Jonathan Doidge, whose tips delivered a 9-point profit last week, returns with selections for Friday's races at Carlisle and Chepstow. Here are his best bets.
Kode Grey (Carlisle, 15.40) - 1pt win @ 5/1 (bet365)
A rare foray into Class 6 company for this selection. Tim Easterby's three-year-old showed little as a juvenile but ran well on handicap debut at Ripon, leading most of the way and finishing third beaten just over two lengths. The lack of market support suggests that effort can be marked up, and his pedigree indicates this stiffer 6f may suit. He remains unexposed and open to improvement. Any significant support would boost confidence.
Alpine Sierra (Carlisle, 16.10) - 1pt win @ 5/6 (bet365)
The eight-year-old arrives in cracking form. Trainer Jim Goldie knows how to campaign his horses. Stepped up to 1m3f at Hamilton, Alpine Sierra won easily and followed up over 1m4.5f at Musselburgh last time, unchallenged. A 4lb penalty applies, but before the handicapper takes control, this stiff 1m3f looks ideal for another success.
Glorious Kitty (Carlisle, 16.45) - 1pt win @ 7/2 (bet365)
Mick and David Easterby finally got a win out of Glorious Kitty at Ayr last time. The four-year-old filly took 15 starts to break her duck, but her Ayr victory saw her race keenly and hold on over 1m on good to firm ground. Conditions are similar, and this shorter trip should suit given the stiff uphill finish. She is unpenalised as the win came in an apprentice handicap, and the same apprentice, Lewis Chalkley, claims a useful 7lb. This is a golden opportunity to follow up.
Alfaraz (Chepstow, 15.00) - 1pt win @ 4/5 (bet365)
Andrew Balding's three-year-old has progressed with each start, finishing second at Goodwood and Epsom last season, and improving despite a sixth on reappearance at Newbury last month. He was perhaps too keen there, and if that has settled him, a more mature performance is expected. Kept at 1m2f, which should suit, and more pace in this race could allow him to find cover. A small bet is advised given his inexperience.
Jonathan Doidge's Recent Record
Bets: 62, Winners: 22, P/L: +9.20pts (correct as of 28th May)
Upcoming major meetings include Epsom Derby (5-6 June), Royal Ascot (16-20 June), Irish Derby (26-28 June), Newmarket July Festival (9-11 July), and Glorious Goodwood (28 July - 1 August).
Gamble responsibly. If you are having a bet, it is vital to stay in control. Betting can be addictive, so never bet more than you can afford and stop when the fun stops. For help, contact NHS Help, GamCare, or Gamblers Anonymous.
