Doncaster
14:05
This looks an excellent opportunity for EPATANTE (1) to get back to winning ways with plenty to spare on official ratings. The multiple G1 winner has finished runner-up against G1 company on her past two outings and could take plenty of beating back down in grade.
MARTELLO SKY (2) looks the one to follow her home with first-time cheekpieces fitted after managing a decent second in a mares Listed hurdle at Sandown. GALICE MACALO (4) is preferred to FINEST VIEW (3) for minor honours with the latter having her first outing for a new yard.
14:40
THE ALBERT BARTLETT RIVER DON NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) (CL 1) 3m 1/2 f
Stamina will be no issue for Irish point-to-point winner STAY AWAY FAY (8). The Paul Nicholls Shantou gelding made a likeable impression scoring by 5L on debut under rules at Newbury and form of that novice hurdle has taken a boost subsequently. Can remain unbeaten up in grade representing notable connections.
John McConnell won this last season and his progressive GRAND SOIR (1) makes for plenty of appeal with proven form tackling the trip. MAXIMILIAN (5) did well when third in the G2 Winter Novices Hurdle at Sandown (bled from the nose) and could be involved up in distance.
IDALKO BIHOUE (3) and THE WOUNDED KNEE (9) are worth noting for the placings.
15:15
HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE) (CL 1) 3m
The seven-year-old GA LAW (1) will likely prove better than his current mark at some stage and certainly has the right credentials to mix it with the best over fences.
Form of his G2 handicap success at Cheltenham in November is solid and can defy a rise in the weights, in a race that looks tailor-made for him.
TEA FOR FREE (7) is progressive and continues to flout the handicapper as an unbeaten chaser who cannot be ignored.
CAP DU NORD (12) placed off 7lbs less at Wincanton last November and looks well-treated while recent Cheltenham runner-up JAVA POINT (9) can feature.
MISTER COFFEY (4) might get involved from an each-way perspective.
