Dan Skelton is establishing significant momentum early in the season as he aims for the title of champion trainer. After notable victories in the Haldon Gold Cup, Shloer Chase, and Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham’s November meeting, Skelton looks to capitalize on his success with several promising contenders this weekend.
Key Contenders for Ascot and Haydock Wins
1. Newton Novices’ Hurdle at Haydock
Scheduled for 12:08, the Betfair Supports Safer Gambling Week Newton Novices’ Hurdle spans 1m7½f at Haydock. One standout is Double Measure, who debuted with a win in a bumper at Uttoxeter in March. This month, he placed second in his hurdle debut at Chepstow, finishing just three-quarters of a length behind the Olly Murphy-trained The Blue Room. The four-year-old, sired by Grade 1-winning chaser Goliath Du Berlais, is expected to improve significantly and is considered a serious contender.
2. Handicap Hurdle at Haydock
The 1:15 Betfair Racing Podcasts Handicap Hurdle, set for 2m3f, features Skelton’s exciting recruit, Kabral Du Mathan. Arriving from Paul Nicholls’ yard, he triumphed in his debut in France and secured two additional victories before a close second in the Scottish Champion Hurdle. Although this will be his first outing since Ayr, his previous performances indicate he can perform well after a break.
3. Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle at Haydock
The 2:25 Betfair Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle, covering 3m½f, highlights Ace Of Spades, who secured a victory at Aintree last month. He boasts a strong record with four wins from ten starts and has previously placed second over this distance at Ayr. His stablemate, Joyeux Machin, enters the race after a challenging season but may find improvement with the increase in distance.
4. Ascot Hurdle
At 2:40, the Ladbrokes Ascot Hurdle sets the stage for Kateira, who dominated her return at Wetherby, defeating Champion Hurdle winner Golden Ace by 28 lengths. While she has shown promise, this race presents a tougher challenge. Kateira, with six wins from 13 starts over hurdles, will have to step up significantly to compete against Wodhooh and Potters Charm.
5. Betfair Chase at Haydock
Finally, the 3:00 Betfair Chase at Haydock marks the return of Grey Dawning, the ante-post favorite. He previously won the Turners Novices’ Chase at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival and has performed consistently, finishing well in various competitive races. This event presents an opportunity for him to reclaim the spotlight, especially against rivals like Royale Pagaille, whom he faced last year.
Dan Skelton’s string of performances suggests a robust season ahead. As he prepares for challenges at both Ascot and Haydock, fans and punters alike will watch closely.
