Jumps racing today is decidedly low-key on the eve of the Open meeting at Cheltenham, and bets should be kept to a minimum. But I believe it is worth taking on the hot favourite Thursday's Knight at Ludlow with Ring Bo Ree (2.30), from the in-form Tom George stable. Blinkers worked for Thursday's Knight at Plumpton last week and he is well handicapped on that form, but the betting suggests something is expected of Ring Bo Ree, a best priced 7-2 this morning despite three modest efforts last season. The step up in trip in what is a modest handicap should see Tom George's runner show big improvement, while the booking of Paddy Brennan is a major positive.
Although the novice hurdle at Taunton is interesting, featuring useful ex-Flat horses Thundering Star and Humble Opinion, I am struggling to find a bet at the west-country track. Ivory Lace (1.20) looks worth an interest at Lingfield, though. She has yet to win over a mile, but her last-time effort suggests the trip will not be a problem, and Ivory Lace can benefit from the handling of Jamie Spencer, whose inclination to give his mounts too much to do has not been so evident of late. In fact the former champion has been riding some good races from the front.
Pivka (3.50), with the no-nonsense Jimmy Fortune on board, will be a short-priced favourite in the finale at Lingfield but she looks well enough handicapped after her clear-cut maiden win here.
