Today on Sky Sports Racing: Strong Leader faces tough defense of Long Distance Hurdle crown at Newbury | Racing News
The warm-up for Coral Gold Cup day at Newbury is set to be absolutely red-hot with two tier two contests, plus strong cards at Doncaster and Southwell, all live on Sky Sports Racing.
3:00 p.m. Newbury – Last year’s hero, Strong Leader, takes on Impose Toi
This looks to be a fascinating renewal of the Grade Two feature film. Coral long distance hurdle (3.00) as last year’s winner Strong leader attempt to defend his crown.
Olly Murphy’s plucky stayer must give up weight to some useful rivals, but his connections reach the cheeks to allow him to concentrate under champion jockey Sean Bowen.
Impose yourself oozed class in challenging a mark of 148 at Aintree and deserves his chance at this valuable prize. He has a bit to find but the allowable weight puts him in the table.
Hewick And Oh Lord return to obstacles as they seek to rekindle a spark, while Don’t take any risks has strong claims having been just a neck behind Strong Leader at Wetherby.
1.50 Newbury – Regent’s Stroll & Wendigo Locking Horns
A quality sextet came together for Grade Two Pursuit of Coral novices John Francome (1.50).
Paul Nicholls has competed in this race with bands like Clan Des Obeaux and Hermes Allen in the past and Regent’s Walk looks an exciting recruit for the biggest hurdles.
He has shown a good level of form over hurdles, the choice being his second effort in Grade One company at Aintree and must come close with a clear round.
Wendigo was another who had a good season as a novice, winning twice and finishing second behind The New Lion in the Challow. He could not repel Wade Out with his fencing bow but, with this freed form, he was to be feared.
Pride of Kingston ranks best of the rest after winning his pursuit and stable debut in Perth.
2:40 Southwell – Dubai Honor & Shader clash at Churchill
A winter treat for fans of dishes with Shader And Honor of Dubai headlining the List Midnite Churchill Stakes (2.40) in Southwell.
Shader produced a remarkable display to easily win the Listed Floodlit Stakes at Kempton on his last start. This took his all-time record to three from three and he will be popular to follow under Colin Keane.
Dubai Honor, trained by William Haggas, appears to be the main danger. An ultra-consistent type, he has to take a penalty, and this is preparation for a possible match in Hong Kong next month.
Watch every race from Newbury, Southwell and Doncaster live on Sky Sports Racing on Friday
