2m4½f (2m4f118y) MansionBet’s Watch And Bet Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) (4yo+)
CALVA D’AUGE finished full of running last time out at his first try up in trip. It seemed to bring a bit of improvement out of him and, given we know he loves heavy ground, this additional furlong might suit. He jumps nicely and this isn’t a very competitive race with only four rivals. His claimer’s 7lb only helps his cause in such deep ground and I think he should be favourite.
1pt win Calva D’Auge @5/2, 14:05 Newbury, Tuesday
2m4½f (2m4f118y) MansionBet Challow Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
This is a red hot renewal of a race that often gets lost in the calendar. All six have chances, even the 66/1 unexposed rank outsider from France who at the very least will love the soft ground. Whilst Bravemansgame was ultra impressive over this course and distance last month, he has to prove he can go on this ground and that’s enough to tip the balance in favour of STAR GATE. Evan Williams’s unbeaten hurdler has looked high class in all three starts and I was particularly taken by his jumping at Sandown, which was quick and accurate. He pulled well clear when woken up off the back of the last and, while that form is up for debate, it confirmed he loves soft ground and he has no visible weaknesses. The Glancing Queen has very good bumper form and translated that to hurdles this season but she looks a little short.
1pt win Star Gate @9/4, 15:15 Newbury, Saturday
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