Anne Marie Duff

THE first big chasing handicap of the year takes place at Newbury with Smad Place bidding to repeat last year’s success. He has top-weight, 8lb more than last year when he beat Theatre Guide by 12 lengths, but his comeback run at Aintree looked as good as ever. His bold jumping is sure to be an asset and he can make a bold bid for a repeat even off a 166 rating. Those near the top of the weights have a good record in the race.