Newbury - Saturday 17th April

[fintron]

2.35 Newbury A field of 24 contest this valuable heritage handicap but we can probably cross a line through plenty of the runners on the basis of the draw and them not fitting the typical progressive profile that is usually needed to win these big handicaps. There are plenty in with chances but the one that looks a good price is Jane Chapple-Hyam's BIG BAY. Unraced at two, the chestnut colt progressed nicely last season having made his debut in a warm Newmarket contest. He was last seen winning a handicap at Kempton and despite a rise in the weights he looks open to plenty more improvement off his present mark. From a high draw he could get involved if Shane Kelly keeps him towards the front, where he may avoid trouble at the back of the field. 20/1 Bet 365.

[chris34]

Re: Newbury - Saturday 17th April 2.00 Newbury Group races not my thing at all, but I have watched Buxted improve into an extremely smart 4yr old on the aw this winter and yet to tackle turf with only 3 starts under his belt winning all 3 including a listed event last time out and certainly needs to take another step forward now going on turf and hitting group company but I see no reason for him not to be open to more yet. 0.5pt e/w buxted 10/1 hills 2.35 Newbury Not a huge draw bias across the field although high draw do perhaps slightly more especially in the 20's! Mull of Killough is drawn in stall 24 and remains lightly raced and progressive 3rd to pentinent last time out off same mark today and better ground is certainly in his favour and open to plenty more yet. Big Bay is another carrying similar profile although failed to land a blow in a 3yr old handicap of this size last year and that has to be a concern but did show a good attitude when landing a maiden and handicap (AW) when last seen and another 7lb is a big ask but certainly worth a chance in this field. And finally Irish Heartbeat perhaps isnt drawn best in stall 6 but he clearly appreciated the cut in the ground but a 4lb rise in handicap for spring mile victory looks extremely light and may still be open to more and has to be of interest. 0.5pt win irish heartbeat 6/1 vcbet 0.5pt e/w mull of killough 8/1 sj 0.25pt e/w big bay 20/1 vcbet