The BetBright Handicap Chase looks a cracking race today at Kempton. There are some very good horses lining up and they will need to be at their very best to win today. Let’s jump straight in with the positives regarding the chances of Fox Appeal.
Fox Appeal has had this race as his main season target according to trainer Emma Lavelle. He is not entered up at the upcoming Cheltenham or Aintree Festivals so it’s all about today. I love to hear these sort of goals from connections as we can take it that Fox Appeal is “fit as a flea” and ready to run a massive race today. Bet Alchemist members backed him last time out when he finished second at Ascot to Rebel Rebellion carrying top weight.
Fox Appeal was settled out the back for most of the Ascot race by today’s jockey Richie McLernon before making his move up the straight. The winner caught everyone by surprise that day quickening into a substantial lead after the second last. The only horse capable of getting to him approaching the last was Fox Appeal before that big closing effort told and his run petered out. I expect the three miles trip to suit better today and he looks well handicapped despite running off a rating of 152.
Kempton is a track which suits a horse that travels well during a race that is has a high cruising speed. Fox Appeal does just that and has run some big races at Graded level around this track. He has finished seond and third to Grade 1 performer Balder Success on top of beating Grade 1 hurdler Medinas at Kempton. I fully expected Fox Appeal to be favourite for today’s race and was very happy to see Easter Day a strong favourite but one with plenty of questions to answer at this high level.
The dangers lie with Paul Nicholls other runner Rocky Creek who is prepping for a tilt at the Grand National once again. He had a breathing operation last summer and ran well on his seasonal debut before disappointing in the Hennessy Gold Cup. This is his comeback run following a winter break and he will improve for the run. Le Reve won very easily at Sandown three weeks ago surprising connections how well he handled the soft ground. He is a massive horse who jumps super and could progress to win again today.
However, I just feel today is Fox Appeals D-Day and he is the horse to side with.
Selection – 1 Point Each Way Fox Appeal Kempton 15:45 7/1 generally, use *B.O.G
Best of luck,
The BetAlchemist
