Barry Hill's Lucky31 Racing Tips
3 minutes Barry Hill gives his tips from Pontefract, Carlisle, Navan and Southwell
2:02 Pontefract
Thank You Richard Hammill Novice Stakes (GBB Race)
STRONG WARRIOR - 5/6 (NAP)
STRONG WARRIOR made a big impression when making a winning debut over the minimum trip at Ayr last summer, drawing three lengths clear of Hammer The Hammer. That form has worked out well, with all three rivals going on to score subsequently, suggesting Richard Fahey’s son of Mehmas is a sprinter to follow this season. Although he carries a 7lb penalty here, so too does Wolverhampton winner Veblen Good, and STRONG WARRIOR looks to have been found a good opportunity to make a successful start to his three-year-old campaign. Veblen Good rates the main danger, while U Sure Do and the newcomer Call Me Betty are others worth a second look.
2:10 Navan
Return Of The Flat At Navan Handicap
LISMACBRYAN HILL - 9/4
LISMACBRYAN HILL makes a quick reappearance after posting a career-best when finishing a fine second over 5f at Bellewstown on Saturday. Pat Magee’s progressive filly looks the one to be with in the opening 6f handicap, especially with Chris Hayes back on board.
Although a little sluggish away last time, she soon made stylish headway and probably hit the front a shade too soon at the two-furlong marker. That bold move left her vulnerable late on, allowing Aurora Nova to swoop past close home. Even so, Lismacbryan Hill was only just over a length adrift at the line and came well clear of the rest. With a slightly more patient ride today and the benefit of good ground, she looks primed to go one better.
3:32 Pontefract
Every Race Live On Racing TV Handicap
VENTURE CAPITAL - 4/1
Tim Easterby sends out a strong duo in Vince L'Amour and Manila Scouse, both more than capable on their best form. While the yard has been a touch quiet of late, a check on the betting could prove informative. That said, preference is for the lightly raced VENTURE CAPITAL, who showed plenty of promise during his three-year-old campaign. Kevin Ryan’s progressive gelding could take plenty of stopping if returning in the same rich vein of form he showed in October. Course-and-distance winners Ventura Express and Dream Composer also add depth to what looks a competitive contest.
3:50 Carlisle
WILASTON - 7/2
WILASTON looks a big player dropping in class for Mark Walford, and he's very much one to note now 7lb below his last winning mark when he got the better of Bold Endeavour at Haydock in 2023. With conditions to suit, and Jamie Hamilton booked, the nine-year-old is poised to deliver a bold showing.
Last March, he ran a cracker when second to Uncle Bert in stronger company at Bangor-on-Dee, defying big odds of 28/1 to beat some smart types like West To The Bridge and Jungle Jack. He also placed at Uttoxeter in October at 18/1, showing he can still mix it with good horses. Although he’s faced stiff competition since, he should relish these calmer waters and looks primed to go close.
8:00 Southwell
Gamble Responsibly At BetMGM Handicap
BILLY MCGARRY - 4/1
BILLY MCGARRY had been threatening to get his head in front and was duly rewarded with a deserved C&D success last time out. The six-year-old looks to hold strong claims of following up, particularly with his rider’s handy 7lb claim giving him every chance at the weights.
Mickey Mongoose has been holding his form well and looks sure to give another solid account, while Disclosure, a recent Lingfield winner who carries a 5lb penalty, and Jack Daniel are others worth keeping on side in a competitive affair.
