Trainer Nicky Henderson has opted to run the highly rated Jonbon at Warwick in the Virgin Bet Kingmaker Novices’ Chase (16h40) instead of at Newbury this afternoon.
Cold weather is forecast, while track conditions are likely to remain good.
The McManus owned novice is unbeaten over the larger obstacles, and last time out was impressive when coasting home in the Gr2 Henry VIII at Sandown. Only three take up the challenge in this Group 2 contest and he must win to have any chance in the Arkle at next month’s Festival.
Jonbon and jockey Aidan Coleman after winning the Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle during Ladies Day of the Randox Health Grand National Festival 2022 (Pic – Racing TV)
Earlier on the card at 16h05, Love Envoi attempts to improve her record to nine victories from ten starts in the listed Warwick Mares’ Hurdle. The Harry Fry trained runner was only beaten at the end of a long season last year and looks too classy for this field.
Down in Berkshire it is not much warmer and with Newbury unable to water, track conditions are set to be quick. Officially, the going is declared as good.
The card features two Group 2’s. At 16h25, seven runners contest the Betfair Denman Chase run over three miles.
Hitman from the Paul Nicholls yard is favourite at around 7/4, and on form he looks the part. Part owned by Alex Ferguson; his recent form includes runner-up placings behind the likes of Fakir D’oudairies before winning easily at Haydock. However, his last run in the King George at Kempton on Boxing Day was most disappointing and he was pulled up a long way out.
With Eldorado Allen having to carry a 6lbs penalty, the Venetia Williams trained Fanion D’Estruval is the selection. He ran to his best form on his last start when third at Wetherby in late December. Running on well at the finish there, he should improve again now reunited with big race rider Charlie Deutsch. The application of headgear is also noted.
Last year’s winner Funambule Sivola defends his title in the Gr2 Betfair Exchange Game Spirit Chase (17h00), run over an extended two miles. However, his form this season has been average, and he meets the Paul Nicholls trained Greaneteen at level weights.
Greaneteen is officially rated 15lbs superior and is in great form this season. After an easy front-running victory at Exeter, he was not disgraced when runner-up to Edwardstone in the Group 1 Tingle Creek in early December. He will enjoy this sounder surface and should return to winning ways.
