1:32 Southwell Tips

Tonal is a gelding whose recent all-weather form at Southwell includes a decisive victory over this trip and another solid effort when staying on well off a similar mark. He has proven he handles the track and tends to run his best races when able to travel comfortably before quickening. With a similar setup expected here, there are strong reasons to expect another competitive run and a bold showing.

The 4yo got his act together in the second half of last year. Four runs since September and he has suffered three narrow defeats in four starts ??' all on the polytrack. The form seems fine and he has posted good RPR ratings. A good apprentice claiming 5 lb should help his chances. He’s a previous winner at this track, and a return to the Tapeta surface could add a spark.

Decent form since returning from a 62-day break with a 3rd at Newcastle and winning here a week before Christmas. Up a few pounds for this, but so are the other market leaders here. 'Tonal' has been bumped heavily over the last two wins, and 'Frostmagic' also has to deal with a wide draw.

These connections did me a good turn a few days ago, and I think they may be able to do so again today. Although not looking what I would call well handicapped for this grade, it looks to be a workable mark given the horse's previous form at the track and at this time of year. Should be there or thereabouts, racing off bottom weight with K. T. O'Neill doing the steering.

The stable of Ian Jardine isn't pulling up any trees yet, but his Qazaq ran a very odd race up at Newcastle last time. Towing them along, both horse and jockey seemed to fall asleep, being swallowed up a furlong out with no effort whatsoever. Drops in grade here with D. Hogan up. Should see a better effort, I think.