Saturday 18th February 2017

So much racing this afternoon, it’s very difficult to get through it all. I’ve concentrated on a couple a of meetings rather than skipping through each one. Firstly, I can’t pass on a 109-1 winner this week I’m afraid!

I’ve had two bets today.

The Paul Nicholls trained Arpege D’Alene, 1:50 Ascot looks the safe selection in this race. He’s two from two at Ascot, “over hurdles, this is a chase” and been running well of late but bumped into some well treated rivals. 3 miles around Ascot on soft ground will bring his stamina into play and he should go well. Fletchers Flyer looks the danger, he might have needed the run last time out but I’m with Arpege D’Alene priced at 7-4.

The other bet I’ve had is slightly different but looks worth a go.

The Betway Kingwell Hurdle, 2:45 Wincanton looks at the mercy of Yanworth priced at 4-7. However, I can’t have this horse and think he’ll be outpaced in the Champion Hurdle. Yanworth jumps slowly and need further in my eyes. He’ll likely win today as he’s not up against much but I think I’ve spotted an angle into the race.

Rayvin Black will jump out and bid to make all, he’s one of the most consistent horses in training and loves Ascot, won this race last year. Rayvin Black can be backed in the without Yanworth market at 15-2 with Ladbrokes, EW. This means, if Yanworth wins and Rayvin Black is second a 15-2 winner is had, if Yanworth wins and Rayvin Black is 3^rd, the EW money is still won.

Melodic Rendezvous is getting on a bit, Irving doesn’t win at this time of the year whilst Rayvin Black beat him last time out. Sceau Royal has a possible stamina doubt on bad ground and Ch’Tibello is what he is. If Rayvin Black gets his own way up front and he should, I think he can finish in the 3 and win a little bit of EW money at worst.