3:00, Betfred Monet’s Garden Old Roan Chase (Class 1) – 2m 4f
Last year’s winner Conquisto returns for another crack at this and races off a 4 lb lower mark than that victory. However, this looks a much better renewal and Steve Gollings charge will be without the services of AP McCoy this time around, so it may pay to look elsewhere. Uxizandre was one of last seasons leading novices and signed off his campaign with an impressive performance over C&D to land a Grade 1 here back in April. He looks open to plenty more improvement and is a leading player with Barry Geraghty on board for the first time. Trainer Tom George saddles the top-weight Module and he’ll be hoping for further rain overnight if his seven-year-old is to have a say in the outcome. Rajdhani Express is another who makes the shortlist as he usually goes well fresh, but preference is for the Paul Nicholls-trained ROLLING ACES. The eight-year-old made a winning reappearance last season when landing a Grade 2 at Down Royal and only found Boston Bob too good in the Melling Chase over today’s trip back in April. He looks to have every chance if reproducing that form again and is great value for a place at the least. Of the remainder, Bold Sir Brian is of some interest following a lengthy absence, but it would be hard to make a case for the ageing Wishfull Thinking who was only sixth in this last year off a 2 lb lower mark.
Recommended: ROLLING ACES – 8/1
Over the sticks 