This Saturday's ITV racing coverage delivers a spectacular double-header from Newbury and Doncaster, featuring the fiercely competitive Betfair Hurdle and the thrilling Grimthorpe Chase. Our racing expert has scrutinised the cards to unearth the best value bets and each-way opportunities for your betting slip.
Newbury Betfair Hurdle: The Feature Race Showdown
The prestigious Betfair Hurdle (3:35) takes centre stage at Newbury, and it's Irish raider King Of Kingsfield who makes a compelling case for favourite. This Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old boasts an impressive profile, but in a typically wide-open renewal, value seekers might look elsewhere.
JPR One represents a fascinating each-way alternative. A smart novice last season, his recent fourth-place finish in the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle was a solid effort. A return to a handicap off a mark of 142 could see him outclass his rivals. The application of first-time cheekpieces is a noteworthy move that could spark significant improvement.
Doncaster's Grimthorpe Chase: A Classic Handicap
Over at Doncaster, the Grimthorpe Handicap Chase (3:15) presents a classic staying test. Empire Steel stands out as a solid favourite for the in-form team of Sandy Thomson and Ryan Mania. His excellent second in the Grade 2 Premier Chase at Kelso marks him as the one to beat.
For those looking for a bigger price, Guetapan Collonges demands attention. This strapping grey has been crying out for an extreme test of stamina and finally gets it here over this marathon trip. He stays all day and could be the one running on powerfully when others have cried enough.
Best of the Rest: Saturday's Value Picks
The supporting cards are packed with quality. At Newbury, the Listed Fillies' Hurdle (2:25) can go to the Willie Mullins-trained Aurora Vega. This lightly raced five-year-old was a useful performer on the flat and can make her class tell.
In the Novices' Handicap Hurdle (1:50), Fierce looks well-treated. A easy winner at Ludlow last time out, a 7lb rise may not be enough to stop him under a penalty.
At Doncaster, the Novices' Limited Handicap Chase (1:05) is a tight affair, but Lucky So And So gets the nod. He was a good winner at Wetherby last time and remains open to further progression over fences.
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