Stephen Welch

Nottingham

• 13:54

  JournalismE/W

  JOURNALISM was well beaten on his debut at Windsor last month, but there are reasons to expect a much-improved performance on his second appearance. Hamad Al Jehani’s three-year-old finished fourth of five over a mile on good to soft ground, although that experience should have brought him forward and he remains completely unexposed. He is bred to be a useful performer and the fact James Doyle retains the ride is encouraging, particularly with conditions similar to those encountered on debut.

  Notes
  30/1

Ffos Las

• 16:38

  Il Est FrancaisNAP

  IL EST FRANCAIS has plenty to prove following three disappointing performances last season, but the switch to Dan Skelton could revive this high-class chaser. The eight-year-old was runner-up in the 2024 King George VI Chase at Kempton and has previously competed at the highest level, making his current mark of 155 potentially attractive. He was rated 165 before his form deteriorated last season and returns from a 187-day break with Harry Skelton taking over in the saddle. This is a competitive handicap featuring established performers such as Saint Segal and Crebilly, but Il Est Francais possesses the class to outshine these rivals if returning anywhere near his best.

  Notes
  5/2

Wetherby

• 16:52

  Centurion's Sister

  CENTURION'S SISTER has yet to finish outside the first three over hurdles and looks capable of following up her impressive victory at Market Rasen in August. Nicky Richards’ six-year-old opened her account with a 7½ length success over 2m4f on good ground, benefiting from the application of cheekpieces for the first time. She had previously finished runner-up in handicaps at Bangor and Cartmel before placing third at Perth, demonstrating her consistency throughout the summer. She returns to handicap company from a mark of 105, just 5lbs higher than for her previous handicap efforts and the retained cheekpieces should help. With Danny McMenamin back aboard and this intermediate trip looking ideal, Centurion's Sister can continue her progression.

  Notes
  15/8