TimeformBlog

Crowning Jewel has threatened to be a useful performer in National Hunt Flat races over the last twelve months and built upon that form on his hurdles debut last time, finishing second behind the impressive Malt Master in a maiden contest at Newcastle. Crowning Jewel did well to finish as close as he did on that occasion, having made his move from much further back than the eventual winner and a victory in a similar contest looked as though it should be a formality. The novice hurdle he contests at Catterick this afternoon (13:20) does look strong, with some interesting flat recruits making their debuts, but Crowning Jewel has the all-important experience over obstacles and looks fair value at the current prices.

In the following race at Catterick, Quel Ballistic looks capable of landing what is an ordinary handicap. Quel Ballistic has shaped on more than one occasion as if a step up to three miles plus will suit and that is the assignment he faces this afternoon. He showed stamina to be his forte last time, staying on well and responding to pressure to finish second at Wetherby, and he looks well treated judged on that effort nevermind the improvement that is likely to come for today's stiffer test. Added to that, his trainer John Wade has been in good form recently, and Quel Ballistic is the bet of the day.

The final SmartPlay comes at Southwell, where Upper Lambourn (14:30) is one from one over course and distance and should be able to take advantage of the mark he has slipped to after below-par performances at Sandown and Wolverhampton. Upper Lambourn looked potentially useful on his only Southwell start, travelling strongly and winning comfortably under just a hands and heels ride, and he can be expected to build upon that on just his fifth career start, as he clearly handles the track well.

Back Crowning Jewel @ 3.2 in the 13:20 at Catterick
Back Quel Ballistic @ 3.7 in the 13:50 at Catterick
Back Upper Lambourne @ 11.0 in the 14:30 at Southwell

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