Saturday Racing Tips at Newbury and Warwick | Jake Price

This 3m Handicap Hurdle can go the way of Magical King, who could do with going up the handicap a few more pounds if he wants to guarantee himself a place in the Pertemps Final.

This six-year-old qualified for that Cheltenham Festival race when third behind Harbour Lake (137) on ground quicker than ideal, and last month he was unlucky to bump into an inform Supremely West (137) at Haydock despite being sent off 11/4f and smashing the remainder by 13 lengths. He only went up 2lb for that second place however, so a win here would guarantee his Cheltenham ticket.

Early favourite here Fugitif would take some stopping if turning up, but his first preference to run is in the Denman Chase at Newbury – so there is an opportunity here. The one that can take it is surely Shakem Up’arry.

Only three starts ago this 11-year-old won the Plate at the Cheltenham Festival off a mark of 143, and back in December he was due to have his first start in Middle Distance Veteran company when falling at the sixth fence. Generously dropped 2lb for that effort however, he now also receives the benefit of Callum Pritchard’s 5lb claim, which puts him on an effective rating of 142 for this weaker looking contest.

This looks like a completive renewal of the William Hill Hurdle, and you could make a case for many, but Lump Sum very much looks the overpriced one to my eye.

Having won the Welsh Champion Hurdle off a mark of 134 in impressive style back in October, he was next seen chasing home Sir Gino in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth before FINISHING fourth of four in the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle. Now back in Handicap company however, Dylan Johnston claims 3lbs off his back, and a mark of 144 doesn’t look beyond him.

* Information correct at time of writing. 18+ only. GambleAware.