The two-and-a-half-mile handicap hurdle at 14:10 is a competitive affair, with a few open to improvement and a handful of the older sorts in good form or on reasonable marks. The class is provided by Shantou Magic, who has more than justified his useful standing in just three previous starts over timber. Two impressive wins in everyday novices were followed by a fourth-placed finish in the Challow last time. The chances are that was asking just a little too much of Shantou Magic, though it'd be wrong to say he's reached his limit, especially when it's considered that he probably did too much too soon on testing ground. A more cautious ride today should see him prove that a mark of 138 isn't beyond him.
The 14:40 isn't as strong a race despite having a 2013 Festival winner, Carrickboy, as its top-weight. His stablemate Bennys Mist makes a lot more appeal, greater than anything else in fact. He ended 2012/13 as a handicap chaser with unfinished business and, following a sighter at Stratford and a supposed failure to stay in the Becher, he put up a career-best effort when winning over C&D a fortnight ago. There were mistakes from Bennys Mist that day, but it shouldn't be held against him: after all, he's jumped around the National course and has seldom offered cause for concern on that score. A 6 lb rise is probably lenient, especially when you consider that Bennys Mist could still be progressing, so you're advised to have him on your side today.
There are two carrying a 6-lb penalty in the 16:00 at Southwell, though it could be worth opposing both Repitition and Ivy Port with Peter's Friend. The selection is himself a last-time-out winner having got up late over C&D three weeks ago. He's been raised 3 lb for his that, but that could be kindly punishment as he missed the break quite badly yet was able to overhaul solid rivals, however late. Peter's Friend has traded at 27.0 and 19.0 for his two wins to date (both over C&D), so if you're really brave you could hold fire with your bets until a few furlongs into the race.
Timeform UK SmartPlays
Back Shantou Magic @ 5.49/2 in the 14:10 Wincanton
Back Bennys Mist @ 3.4549/20 in the 14:40 Wincanton
Back Peter's Friend @ 4.67/2 in the 16:00 Southwell
