Neil Morrice shares all of his best bets and tips for Sunday’s racing coming your way from Southwell and Carlisle on 17 December 2023.
SOUTHWELL
Race 2 No2 GARDENER
Trainer: Olly Murphy – Jockey: Sean Bowen
GARDENER attained a decent level of form in just three outings over hurdles last season. He enjoys plenty of cut in the ground, and now making a first start for a new trainer, and also his first over fences, he can deliver.
Race 4 No4 COLONEL WHIZZ
Trainer: Olly Murphy – Jockey: Sean Bowen
There’s a short-priced favourite in this maiden hurdle that might be worth taking on, and the value alternative is COLONEL WHIZZ. The selection stepped up on a satisfactory first run over jumps to chase home the useful Star Legend at Fakenham. He’s benefitted further from up that effort and shouldn’t mind dropping back to two miles.
Race 5 No4 HIGH TREASON (Nap)
Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies – Jockey: Sam Twiston-Davies
HIGH TREASON brings solid form in bumpers to the table for this hurdling debut. He’s up against several in-form foes, but having taken to jumping well at home could post a minor surprise.
CARLISLE
Race 2 No1 BLUE FIN
Trainer: Donald McCain Jnr – Jockey: Brian Hughes
BLUE FIN acquitted himself favourably when second to Trelawne on chase debut at this track last month. He’s greatly benefitted from the experience, while the winner upheld the form when third in a red hot novice at Cheltenham on Friday.
Race 4 No4 UNIVERSAL FOLLY (Nap)
Trainer: Nicky Richards – Jockey: Sean Quinlan
UNIVERSAL FOLLY has been a large contributor to the success of his stable with three wins and a second from as many outings this season. He meets nothing of his Aintree conqueror Giovinco, and can also handle a step back in trip. It will take something very smart to beat him.
