BBOTD Saturday 8th December

[fintron]

Sorry to be so keen but won't get online and made keen to back this now 2.10 Aintree This is the Becher handicap chase, one of the few races run over the National fences. Previous experience of the National course is therefore a huge advantage. I think this trip could be perfect for BIG FELLA THANKS, who has run in the National for both Paul Nicholls and Ferdy Murphy, running some big races, but ultimately not seeing out the gruelling national trip (placing 6th, 4th and 7th). The drop back to this shorter trip thus looks ideal. He is now with Tom George, making his debut for this yard recently when backed into 5/2 fav and unseating his rider. It was his first run back from a break but he can probably improve at least half a stone now he's no longer with Ferdy Murphy and has the benefit of that run under him. He has run well on soft and heavy ground in the past, and is 1lb lower than when winning a Grade 3 handicap at Newbury the other year. 8/1 Paddypower, 1 pt win.

[The Saint]

Re: BBOTD Saturday 8th December 325 Lingfield - Silly Billy - 9/4 - Bet 365 Comes out of a race that has produced 2 subsequent winners and gets in here 1lb higher in the weights. Should have a bit more assistance from the saddle today (Saturday) and while short should take all the beating.