Get ready for a fantastic Saturday of horse racing action, live and exclusive on Sky Sports Racing! Two exciting venues take center stage: the prestigious Chepstow Racecourse, home to the highly anticipated Coral Welsh Grand National Trial, and the always-competitive Wolverhampton Racecourse. Let’s dive into the key races and contenders.
Chepstow: A Clash of Titans in the Welsh National Trial
The Coral Welsh Grand National Trial Handicap Chase (1.37 pm) promises a thrilling showdown. Good Risk At All, representing the in-form Sam Thomas yard and ridden by Dylan Johnston, is a strong contender. This classy hurdler, who boasts a win from three chase starts last season, returns after a heavy defeat at Chepstow in December 2022. Can he recapture his winning form?
Facing him is the formidable Gelino Bello, carrying top weight for champion trainer Paul Nicholls. A Grade One winner as a novice hurdler, Gelino Bello showed promise over fences with two initial victories before a setback in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton in December 2022. His absence since a pulled-up performance in the Cleeve Hurdle 679 days prior adds an element of uncertainty. Will the long layoff impact his performance?
Another horse to watch from the Paul Nicholls stable is Brave Kingdom. With a two-from-three record over fences and a drop in grade after contesting the Reynoldstown Chase, Brave Kingdom presents a significant threat. He could be the dark horse to upset the established contenders.
Another Chepstow highlight: The Coral ‘We’re Here For It’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (2.12 pm)
The Coral ‘We’re Here For It’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (2.12 pm) offers another compelling race. Debut winner Livin On Luco, trained by Philip Hobbs and ridden by Johnson White, aims for back-to-back victories after his triumph at Newton Abbot in October. The longer distance of almost three miles at Chepstow could prove advantageous. Mel Rowley’s Mahland, a hurdle winner at Ffos Las, makes an intriguing fence debut, while Wrappedupinmay, who’s had wind surgery, will look to improve on his previous performances over larger obstacles.
Wolverhampton: A Thrilling Finish to the Day
The evening action shifts to Wolverhampton Racecourse, with the £30 In Free Bets With BetUK Handicap (6.30 pm) promising a close finish. Ed Bethell’s Lerwick, impressive in his all-weather debut with a second-place finish at Southwell over a mile, will aim to go one better over the extended mile-and-a-half distance, despite a 1lb weight increase.
Arcadian Nights, a three-time course and distance winner, is another strong contender after an excellent second-place finish at Wolverhampton in October. Asgard’s Captain also looks to secure a third course victory, although he’ll need a significant improvement to return to winning ways.
Don’t miss a moment of the exhilarating racing action at Chepstow and Wolverhampton, live on Sky Sports Racing this Saturday, December 7th. Tune in for captivating races, expert commentary, and the chance to witness potential future stars of the racing world!