Get on the Stellar at Ascot.
Unexposed STELLAR MAGIC (1.45) has the potential to spark many big-race celebrations and Philip Hobbs’ ace looks really well treated today.
He was a smart novice last season. His Taunton defeat of Alaphilippe, when he floated over the hurdles, was the performance of a top prospect.
Injury cut short last season but he returned with a cracking effort behind smart Up For Parol at Haydock. That should have put the edge on him, so have 3pts win at 9-2.
Earlier on the card, consistent WINDS OF FIRE (1.10) looks a good bet in the SBK Handicap Chase.
This race is not as competitive as the field size makes it appear and Evan William’s runner ran well when third at Taunton last time.
That was, effectively, only his second start over fences and he should continue to improve. Have 1pt to win at 6-1.
LORD DU MESNIL (2.35) has a great record at Haydock and he will love the testing conditions of the Peter Marsh Chase.
Richard Hobson’s dour stayer has won three times from just four visits to this course and he ran a cracker over an inadequate 3m when runner-up in the Rowland Meyrick at Wetherby on Boxing Day.
If he gets into his usual rhythm out in front he will be hard to pass. Have 1pt each-way at 8-1 with several bookies paying out on four places.
It’s one of Taunton’s big days of the year and CORNICELLO (1.30) looks the best bet on the card.
He’s run two sound races in juvenile hurdles and he gets the advantage of the four-year-old’s weight allowance now he switches to handicaps.
Both his wins on the Flat in France came on right-handed tracks so this should be ideal. Have 3pts to win at 6-1.
