This weekend brings exciting National Hunt action across three premier racecourses, with expert tipster Jonathan Doidge providing his carefully considered selections for Saturday's fixtures at Haydock Park and Ascot, plus Sunday's feature at Punchestown.
Haydock Park Betting Preview
The highlight of Saturday's racing comes from Haydock Park, which stages the first Grade 1 staying chase of the season - the prestigious Betfair Chase. Despite its elite status, this year's renewal has attracted just five runners, with Grey Dawning emerging as the standout selection.
Grey Dawning represents the best bet of the day with a 2-point win recommendation at 10/11 with Betfred. The Dan Skelton-trained runner finished behind Royal Pagaille in this race last season but has shown significant improvement since and appears capable of reversing that form.
Supporting Selections at Haydock
The betting action begins with Sunnyvilla in the Bet At Your Best With Betfair Handicap Chase at 12.40. This Nicky Richards-trained runner is backed each-way at 11/2 with William Hill after showing promising form over course and distance last December.
Grand National favourite Iroko makes his return in the Betfair Exchange Graduation Chase at 13.50. Available at 11/4 with William Hill for a 1-point win bet, the seven-year-old has undergone wind surgery during his break and should handle the drop back in trip.
In the competitive Betfair Stayers' Handicap Hurdle at 14.25, Ace Of Spades offers excellent each-way value at 7/1 with bet365. The Skelton stable believes there's more improvement to come from this progressive hurdler.
The afternoon concludes with Shomen Uchi in the Best Odds On The Betfair Exchange Handicap Chase at 15.35. This unexposed chaser is tipped to win at 5/1 with William Hill and could develop into a much better horse over fences.
Ascot and Punchestown Features
Across at Ascot, the Grade 2 Ladbrokes 1965 Chase at 13.30 sees Pic D'orhy attempting to complete a hat-trick in the race. The Paul Nicholls-trained runner represents a 2-point win bet at 7/2 with Ladbrokes and boasts an outstanding record at the Berkshire track.
Sunday's feature comes from Ireland with the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase at 15.00. Last year's winner Fact To File is strongly fancied to repeat his success at 11/8 with bet365 in a 2-point recommendation. The Willie Mullins-trained runner has an excellent record when fresh and should prove too classy for his rivals.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
As with any betting activity, it's crucial to gamble responsibly. Always set a budget before you begin and never chase losses. Make use of the responsible gambling tools offered by betting sites, including deposit limits and time-outs.
If you're concerned about your gambling behaviour, support is available from organisations including the NHS, GamCare and Gamblers Anonymous. Remember that even experienced racing punters experience losing bets, so only stake what you can afford to lose.
