Newsboy's Expert Selections for Saturday's Racing at Kelso, Newbury, and Doncaster
Racing enthusiasts are in for a thrilling day of action this Saturday, with major meetings at Kelso, Newbury, and Doncaster. Our expert tipster, Newsboy, has analysed the cards and identified key contenders across the fixtures, offering punters valuable insights for their wagers.
Kelso's Feature Race: Hot Fuss to Deliver in Morebattle Hurdle
All eyes will be on the bet365 Morebattle Hurdle (2.55) at Kelso, where Hot Fuss is tipped to emerge victorious. Trained by Tom Dascombe, who began his career as a National Hunt jockey, this five-year-old son of Calyx showcased his potential with a impressive win in a lucrative handicap hurdle at Windsor in January.
Under the skilled guidance of jockey David Bass, Hot Fuss demonstrated tenacity by overtaking favourite Wilful in the closing stages, securing a win by two and three-quarter lengths. Despite a subsequent 5lb rise in the weights, his performance suggests there is more to come, especially with eight runs over obstacles already under his belt. The £61,728 first prize could well be heading to Upper Lambourn.
Other Key Contenders at Kelso
In the Grade 2 bet365 Premier Novices' Hurdle (2.15), Starmount stands out as the one to beat. Ben Pauling's charge has only been defeated once over timber, finishing fourth in a Grade 1 event at Aintree on Boxing Day, but bounced back with a dominant 15-length victory at Wetherby. Expect a strong showing here.
For the bet365 Handicap Hurdle (3.30), Good To Be Alive is a confident selection. Olly Murphy's five-year-old, ridden by champion jockey Sean Bowen, overcame a tricky track at Plumpton last month to win, and a 4lb higher mark should not hinder his chances.
The Listed bet365 Premier Chase (1.40) features Protektorat, who holds a significant advantage of 20lb or more over his three rivals. Barring a major upset, he is expected to cruise to victory in this contest.
Newbury's Highlights: Issam and Torn And Frayed in Focus
At Newbury, Issam is poised to perform well in the BetVictor Greatwood Gold Cup Handicap Chase (3.45). Trained by Tom Symonds, this eight-year-old has been a consistent earner, winning five of 17 hurdle starts and three of six chase attempts. After struggling over three miles at Ascot, he thrived at a shorter distance at Kempton Park, winning by six and a half lengths. A 7lb rise in weight is manageable, and jockey Callum Pritchard should guide him to another solid run.
In the 1 Up, Job Done At BetVictor Veterans' Handicap Chase (3.15), Torn And Frayed appeals strongly. Despite being 12 years old, he has shown consistent form, including a second-place finish at Cheltenham in December. The longer distance of three and a quarter miles here should suit him perfectly.
Doncaster's Top Picks for Saturday
Shifting focus to Doncaster, King's Threshold, carrying top weight, is tipped to excel in the Virgin Bet Grimthorpe Handicap Chase (2.30). With jockey James Bowen in the saddle, this contender has the potential to lead the field.
In the Virgin Bet Supports Safe Gambling Handicap Chase (1.55), Mighty Bandit, also partnered by James Bowen, boasts strong claims for success. Meanwhile, Coolanna gets the nod in the Listed Virgin Bet A Good Bet Mares' Novices' Hurdle (1.25), offering punters another viable option for their bets.
Overall, Saturday's racing promises excitement and opportunities for astute punters, with Hot Fuss leading the charge as the standout selection across the meetings.
