29/4/17

Yesterday was slightly disappointing with a small loss. Atty Persse just about got the job done after everything went wrong, but the double bet on Monarchs Glen took a fair chunk out of that profit. I thought Arctic Fire was going to do it approaching the last, and how Finian’s Oscar didn’t win, well, I’d rather not remind myself. Anyway, 2 for me on what is the last day of the jump season, and I’ll also give my thoughts on a few of the day’s other big races at the bottom. 

Haydock

2.05 – Champions League Betting at 188Bet Handicap – 1m

I’m going for the tracker horse, El Vip here. He was beaten a length in 3rd behind Oh This Is Us on his return at Bath a couple of weeks ago, and can race off the same mark again in this. He travelled really well throughout before just not quite finding too much at the finish. He probably just needed the run and should come on a fair bit for that. Should take some beating. 

Selection: El Vip 13/8 (General)

Sandown

3.35 – Bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – 3m 4f 166y

I know he was a bigger price earlier on in the week, but I still think Doing Fine is value. He’s can race off the same mark that he won easily off at Cheltenham 10 days ago, and must go close. He’d ran some good races in defeat prior to that win, including when beaten a neck by Rocky Creek in the London National here in December. He rates a fairly strong selection. 

Selection: Doing Fine 5/1 EW (Betfair)

Elsewhere:

Altior will probably win the Celebration Chase (3.00), but I certainly won’t be backing him at 1/3. Special Tiara loves it here, and Fox Norton has given the form of his Champion Chase win a big boost twice, so he should push Altior close. 

I thought Traffic Fluide had a decent chance in the Oaksey Chase (2.25), but I just wonder whether he’s one of those that just always stays on eyecatchingly, but will never actually confirm that promise. 

Over at Punchestown, Apple’s Jade will take some beating in the Mares Hurdle (3.50). If Karalee was in the region of 5/1 I’d probably have taken a chance on her, but not at 11/4. 

Meanwhile there shouldn’t be much between Mega Fortune and Bapaume in the 4yo hurdle (4.25). If pushed, I’d go for Bapaume to just come out on top, but I think Meri Devie is overpriced.