Stratford Racecourse: Preview and tips for Thursday’s seven-race meeting

There’s more quality National Hunt racing at Stratford Racecourse this Thursday, with seven exciting races on the card, with a high-class handicap chase as the headline, supported by four races over hurdles, a bumper and a further chase. 

Here is preview of plus tips for the Stratford card, brought to you by BOYLE Sports, who have all the horse racing betting information. 

Thursday’s opener is a maiden hurdle run over two miles and six furlongs (13.20). Posh Chick is a nice point-to-point and bumper winner who should be able to translate that ability over hurdles now, and she runs for the in-form Anthony Honeyball.

Rosie Mahler will handle the soft ground, while Trinity Street might take a step forward from her last season for Henry Daly. 

Next is the first division of an extended two-mile novices’ hurdle (13.50).

Faye Bramley’s Unbelievable Jeff is the only newcomer, and the market will best advise on him.

There’s another exciting one for Anthony Honeyball, though; Posh Dude, who won a well-franked point-to-point.

Brecharnon and Red Metal are the only two he needs to worry about, the former of which is the most dangerous. 

In the second division (14.20), Dan Skelton’s Forthfactor brings the best form, having won the Grade Two bumper at the Aintree Festival.

Rock On Ronnie might be able to get involved after some good bumper performances, and he’s the only cause for concern here. 

A two and a quarter mile handicap hurdle is next (14.50).

Milan Milos won last time out and is significantly down in trip for this, which looks unlikely altogether.

Churchman could be competitive after a good performance last time, while Little Pi might be worth considering if he takes a good step forward from his first run of the new term. 

Race five is a two and a half mile handicap chase (15.20).

Bucksy Des Epeires is a handy sort who lost his way a little last term and will be interesting to watch this time around.

Mr Hope Street is one of the highest rated in here and runs for the leading trainer, so must be taken in consideration.

Go West is a consistent horse who should be ready to start the new season with a bang, and his trainer’s recent run of seconds can be largely ignored. 

Second to last is a handicap chase run over a mile and three quarters (15.50).

Pescatorius won last time out but is not so good on softer ground.

It’s hard to pick one elsewhere, as it’s easier to argue against these horses than for them.

Moor End might be one to side with as he can go well fresh and doesn’t mind the soft ground. 

Last of all is a fillies’ junior bumper (16.20).

All of the runners are three-year-old debutants and the market will be the best indicator of talent.

Dreamingofsunshine and And So It Begins are the two most likely candidates based on trainer form and stature, but Fergal O’Brien has been having a good time too and his Ignite The Night is possibly a player as well. 

Stratford selections - Thursday

13.20 - Posh Chick

13.50 - Posh Dude

14.20 - Forthfactor

14.50 - Little Pi

15.20 - Go West

15.50 - Moor End

16.20 - And So It Begins