An excellent day of racing ahead. Haydock report the going as Good whilst Ascot is Good to Firm. One race from each meeting for us today.
2.15 Haydock Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Registered as The Swinton Hurdle) (Grade 3) (CLASS 1) (4yo+)
First big handicap hurdle of new season.
John Constable is fairly handicapped and from a stable that has won this race previously.
Gwafa is unexposed and is expected to be suited by conditions.
In such an open race I would prefer to focus on a couple of horses that should be considered at much bigger odds and it is worth looking at the foot of the market.
Both Roman Flight and Regulation will be suited by conditions and are expected to run well. The pair are both available at 66/1 in places.
2.30 Ascot Leo Bancroft Signature Haircare Handicap (CLASS 3) (4yo+ 0-95)
The well bred Sign Of A Victory stands out in this first start in a flat handicap. His last race was in the Champion Hurdle in which he showed up well. Potentially very well handicapped and should be kept onside.
Difficult to price because if Sign Of A Victory transfers his jumps ability to the flat, very short odds would then be justified. Currently a best priced 9/4, which seems fair.