One of the most competitive races of the day on the face of it but the money for Paul Nicholls' Capitaine has been pretty relentless and the horse is clearly expected to put his best foot forward on his return from 103 days off the track. He's undergone wind surgery in the interim and could hardly be returning at a better time with the yard absolutely flying of late. His current hurdles mark is 15lb lower than his chase rating so there's no doubt he's well handicapped if resuming in peak form.
Taunton
2.10 – Kahdian 6/1 from 9/1
4.15 – Capitaine 10/3 from 10/1
5.20 – Drewmain Legend 13/2 from 12/1
Wetherby
1.55 – Dr Oakley 7/1 from 12/1
4.00 – Rodeo Dodo 7/2 from 11/2
5.05 – Legends Ryde 9/2 from 18/1
Wolverhampton
6.00 – Followthesteps 3/1 from 9/2
7.30 – Illustrissime 9/2 from 8/1
8.00 – Dawn Crusade 11/8 from 15/8
Price Boosts - Hit or Miss?
14.40 Taunton - Montestrel
MISS - Strong in the market but something to prove following latest display and looks to be facing a fascinating rival in Scaramanga.
16.35 Wetherby - Strong Resemblance (Feature Boost)
MISS - In great shape when last seen but returns from a short break with top weight to contend with, plus a couple of other in-form rivals who look capable of serving it up to the favourite.
19.00 Wolverhampton - Don't Do It
HIT - Penalised with a 6lb penalty for winning at Chelmsford recently but still open to some improvement for the Mick Appleby team and this race looks winnable from stall three.
Trader Tip
Sweet Adare (3.10 Taunton 3.10)
Showed a decent level of form in three bumper runs including when dead-heating with a now 138-rated rival before disappointing on hurdles debut last time out. Has had a break and wind op since then and this well-related six-year-old can be expected to put up a much better show for a yard that has enjoyed success in the past week.
