Isn’t it great that horse racing is finally acknowledging that, just because you are ‘getting-on’ a bit doesn’t mean you are ready to be put out to pasture?
The series of chases initiated last season for veteran thoroughbreds proved tremendously popular and have again been well supported this campaign. The series comes to a climax this weekend at Sandown with the 32Red Veterans’ Handicap Chase and it has attracted a field of 19 runners, the youngest of which is 11. Last year’s corresponding race had 16 entries so there is a demand for this type of contest and racegoers are in for a treat if this year’s renewal is as exciting as the first staging.
Aachen was second last year and, though now 13 and the joint oldest in the race, Venetia Williams’ old stager tries again. He can race off a pound lower mark but, sadly, it’s beginning to look as though his best days are definitely behind him as he’s shown nothing since this race 12 months ago and is available at 20/1 with Bet365.
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Bet365 currently have the best odds for several runners in the 32Red Veteran’s Handicap Chase, including the two market leaders. David Pipe won the inaugural running of this race last year and saddles Dynaste this time. A dual Grade 1 winner, there is no doubt that the grey (a general 7/1) is handicapped to go very close. But he has been disappointing this season whereas market rival Rocky Creek (9/1 in places) probably ran close to his best when winning the London National at Sandown last month.
GAS LINE BOY jumped for fun and made all the running when easily beating Cloudy Too (a general 14/1), Aerial (available at 10/1) and Wychwoods Brook (16/1 with most layers) in the last of the qualifiers for this final at Kelso. Dynaste started favourite that day but only managed seventh place having been in trouble at an early stage. If Ian Williams’ charge gets into a similar rhythm over these exacting fences, he could lead his fellow veterans a merry dance and, while a 9lb higher mark is a worry, the 11/1 with 888sport looks decent value.
I’d also have a second look at Forgotten Gold at a general 12/1 as he still has the ability to figure if the fences don’t get in the way. Ericht is probably better over shorter distances but the 25/1 with some bookmakers is too big given his current mark and top weight Shuil Royale wouldn’t be without a chance either at a best 12/1.
32Red Veterans’ Handicap Chase Current Best Odds
Dynaste (7/1), Rocky Creek (9/1), Aerial and Theatrical Star (10/1), Gas Line Boy (11/1), Shuil Royale and Forgotten Gold (12/1), Cloudy Too (14/1), Astracad, Saint Are and Wychwoods Brook (16/1), Aachen, Court By Surprise and Loose Chips (20/1), Bennys Mist, Ericht and Pete The Feat (25/1), Cody Wyoming (33/1), Baileys Concerto (40/1)
