Fairyhouse on Saturday
This is the last week of the main trials for Cheltenham and, in the opening contest (13:10), Teahupoo SP should take all the beating for Gordon Elliott and Robbie ‘Puppy’ Power.
He was a good winner here in January, beating a fair field, and that experience should stand him in good stead.
The obvious unknowns are the two horses from Willie Mullins’ yard. On jockey bookings, you’d say that Tax For Max SP was the main hope from the stable, but he’ll have to be very good to beat Teahupoo.
Jason The Militant SP should be very tough to beat in the Red Mills Hurdle (13:45).
He’s got to give weight away all round, but he’s improved massively this season. He’s finished third on both starts and has been bang there on both occasions. If he wins this, he could be a lively outsider for the Champion Hurdle.
All roads lead to the Grand National for Burrows Saint SP, who should be winning the Bobbyjo Chase (14:52).
He ran well over hurdles in what were treacherous conditions at Gowran Park last time. He jumps, stays and is the classiest horse in the field.
Campeador SP was a good third on his latest start at Navan. He has always promised to deliver a big pot for his connections but has never quite done it, though that third was an improved run.
He’s got a young 7lb claimer on his back in Jordan Gainford and, off his mark of 128, he could go well in the Tommy Carberry Handicap Hurdle (16:00).
My 4 To Win selections for Saturday (£10,000 prize)
15:15 Newcastle – Sam’s Adventure 9/2
He’ll love the conditions at Newcastle. He’s a stayer with a touch of class who has never run a bad race on this track. He looks to be handicapped fairly, too.
15:35 Kempton – Cap Du Nord 6/1
He’s a progressive horse who has been great for his connections this season. He was a great second behind Venetia Williams’ Royal Pagaille over course and distance at Christmas and, if he runs to that form again, he’ll take all the beating.
16:10 Kempton – Ouro Branco SP
He’s been in great form this season, winning and finishing second in his two starts. He’ll appreciate this drop back in trip as he was outstayed at Newbury last time. Kieran Buckley takes off a good 7lb from his back, too.
16:25 Newcastle – Ascot De Bruyere SP
He’s a two-time course-and-distance winner who sluiced up on his latest start. He’s got the champion jockey Brian Hughes on his back and I think they’ll go very well. He loves it at Newcastle.
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