As always on a Saturday, we’re treated to top class racing. The highlights include two Grade 1s at Sandown and the Becher Chase at Aintree, the season’s second test over the famous Grand National fences.
After landing a double last weekend, let’s hope we can keep the momentum going with two selections on what looks a tricky day of racing.
1:50 Sandown – LULAMBA (4/5 generally)
Only four runners line up for the Grade 1 Henry VIII Novices’ Chase, but it remains a cracking contest featuring some very exciting prospects. Lump Sum created a good impression on his chasing debut at Uttoxeter, while Be Aware ran a fine race behind a smart mare at Cheltenham. Alnilam also won nicely at Cheltenham, yet the one to beat, and the one I expect to win, is LULAMBA . Given the strength of the opposition, there’s a fair chance he may drift to even money or bigger, so he’s well worth backing with Best Odds Guaranteed.
Nicky Henderson’s gelding was comfortably the best of these over hurdles and sets the standard here with an official rating of 153. He made a very encouraging start to his chasing career at Exeter, winning by ten lengths after an assured round of jumping. The form has already been boosted by Salver, who finished third that day and was highly impressive when cruising to victory in a Grade 2 at Sandown. Another important advantage enhancing his prospects is the weight-for-age allowance he receives from his opponents, even though he is rated superior. Lulamba may prove better over further in time, but in the testing conditions he handles well, and with further improvement over fences likely, he should take plenty of stopping.
2:40 Aintree – BILL BAXTER (15/2 generally) Each Way
The Becher is always a fantastic race to watch and a fiercely competitive puzzle for punters. The one that appeals most to me is BILL BAXTER . Warren Greatrex’s admirable grey has plenty in his favour here and looks a solid each-way option with four places available.
He has proven course form on soft ground and a clear liking for these fences, having won the Topham in 2023. He stays three miles well, as shown by his Punchestown win in May, and should be spot on for this after a game second on his reappearance at Newbury behind Haiti Couleurs. This race will have been his target, and I’m expecting a bold bid.
SATURDAY SELECTIONS
1:50 Sandown – LULAMBA (4/5 generally)
2:40 Aintree – BILL BAXTER (15/2 generally) Each Way
*Odds correct at time of posting – 5:50pm Friday 5th December
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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!
