We are treated to some fantastic racing today, headlined by Newbury’s biggest jumps meeting of the season with the prestigious Coral Gold Cup taking centre stage. The action doesn’t stop there, as the much-anticipated Fighting Fifth also brings a high-class showdown between three talented hurdlers. All eyes will be on the mighty Constitution Hill as he makes his long-awaited return, with plenty wondering whether he can get back to something like his brilliant best. It promises to be a fascinating afternoon.
11:30 Bangor-on-dee – IDAHO SUN (4/5 generally)
Harry Fry looks to have a really smart individual on his hands with IDAHO SUN. He was extremely impressive in bumpers, winning on debut at Newton Abbot with seven subsequent winners in behind. He progressed to win at Windsor, again with several smart subsequent winners behind, and finished a strong sixth in the Champion Bumper , form that has also worked out exceptionally well.
He won easily by three and a half lengths on hurdling debut, despite a mistake two out, defeating a horse who ran very well for second at the Cheltenham November meeting. He will improve plenty for that and should be very difficult to beat here.
12:30 Newbury – BOOSTER BOB (11/2 generally)
This is a pretty competitive handicap chase, with plenty holding genuine claims, but the one who really catches the eye is BOOSTER BOB. When teaming up with champion jockey Sean Bowen here last season, he produced one of the most extraordinary performances you’ll see — a display that still feels remarkable even now. And if that sounds exaggerated, just go back and watch his last run. It speaks for itself.
He took an age to warm up that day, quickly finding himself several lengths adrift, and anyone who backed him probably gave up hope early as the cameras couldn’t even keep him in shot for much of the race. But as the race unfolded, he steadily clicked into gear under a relentless ride, making wave after wave of progress through the field. From an impossible-looking position, he powered home, sweeping past thirteen solid rivals to win going away by a length and a quarter.
To be capable of such a performance, you have to be well-handicapped and I think he has plenty more to offer. That race he prevailed in earlier this year was better than the one he contests today, he represents an inform combination, has a great record fresh, course form, will love the ground and the step up in trip could bring out further improvement.
He has loads in his favour and I would be disappointed if he is not bang there in the finish.
SATURDAY SELECTIONS
11:30 Bangor-on-dee – IDAHO SUN (4/5 generally)
12:30 Newbury – BOOSTER BOB (11/2 generally)
*Odds correct at time of posting – 7:40am Friday 28th November
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Please note that although Matt has uploaded the tips, he is not our Racing Club Insider – the insider will remain anonymous!
