It all looks Inch Perfect

LONDON: Looking at the fare on offer from the day’s jumping cards on today  it is hard to believe that in just a week’s time all eyes will be on some of National Hunt’s finest at the Cheltenham Festival.

However, each race on the pretty ordinary programmes on offer from Bangor and Catterick will produce a winner and the stand-out bet at the latter could be Inch Perfect in the Howden Joinery Maiden Chase. Richard Fahey’s charge won twice on the all-weather in January and ran easily his best race over hurdles when a six-length runner-up to Midnight Creek at Kelso in December. On that occasion he took up the running three-out but was hauled in by the winner although the form suggests there is a race in him. The wily Fahey sends the seven-year-old over fences this time and this tight course could just ensure the fast pace that would surely suit Inch Perfect over two miles.

Bangor’s highlight is the Holywell Handicap Chase and the extended three-mile event looks to be within the range of Mighty Kilcash. Kim Bailey’s charge, who won two chases two years ago but had not been out since until an appearance full of potential when third to Marcus William in a Fontwell hurdle in January. The 10-year-old was not given a hard time in defeat by his jockey over a trip far short of his best and back over fences he can prove he retains his ability by landing the spoils here. At Lingfield, the Sir Mark Prescott-trained On Point can land his third all-weather success of the season by taking the Bet Direct On 0800 32 93 93 Handicap, while Coolbythepool can treble up by landing the opening betfair.com Power To The Punter Handicap for trainer Mark Johnston.