This weekend sees the running of the always ultra competitive Hennessy Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury, run over a testing 3m 2f. Much like the Paddy Power Bet Victor Chase at Cheltenham in November, experienced handicappers are pitted against inexperienced, but potentially well handicapped second season chasers.
Our resident Horse Racing expert The Flyer has previewed the main protagonists:
Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury: Saturday 26th November
"Native River (6/1)
He has plenty of ticks in the right boxes, he's unexposed, stays very well and had a pleasing prep over hurdles at Wetherby recently. However the bookmakers haven't missed him and at 6/1 there is very little value.
Vyta Du Roc (8/1)
Looked in need of real test when outpaced in RSA Chase, recent rain in favour and fits the profile of Hennessy winner, respected.
Un Temps Pour Tout (9/1)
Winner over hurdles on recent start, Cheltenham festival winner over fences in March and solid claims, respected.
Saphir Du Rheu (9/1)
Looks to be too short in the betting. Is potentially well handicapped but doesn't look a natural over fences and is readily opposed.
Henri Parry Morgan (10/1)
Progressive last year was well backed when unseating in Bet365 Gold Cup, needs to resume progress to be involved in finish here, others look to have more solid claims.
Blaklion (9/1)
Last seasons RSA winner has been well backed in recent days. He is capable of running well, but looks vulnerable to a better handicapped rival.
Smad Place (11/1)
Last years winner had a very good prep at Aintree last time and looks to have a very solid EW chance.
Conclusion: - Smad Place looks to have a solid EW chance and is worth backing against potentially unexposed rivals, will go from the front and is strongly fancied to be involved in finish."
The Flyer is man in form at the moment. Following up a spectacular effort at Cheltenham with even more impressive results at Ascot and Haydock on Saturday - where he landed four winners for a 6.3pt profit on the day.
He'll have a full card of tips for the big day at Newbury as usual, available to all Members.
LW