Saturday 20th February 2016

An interesting week of racing, the Grand National weights released, Victoria Pendleton and some good racing on offer.

This year’s Grand National will be one of the strongest races seen for a long time, horses rated 142 aren’t certain to get a run whilst at the top end of the handicap we should see some 160 types taking their chance including last year’s winner Many Clouds.

Victoria Pendleton shouldn't be riding at Cheltenham and I don't think she will, the BHA could step in. She's not ready and could be a danger to other jockeys. Fair play to her for giving it a really could go but maybe starting on the flat was a more sensible option.

I’m hoping Paul Nicholls can do us a favour this afternoon, I’ve backed Silviniaco Conti “3:35 Ascot” at odds of 11-4 in the Betfair Chase. If back to his best and Paul Nicholls seems to think he is Silviniaco Conti should outclass his rivals and take this. The trip of two miles five is bit on the sharp side and a slight worry but the Ascot stiff finish and soft ground should hopefully counter that. Silviniaco Conti is also returning from a breathing correction and I think his odds will likely get shorter as the day goes on.

I’ve put the above in a double with Irving in the 3:20 at Wincanton, pays around 6-1. Irving has 20lbs in hand over his three rivals, this race is his Champion Hurdle. Irving's outright price is 5-4 and that looks very fair.

Two shares are now left in our new horse Mountain Rescue, a stable morning at Chris Walls yard will take place in a two weeks time.