Coral John Francome Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) 13.50 Newbury:
This Grade 2 novices’ chase over two miles and three furlongs at Newbury looks a fascinating contest on good to soft ground.
Wendigo arrives in excellent shape following a narrow second on his chasing debut at Worcester last month, where he showed real battling qualities under pressure.
That performance came on similar ground, and he has prior course experience from a strong effort in the Challow here last winter, suggesting the undulating track will hold no fears.
His jumping was sound that day, and with proven stamina for this trip, he brings the class of a useful novice hurdler now translating effectively to larger obstacles.
Kingston Pride made a taking start to his chasing career with a straightforward win at Perth on heavy ground, quickening clear in the straight to show he has the speed for this sharper test.
He handles cut in the turf well from his hurdling days, including a victory on good to soft, and his trainer’s current form adds confidence in his fitness.
However, this represents a significant rise in class after just one fence run, so he will need to settle and jump fluently to match the principals.
No Questions Asked impressed on his chasing bow at Ascot recently, making all the running to beat a useful rival with authority on good ground.
His jumping was precise throughout, and he has won on good to soft over hurdles, indicating the conditions here should suit.
As an unexposed sort with multiple hurdle successes behind him, his experience gives him an edge over the pure novices, and he arrives fresh after a break.
King Of Kingsfield carries a penalty for his recent Grade 3 success at Punchestown on good to soft, where he travelled powerfully before asserting late.
That was a career best, but his pulling up at Cheltenham next time raises minor fitness concerns, though the trainer’s handling of him suggests he could bounce back.
He has the experience over fences, with solid efforts on similar ground, but the penalty may find him out against less-exposed rivals.
Regent’s Stroll makes his chasing debut for a top stable, but his hurdle form is rock-solid, including a fine second in a Grade 1 at Aintree on good to soft.
He won impressively on this card last year at Newbury on similar going, showing he acts well around here with his fluent jumping and strong finishing kick.
The switch to fences should unlock more potential given his size and scope, and he looks primed for this following a pipe-opener second at Worcester.
Crest Of Fortune showed promise on his chasing return when second in a competitive Cheltenham handicap last month, staying on well after a steady pace.
He handles good to soft from his bumper and hurdle wins, and his third in a Grade 1 at Aintree over further proves his class and toughness.
Still lightly raced, he brings enthusiasm and could improve for the experience, though he may prefer a stronger gallop to show his best.
Simulation Results:
Wendigo emerged on top, winning 17.46% of simulations.
Regent’s Stroll was next with 17.27%.
No Questions Asked followed at 16.82%.
Kingston Pride at 16.70%.
Crest Of Fortune at 16.07%.
King Of Kingsfield at 15.69%.
These sum to 100%.
Wendigo stands out as the best bet, given his blend of course knowledge, recent chasing promise, and proven affinity for good to soft conditions that match today’s setup.
For value, No Questions Asked offers appeal at his price, as his simulation chance aligns favourably against the market view while reflecting his unexposed profile and strong recent chasing debut on testing ground.
