Neil Morrice brings us all of his best bets and tips for Thursday’s racing at Chelmsford, Wolverhampton, Taunton and Warwick.
Chelmsford Best Bet
Race 4: FOX POWER (3)
Trainer: Richard Hannon
Jockey: James Doyle
A long absence presents a slight question mark against the claims of FOX POWER and on his only start of the year back in April he looked to have a big year ahead of him. Following that clear cut defeat of Dario at Newcastle he hasn’t seen a racecourse until now, but having trained encouragingly on Polytrack at home and with a top jockey booked he can carry on from where he left off.
Wolverhampton Best Bets
Race 3: MASTER BURBIDGE (4)
Trainer: Neil Mulholland
Jockey: Liam Keniry
Handicap chaser MASTER BURBIDGE is difficult to evaluate on this return to the all-weather but was in good form when last seen, posting a win and a third placing from his only two starts. Subsequent jumping assignments haven’t gone as well, but this strong traveller deserves the utmost respect in what looks a very winnable contest.
Taunton Best Bet
Race 2: WILD MAX (1)
Trainer: Paul Nicholls
Jockey: Harry Cobden
Former German-based WILD MAX is bred to like easy conditions and could hardly have been more impressive scoring over course and distance on his debut under Rules. Always travelling kindly, he was never in danger after striking for home early in the home straight. He makes more appeal than France De Reve who blew out when heavily backed at Uttoxeter.
Race 5: STORY OF FRIENDS (6)
Trainer: David Pipe
Jockey: Tom Scudamore
The way STORY OF FRIENDS travelled and jumped on his latest start at Kempton his supporters are entitled to feel miffed that he was worried out of it by Flashing Glance on the run-in where my selection hung left. This track should prove ideal for the ultra-consistent 5yo who is a nice prospect and definitely a horse to follow.
Warwick Best Bets
Race 3: CHILLI FILLI (2)
Trainer: Henry Daly
Jockey: Tom O’Brien
CHILLI FILLI was probably in need of her first run back at Bangor and yet the likely winner until blowing up approaching the final fence. She enjoys a 5lb pull with the winner Alsa Mix in what looks sure to be another tactical race and can turn the tables.
Race 7: CADZAND (3)
Trainer: Dan Skelton
Jockey: Harry Skelton
CADZAND contested what was probably the best bumper run this season when third to Son Of Camas at Newbury and that form received a major boost when the winner followed up at the same course over hurdles. He’s well regarded and can open his account on the way to better things.
