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A Chepstow NAP and Next Best from Timeform
Chepstow NAP - 15:40 - Back Datsalrightgino
Datsalrightgino thrived on a busy first season over fences, running eight times and producing his best performance when last seen winning the Grade 2 Future Champions Novices' Chase at Ayr in April.
That was much more like it as he bounced back from a rare below-par effort when sent off favourite for the Plate at the Cheltenham Festival, though victory at Ayr didn't look likely for much of the race, struggling to keep in touch with the others early on before motoring home in the straight to win by a length and three-quarters.
Back in handicap company today, Datsalrightgino tops the field on Timeform's weight-adjusted ratings, has gone well fresh in the past and won at this course last season, so there is no reason why he shouldn't give another good account on his return from six months off.
Chepstow Next Best - 16:15 - Back Colonial Empire
Colonial Empire ended the latest season very much on the upgrade with three wins from his last four starts, with the manner of his final victory at Taunton in February identifying him as one to remain interested in.
The most impressive aspect of that performance was the turn of foot he showed to seal matters, quickening to lead early in the straight before sprinting clear to win by four and a half lengths from Boombawn, who gave the form a boost when going one place better at Aintree a few weeks later.
This will be tougher following a further 5 lb rise in the weights, but the improving Colonial Empire probably hasn't reached his ceiling yet and there should be more races to be won with him this season, with a bold showing expected here if he's ready to go after eight months on the sidelines.