King of Dixie was a disappointing beaten favourite at Doncaster a couple of weeks ago but may return to form tomorrow in the 4.30 at Lingfield. His record on the all weather surfaces is 3 wins from 3 starts.
Both Fortuni and Scene Two got off the mark last year on the all weather in December and both look to have the scope to progress this season in handicaps or perhaps even better. They are my fancies for the 5.35.
At Musselburgh Pedregal’s recent 3rd at Catterick puts him in with a chance in the 2.20 with the added bonus that the stable are in excellent form.
At Punchestown the two top weights Gold and Silver and Tranquil Sea are my two against the field in the 4.55.
The 5.30 is a fascinating contest with the Champion Hurdle winner Punjabi facing some stiff Irish opposition with the likes of Jered, Sizing Europe, Solwhit and Quevaga in the line up. Punjabi is a dual course and distance winner and defends his title her. He is probably best on better ground though and I would give slight preference for Quevega who was such an impressive winner at Cheltenham and Solwhit whose victory at Aintree was boosted by the runner up winning today.
In the 6.05 Cousin Vinny may be able to spring a surprise and get the better of his more fancied stable mate.
The 6.40 looks a competitive heat. Former top bumper horse Zaarito may have ahd excuses for his defeat at Naas last time out. Prior to that he had won over course and distance and he should handle the ground OK. Sorcerer is another course and distance winner with chances at a bigger price but for my selection I am going for the consistent Copper Bleu.
The picture today is of Hardy Eustace who runs in the 5.30 and is included thanks to the artist Sarah Aspinall.
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