3.10pm Stratford Tips & Betting Preview 23/07/2017

Although only four go to post for this handicap chase, it still promises to be an intriguing race, see our betting tips and the full race preview below.

IN SUMMARY: Although he’s clearly not a natural over fences, CAPE CASTER is still well treated on the best of his hurdling form and his attitude can certain not be questioned. He was only beaten around five lengths on his latest start despite his jumping being worse than usual. If he can keep the mistakes to a minimum on this occasion, he looks very tough to beat with conditions to suit and Adam Wedge taking the ride. Red Riverman is an obvious danger as he arrives off the back of a good win at Uttoxeter, but he represents no value and can be taken on.

1 DEFINIETE FUTURE – NON RUNNER

2 CANICALLYOUBACK – Not at his best of late for Evan Williams, well beaten on all of his starts since returning this year. He was last seen at Ffos Las when beaten around 25 lengths in a weaker race than this, so he desperately needs to bounce back under three pound claimer Conor Ring. Good to soft ground will suit him and he’s now only two pounds above his last winning mark, so a better run would of no surprise. Possible each way claims but likely vulnerable for win purposes.

3 CAPE CASTER – Came home strongly to win at Worcester three starts ago and despite not looking a natural over fences, he was far from disgraced on his latest start off one pound higher. His jumping fell to pieces and he was still only beaten five lengths by an in form rival. If his jumping holds up this time around under Adam Wedge, he still remains well treated on the best of his hurdling form and his resolution cannot be questioned. Looks set for a big run and has to be respected.

4 RED RIVERMAN – Returned from a lengthy lay off on his latest start to finish second at Cartmel behind a rival who had the race set up for him and he once again ran well when last seen at Uttoxeter. He took his third chasing success when winning by six lengths in comfortable fashion and a six pound rise doesn’t look harsh as he continues to build up his fitness. Sam Twiston-Davies takes the ride and he’s obviously a big danger, but he represents no value and can be taken on.

5 IRISH THISTLE – Versatile ten year old for Dai Williams who won’t mind this step back in trip, but he competes from 19lb outside the handicap and this looks a very tall order against some in form rivals. There doesn’t look much pace in this race and that should be his undoing, as he will need to come off a strong pace at this sort of trip to be seen at his best. James Banks takes the ride but he looks booked for a struggle on balance.