6th December 2012

My prediction was right that we had a good chance of going one place better yesterday with two winners. Admittedly they weren't rank outsiders, but it's nice to keep ticking over and we are now only one day away from the weekend's meetings where the big boys come out to play. Here are today's best selections.

14.40 Wincanton

This race attracted my attention primarily because of the inclusion of Top Wood who was extremely disappointing when last seen in a decent race at Cheltenham. He is clearly better then that performance and if he were to bounce back here it would not be a surprise at all. Others who catch the eye include recent winners Quaddick Lake and Romeo Americo, but they have to contend with not wholly insubstantial rises in the handicap and could possible do with slightly further, although the soft ground will help draw their stamina out. But in view of how the race may go, I fancy KING'S FLAGSHIP to spring something of a surprise. He was given an easy lead last time to beat Valdez, who has since gone on to score, and he may get the same again today. The change of tactics that day over course and distance clearly worked and he showed a good turn of foot to recover after a last flight blunder to win. He certainly rates a value bet if able to cope with softer conditions today. 15/2 Paddy Power - Available at 10/1 with several at 10:19am

14.50 Market Rasen

I have been waiting for WAR POET to make his return to hurdles, and his recent run on the flat will have been a good way to keep him fit in anticipation of today. He has prior hurdling experience where he has usually shown that he can stay beyond two miles, so today's step up in trip should be right up his street. He could be thrown in off this mark of 108 and his proven soft ground history helps matters further as it should mean he handles the cut in the ground whilst not detracting from any stamina concerns that may exist. Alta Rock probably heads the list of dangers with a course and distance win and enjoying a drop in the weights alongside Switched Off who should be involved with a clear round of jumping. 2/1 Paddy Power, Bet365

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer