RACE PREVIEWS & TIPS (WEDNESDAY)

15:15 Doncaster This handicap hurdle looks to revolve around Graeme McPherson’s Skipthecuddles who has made a good transition to hurdles. On his debut over obstacles he was second to Keeper Hill, who has since gone on to win a Listed race. This six year old got off the mark at Wetherby in good style drawing clear and this extra distance looks likely to bring out further improvement now in a handicap. There could be plenty of pace with the in-form Some Kinda Lama and handicap debutant Rocky’s Treasure likely to try and make the running. The former was second at Sandown and is dropped in class but has been raised 3lb for that effort. A tongue-tie has been fitted, so could aid his chances. With there being pace on it could suit Bodega, a recent course and distance winner. Ian Williams’ inmate has gone up 5lb for that but gets into this off a low weight with being upped in class. If that run can be repeated then he is one to look at to hit the frame. Skipthecuddles (WIN) – NAP

17:20 Ludlow Theatrebar represents the Skelton team in this handicap hurdle and he was a winner over track and trip two starts ago after an absence. He ran a decent race in a better grade last time and being dropped back in class here makes him a big player despite the big weight he has to carry. The one I’m interested in hasn’t completed on his last two. Calin Du Brizais was returned to hurdles at Musselburgh last time and was travelling powerfully before unseating at the last. That was an encouraging effort as if there were still signs of life in him and with Ciaran Gethings back on board here here’s got a nice racing weight. That race was over three miles and this is a drop in trip but the sharp track could suit his style. He also represents an in-form yard in the shape of Nigel Hawke, so with plenty of positives is on to keep on side. Gulshanigans was held off by Just Joelliott at this course last time and is still on a mark where he could threaten if he tidied up his jumping because there is definitely a race in him. While the unexposed Monsieur Arkadin, who has been stuffed in two starts over hurdles, could try and take advantage of an obvious lack of pace in the race by trying to go from the front as he looks a likely leader. Calin Du Brizais (E/W)