Eddie Fremantle reviews today's best bets
At Fontwell, that dour and doughty battler Lough Derg (3.45) aims to win the National Spirit Hurdle for the second time. It will be no easy task for him and Tom Scudamore will be pushing and scrubbing from the outset, but he should enjoy the 2½-mile trip more than Hills Of Aran, who needs further these days.
Time may tell that Oceanos Des Obeaux (3.10) put up a good performance when second to Tarlak in a very fast time at Kempton and one of those who finished behind him, Ofarel D'Airy, has franked the form in a handicap at Chepstow. That makes Philip Hobbs' seven-year-old a very strong fancy for the 2½-mile handicap chase.
In the opener Ballycarney (2.10) is the mount of Tony McCoy who has a fine record for Henrietta Knight – he has won for her twice recently.
At Lingfield Step It Up (2.20) has been running well enough lately to justify support with Jamie Spencer an eyecatching booking, while the opening seller at Towcester looks just right for Biscar Two (2.30). He is coming back after nearly a year off, but has always looked likely to be suited by a course with a stiff finish such as the Northamptonshire track's.
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