AIR FORCE ONE looks set to give Lambourn trainer Charlie Mann a big-race winner in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury today (Saturday).
A progressive sort since put over fences, the six-year-old will be spot-on after finishing runner-up to Roll Along at Ascot four weeks ago.
The Hennessy has been the plan all along, so that defeat should not be taken to heart.
Paul Nicholl's challenger Big Buck's is entitled to the greatest respect. He made the odd jumping error last season, but an intensive bout of school during the wummer will have straightened him out.
The stable sent out subsequent Gold Cup winner Denman to take this prize last year.
The noises coming from Charlie Mann's stable are infectious though and Air Force One is slightly preferred.
I like the look of PEPPERTREE LANE (12.25) in the opener at the Berkshire track. He was not far off top class on the flat and is in the right hands at Peter Bowen's yard to make a smart recruit.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here