2:20 Ascot Tips

Vincenzo has been running consistently well with two wins and four 2nd places in his last six chases. He has crept up the handicap to a mark of 140 but is very capable of another win.

A beaten favourite over slightly shorter here last time out but possibilities of bouncing back on previous form. 5th of 12 behind subsequent Coral Cup winner, in the Paddy Power at Cheltenham on penultimate start and a repeat performance will give him a squeak here.

Scarface was runner-up behind Etalon last time but might be capable of turning that form around here. The selection is upped in trip, and that suits this horse. A big run is expected.

Although Vincenzo appears to be a strong favorite for this contest, they generally don't have a habit of winning this race. Etalon, a winner last time out at Ascot, returns 5 lb higher. Hopefully the application of cheek pieces will find a few more pounds in the bag. The last five winners were rated 134, 140, 152, 140, and 150. Dan Skelton's runner was placed in three of those five renewals. Another one you couldn't write off is Hitman, who was second in this race last year off 156. He could go close again returning to handicap company.

Heltenham won well at Perth during springtime. Needs to bounce back after some disappointing efforts since then, but looks well handicapped now.

Neon Moon has previously won over course and distance and is only 3 lbs higher than his last win here. Carries a low weight, and the booking of Harry Cobden boosts confidence.

Two return runs from the 11yo this campaign, running well for a long way in both races, and it should put him right for this handicap. A five-week break and a wind-op should help his chances. He has been rated much higher in the past. He ran a big race on his final start in the spring, every chance until the run-in in that Grade 3 handicap chase, and a 7 lb lower mark now should give him a chance.