OUR racing expert Graeme Johnston (@GraemeJ_83) takes a look at Saturday’s big race. Who is he fancying for the Tingle Creek?
15:00 Sandown | Channel 4
The Tingle Creek is one of my favourite races of the season and this looks a good if not spectacular renewal. The betting for the race has been quiet during the week due to the uncertainty over the field as Willie Mullins left it late before deciding on which star to send over.
Un De Sceaux
He opted for Un De Sceaux, who at one point was arguably the most exciting prospect in the Mullins yard. He’s gone on to win an Arkle but between jumping errors and a reliance on heavy ground he’s not reached the heights once expected. He’s a talented horse but he looks vulnerable here to me.
Sire De Grugy is a real star for connections and this former Champion Chase winner is no back number yet. He won an Ascot handicap last time in good style and saves his best form for this track. However the longer last season went on the furthest off top class he became and despite being race fit I can’t back him at the prices on offer.
His stablemate Ar Mad was a revelation last season winning a Grade 1 over course and distance in great style. He actually won that race in a quicker time than this race on the same card.
He’s unbeaten since however he’s been injured since last February. I don’t doubt he’s a high class horse however he tends to need the run and his stable isn’t in the same form it was this time last season. I hope he runs well but I can’t back him here.
God’s Own
The one I really like here is God’s Own. Ok, in big races Un De Sceaux has a 2-0 record against him, but I see reasons for his revenge here. God’s Own has had two starts, both with promise and when top weight last time he seemed to be beaten by the trip rather than the weight.
He won two Grade 1 races in the Spring and will be the fittest horse in the race. I think this is an occasion where I’m not picking the best horse in the race however I’m picking the most likely winner. I plan to back him to win in what is an intriguing race.
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15:00 Sandown – God’s Own to win (9/2 Ladbrokes)
