DONCASTER – SATURDAY
12.20pm
Midnight Moss
He has run two solid races for his new stable after being bought out of a seller last summer. I thought he would go close last time after a promising fourth at Wetherby, but we bumped into one at Uttoxeter. Still, he obviously ran very well to finish second and I think the better ground could well suit him here. He has a solid each-way chance in a very open handicap.
1.30pm
Lygon Rock
He was a decent hurdler back in 2018, well suited by decent ground, so he has his conditions here. He hasn’t enjoyed the best of luck this season, as he looks to have bled at Carlisle first time out – and he actually ran pretty well there, too – and unseated his rider early on at Newcastle last time. He is on a fair enough mark now, and certainly if judged on his hurdles form – he chased home Paisley Park at Aintree two seasons ago – so hopefully he can go well with a clear round, especially as the race has cut up a fair bit.
2.05pm
Champagne Well
He carries a 3lb penalty and meets some good recent winners, but I still reckon he is the one to beat. We had the option of going back to Cheltenham with him on Saturday but this looks a good opportunity for him and the form he showed when finishing second to Thyme Hill, and when a narrow second in another Grade 2 over 3m at Cheltenham last time, gives him first-rate claims here. He just looks have a very good chance, so let’s hope he can get back on the winning trail.
FONTWELL – SUNDAY
1.20pm
Project Mars
Some of his better efforts for his previous trainer came around here, and he has certainly joined us on a decent enough mark. His work has pleased us, so let’s hope Fergal can work the old magic on this one! If he does, then he is weighted to play a leading role, all right.
1.50pm
Invicta Lake
He isn’t getting any younger as a 13yo but he has come down a bit in the weights and he is certainly well enough handicapped on his win here for me last February.
