ANTEPOST ANGLE - LADBROKES TROPHY HANDICAP CHASE

John Arnold looks ahead to the major handicap chase held at Kempton that's not too far away. History:

The Kempton Ladbrokes Trophy Handicap Chase is a key race in the National Hunt calendar, particularly during the winter months.

The Handicap Chase typically attracts a competitive field, featuring horses that are gearing up for key races in the second half of the National Hunt season, including the Cheltenham Festival. With a distance of 3 miles it tests the horses’ speed and stamina over a variety of fences.

Trends:

Age- 12 of the last 12 winners were aged between 7 and 9.

Price- 0 of last 12 winners were favourites, 5/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting.

Last Run- 1 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race.

Course Form- 8/12 winners had 1 previous run at Kempton, 4/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at the course.

Distance Form- 10/12 winners had at least 3 runs over 24 furlongs.

Rating- 8/12 winners were rated 134 or higher.

Contenders:

Big names dominate the current market for the race, in particular IROKO who is clearly being aimed at The Grand National in April. Oliver Greenall's charge could well use this test as a nice pipe opener for that event, He has the class in this event. I would expect THE JUKEBOX KID to enjoy the surroundings of Kempton as he enjoys a flat chase track right handed like Ascot whereupon he excelled last time out. The Ben Pauling trained Jukebox Jury sired gelding is a strong candidate. The other class animal in the field is the Dan Skelton trained HOE JOLY SMOKE. The Black Sam Bellamy sired gelding has been in the frame all season mostly at Cheltenham and I can foresee a big effort in this contest. 

Selections:

THE JUKEBOX KID (WIN)

HOE JOLY SMOKE (E/W)