SANDOWN specialist Kings Mistral (2.35) has found the ideal opportunity to win his fourth staying chase at the course today.

Although the five linear railway fences on the far side are normally a stern test for even the most seasoned steeplechaser, it seems they hold no fears for Kings Mistral, who regularly wings them all with gazelle-like speed.

Such economy at the obstacles means energy is saved for the business end of the race - especially important at Sandown where the uphill climb to the winning post is particularly severe.

Kings Mistral, who won the Royal Artillery Gold Cup at the equivalent meeting 12 months ago, now takes a big hike up in grade for the three-mile £20,000 Class B Ashdown Lyons Alanbrooke Memorial Handicap Chase.

On the plus side, however, he's only got a featherweight to carry together with the invaluable assistance of the simply sensational Timmy Murphy in the saddle.

In the closing Lord's Taverners Novices' Handicap Hurdle, Andy Turnell sends The Names Bond (4.50) all the way down from his base at Malton to contest the two-and-a-half event.

Despite making the frame on all three of his latest attempts over timber, The Names Bond remains something of an under-achiever in my book. If that is the case he's definitely got more scope for improvement than most of his more fancied southern rivals.

At Taunton Commanche Jim (4.30) might turn out to be the top money-making proposition.

Having turned in a gutsy display to score over fences at Folkestone the time before last, trainer Robert Alner opted to switch his charge back to hurdles. On paper it looked a good idea since technically Commanche Jim was "better in" at the weights over hurdles.

Sadly the plan backfired at Hereford as he trailed in a well-beaten fifth 49 days ago. Hopefully his rest will have done him the power of good and Commanche Jim will come back fresh as a daisy for the Health Perception Handicap Chase.

There's not too many races worth £15,000 on the Fibresand at Southwell so it's no surprise to see seven quality acts lining up for the seven-furlong Littlewoods Bet Direct Handicap.

Former Lincoln Handicap winner Nimello is justifiably destined to head the betting market after a cracking effort when fourth at the course over a totally inadequate six furlongs on his first outing for new trainer Kevin Ryan just over a fortnight ago.

Nimello's bound to be sharper for the run.

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