Ascot

Right-handed and galloping, Ascot’s Jumps course reopened in 2006/07 following major redevelopment work. Improved drainage means conditions rarely become as testing as they once did, although the ground can still get gruelling in wet weather. The fences are stiff and take plenty of jumping, with those on the far side particularly tricky for novices.

It generally pays to race prominently at Ascot, especially in smaller fields, where a fluent jumper can gain a real advantage. Horses that negotiate the far-side fences smoothly and freewheel down the following downhill section can conserve valuable energy. Front-runners can therefore be difficult to peg back, although making all becomes much harder in big-field handicaps.

Saving ground and meeting the fences on a good stride are key around here. Despite the course’s demanding reputation, its chase track has recorded a surprisingly low proportion of non-completions in recent seasons.