his good days but a live danger to all if all goes well.
1.30 – This novice hurdle can go to OHIO GOLD. After being highly tried, he was given an easier opportunity at Folkestone 3-weeks ago and won nicely enough, pulling well clear with one other. Picks up the obligatory penalty but fancied to follow-up. Kumasi Clan rates a live danger for Emma Lavelle.
2.00 – Rateable Value looks the most likely winner of this but I like NEAR THE WATER at a much bigger price. Although burdened with plenty of weight, he has a useful 7 lb reduction courtesy of his able conditional and his best form is on very soft ground. Should be fit after two runs this winter and he could be up to defying his current mark. Portrait Royale also warrants a mention and there has been some early money for this one.
2.30 – JENNY’S GOLD is a sporting selection for this staying handicap hurdle. A winner of a bumper at stiff track Towcester and placed over hurdles, the mare ran well for a long way last time on her second run back from a long break and if able to build on that, she could surprise at a price.
3.00 – OSCAR CHARLIE has to race from 5 lb wrong but that may not matter. After some useful placed form in Irish Points, he totally lost the game for his last stable but he has changed yards and been given a break. That might mean nothing but equally there is a chance he has been got back to somewhere near his best and off a really lowly mark, he might be the type to attract plenty of money before putting in a big run. Catch The Rascal is another who could go well at a price.
3.30 – In the last, Missionaire looks to hold a favourites’ chance but SPEEDY DIRECTA looks another interesting outsider on the card. Although he has shown nothing in recent starts, he will be back equipped with some form of headgear and the fact is that he has the form to win this if in the mood. Odds into double figures make that worth chancing.