UK Horse Racing Tips: Hereford

EL GRANJERO has posted a string of creditable second-placed finishes in maiden/novice company. The five-year-old's recent narrow defeat over C&D sets a fair standard and he could make it fourth-time lucky over timber. The biggest threat may emerge in the shape of Stay If U Want To, who offered plenty to work with on his hurdles bow when runner-up at Catterick last month. The Sad Shepherd also enters calculations on his stable debut for Alastair Ralph.
Prediction : 1st El Granjero 2nd Stay If U Want To 3rd The Sad Shepherd

Although FAMOSO doesn't appear to be hiding much from the handicapper at present, he ticks more boxes than most. A return to the track and trip of his last victory should aid the eight-year-old's chance and a fourth career triumph over fences could be in the offing. Flash Gorcombe is a viable alternative to the selection having performed with credit over 2m3f and 2m4f in recent months. An improved bid from last year's winner Ardmayle wouldn't be a surprise either.
Prediction : 1st Famoso 2nd Flash Gorcombe 3rd Ardmayle

A 7lb penalty for Only Fools' 11-length romp at Fontwell shouldn't prevent a bold follow-up bid, but there is a sneaking suspicion that a bigger performance remains from AFTER MANY DAYS. Henry Daly's mare posted a respectable third behind a subsequent winner at Southwell earlier this month and this slight ease in distance may be enough for the five-year-old to open her account. Damask and handicap debutant Charmian's Place also warrant a second look.
Prediction : 1st After Many Days 2nd Only Fools 3rd Damask

ORBYS RIVER put in a career best when second at Huntingdon a couple of weeks ago and a reproduction of that form here would give her a big chance, despite competing from 2lb out of the handicap. Tour Ovalie should not be underestimated on her handicap bow after showing promise in novice hurdles, while Evenwood Sonofagun is the pick of the remainder.
Prediction : 1st Orbys River 2nd Tour Ovalie 3rd Evenwood Sonofagun

GRIZZLY JAMES was not beaten far when second over an extended 2m7f at Huntingdon earlier in the month and it would be no surprise to see him go one better off the same mark here. School For Scandal hit the crossbar over C&D last time and is an obvious threat to the selection after undergoing wind surgery. Others to consider are Walk In The Wild and Jack Doyen.
Prediction : 1st Grizzly James 2nd School For Scandal 3rd Walk In The Wild

ROCKING MAN confirmed the promise he displayed when winning on debut at Chepstow by filling second place under a penalty at the same venue when last seen in December. That form just gives him the edge over Jurancon, who has a similar profile to the selection. Laddie Cooper Mia is another with valid form claims, while Letterston Lily is the pick of the newcomers.
Prediction : 1st Rocking Man 2nd Jurancon 3rd Laddie Cooper Mia