2:53 Ascot Tips

Came From Nowhere has raced three times this season and improved each time. He started with a third, then a second, and last time out he won at Hereford just before Christmas. He appeared to win with something up his sleeve that day, so hopefully he will win again despite the seven-pound rise.

Surrey Lord has been a big improver this season and has won three of his last four races, including last time over two miles five furlongs at Kempton, so stamina is not a problem. He may be able to overcome another six-pound rise to a mark of 118, nineteen pounds higher than when winning at Ffos Las in October.

This horse is now at the veteran stage of his career, but is holding his form well. Especially two runs back when third to two progressive types. Harry Skelton takes the ride, and a big run is anticipated.

Lightly raced 7yo, 3 wins from 7 over hurdles, placed twice. He was a smart 7-length Grade 2 novice hurdle winner last Feb. A little disappointing in three hurdle runs since, but they were all Grade 1 races and he was only 3 lengths behind the runner-up in one of those races. He is now running in a handicap and, with a good apprentice claiming 5 lb, he should have a chance.

Two efforts in this grade leave a bit to be desired, but I think this horse is best judged on this season's form and looks worth another try. A new trip adds a bit of spice for him, as he doesn’t scream like he wants it. However, he looks feasibly treated, as he should be at 5. He got beaten by Sligo Bay, giving away 6 lbs on seasonal debut; that horse has won since and is now rated 9 lbs higher. He lugged 12st 1lb round last time behind a horse that has finished a close second since, so he’s arguably been unlucky not to find the winners' enclosure this season. With regard to trip, Snowden is positive about it, and he might be ridden to get it, which is a slight worry if he gets too far back, but I’m happy to chance that.

The Twiston-Davies yard had a strong Friday, which can continue into the weekend. Moveit Like Minnie seems underestimated in the market. He has dropped to a mark of 117, and the tongue tie goes back on after being missing for the last three starts. He could get his own way out front and can bounce back to form.

Thanksforthehelp is clearly a bit useful. He showed that with his win at 14-1 in a 25-runner handicap hurdle at Punchestown in April. He struggled at Newbury over 3 miles in November and put in only a slightly better effort at Windsor (little market support at 40-1) last time. His handicap mark drops two pounds. Harry Cobden rides for soon-to-be retaining owner JP McManus, and the betting market seems keener this time.

Weakened 2 out over 2 furlongs further here and will be suited by the drop in trip. Wears the first time cheekpieces which have the potential for further improvement too.