In his exclusive column, the National Hunt jockey and Betway ambassador previews his weekend rides and explains why doing 10 stone is worthwhile
I told you all about Village Vic on Thursday and I’m certainly looking forward to the ride.
Doing 10 stone is never easy, but I definitely think it’s worth it. He’s got a good chance.
I won’t be having a lot for dinner, that’s for sure.
Saturday
My first ride is Sky Lino for Nick Williams in the Triumph Hurdle Trial (12.05pm).
Realistically, on all known form he’s going to have to improve significantly. The top three in the race look pretty smart so it’s going to be tough for him. It’s all good experience, though.
Bold Henry is having his first start of the season in the handicap chase (1.15pm). He won at the November meeting last year on his seasonal debut so he clearly goes well fresh.
He has a nice weight, is still relatively unexposed and I hope he has a good each-way chance.
I don’t know too much about West Approach in the Albert Bartlett Trial (2.25pm). He was behind me at Newbury last month, but Colin Tizzard’s horses are running really well so you never know.
The International (3.00pm) is always a high class race and this is Cheltenian’s first run of the season.
He doesn’t mind soft ground and his win in the Scottish Champion Hurdle last April showed that he’s a good horse.
That said, he’d need to produce a career best to win this against decent horses like Peace And Co and Old Guard.
Rons Dream bolted up at the last meeting and if she’s in the same form she’ll come here with a great chance (3.35pm).
Sean Bowen has to go to Doncaster and I’m lucky to pick up the ride.
Sunday
I’m on a couple for Jonjo [O’Neill] at Carlisle on Sunday and Bronco Billy looks to be the one with the best chance (1.05pm).
He won a bumper last year and Jonjo’s horses are running well. The soft ground will suit and he should have a good chance.
Knock A Hand (1.40pm) has won his last two starts at Carlisle which is a big positive. It’s a specialist track and he likes soft ground so should go well.
Pineau De Re (2.10pm) doesn’t need much of an introduction, he’s a great horse.
He unfortunately fell early on in the Becher Chase last week and, as long as that hasn’t left its mark, he can perform well back over hurdles.
Dr Newland is second to none at keeping horses fresh and well. I’m sure the long-term target is the Grand National again.
READ: Richard Johnson: We’ve always thought the world of Village Vic
