We take a look at 5 of our fancied tips on the 'All Weather' circuit this Saturday evening.
5:30 Newcastle (AW)
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BOBBY SHAFTOE - 13/8
BOBBY SHAFTOE achieved victory on this course and distance just 11 days ago, marking his second win in his last three appearances. With only a 3lb increase in his rating, this gelding trained by Jim Goldie has the potential to be quite formidable once more. Night Bear, who finished a length and a half behind the selection last time, stands a good chance of closing that gap, benefiting from a 4lb advantage this time around. Geelong and Eloped are highlighted as the best of the remaining contenders.
6:15 Wolverhampton (AW)
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LAHEG - 9/4
LAHEG secured a narrow victory over the same distance during his last outing at Lingfield, which led the handicapper to apply a modest 2lb increase in his weight. Possessing a notably efficient burst of speed in the later stages of a race, the presence of just seven competitors this time suggests he won’t be far from the lead. This positioning should allow him to effectively launch his challenge when the moment is right.
6:45 Wolverhampton (AW)
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BERNIE THE BEAR - 2/1
BERNIE THE BEAR is experiencing a strong phase with his current team, despite facing some challenges that led to a fourth-place finish in his most recent race here. Given these circumstances, he appears primed for a victorious comeback in his next outing. Viewfromthestars, who managed a commendable second-place finish at Chelmsford last month despite less-than-ideal conditions, is considered a strong contender following Bernie. Fircombe Hall ranks just behind, rounding out the list of notable competitors.
7:00 Newcastle (AW)
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ZIGGY'S MISSILE - 4/11
Keldeo, who made her handicap debut at Catterick in September, didn't disappoint and deserves another chance, especially as she's related to a winner on the all-weather track. Nevertheless, the top pick is ZIGGY'S MISSILE, coming off victories at Wolverhampton and Southwell. Even with an additional 8lb weight, this advancing offspring of Blue Point might well secure another win. Tees Douge, possibly set to benefit from the addition of a hood for the first time, leads the rest of the field as a noteworthy contender.
8:00 Newcastle (AW)
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DREAM FOR GOLD - 4/1
Many contenders in this field have strong arguments, but DREAM FOR GOLD stands out as having shown notable improvement since being gelded. This horse is positioned to improve on an impressive second-place finish in a recent outing here. Strong Johnson is attractive considering the current weights and ranks as the next choice. Course specialist Bonito Cavalo, along with other course and distance winners Pepsi Cat and Castan, should also be seriously considered in the assessment.