Cloud Cover is on course to defend her title in the BetMGM Fillies' and Mares' Championships Handicap at Newcastle on All-Weather Championships Finals Day, April 18.
Successful last year off a mark of 89, Cloud Cover is rated a stone higher this time around following a Listed victory in France and a smooth success at Newcastle’s AWC Trials Day.
Trainer James Tate said: “Cloud Cover did a good piece of work on Friday and it is all systems go to try and defend her title.
“She has had wind surgery since her last run. She had a little problem and had to have that rectified, but she has come out of it in great form.
“She is a stone higher in the ratings this time but, in fairness to her, she does look a stone better. Her form this winter is good and I thought it was a nice performance at Newcastle.
“We know the track plays to her strengths and, looking at the entries, she should have a leading chance.”
Tate is also responsible for BetUK Easter Classic contender Smart Hero and Hello Zaman, who is set to make his handicap debut in the BetMGM All-Weather 3 Year Old Championships Handicap.
He said: “Hello Zaman has been a work in progress. He improved a good chunk from his first to second run. I thought he would have won last time had he not wandered right near the line, in what looked a competitive novice. I think he has a decent chance of being well in at the weights and I am looking forward to running him.
“Smart Hero bolted up at Wolverhampton on his first try over this sort of trip, after which we decided to give him a break with the Easter Classic in mind. Clifford Lee gets on well with him and, if he can get him to relax, I think he could be a danger to everyone in the race.”
More from Sporting Life
- Racecards
- Fast results
- Free bets
- Full results and free video replays
- Horse racing news
- Horse racing tips
- Horse racing features
- Download our free iOS and Android app
- Football and other sports tips
- Podcasts and video content
Safer gambling
We are committed in our support of safer gambling. Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose.
If you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133.
Further support and information can be found at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org.
