2:10 Catterick Tips

Won a claiming hurdle and has a chance back in this sphere after finishing 8th in a handicap at Market Rasen last time.

Has not won since August 2024 but has finished 2nd in 6 of 12 races since, including in the latest outing last month. Likely to go well over this shorter trip and should be there or thereabouts.

Byron Hill is a veteran horse who, while lacking the power to win, is the most reliable contender to complete the trifecta. His odds are 102. In terms of pure speed, he typically clocks between 85 and 95, slightly below the previous two. He is characterized as a stayer. If the pace is slow, he may struggle. But if the race is tough from the start, his stamina will allow him to overtake those who falter. Brian Hughes, a multiple champion, is always a guarantee of impeccable tactical riding. He comes off a disappointing start as the favorite in his last outing (33 days ago), but his record at this distance and the change of jockey to Hughes suggest an immediate improvement.

Russian Virtue is dropping in grade today after a hurdle where he ran true to form despite being held. That sixth at Carlisle was a big step forward for me, as he travelled well off 103. He does have two career wins round here. Cheekpieces remain, with two wins from 11, and the 5 lb claim from Thompson helps off the same mark again in this much easier Class 4.

Coming down in the weights plus jockey claiming 7 lb is good news. The bad has been some lacklustre performances since winning in June 2025. That is a plus ??' it demonstrates the ability to win at this level. Good each-way shout.

A speculative chance is taken on Macho Sun, who fell at the first hurdle at Sedgefield five weeks ago. He showed a little promise at Newcastle earlier in December, but most of his runs have been poor. However, his stable, while not having very many winners, can get into the frame.