The Weekend Winners team is back with a look at an exciting card in Sandown and are also looking forward to Punchestown…
Host Kate Tracey is joined by Sam Boswell and Declan Rix from BetVictor’s attheraces.com to pick their best bets for this weekend, with the focus on Saturday’s jump season finale at Sandown.
With The Races’ Declan Rix…
“We have a race ahead of us with a lot of speed. Elixir Du Nutz will go forward, as will Editeur Du Gite with the first-time cheekpieces – Edwardstone and Jonbon won’t be too far away either – but I think it’s all set.” The Fabiolo. I’ve been dying to see this horse on beautiful ground for a long time. I think it really brings out the best in him. It helps him travel a bit more relaxed and also helps with his jumping – and if he has an Achilles heel, it’s his jumping!
“It’s really frustrating because he can be absolutely deadly at times but shows poor form at one hurdle or another. I just think the race is going well, he has a lot of pace and Paul Townend can take his time getting up the hill.” He gets him into a nice rhythm. Let’s hope for some redemption from Cheltenham.
Sam Boswell from BetVictor
“I think Declan nailed it! The better ground is key, but I think the faster pace will ensure there is a rhythm. Personally, I feel like Jonbon’s return to the trip might not suit him. I know his jump was the best last time.” We’ve seen over fences but I doubt the quick turnaround and Willie Mullins wouldn’t send The Fabiolo unless he was fully ripe and I don’t think he will help the bookmakers on Saturday.
Presenter Kate Tracey…
“This is just a nightmare. El Fabiolo is the best horse but his jumps caught up with him at Cheltenham and I just wonder if the pace will put pressure on him. We knocked over at Sandown and a few Mullins hotpots.” El Fabiolo, I just wonder if the skills will be enough to see him through.
“Jonbon, despite everything it brings with you when traveling, it has to be the right choice for me given the price. It’s a fascinating duel and Jonbon has three from three at Sandown, so I have to go against El Fabiolo.
Watch the weekend winners in full on the At The Races YouTube channel.