The thrilling conclusion to the UK jumps season unfolds at Sandown, where Mick Fitzgerald offers a series of richly considered picks for the day’s races. With the season drawing to an electrifying close, Fitzgerald handicaps the field with the seasoned eye of someone who’s felt the thundering hooves up close. His selections cover several races, providing a vivid tapestry of horse racing insight.
13:20 – HMS President (Each-Way)
We start with the 2m Novice Handicap Hurdle, an intriguing contest where Alan King’s HMS President stands out. This horse, known for his prowess on the Flat, merits attention despite being in a jumps race. He carries a rating of 100 on the Flat, and with Alan King’s stable in form, HMS President offers strong each-way value.
13:50 – Mark Of Gold (Each-Way)
Attention shifts to Mark of Gold, who recently impressed at a Grade 1 at Aintree. His sixth-place finish there puts him in good stead for this race. Despite having a bit of weight to carry, his experience in a quality field and the specifics of the track position him as a contender in a compact field.
14:25 – Pic D’Orhy
Fans face a dilemma: back the enigmatic Gaelic Warrior or opt for Pic D’Orhy? While Gaelic Warrior boasts an impressive pedigree, Pic D’Orhy is a consistent performer familiar to these grounds. His preparation for this race suggests a well-timed peak in performance.
15:00 – Lucky Place
Lucky Place embodies the steady hand of a reliable runner. Despite Kitzbuhel being the popular choice, with new gear perhaps unlocking potential, Lucky Place has displayed commendable resilience across the season. His placement at Cheltenham and Ascot hints at a solid finish here.
15:35 – Jonbon
Jonbon is a standout at Sandown, boasting multiple victories on this track. While Mark Walsh rides him for the first time, Jonbon’s familiar with these stretches and conditions. Despite limited each-way potential, Edwardstone could offer a surprise factor chasing home Jonbon in this tightly packed field.
16:10 – Minella Cocooner/Olympic Man (Each-Way)
The significant 365 Gold Cup sees Willie Mullins enter a cavalry of ten horses. Minella Cocooner comes off a noteworthy Grand National run and seeks to repeat last year’s victory in this race. Meanwhile, Olympic Man promises an each-way potential if lessons from past runs bear fruit.
16:45 – Bunting
Bunting’s entry is a strategic play with jockey Paul Townend in the saddle. Despite some earlier disappointments, the talent shown in the Scottish Champion Hurdle suggests untapped potential. This race might just be where Bunting realizes it.
The stage is set for an exciting finale at Sandown as Fitzgerald’s selections paint a broad, colorful picture of potential outcomes. Whether it’s through seasoned veterans or promising challengers, the final day is bound to deliver thrilling moments synonymous with the grand UK jumps season.
