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1.40 Cheltenham
It’s hard to see beyond THIRD TIME LUCKY WOMAN in this decent beginner chase. Dan Skelton’s side won three hurdles last season but looked better than ever when they switched to hurdles here last month. Despite pulling quite hard, he danced like an old pro and pulled comfortably when Harry Skelton required effort. Runner-up Buddy Rich was candid in form with a win over Navan on Sunday and the drivers were also beaten by kilometers so it will take a smart performance to keep him from following.
2.15 Cheltenham
LALOR could go back to winning ways on his first start for Paul Nicholls. The nine-year-old hasn’t tasted success since entering the newcomer’s chase for this card in 2018 but he has produced some smart form in last season’s defeat, notably was here in January when he was defeated in a short match by the same mark. His new coach has been raving about his homework on recent stable tours and this has long been a goal.
2.50 Cheltenham
Nigel Twiston-Davies Trained BALLYMILLSY looked better than ever with his win at Newton Abbot last month and should have made another cheeky bid here. He finished last season on the floor but was still ahead when he crashed his final flight at Worcester in April and he was compensated for his reappearance five weeks ago, beating the Kentucky Blackjack by more than seven length. He seemed to have had a bit on his hands that day so the 8lb mark might not have been enough to deter him.
3.05 Lingfield
GOOD EFFORT have every chance of winning this List race for the second year in a row. He finished five hours when he beat Lampang in last year’s renewal and this year’s patchy looking record is mainly due to the fact that he was put on some really tough assignments, including 2nd grade at Belmont last month, where he ran into two runners into the Breeders’ Cup Sprint. He was not far from his best form when he won at Deauville in August and would appreciate returning to a more practical level.
3.25 Cheltenham
THE PARTY IS NOT COMPLETED Losing two girls but he went a long way with his recent handicap debut at Wetherby. Dan Skelton’s charge moves vigorously throughout and goes to victory without the need for a second gear. He is gaining 11lb and facing much better opponents here but it will be a big surprise if we see the best he has to offer.
3.40 Lingfield
Connections have been having a rough time with PYLEDRIVER recently but their patience may pay off in Lingfield’s final. A setback has kept him off track since June but he has proven he is a true top performer by winning that latest race at Al Aasy’s expense. . That form is far superior to anything the rest can bring and he should be able to get through his Group 1 penalty before heading abroad in search of more prestigious accolades. .
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