UK Horse Racing Tips: Ascot

BYZANTIUM easily accounted for two subsequent winners when taking a similar race at Warwick in June and was successful when last seen later that month in a novice hurdle at Newton Abbot. With that in mind, Paul Nicholls' gelding merits the utmost respect on his return to action. At The Oche confirmed the promise that he displayed on his hurdling debut when winning at Ffos Las recently and he could prove to be the main threat, ahead of Akimos and Hobart.
Prediction : 1st Byzantium 2nd At The Oche 3rd Akimos

All of these have claims, but the vote goes to NO QUESTIONS ASKED. The seven-year-old showed plenty of ability over hurdles, including when second in the Sidney Banks at Huntingdon in February, and it would be no surprise to see him find further progression now switched to fences. Old Gregorian was the only finisher in a two-runner contest at Wetherby a couple of weeks ago and he should not be underestimated, while Don't Tell Su is next best.
Prediction : 1st No Questions Asked 2nd Old Gregorian 3rd Dont Tell Su

Last year's winner Martator has to be respected but this does appear to be a stronger renewal and preference is for L'EAU DU SUD. Dan Skelton's gelding was a high-class novice last season, winning the Grade 1 Henry VIII Novices' Chase before a close fourth in the Arkle, and a mark of 155 may underestimate his ability. The Irish-raider Special Cadeau has to be noted following a Grade 3 second in September, while Sans Bruit and Boothill are others who make the shortlist.
Prediction : 1st Leau Du Sud 2nd Special Cadeau 3rd Martator

Nicky Henderson has an excellent record in this contest and he could have another exciting newcomer on his hands in the shape of SOOMAROY, an easy point-to-point winner in March, who was purchased for 190,000 pounds at the Aintree Goffs sale. The selection was given a positive mention in a recent stable tour and he is preferred to Military Alliance, who had a couple of winners behind when scoring on his first start for new connections at Hereford in April. Arriving here on a four-timer, Trustintimes is entitled to be thereabouts, as well as recent Exeter winner Start Again.
Prediction : 1st Soomaroy 2nd Military Alliance 3rd Trustintimes

A tentative vote goes to FASOL, who shaped well for a long way on his return at Chepstow before weakening into fifth late on. An improver after wind surgery in January, the son of Galileo was a highly creditable third in a valuable handicap hurdle at Sandown in April and, with Freddie Keighley taking off 7lb on this occasion, he could be well treated. Raised 4lb for a taking success at Chepstow last month, Washington is a key player, as well as Welsh Champion Hurdle runner-up Alexei.
Prediction : 1st Fasol 2nd Washington 3rd Alexei

An open contest that could go the way of NEON MOON. David Pipe's charge had an indifferent campaign last season, but he was third in this race from 6lb higher 12 months ago and would appear to hold solid credentials under ideal conditions. Reynoldstown winner The Changing Man was a model of consistency last term and merits the utmost respect, while although a 12-year-old now, Two For Gold should not be underestimated.
Prediction : 1st Neon Moon 2nd The Changing Man 3rd Two For Gold

Bathara won in comfortable fashion at Warwick last month but although respected, this might go to last year's winning yard courtesy of LE COLD GREY. The son of Cokoriko fetched 95,000 euros at the sales last June and is related to a couple of smart types, most notably the high class Gaillard Du Mesnil. Paul Nicholls has started the new campaign in excellent form and that trend may well continue. Others to note include Run Away Joe and Hitintheheadlines.
Prediction : 1st Le Cold Grey 2nd Bathara 3rd Run Away Joe