Tuesday Racing Tips from Steve Ryder

Punters have been quick to latch onto the stable switch of Flame Bearer to Willie Mullins but I feel the price discrepancy between himself and JOURNEY WITH ME (best priced at 3/1) is too big in this race. The Henry De Bromhead trained six-year-old won a PTP and a bumper before beating Minella Crooner by 3 ½ lengths on his hurdling debut last season. He won under a penalty on his next start at this track before falling when sent off 5/1 for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Journey With Me disappointed at Punchestown on his final start before jumping poorly last time on his chasing debut at Gowran Park. That was a strong contest where Classic Getaway beat his stablemate Minella Cocooner and he looks the biggest danger to the favourite. If his jumping has improved since his last start then he should go close based on hurdles form.

The Fergal O’Brien trained GUMBALL (best priced at 11/4) finished a close 2nd in this race last season and he should hold strong claims off a 6lb lower mark. The eight-year-old was only beaten ½ length in this contest before running on the flat this summer. He finished 4th on his return to chasing at Ascot in October off a mark of 137 and the handicapper has dropped him 2lbs for that effort.

Gumball has had a wind operation since his latest run which will hopefully improve his finishing effort and this return to Ludlow should also suit. He is clearly well handicapped on previous form and he should go close back down in class.