We head to family day at Southwell to kick off proceedings and following the withdrawal of Superior Quality who looked an intriguing runner, Buck Mulligan looks a decent bet in the handicap chase over an extended two-and-a-half miles (15:00). He's been back on-song in handicap company since being reunited with former handler Evan Williams. He won well at Stratford at the beginning of July before showing that effort was no fluke by backing it up with an excellent there three weeks later. He still remains well-treated on the pick of his form and although Tindaro also looks handicapped to win and should be there or thereabouts, conditions look to be at an optimum for the selection to make his presence felt.
We head north to Pontefract next for a listed contest for fillies over six furlongs (15:45) and the one to keep on side looks to be Hoodna. The hood has had the desired effect so far this term, bouncing back from a short-priced defeat to run an excellent third in the Bunbury Cup. She was one of countless hard luck stories at Goodwood last time and looks to have an excellent chance to gain compensation in what look significantly calmer waters. The progressive Athenian looks a danger but providing the selection gets a clear run then she can earn a well-deserved return to the winners' enclosure.
We remain at Pontefract for our final bet of the day which comes in an intriguing 12-furlong handicap for three year olds (16:20). Imshivalla clearly merits respect in her attempt to record a C&D hat-trick but even a 3 lb rise may leave her vulnerable and Castle Combe looks best-placed to capitalise. Apart a poor show at Epsom where he looked slightly ill at ease with the undulations, he's been in remarkably consistent form since winning on his handicap debut at Lingfield in November. This looks an excellent opportunity to notch up a second career success in this sphere.
Timeform UK SmartPlays
Back Buck Mulligan in the 15:00 at Southwell
Back Hoodna in the 15:45 at Pontefract
Back Castle Combe in the 16:20 at Pontefract
