As racing returns to Cheltenham, I have looked at some of the local trainers’ horses and analysed those that I think have a good chance of success.
Ravenswell Farm will be sending another strong hand to Prestbury Park as Fergal O’Brien and co will attempt to have a successful start to this landmark meeting. They have six runners across the two days, ranging from novice hurdlers to handicap chasers. Perhaps their best chance of a winner lies with the un-exposed Kamsinas, who was impressive when winning over hurdles at Worcester a fortnight ago. Whilst it is a big step in opposition, it is very difficult to know where his limitations lie, and we will certainly know more after the race.
Before Midnight made a positive stable debut at Chepstow two weeks ago, and the yard will be hoping she can put her race fitness to good use on Saturday. She was a model of consistency for previous trainer Sam Thomas, landing valuable handicap prizes at Ascot and Cheltenham. However, although she regularly hits the frame, she has not won a race since 2021, therefore remains vulnerable to her rivals. That said, she could be a good each-way bet for the race.
Friday, October 27 – Kamsinas 15:55 4/1
Saturday, October 27 – Before Midnight 8/1
Former assistant to Nicky Henderson, Ben Pauling continues to grow from strength to strength, and has a couple of fascinating runners across the weekend. My eye is drawn to his two runners in the amateur jockey’s race, Mole Court and Wick Green. During the summer months, Mole Court progressed nicely to win three races in a row and is clearly thriving as he tackles three miles for the first time. He has a very capable jockey on board in Mr Jack Andrews who can put his vast experience to good use. His other runner in the race is Wick Green, who also enjoyed a productive season last year. There should be no issues with the ground and trip, however, he’s been raised 20 lbs by the handicapper who has seemingly got a grip on him.
Twig will also be lining up for Pauling, in a very competitive handicap chase. He has won his last two starts and boasts an impressive record of 7 wins out of 13 under rules. Whilst he will have to improve further, Twig holds course form, a good relationship with his jockey, Beau Morgan, and goes well fresh. There is a lot to like, but he needs more to claim this prize.
Friday, October 27 – Mole Court 16:30 6/1
Friday, October 27 – Wick Green 16:30 28/1
Saturday, October 28 – Twig 14:25 17/2
The Twiston-Davies team are enjoying a brilliant start to the season, and they will be hoping to continue that this weekend. One of the more intriguing runners is Idalko Bihoue who has previously shaped with huge potential but lost his way last year. He holds a strong piece of form when finishing third in the Challow Hurdle at Newbury, behind the talented Hermes Allen. Whilst his form figures are hard to get excited about, when you dive into the formbook, you see that this horse still has potential, as he tackles fences for the second time.
A further runner that is making his chase debut is Weveallbeencaught, who will be taking on three rivals in a novice chase on Saturday. Seventh in the Albert Bartlett at the festival, this is another horse who holds good form and a horse who will appreciate a strong stamina test. He may find this race too hot, as he takes on two-time stayers hurdle winner Flooring Porter, but he is a horse to keep on side and monitor as the season progresses.
Friday, October 27 – Idalko Bihoue 15:20 7/1
Saturday, October 28 – Weveallbeencaught 16:10 3/1
