Weekend racing preview and top tip: Thomas Darby peaking at just the right time

This weekend’s racing will be one of the last chances to see Cheltenham Festival entries in action before next month’s showpiece event.
By Jack Watson
Published 21st Feb 2020, 06:00 BST
Updated 21st Feb 2020, 12:50 BST
Thomas Darby. Photo by Henry Browne/Getty ImagesThomas Darby. Photo by Henry Browne/Getty Images
Thomas Darby. Photo by Henry Browne/Getty Images

The Racing Post have previewed all the action with stats and analysis.

Champion Hurdle entry Thomas Darby will complete his festival preparation with a run in the hugely competitive Grade Two Netbet Casino National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell on Sunday (3.20). Thomas Darby, who is peaking just as he did before finishing second in last year’s Supreme, will be ridden by Aidan Coleman in place of the injured Richard Johnson. Quel Destin and Eldorando Allen are also worth consideration.

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Beakstown has more to show than his recent runs suggest and should be back to winning ways on an excellent card at Kempton (1.15 Saturday).

Kildisart is worth consideration in the three-mile 888Sport Handicap Chase (3.35) but Black Corton, who has course and distance form, should deliver his first win of the season for in-form Champion trainer Paul Nicholls.

Seasoned campaigner Petite Power heads the market alongside Very First Time and Hugo ‘N Taz in one of the big betting races at Newcastle on Saturday (2:45). Hugo ‘N Taz has the form but the nature of the four-mile handicap chase suggests the best value may be further down the market and Colin Tizzard’s Christmas In April stands out after some promising performances over Christmas.

NAP Thomas Darby, 3.20 Fontwell

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