Andy Holding's Tuesday Racing Tips

SPIRIT OF ROME (best price 7-1) has only one win against her name, which came at Fontwell three starts ago, but as her best effort on the numbers was achieved in defeat last time out, there’s a fair chance she can add to her tally in this similar contest, class-wise.

0-17 over hurdles prior to scoring at the Sussex venue, Keiran Burke’s mare reverted to type a little with a modest display at Chepstow a month later, but it’s her latest effort at Exeter 23 days which sparks up interest. Noted moving as well as anything turning for home at the West Country venue, the daughter of Mastercraftsman ultimately didn’t quite have the pace to cope with the front two in the latter stages but as they were knowing out above-average fractions for the grade, her performance deserves a huge amount of praise. On the evidence of that display and several others before, it’s clear the six-year-old goes particularly well for Ben Godfrey and with today’s step up in trip and soft ground sure to suit, she can reward each-way players.

THE GAME IS ON (best price 10-1) had rather lost his way after hitting peak form this time last year, but a more positive display at Lingfield last time out opens up the possibility of brighter times ahead and, with two of his best performances coming over today’s C&D, they may be about to be reappear sooner rather than later.

A winner on his first visit to the Midland venue for old connections, the Garswood gelding proceeded to run well on his very next outing over the same C&D, finishing runner-up to Clem A, and it wasn’t too long before he joined the Simon Dow camp. Causing a 50-1 shock at Goodwood back in August, two modest runs were followed by his excellent effort at the Surrey track last time out and with the time figure good and subsequent efforts of those involved in the finish all pointing towards the form being solid, he should give a good account this afternoon if running to a similar level.