1st November 2025
14:10 Down Royal – Racing TV Handicap Chase (Class 5YO+, 3m)
Going: Good to Yielding (yielding in places) | Prize: £7,070
Quick Summary
A deep 18-runner staying chase over 3 miles at Down Royal — a galloping, right-handed track that rewards balance and stamina. With light rain and a bit of cut, jumping efficiency and patience in the saddle will be crucial. Expect late finishers to come into it.
My Thinking
Clonbury Bridge has strong figures and looks to be peaking at the right time — solid recent efforts and sure to stay the trip. Ceanandna remains interesting off a fair mark and could improve again with a smoother round of jumping. For those looking for a bit of each-way spice, Marronstown may surprise at a price — well treated and better than recent bare form suggests if the ground doesn’t get too deep.
Honest John Selections
| Type | Horse | Odds | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Win | Ceanandna | 7/1 | PLACEDSteady improver with strong stamina figures; likely to be involved late if jumping holds up. |
| Each-Way Value | Marronstown | 33/1 | Big outsider but mark is lenient; could nick a place if finding rhythm in testing finish. |
My Verdict
Clonbury Bridge looks the most reliable in a tricky staying chase. Ceanandna is a real threat if putting it all together, while Marronstown offers plenty of value for those each-way tickets.
Honest John Tipster – Straight talk, no fluff, just form.
1st November 2025
15:15 Down Royal – Kildress Plumbing Chase (Grade 2, 4yo+) – 2m4f
Going: Good to Yielding | Prize: £24,380
Quick Summary
Just six go to post for this Grade 2, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up in class. Down Royal’s right-hand, galloping track rewards rhythm and bold jumping. Expect a tactical race with pace changes rather than an all-out slog.
My Thinking
Firefox sets the standard — strong chase debut figures and looks a genuine Grade performer in the making. Gorgeous Tom has done little wrong and has the cruising speed to make it interesting if the favourite blunders. Croke Park could easily sneak a place at a fair price; proven course form and sure to keep jumping when others get tired late on.
Honest John Selections
| Type | Horse | Odds | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Win | Firefox | 5/6 | WINNERTop-rated, fluent jumper, and handles the ground; the class act if avoiding errors. |
| Main Danger | Gorgeous Tom | 11/4 | PLACEDConsistent and progressive; could capitalise if favourite doesn’t fire. |
| Each-Way Value | Croke Park | 5/1 | PLACEDSolid course record; stays well and could pick up pieces late for a place. |
My Verdict
Firefox is hard to oppose after posting standout figures; he looks a cut above. Gorgeous Tom is the danger if the pace turns tactical, while Croke Park appeals each-way for those seeking a touch of value.
Honest John Tipster – Straight talk, no fluff, just form.
Honest John Tipster – Straight talk, no fluff, just form.