Ready to dive into the thrilling world of horse racing? Matt Chapman’s Saturday ITV Racing tips are here to guide you through a day packed with action, but there’s a twist—one 9/2 pick could be the game-changer. With races at Ascot, Haydock, and Wincanton, the stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable. But here’s where it gets controversial: not all picks are created equal, and some might just surprise you. Let’s break it down, race by race, and uncover the hidden gems that could make your day.
13:15 Ascot – Etna Bianco
Kicking off with a novice hurdle over nearly 2m4f, Etna Bianco is a horse worth watching. Despite a lackluster performance in the Grade 1 Challow at Newbury, the addition of a first-time tongue strap could be the key to unlocking his potential. His previous win at this track over Big Ticket was impressive, and his third-place finish at Cheltenham shows he’s got the chops. Could this be his day to shine? And this is the part most people miss: his trainer, Joe Tizzard, believes there’s still more to come.
13.35 Wincanton – Rubaud
In the Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle over 1m7f, Rubaud is a strong contender. While Alexei might have more to offer, Rubaud’s 12-time winning record, including three Elite Hurdle victories at this track, cannot be ignored. But here’s the kicker: he has 1lb to find on adjusted official ratings. Will it be enough to hold him back, or will he prove the doubters wrong? Sam Twiston-Davies is in the saddle, aiming for glory.
13.50 Ascot – Thomas Mor
The Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase over 3m features Thomas Mor, a lightly raced but highly promising horse for Philip Hobbs and Johnson White. His win over Lucky Place at this track was solid, and his chase home in the Kauto Star at Kempton was his best performance yet. However, at nine years old, his age is a concern. Can he defy the odds and deliver? Harry Cobden thinks so.
14.05 Haydock – Beauport
The Grade 2 Rendlesham Hurdle over an extended 3m is a real test of stamina. Beauport, despite being pulled up in the Long Walk, has a strong record, including a second-place finish in this race last year. But here’s the controversial part: while the Aintree Grand National might be his ultimate goal, can he still compete at this level? Nigel Twiston-Davies and Toby McCain-Mitchell believe he can.
14.25 Ascot – Act of Authority (each way)
In a handicap hurdle over nearly 2m4f, Act of Authority is not the best handicapped but is in reasonable form. With Lewis Saunders taking off a useful 5lb, he’s got a fighting chance. But here’s the question: can he stay close to the pace after a disappointing run at Windsor? Olly Murphy thinks he’s a fair each-way bet, but the jury’s still out.
14.40 Haydock – Reckless Spending
The Prestige Novices’ Hurdle over an extended 3m features Reckless Spending, a horse with a point to prove. After a poor showing at Cheltenham, he bounced back with a win at Kempton. But is he a strong stayer at this trip? Nicky Henderson and James Bowen are betting on it, but it’s a risky play.
15.00 Ascot – Montregard
In a handicap chase over 3m, Montregard stands out despite a 6lb rise to 128. His second-place finish over course and distance last time shows he handles soft ground. But here’s the catch: many of his competitors are either old, out of form, or unproven. Is he the best of a bad bunch, or can he truly contend? Tom Lacey and Jonny Burke are hopeful.
15.15 Haydock – Git Maker
A handicap chase over an extended 3m4f features Git Maker, a horse with something to prove. After a disappointing run in the Welsh National, he’s dropped 4lb and is fitted with first-time blinkers. But here’s the controversial take: is this a leap of faith too far, or can he turn it around? Jamie Snowden and Gavin Sheehan are taking the risk.
15.35 Ascot – Jonbon
The Grade 1 Ascot Chase over 2m5f is the day’s highlight, with Jonbon the clear favorite. Rated 166 after a Grade 1 win at this track, he’s expected to dominate Pic d’Orhy. But here’s the question: is he better at this distance, or is the Champion Chase or Ryanair at Cheltenham his true calling? Nico de Boinville and Nicky Henderson are backing him, but the debate rages on.
Final Thoughts
Matt Chapman’s tips offer a mix of safe bets and bold choices. But here’s the real question: which of these horses will defy the odds and which will fall short? And this is the part most people miss: the thrill of horse racing lies not just in the wins, but in the stories behind each race. So, place your bets, but remember—in this game, anything can happen. What’s your take? Do you agree with Chapman’s picks, or do you have a different horse in mind? Let’s hear it in the comments!
