Horse Racing Tips: Opal may prove a gem of a bet at Doncaster

Doncaster, 13.40 - Back Opal Storm each-way @ 7/18.00

Faye McManoman gave Opal Storm a peach of a ride to spring a Southwell surprise three weeks ago at 33/134.00 and, in the hope I haven't missed the wedding and arrived for the divorce, she could well run well again in this modest handicap.

Brian Rothwell's mare was kept busy last year with 17 racecourse appearances, one of which came over today's course and distance in a much stronger 0-70 handicap last April.

She was only beaten half-a-length that day by the useful Ancient Times, a performance which preceded a decent effort at Beverley and a victory by a narrow margin at Carlisle.

A strong gallop helped Opal Storm arrive on the scene late in proceedings at Southwell and she has plenty of pace to run at with front-runners Doralee and Thank The Lord in close proximity today.  

With the extra places on offer, Rothwell's six-year-old makes some appeal at 7/18.00 to modest stakes.

Sandown, 14.25 - Back Saddadd @ 11/43.75

On the face of it, Saddadd has a fair bit of improvement to find as he steps into Group company for the inaugural time today.

The son of Pinatubo, a game winner of the often highly informative London Gold Cup at Newbury last spring, has a 10lb shortfall to cover with ante-post favourite Almeric in this afternoon's Gordon Richard Stakes at Sandown.

However trainer Roger Varian, whose horses have made a bright start to the new turf campaign, has proved extremely adept at coaxing further progression from this type and it could be worth siding with the close relative of the 122-rated Almaqam as he strives to compete in this grade.

For this fixture, Clerk of the Course Andrew Cooper usually ensures the track has plenty of moisture in order for the National Hunt horses to let themselves down tomorrow and any ease in the ground won't inconvenience the selection one bit given he won a course and distance event here in August on soft ground.

Varian has sent out three winners since April 11 and Saddadd could be a touch of value to upset Almeric.

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