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15:40 Wetherby – Charlie Hall Chase Today’s racing on ITV all consists of jumps action from both Ascot and here at Wetherby whereby the Grade 2 Charlie Hall Chase takes centre stage. Previous victors include the likes of Cue Card, Silviniaco Conti and One Man to name some top-class past winners. This years renewal certainly isn’t full of top-class staying chasers but the potential that La Bague Au Roi has certainly makes this an intriguing renewal. The 8 year old mare will see the addition of blinkers for the first time and if that can eek out further improvement she’s going to be a tough nut to crack. Warren Greatrex’s runner has never lost first time out and claimed two Grade 1 victories last season. It can be argued that she still needs to step up a little now going up against more seasoned top level chasers but it’s hard to go against the current market favourite. Last years winner Definitely Red deserves a whole heap of respect especially as trainer Brian Ellison has his horses in great form. With a course and distance victory to his name he seems the most likely one to topple the favourite, he also goes well fresh but perhaps lacks the class to claim success. The horse who’s competed at perhaps the highest level last season is Elegant Escape however this looks a stepping stone towards bigger and better things as well as possibly over more marathon trips. Capable of winning this race but certainly not a target for Colin Tizzard’s charge. Of the rest Aso has to be monitored closely and if money comes for the nine year old then it’d be a huge sign that a big run is expected from connections. Sadly there’s not 8 runners going to post or else Aso would be a very good each way bet however with limited entries it has to be the favourite that gets the vote here. LA BAGUE AUR ROI (WIN)
ITV Racing: 13:35 Ascot – Jammy George (E/W) 13:55 Wetherby – Zambella (E/W) 14:10 Ascot – Diego Du Charmil (E/W) 14:25 Down Royal – Clan Des Obeaux (WIN) 14:45 Ascot – Song For Someone (E/W) 15:05 Wetherby – Unowhatimeanharry (WIN) 15:20 Ascot – Relentless Dreamer (E/W) 15:40 Wetherby – (See Above)