The Classic Chase is the most competitive race today and from a betting perspective even with two non runners reducing the field below 16 runners. Those bookies have escaped pay out on the first four home so it’s just the one selection today! I really liked the way Return Spring ran at Cheltenham last time out but on just his fourth chasing start it’s a big ask for him to go and win this very competitive handicap. He will be priced up as favourite most likely so best we search elsewhere for some value?
I have looked this race up and down several times and on ground that will most likely ride heavy the horse I like is the same we had onside in the Welsh National! Hawkes Point is much better than his run in the Welsh National just past.
Hawkes Point missed the break and a prominent position during the restart at Chepstow and could never get into the race proper thereafter. He was pulled up before two out so didn’t have a very hard race which is important as today’s race comes just two weeks following that run. Hawkes Point had run very well previously during the Welsh National trail so we can forgive him one poor run.
Hawkes Point loves heavy ground and a trip which are the conditions on offer today. A real bonus is that the handicapper has dropped him a full 6lbs to 133 off the back of his most recent Welsh National run! Considering he has won and just failed to win a Welsh National in 2013 by a head off a 139 rating he must go close today. Paul Nicholls is not better man to have onside in these big Saturday Handicaps. Sam Twiston-Davies takes over from the injured claimer Sean Bowen and that is a plus riding this horse who takes knowing.
Selection A – 1 Point *EW Hawkes Point Warwick 15:35 @ 9/1 Betvictor & Skybet else 8/1 generally
Best of luck,
Nicky
