Dual Champion Chase winner Master Minded has his first run of the season at Ascot tomorrow where he will face Albertta’s Run who won both the Ryanair and the Melling Chases last season. Master Minded has had a wind operation since last season which may bring him back to his best form but there is always the possibility that his below par efforts last season were simply an indication that he is not as good as he was. With the ground drying out the going should suit Alberta’s Run and I will make him my selection.
Another with the ground in his favour is Noble Alan in the 3.10. He comes here on the back of a win at Kelso a fortnight ago and could upset some of the more fancied runners.
Dunraven Storm ran well behind the impressive Cue Card at Cheltenham last week and can gain compensation in the Haydock 12.40.
Tara Royal has had a few problems with his jumping this season but I would be inclined to stick with him, particularly as his stable are in excellent form. If he can put in a decent round of jumping he will be hard to beat in the 1.15.
Palypso de Creek rean well in the Grand National last season until falling 4 out. Richard Johnson rides his for the first time in the Haydock 2.20.
There are plenty with chances in the 2.50. Grand Crus won well last week at Cheltenham and looks to have something in hand over the handicapper. James de Vassy is another to consider. He was 4th in the Greatwood and 3rd in the Coral Cup last season. Peveril, a winner 3 times over hurdles last season is the other one I like and I would be surprised if the winner does not come from these 3.
Imperial Commander should win the 3.25. He is miles ahead on ratings and has an exemplary record when fresh. If you are looking for a chink in his armour he has won 6 of his 10 races at Cheltenham but is only 1 from 7 at other tracks. He should win but if he fails to fire What a Friend could be the one to benefit.
Paquet Cadeau has an each way chance at Huntingdon in the 2.45 while on the all weather you could have a look at Hitchens in the 3.40 at Lingfield and Mastership in the 8.15 at Wolverhampton.
My thanks to Kate Tann for the photo of Imperial Commander.
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