We’re back at CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE in England as the jumps season kicks into gear on Saturday, October 25th, where form begins to shine and future stars start to show. The seven-race card kicks off at approximately 1:10 pm and runs through to about 4:40 pm, with novices, handicaps and flat-jump contests filling the afternoon. This day, part of the William Hill Showcase meeting, offers a mix of novice chases, handicaps and staying tests — a great way to spot talent ahead of the big meetings to come.
Race 1: William Hill Each Way Extra Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (1:10pm, 2m4f44y)
The opener is a Class 3 chase where novice chasers look to make their early mark. CREST OF FORTUNE, DOUBLE POWERFUL and NEWTON TORNADO may try to settle nicely and show jumping fluency, while KDEUX SAINT FRAY, TRUE TESTIMONY and SPRINGS A GIRL could be the dark horse if they’ve been schooled for this step-up. A strong start could signal a promising campaign ahead. Winner’s gain: £11,618
Race 2: Play William Hill’s Final One Standing Novices’ Hurdle (GBB Race) (1:45pm, 2m7f208y)
Next up, a higher-grade hurdle contest for those moving into more competitive company. POUR LES FILLES, MINELLA SUPREME and SOLDIERS WORLD may bring form and confidence into this, whereas KASINO DES MOTTES, SPORTING GLANCE and MISS GOLDFIRE might have the hidden potential to shine if they handle the pressure. This race will help separate the contenders from the pretenders. Winner’s gain: £10,892
Race 3: William Hill Best Odds Guaranteed Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (2:20pm, 3m1f)
We return to fences in this Class 2 chase, where experience and stamina converge. THE SHORT GO, ROCK MY WAY and BACKMERSACKME might attempt to dominate from the front if jumping cleanly, while KING’S THRESHOLD, THREE CARD BRAG and MINELLA BLUEWAY could lurk for a late flourish if the pace becomes testing. A tactical affair where positioning counts. Winner’s gain: £52,030
Race 4: Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Pertemps Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB Race) (2:55pm, 2m7f208y)
Back over hurdles in another Class 2 outing, this race invites those still improving to show real progression. LONG DRAW, WINNING SMUT and CHART TOPPER could have the class edge, and CHANCE ANOTHER ONE, QUANTUM QUEST and WATCHFUL PROTECTOR may surprise if they’ve matured past their previous form lines. Mid-race rhythm and jumping will matter. Winner’s gain: £19,061
Race 5: Masterson Holdings Hurdle (GBB Race) (3:30pm, 2m87y)
Continuing the quality jumps action, this second Class 2 hurdle offers yet another chance for emerging talent to shine. GIVE IT TO ME OJ, CABALLO DE GUERRA and THE EGYPTIAN GINGE might have the fitness and form to press on, while LORIKO and HAMLET’S NIGHT could turn the tables if they’ve found a bit more zip. These races are often won by those who handle the run-in powerfully. Winner’s gain: £21,784
Race 6: William Hill Extra Places With Bog ‘Chasing Excellence’ Novices’ Chase (GBB Race) (4:05pm, 3m1f)
Another Class 2 chase to deepen the story of the afternoon: INTENSE APPROACH, WELCOM TO CARTRIES and LEAVE OF ABSENCE may bring refined technique over fences, and SPORTING GLORY, BALTIC BIRD and PIED PIPER could be the improving type ready to step up. Jumps, pace and stamina will all play their part in how this one unfolds. Winner’s gain: £21,784
Race 7: Oddschecker Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB Race) (4:40pm, 2m87y)
To finish the card, a Class 2 flat event under National Hunt flat rules gives the younger or less-experienced jumpers a platform. LE BEAU MADRIK, ANTARCTIC LEGEND and CROSSGALES KING may show raw speed and promise, while NOT WITHOUT DANGER, HANS LIPPERSHEY and LE FABULEUX BUCK’S could thunder home if they’ve got more in hand than meets the eye. A fitting finale where future hurdlers and chasers might earn their first notice. Winner’s gain: £9,531
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