en
es
fr
arSaturday is here already, and let’s face it, the highlight of the punting week for most of us with the exception of the likes of Cheltenham, and the one day when most of us can chill out, sit back, and actually watch some of the races as well as having a bet.
Ascot are the centre of attention this afternoon though recent frost and rain makes the going tackier than ideal and I suggest we all reduce our bets accordingly expect some shock results.
If ever a horse had not lived up to his full potential thanks to niggling and career threatening injuries, then Noland is the one, a brilliant hurdler who won the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham back in 2006 (and I backed him that day lol), he has won ten races and close to a quarter of a million pounds in prize money, but I am convinced it could have been so much more. At the age of eleven, it seems fair to assume he will improve for his latest run when a disappointing fifth at Leopardstown but that was the Lexus Chase, so connections obviously feel he still harbours plenty of his old ability. The Ascot handicap chase at 3.45 isn’t really up to that standard, but what I am unsure of is how much of my recommendation is form book and how much is sentiment, you have been warned!
On a day when blasts from the past seem destined to haunt me, I also give you Mad Max at Haydock when he takes in the 4.05pm where he is also clearly best in at the weights. Now a ten year old, he used to be trained by Nicky Henderson until last September, he now has new owners and is now in the capable hands of Neil Mulholland in Devon, so maybe the change of scenery will rekindle his older efforts. He is another who never really lived up to expectations but sentiment will out and I will have a little bet on his as well this afternoon though only if I can get a half decent price of 2/1 or better!
Away from the daily grind, the crème de la crème of racing journalists are heading to Cape Town in the next few days to prepare for the J & B met meeting on Saturday the 28th, and yes, that includes me. The weather out there has to be warmer and as I will be talking to the top stars of the South African training ranks, watch this space for the odd tip for Kenilwortb as we look to break with tradition and remind punters that a winner is a winner in whichever continent!
This article is brought to you in collaboration with Sir Ivor Racing
Saturday Suggestions:
Sensible bet for Punters
2pts Win MAD MAX 4.05pm Haydock – 3.75 with Betfred £50 Free Bet and others
Silly bet for dreamers:
1pt each way NOLAND 3.45pm Ascot – 10 with Boylesports 20£ in Free bets!
