Steve Jones' Expert Horse Racing Tips for Saturday's ITV Coverage
Our renowned tipster, Steve Jones, has turned his expert eye to the weekend's racing action, focusing on the long-distance Virgin Bet Eider Chase at Newcastle and key contests at Kempton. With a keen analysis of form, stamina, and track conditions, Jones has identified several value each-way selections for punters.
Virgin Bet Eider Chase at Newcastle: A Test of Stamina
The prestigious Eider Chase, a marathon handicap at Newcastle, presents a formidable challenge for stayers, and Jones believes VAL DANCER (2.43) is primed to excel. This dour stayer, trained by Mel Rowley, boasts a standout victory in last season's Welsh Grand National, where he led from the front. His current form remains solid, with a strong third-place finish in the Becher Chase over Aintree's Grand National fences, just behind top weight Mr Vango, where the 3m2f distance proved slightly too short.
Val Dancer continued to show promise with a fourth-place run in the Surrey National at Lingfield last month, demonstrating his endurance. Now stepping up to a trip beyond 4m for the first time, he is expected to be at his peak. With Mr Vango in the field ensuring a favourable weight assignment and a smaller-than-usual field reducing competition for the lead, Val Dancer should secure an ideal position near the pace. Jones recommends a 2pts each-way bet at 10-1, noting that Sky Bet is paying out on four places.
Kempton Card: Emmet Mullins' Challenge
While British trainers might breathe easier with Willie Mullins absent from Kempton, his nephew Emmet Mullins could pose a significant threat. In the Ladbrokes Trophy Chase, his runner CHANCE ANOTHER ONE (3.35) appears strategically prepared for this valuable prize. This horse has impressed with two wins from two chase starts over the course and distance in November, showcasing strong travelling ability and proven stamina for 3m.
Recent runs over shorter distances have not dulled his prospects, and the return to a longer trip should suit him perfectly. With stablemate Rising Dust likely to set a strong pace, Chance Another One is well-positioned for success. Jones advises a 1pt each-way bet at 10-1, with many bookmakers offering four places.
Overlooked Contender in Novices' Hurdle
Earlier on the Kempton card, Jones highlights ONLYFORFRANKIE (3.00) in the Grade 2 Ladbrokes Dovecote Novices' Hurdle as an overlooked contender. This horse recently defeated the highly-rated Mossy Fen Road at Musselburgh three weeks ago and seems particularly suited to sharp, right-hand tracks like Kempton. Jones suggests a 1pt each-way bet at 10-1, with several firms extending to four places.
In summary, Steve Jones' tips for Saturday offer a blend of stamina plays and tactical insights, providing punters with well-researched each-way opportunities across both Newcastle and Kempton meetings.
