Ed Chamberlin, Oli Bell and our racing team offer their early fancies for Saturday's big race - the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury.
OLI BELL - CAROLE’S DESTRIER (20/1 Sky Bet): Second in the race last season and looks overpriced at the moment given trainer Neil Mulholland is more than capable of having him ready to fire first time out – as he did a year ago.
ED CHAMBERLIN - TOTAL RECALL (9/2 Sky Bet): I’m very keen and think he could prove to be in a different class to these. Willie Mullins has a score to settle in the race and he looks to have the right ammunition to hit the target this time around.
BEN COLEY - VYTA DU ROC (14/1 Sky Bet): At the risk of following this horse over a cliff, Nicky Henderson’s grey must have a solid each-way chance if, as expected, scraping in towards the bottom of the handicap. He was sixth in what might have been a better renewal last year when sent off an 8/1 shot and is 3lb lower now despite his last run over fences resulting in a narrow defeat at Sandown. A perfectly acceptable pipe opener over hurdles should have him spot and a big run is expected for a yard with a fabulous record in the race, and for owners riding the crest of a wave.
RICHARD HORNER – VYTA DU ROC (14/1 Sky Bet): A warm up over hurdles will put him spot on for Saturday’s big race and he will creep into the race on 10 stone 1lb if Coneygree lines up. Though well beaten in last year’s renewal, he would be thereabouts if repeating his second in the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown in the spring and can reward each-way backers, especially with the likelihood of extra places on the day.
DAVID ORD: - CAROLE’S DESTRIER (20/1 Sky Bet): Second last year – and was closing Native River down all the way to the line – and goes well fresh. Looks to have come in under the radar this time around an represents bit of value.
MICHAEL SHINNERS - MISSED APPROACH (33/1 Sky Bet): He isn't the most consistent of horses but on his day is a very talented individual. He was a very good second at the Cheltenham Festival over four miles, so the trip won't be a problem, and is versatile as regards ground. Although over hurdles, a record of one from one at the course is encouraging and at odds of 33/1 he looks a lively outsider.
