Jumps racing is back at Coleraine Racecourse for the iconic Great Western Steeplechase meeting.
Race 1 – Bartons Waste Maiden Hurdle, 3300m
The market has this between Cadre Du Noir and Platinum Spirit, with the former odds on. I suppose on his flat ability he has the most upside but the gap in the market is way, way too big, making Platinum Spirit a very attractive bet.
Strategy: Back Platinum Spirit.
Race 2 – Brandt Maiden Hurdle, 3300m
Another where the market has two first starters high in the betting. I really liked what I’ve seen from Shakespeare at the trials, especially his first. Hopefully he takes up the running as he did in that one. Would have preferred the ground was wetter for him, but happy to take the price to find out. Lincoln King is a smart flat galloper but again the gulf in betting is too big.
Strategy: Back Shakespeare.
Race 3 – Community Bank Coleraine 0-114 Hurdle, 3300m
Another similar market insofar as the gap between the top two in the betting is far too big. Rider In The Snow had every chance to get past Laybuy last start and couldn’t, now he’s $1.55. I get SP profile etc, but please, this is just silly. I think it should be favourite and it’s an outstanding bet.
Strategy: Back Laybuy.
Race 4 – Adam Lindsay Gordon BM120 Coleraine Hurdle, 3300m
The market seems about right with Field of Lights and That’s Incranibull dominating betting, but happy to have something on El Diez at a price. He’s quietly having a decent season, this is easily the weakest race he has contested since winning at Sale, and he has run well at this track before. Decent bet near double figure odds.
Strategy: Back El Diez, small.
Race 5 – Great Western Steeplechase, 3600m
Mighty Oasis is a great bet at big odds here. He won the Thackeray well two back at the Bool before running another honest race over the fences at Casterton behind Elvison. No disgrace finishing third there. The 72.5g has to be carried but nevertheless he is big overs at good double figure odds. Tommy Ryan presumably had the choice between him and Duke of Bedford, which is half the price of Mighty Oasis.
Strategy: Back Mighty Oasis.
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