Weekend racing review: Cheltenham and Aintree contenders
13 Jan
Horse Racing
Chad Yeomans
Chad Yeomans runs through the stand-out performances of the weekend, including horses to keep onside for the Ryanair Chase and Grand National.

Frodon

It was good to see Frodon return to form with a convincing win in the Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton Park on Saturday.

While I think this year’s renewal of the Ryanair Chase will be much hotter than last year’s, he’s going there in good form and will no doubt give his true running from the front again, as he bids for back-to-back successes in the Grade 1 chase.

Kimberlite Candy

The Classic Handicap Chase is often a big pointer for the Grand National, with One For Arthur the last horse to complete the double in 2017.

This year’s winner, Kimberlite Candy, looked like he’ll be a real contender for the Aintree showpiece in April.

He was given a peach of a ride by Richie McLernon and I think he’ll love those National fences.

Le Breuil also ran a cracking race from behind and will be much better come the big one.

Honourable mentions

It’s at this time of year when we start to see Willie Mullins’ bumper battalions come to the fray and, on Friday, the Tony Bloom-owned Energumene was impressive when taking the bumper at Thurles.

He’s going to want further in time but could be one to keep onside for a fast-run race at the Cheltenham Festival.

Carefully Selected won in the style of a proper animal at Punchestown on Sunday and he’ll take some beating wherever he goes next.

He’s a big, strong horse who’s going to love stepping up to 3m. Whether he runs in the RSA or the National Hunt Chase, he’s going to be feared.

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