2:40 Ffos Las

Firebird Flyer is a much bigger price than I expected him to be here. He has an exceptional course record in heavy ground, 2 wins from 3 runs and has the required bottom weight here in what will be a monumental slog. Granted he was poor last time but if they has any sense today will have been the plan. He is only 1 lb. above his last course win in admittedly a poorer race in similar conditions, but heavy ground is a great leveler and he has proven form.

1 Point EW 25/1 Generally.

1:50 Sandown

This race has me disappointed in that one of my bets of the festival is out here over his preferred trip of 2 miles, which I have been waiting patiently for this year. I have Kumbeshwar flagged up for the Grand Annual with a deal of confidence after numerous spins around Cheltenham over longer trips. He is down to a great mark and as the price is gone now I won’t be suggesting a bet in this race. I’m hoping he get a nice spin around and finished maybe placed so that his handicap mark won’t be too adversely effected for the Festival. I am going to suggest ½ win at 33/1 for the Grand Annual just in Case he wins here and that price shortens considerably.

½ Point win 33/1 Grand Annual.

3:35 Sandown

Fruity o Rooney is a surprising 12/1 here given all his very good form last year of higher marks.  He was 3rd in a very similar race here last year which had a much stronger field than this and has proven himself on softer ground on a few occasions.

1 Point win 12/1 Betfair & Sporting Bet