2:25 Newbury Tips

The 8-year-old was a good handicap chase winner five weeks ago, the front two pulling clear of the rest. He was returning from an eleven-month break. Top yard and jockey, and he could be set for a good campaign. A 4 lb higher mark might not stop him in this handicap.

Another not-so-bold choice. But I feel he's got solid claims despite the welter burden. He was talked up as a proper horse during his time with Gordon Elliott. Jamie Codd absolutely adored him and rated him so highly. Given some of his form for that stable, it was easy to see why. He finished 2nd in the 2022 running of the Champion Bumper at the Cheltenham Festival, finishing 2nd behind Facile Vega. He failed to live up to expectations over hurdles, notching up just one win from six runs. It was all about chasing for this fella. He was sent off 9/4 second favourite for his chase debut. He defied market expectations to beat the high-class Fact To File by just over 3 lengths. He's obviously franked the form, winning five Grade 1 races since. He added another Grade 3 to his CV, beating last season's English Grand National victor Nick Rockett by just over 1 length. He lost his way after that for the stable. A change of scenery should do him the world of good. He's still only eight, so not exactly a spent force.

Racing at left-handed Newbury will suit Telepathique, as she has a tendency to jump to her left. She did this in her latest race at right-handed Carlisle. That was a Listed race, and today she takes a drop in class. The winner of that Listed race has gone on to win again, which makes the form look strong.

Winner at Perth in April. Struggled off higher marks since but ran okay when 3rd at Wetherby a fortnight ago. Dropped another 2 lb, so should go well this afternoon.

Filanderer is two pounds out of the handicap here and goes up in class, but he has won his last four chases. The handicapper may have been playing catch-up with a big improver.