Timeform UK SmartPlays: Friday October 23

There's a return to racing for Cheltenham on Friday


"Conas Taoi is progressing nicely over fences, gaining his third win in this sphere at Towcester recently. He won with a bit in hand that day, looking an out-and-out stayer..."

Timeform's SmartPlays team divide their attention between Cheltenham and Doncaster on Friday...

Mr Shantu - 15:20 Cheltenham

Last month's Warwick contest fought out by Mr Shantu and King Boru could be the key piece of form. The latter may have more to offer for Dan Skelton, but the former was well on top that day, and has long since appealed as a useful performer in the making providing he can keep the errors down. Kilfinichen Bay has improved out of all recognition for Charlie Longsdon, so has to command respect.


Wheat Sheaf - 16:20 Doncaster

The pair to focus on are Wheat Sheaf and Classic Collection, both of whom are unexposed and probably capable of better than their current marks imply. The latter isn't passed over lightly following his solid reappearance effort, but Wheat Sheaf just failed to get the better of an argument with an upwardly mobile rival at Wolverhampton recently and is marginally preferred.


Conas Taoi - 17:05 Cheltenham

Conas Taoi is progressing nicely over fences, gaining his third win in this sphere at Towcester recently. He won with a bit in hand that day, looking an out-and-out stayer, so this track and trip should play to his strengths, and he looks one to keep on side at present. Top Cat Henry has raised his game since returning from a break, and should prove competitive, along with the in-form Katie Do.


Timeform UK SmartPlays

Back Mr Shantu in the 15:20 Cheltenham
Back Wheat Sheaf in the 16:20 Doncaster
Back Conas Taoi in the 17:05 Cheltenham


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