chianti classico © Photo Healy Racing
Kim Bailey expects to have a clearer idea of what route Chianti Classico will pursue for the rest of this season after he lines up in the feature event at 1.50 today. The trainer has been particularly bullish about his chances even though he carries top weight.
We look at today’s market movers with Paddy Power on day one of Cheltenham’s Christmas meeting.
12.10 That’s Nice 8-13 from 5-6
An impressive winner at Warwick, the form has a solid look to it with the runner-up landing a Listed contest at Sandown and she can take advantage of the 7lb she receives from all of her rivals.
12.40 Jango Baie 6-5 from 13-8
Jango Baie was a smart hurdler who has the scope to go far over the larger obstacles and may end up being the main threat to the selection.
1.15 Wreckless Eric 9-2 from 6-1
Wreckless Eric went up 8lb for scoring at Cheltenham last month and is capable of taking another step forward today.
1.50 Chianti Classico 5-4 from 6-4
Goes from strength to strength over fences and carried 12st to victory at Ascot in good style on his reappearance. A winner at the Festival here back in March, Kim Bailey's charge may prove tough to beat once again.
2.25 Shan Blue 7-2 from 9-2
Has not won for four years but is a talented type for the Skelton team. He looks well handicapped now and is stepping down in trip today.
3.00 Latenightpass 5-1 from 6-1
Won this contest last year and should come on for his tenth-placed finish in the Grand Sefton at Aintree last month.
3.00 The Goffer 18/1 from 40/1
Been out of form but steps up in trip today after a disappointing performance last time at Navan when finishing seventh for Gordon Elliott.
3.35 Doyen Quest 6-5 from 13-8
Accounted for Gowel Road when readily justifying favouritism at the November Meeting here and, despite a 10lb hike in the ratings, this progressive six-year-old looks like the one they all have to beat again.
3.35 Long Draw 7/2 from 8-1
Shown some good form in handicaps for Olly Murphy. Won at Ffos Las in May and finished second four times since, including at Cheltenham in November.
