Which horse impressed with March in mind? Our experts have their say

'Do not be surprised if he develops into a major fancy'

Jonjo O'Neill's only runner on Paddy Power Gold Cup day may be worth bearing in mind come festival time.

Palmers Hill raced at Wetherby rather than Cheltenham, but faced a competitive field for the 2m3½f handicap chase and offered plenty of hope for the future in winning by a length-and-a-quarter.

That was only the second chase outing for the JP McManus-owned eight-year-old, who won over hurdles at the Cheltenham November meeting in 2018 and finished ninth in the Coral Cup last March.

His owner and trainer know exactly how to prepare a horse for a handicap at Cheltenham, so do not be surprised should Palmers Hill develop into a major fancy for the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate or similar next spring.
David Carr, Racing writer of the year

Watch Palmers Hill win at Wetherby

'There looked to be no fluke'

I quite liked the way Knight Salute finished off his race in the Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle in conditions he'll quite likely encounter back at the track in March.

Milton Harris has his horses in good form and there looked to be no fluke about the son of Sir Percy's disposal of outsiders Saint Riquier and Yorksea, although the favourite, Magistrato, may prefer slower conditions.
David Milnes, Newmarket correspondent

Watch Knight Salute win at Cheltenham

'Her jumping really was exquisite'

Best performance of the day was wrapped up before 1.00pm on Saturday after Riviere D’Etel jumped her rivals silly to win the Grade 2 BetVictor Casino Novice Chase at Punchestown.

Her jumping was exquisite and Denis O’Regan turned up the pressure in no uncertain terms as the race reached its peak, which the filly’s rivals couldn't handle.

She appeared to have plenty of speed, so quotes for the Sporting Life Arkle are understandable, but there is also the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase to choose from as well if they fancy going a little further. I thought she was excellent.
Peter Scargill, reporter

Watch Riviere D'Etel win at Punchestown

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