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Vicki Gibbins returns with a selection at Sandown on Friday…
Whilst Resplendent Grey is a worthy favourite for the 3m Grade 2 Betfair Esher Novices' Chase, the Paul Nicholls-trained Welcom To Cartries appeals at the current prices.
The six-year-old has been handed a tough task on chasing debut in Graded company, yet his previous form suggests this level is well within his capabilities. A point-to-point winner before switching to the Nicholls yard, Welcom To Cartries landed an Ascot maiden hurdle in comfortable style before placing second in the Grade 2 River Don Novices' Hurdle at Doncaster in late January.
The son of No Risk At All returned with a disappointing showing in a handicap hurdle at Ayr in late April (trainers' representative offered no explanation for the run), but reports from the yard suggest Welcome To Cartries has been schooling well over fences and his talent outweighs current form.
Half-brother to a Black Type chaser in France, it is clear that fences are expected to provoke the best in Welcome To Cartries – the application of the tongue-tie for the first time and a wind surgery over the summer all offer further scope for improvement.
WIN – WELCOM TO CARTRIES – 4/1