Timeform UK SmartPlays: Friday October 18

The two-and-a-half mile novices' chase (14:40) may be low on numbers with only three set to go to post, but it is a contest high on quality. Rebel Fitz, who won last year's Galway Hurdle, was the best of these over timber and has made a highly encouraging start to his chasing career, rattling up a five-timer, and he makes the greatest appeal. Rebel Fitz was actually beaten on his chasing debut but he has since been hard to fault, impressing with his accurate jumping as he has built a sequence of wins which included a Grade 3 success last time. Strictly on the figures, Rebel Fitz should struggle to concede 8-lb to the Grade 1-placed Third Intention but the strong impression is that we have yet to see the best of Rebel Fitz in this sphere and he can continue on his upward curve.

Pantxoa has improved in leaps and bounds of late and he can continue his progress by landing the 15:50 this afternoon. Alan King's novice chaser took a bit of time to warm to his task over fences, not winning until the seventh attempt, but he has been in tremendous heart since that win at Stratford in August, bettering the level of form that he achieved over hurdles. Pantxoa completed the hat-trick last time, jumping accurately in front, dictating matters and asserting two from home, and he is a likeable type that is thriving on racing and should continue to give a good account.

Fredo looks to be on a fair mark and can take the Amateur Riders' race (17:00) under Sam Waley-Cohen. Ian Williams' charge hasn't always proven to be the most consistent but he is capable of striking from this sort of mark and, with his trainer in good form allied with the positive jockey booking, everything looks set for a big effort this afternoon. The main danger could well come from Robin Will, an unexposed chaser trained by Richard Woollacott, but Fredo could just shades things.

Timeform UK SmartPlays:
All at Cheltenham

Back Rebel Fitz @ 2.1211/10 in the 14:40
Back Pantxoa @ 4.216/5 in the 15:50
Back Fredo @ 8.07/1 in the 17:00

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