1:50 Sandown Tips

The unexposed O'Neill 6yo looks to be the one to be on here. The ex-Irish point-to-pointer cost £160k at the Cheltenham Christmas Sales 2024 and is sure to appreciate going up in trip.

Beaten a head when runner-up last time, with the first two well clear of the rest and the winner going on to win easily next time. Solid form. Now makes handicap debut and steps up in trip, which is likely to suit. Ex-Mullins inmate, having just his third run for the Skeltons. Likely improver.

Four Springs won a point and his first hurdle race. Although he was only 3rd and 2nd in his next two races, the winners Japetus and Sinnatra are decent hurdlers, and his current mark of 118 gives him a chance.

Cinquenta went up eight pounds for winning last time, but he absolutely slaughtered the opposition there and was worth much more than the eight-length winning margin. He seemed to appreciate the step up in trip, and this course and distance should hold no worries.

A very competitive final, so I will take two in this race. Funnily enough, these two started their careers against each other in an Irish PtP, where they finished 1st and 2nd with just a short head between them. Race To Base has won a bumper and a hurdle since his PtP win but will need more to win this. He should be suited by the step up in trip and the likely stronger pace. First run for a new yard and first time in a tongue tie for his handicap debut.

Wolf Walker has won point-to-points over 3 miles, so the step up in trip over this course with a stiff uphill finish looks ideal. The stable are in good form, which boosts confidence.

Rathkenny is the second choice, with a very similar profile to the main selection. Having finished a close second to Race to Base, this horse went on to win a Point-to-Point bumper and a maiden hurdle. He now makes his handicap debut and, like the main choice, this will be the toughest test to date. He should be suited by the likely stronger gallop.