13:15 Newbury
Gallyhill
Obviously, Bravemansgame running here instead of in the Denman means we are 7lb out of the handicap, but this horse definitely has the raw talent to be figuring. Clearly, things have not gone to plan for him this season. He had a wind op after his first run when falling at Exeter and he was brought down at the first last time, but his early form over hurdles last season showed what potential he has and he came to us with a fair reputation after winning his only point. Hopefully, he can make a step back in the right direction over a trip that should suit.
15:35 Newbury
Broomfield Burg
He won two for us in early summer and he has done little wrong since coming back from a good break, going close on a couple of occasions and then scoring impressively under a penalty in a Kempton novice last time. This is obviously a lot more competitive but the runner-up at Kempton won a handicap next time – albeit off a mark of just 108 – and we hope he has more improvement in him, and a fair chance here in such a valuable handicap. We left the hood off him last time and do so again here.
16:10 Newbury
King Ottokar
He was a very smart horse on the Flat over 1m/1m2f, rated 106 at his best, so the potential is there if we can translate that lofty ability to hurdles. The signs are pretty good at home – and he has been at Henrietta Knight’s too – and he seemed to best effect on both good and soft ground on the level, so let’s see we he can do here. If it all clicks, then he could prove very useful in this sphere.
16:45 Newbury
Filanderer
Clearly, this looks a hot bumper but he seemed to do it very well at Warwick on his debut, showing a great attitude into the process. More will be required here but you’d be surprised if there isn’t a good deal more to come, though that comment could of course apply to most in here.