Architect Tuesday Racing Tips

MOUNT MELLERAY (best price 11-1) didn’t exactly put in an elementary performance on stable/British debut at Newcastle over hurdles but that was his first over the smaller obstacles for nearly a year and he did extremely well to take fourth, which should have put him spot on for a return to softer conditions here. The seven-year-old was consistent in defeat in all hurdle/chase starts in Ireland, finishing in the frame in six of them and it’s interesting connections pulled him out of a winnable race over fences the other week in favour of this event. He could initially do with brushing up his jumping but he’s very consistent on this sort of ground and could pose a serious threat in this line-up. 

I have two suggestions in the Virgin Bet Handicap Chase, who I feel have the capabilities to make an impact off their current marks. Firstly, CABOY (best price 4-1), who has been in good form for the last twelve months and was unfortunate to bump into an improver, who followed-up off a nine-pound higher mark last month. He goes well under these conditions and was only beaten two-lengths by a course-specialist on his only previous visit to this track and, from a much lower mark whilst continuing to knock on the door, Lucinda Russell’s charge should be right in the mix in the latter stages. 

ARD CHROS (best price 15-2) isn’t the most consistent of individuals but his mark is continuing to tumble and a return to this intermediate distance at a track he’s won at in the last makes him a dangerous horse to discount at present. The ten-year-old likes it when the mud is flying and, while it’s been a long time since he last won, both his two victories were on deepish ground off marks of 115 and 110, including at this track. Others might look more convincing on recent form but Stuart Coltherd’s charge has got a lot going for him here and should be ready to run a big race now.