Today's best bets, by Tony Paley
There could not be a greater contrast today between the jumps racing which takes place around the unique contours of Towcester racecourse, with its famous uphill finish, and the flat, sandy terrain of the all-weather Flat courses at Lingfield and Wolverhampton.
With the soft ground at Towcester putting a distinct emphasis on stamina, the safest bet is to stick with the action on the level and Cobo Bay (2.20) appeals as the best bet of the day in the opener at Wolverhampton.
Neil Callan is likely to be able to dictate matters from the front on his mount, with form in the book to win this and who won with a good deal in hand last time out over track and trip.
The most interesting race of the afternoon, with an eye to the future, is the Class 4 seven-furlong handicap. This is a tricky little heat with a number of unexposed types in opposition, and those lined up will be winning more races this season.
Progress could be the one to come out on top today given he should improve for the step up in trip but the percentage call is probably to watch and learn this afternoon.
Tipping competition - a new week
Congratulations to 15244, the resounding winner of last week's competition. Having the lead on Friday morning, he then hit two winners on the final day at 6-1 and 4-1.
This week's prize is a copy of the Racing & Football Outlook's Flat Guide 2010, in which those dedicated folks at RFO preview the new Flat season. With close to 200 pages packed with stats, facts and opinion, it's a brilliant way to reintroduce yourself to the summer game.
To kick things off, we'd like your tips, please, for these races: 3.30 Towcester, 4.20 Wolves, 4.30 Towcester.
As ever, our champion will be the tipster who returns the best profit to notional level stakes of £1 at starting price on our nominated races, of which there will be three each day up until Friday. Non-runners count as losers.
For terms and conditions click here. Good luck!
Click here for all the day's racecards, form, stats and results.
Click here for today's latest odds.
And post your racing-related comments below.
