Soil Science Handicap Chase

Off time: 15:20 | Winning time: 5m 25.80s

Bothwell Bridge³⁵

Age: 7| Weight: 11-10| J: N de Boinville| T: N J Henderson| OR: 135| BF

7/4

Low-mileage 7-y-o who impressed when winning on chase debut in novice handicap at Sandown (20f) in December. Failed to complete last 2 starts, but testing ground might not have suited when pulled up at Newbury on latest. Can bounce back.

Form: 31P-1FP

Danny Kirwan^p¹⁵

Age: 9| Weight: 11-5| J: H Cobden| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 130| C| D

5/2

All wins on right-handed tracks, coming good over fences when making all in 2½m Wincanton novice in January. Finished tired when down the field at Sandown (20f, soft) 15 days ago, but better ground should suit here.

Form: 71-2415

Not Available^p,t³⁵

Age: 7| Weight: 11-5| J: Stan Sheppard| T: M Sheppard| OR: 130

4/1

Left Henry de Bromhead and began life for his new yard in fine form, winning back-to-back handicaps in November/December. However, below form last 2 starts and now has a bit to prove.

Form: 231144

Champagne Court^p,t²⁵

Age: 9| Weight: 11-2| J: Lorcan Williams| T: J Scott| OR: 127

16/5

Useful chaser who built on a couple of solid placed efforts over timber to win his first race for over 2 years at Exeter in December. Runner-up last 3 outings and can give his running again.

Form: 231222

Non-Runners

Pilbara¹²⁸

Weight: 11-0| Age: 7

T: Miss S Smith J: Charlie Hammond

Forecasts

Bothwell Bridge (7/4), Danny Kirwan (5/2), Champagne Court (16/5), Not Available (4/1), Pilbara (16/1)

BOTHWELL BRIDGE made a bright start to his chasing career when winning at Sandown and, having had excuses for his last 2 starts, can get back on track with better conditions to suit following his Newbury disappointment. He remains with potential over fences and can prove too strong for Danny Kirwan, who should also appreciate the return to quicker ground after Sandown last time. Champagne Court can run his race again and completes the shortlist.