RACING: Today's most valuable contest in Britain, the £120,000 Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot, offers a cracking bet in the shape of Redemption, rejuvenated since a move to Nigel Twiston-Davies and at the very top of his game.
There's no denying that top-weight and Champion Chase hopeful Azertyuiop is the class act in the two-mile showpiece, but he has to give at least 17lb to each of his 12 rivals.
Redemption has to race from 6lb out of the handicap, which is not ideal, but he did make use of a favourable mark over hurdles to score back at Prestbury Park in a competitive event, always travelling with ease before comfortably holding Monkerhostin by a length.
He must go close today if his jumping holds up.
First Love can strike for the in-form Nicky Henderson team in the vcpoker.com Handicap Chase at the same venue.
The £110,000 Tote Classic Chase at Warwick has attracted an interesting Irish raider in the shape of What Odds.
He represents the same owners responsible for last year's Grand National hero Monty's Pass and comes in as an unexposed eight-year-old.
He made every yard to win with ease at Fairyhouse over today's trip, and confidence in the market would speak for itself.
