This weekend’s rain will no doubt be crucial as Venetia Williams’ paddock starts and prepares for her first win of the season with Espoir De Guye at Ascot this afternoon.
2.05 Ascot – Rival Williams appears to be defying his weight
Venetia Williams hasn’t had a winner this season but with the rain last week, you’d think a win was on the way and coming in Royal Ascot Racing Club Handicap Chase (2:05) and Guy Hope.
The eight-year-old should carry a lot of weight under Charlie Deutsch but he has a lot of class and should enjoy the soft spot he may have against many of his rivals.
Paul Nicholls is flying and sends out Tamaroc Du Mathan in the colors of Johnny de la Hey, who has a good shot at Ascot, while Michael Scudamore’s Do Your Job is a delight after being upset when favored in the Old Roan Chase.
3.15 Ascot – Henderson goes for third win in heat race
The Garden for All Seasons Hurdle (3:15) he has gone the way of Nicky Henderson in the last two years and the seven Barrows maestro is running Gipsy De Choisel here under Daryl Jacob.
The six-year-old looks to be doing well and has a chance to win at Warwick last time out for the team of Munir & Souede.
Others worth noting include Neil King’s Onemorefortheroad who finished fourth at Aintree last month, and four-year-old Doctor Parnassus who should do better than a disappointing fifth of five at Cheltenham behind Pied Piper.
2.40 Ascot – Maxwell hopes Tiger can recover after wind surgery
David Maxwell has added the likes of Saint Calvados to his squad in the off-season, but it could be an old favourite. Cat Tiger who do business in Unforgettable Handicap Chase (2:40).
Amateur rider Maxwell delivered Cat Tiger expertly on the line to win at this venue last season, and finished the campaign with a superb second for Foxhunters at Aintree.
Cat Tiger (centre right) ridden by David Maxwell wins the SBK Handicap Chase at the SBK Clarence House Chase Raceday at Ascot
Williams also sends Kapga De Lily who won this heat last year, while youngster Regal Encore made a big comeback at 14 for Anthony Honeyball.
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