It looks like Amanda Perrett has been lining COUNT OTTO up for a tilt at the 2.20 at Lingfield for quite some time. He has now dropped to a workable mark based on his best form and his course form would certainly inspire you. A good winner at Newmarket this time last year, he clearly still has plenty of ability and with Jim Crowley taking over the reigns again, from a low draw, I expect him to go close.
Up at Newcastle I think SIR CHAUVELIN is a belting each way bet at 20/1. Jim Goldie's admirable 10 year old proved he still has plenty of ability when finishing a fast finishing third at Kempton last time out. He overcame a pace bias that day and ran some race to finish third. Despite seemingly having a lot to find on ratings here, I don't think he's that far away from the best of them and I certainly wouldn't make him a 20/1 shot.
Lingfield 2.20 – Count Otto
Newcastle 4.15 – Sir Chauvelin
Saturday
If there is a handicap blot at Haydock tomorrow then it will be ZABEEL CHAMPION for the shrewd Jonjo O'Neill yard. A 103 rated flat horse for Mark Johnston, the handicapper has deemed his jumps form is worthy of a mark of 116 so clearly he could be thrown in. His jumps form isn't too shabby either especially when you consider the fact he will probably be better suited to this big field handicap. With just 10'8 on his back he will have every chance of winning this valuable pot which has probably been the plan for some time.
Up at Musselburgh I think GOOD LUCK FOX is a really interesting bet in a race which he ran so well in last year. He shot up the handicap after last year's appearance but on his best form he could still have a bit of mileage in his current mark. He has had what looks to be two pipe openers this season at Southwell which should put him spot on for this. He is likely to blast from the front and he has the draw to do that. Graeme Lee gets on well with him and I think he will run a big race at a juicy price.
Haydock 3.19 – Zabeel Champion
Musselburgh 4.22 – Good Luck Fox
