Charlie Hall Chase

[doodlebug]

Weird Al is the value. Good young horse whose reputation suffered last term as a result of breathing problems and a burst blood vessel at the Festival. If he's back to somewhere near his best he'll be competitive for his new yard. Watching the action at Wetherby the turf looks to be kicking up a bit - especially on the deeper part of the track - for genuine good going. Cut will suit Weird Al. He has to find a little on the ratings - but he's open to improvement. Diamond Harry - has to prove fitness and comeback from injury. Time For Rupert - great reputation but lightly raced and stepping up to Graded company. Most winners of this have already won a Graded chase. Poquelin - untried and unproven at the trip. Nacarat - getting on and giving weight all round. Chicago Grey - short of this class. Weird Al is the one for me - worth betting each-way at the 14s with Hills. If the ground has cut - all the better. I'm a new poster. So hello to all.

[Bathtime For Rupert]

Re: Charlie Hall Chase Welcome. I've been looking forward to this, obviously, being a massive fan of TFR. He's never been the best fresh, but Webber will have him tuned up for this I'm sure - considering it's a big race to be returning for. He'll be fitter than if he went for a low-key return so that shouldn't be much of a problem. Won his two novice chases at Cheltenham very well indeed, with the form working out well from them. The festival run was a cracker considering his infection hadn't cleared up. He never travelled or jumped, but still made ground up to only be beaten 6l. He jumped really well in his novice races, which obviously allow a bit more time over the flights, but that's not a concern for me. The track is a slight worry though. He loves it around Cheltenham and every race last year was at the track. Whether Wetherby will allow him to use his stamina to full effect is unknown with the ground not too testing. He's not a bridle horse, but he stays very well and loves to forge clear up a run-in. Hopefyully they'll go a good tempo with Nacarat in the race and it'll allow Rupert to get into a good rhythm. I think he's definitely good enough to win this, but I won't be piling on. So long as he returns fit and well, and puts in a promising showing, win or defeat, I think he's capable of having a very successful year.