Neil Morrice shares all of his best bets and tips for Sunday's racing coming your way from Bath, Carlisle and Exeter on 7 April 2024.
BATH
Race 1 No1 TASMAN BAY (Each Way)
Trainer: Sir Mark Todd – Jockey: David Probert
Though he’s had some training issues, TASMAN BAY remains of serious interest on this return from an eleven-month absence. His move from Todd to William Haggas proved short-lived, as after just one below-par run at York the six-year-old wasn’t seen again and is now back with his original handler. At his best, he chased home the likes of Alenquer at Royal Ascot and Baaeed at Goodwood, and it might be worth paying to find out if he’s retained a portion of that old ability.
Race 3 No1 ADAAY IN DEVON (Nap)
Trainer: Rod Millman – Jockey: Oliver Searle
ADAAY IN DEVON has twice scored with 7lb apprentice Searle on her back and is a filly that loves to get her toes into the ground. The forecast testing conditions will prove a big asset to her in this Class3, while her earning run in the Cambridge Trophy at Doncaster has put her spot on.
Race 4 No8 DESPERATE HERO (Each Way)
Trainer: Jack Channon – Jockey: Rose Dawes
DESPERATE HERO was probably over the top when disappointing on his final start of 2023 at Doncaster. Having been freshened up by his winter break, the grey has the necessary speed to try to boss this from gate to wire and he will get good assistance from the saddle.
CARLISLE
Race 1 No5 MILCREE (Nap)
Trainer: Nicky Richards – Jockey: Sean Quinlan
MILCREE has shaped well in both outings under Rules to earn in novice hurdles at Ayr and Newcastle. He was denied by inches last time and has a great chance to go one better, as he could have a fitness edge on market rival Gold Cup Bailly.
Race 4 No6 WHOSMYDADDY (Each Way)
Trainer: Sandy Thomas – Jockey: Ryan Mania
WHOSMYDADDY has looked a natural for fences in back-to-back successes. He’s 7lb higher than for the latest but appeals as a horse that is improving faster than the assessor can keep up with him. He’s in a piping hot race but can stave off a host of challengers of whom Breeze Of Wind, Heritier De Sivola and Croagh Patrick may prove the best.
EXETER
Race 2 No9 MASTER BARCLAY (Each Way)
Trainer: Tom Symonds – Jockey: Jordan Nailor
MASTER BARCLAY is one that might have snuck under the radar in this handicap hurdle on a first visit to the Haldon course. Yet to open his account in nine attempts over jumps, the selection chased home Kinder Kid at Wetherby last month and that is strong form. He didn’t go unbacked and a market check is advised, though I shall back him whether he drifts or shortens.
Race 4 No4 KING OF THE LAKE (Nap)
Trainer: Jeremy Scott – Jockey: Rex Dingle
Although he’s finished second in five of his last six outings there appears to be nothing ungenuine about KING OF THE LAKE. A couple of those defeats happened at this course, including over a longer trip last time. His stable is enjoying a purple patch, and now switched to handicaps he can deservedly break his duck.
Race 6 No5 PYLEIGH MASTER
Trainer: R Pudd – Jockey: Miss Ella Herbison
PYLEIGH MASTER landed a point-to-point flat race at Larkhill and is a fascinating prospect who should follow up in this new area of the National Hunt spectrum. He defends a one-race unbeaten record along with Go Johnny Go and Locked Down Lad, and can prove the pick of the trio.
