Promising types on display while stars assemble for JLT Hurdle

Monday

If you were at Cheltenham on Saturday you'll still be thawing out on Monday, and it's a typically low-key start to the week with racing at Ffos Las, Plumpton and Wolverhampton.

Two horses who could make the headlines are Collooney and Ok Corral, both owned by JP McManus. The former looked a thoroughly smart recruit when he made light work of a Huntingdon bumper and he makes his hurdling debut in the opening race at Plumpton (12.25).

Ok Corral missed his intended chasing bow in the Ryman Novices' Chase at Cheltenham, meaning he makes his belated first appearance over fences in the following race (12.55).

Tuesday

Irish racing is back on Tuesday at Naas. The maiden hurdle (12.30) is sure to attract a few decent types and the likes of Champagne Classic, Bacardys and Bleu Berry could run in the Beginners Chase (1.35).

Champagne Classic: could return at Naas on TuesdayCredit: John Grossick

Racing in Britain takes place at Catterick, Southwell and Fakenham.

Wednesday

Newbury stages a good card so keep your eyes peeled for any smart performances. Pacific De Baune, Ms Parfois and Mr Whipped scored at the meeting 12 months ago.

Ludlow hosts the only other jumps card, with Flat racing at Lingfield, Newcastle and Dundalk.

Thursday

The most informative card of the afternoon is likely to come at Exeter, with action also taking place at Hexham and Southwell.

The evening meeting at Chelmsford features a 1m6f handicap worth £50,000 as the Essex course continue to admirably put up some excellent prize-money.

Friday

Vinndication (left) could aim to defend his unbeaten record in the Noel Novices' ChaseCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Ascot becomes the focus point on Friday with two Grade 2 events, the Kennel Gate Novices' Hurdle – these days known as the Supreme Trial – and the Noel Novices' Chase.

Kim Bailey's Vinndication, who has yet to be beaten in five starts under rules, could attempt to make a breakthrough in Graded company in the latter race.

The concluding race, a Listed bumper, also has a record of producing Graded horses.

Saturday

The Long Walk Hurdle (now the JLT) is one of the jewels in the 3m hurdling crown. Who will throw their hat into the Stayers' Hurdle ring?

Last year's winner Sam Spinner, 2016 victor Unowhatimeanharry and the progressive Paisley Park could be joined by Faugheen and ante-post favourite Call Me Lord.

The Listed Silver Cup and a Grade 3 handicap hurdle, formerly The Ladbroke, add extra allure to a star-studded card.

It isn't all about Ascot though as Haydock puts on a card that includes the historic Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase.

Faugheen: will he run in the JLT Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday?Credit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Sunday

There is no racing in Britain or Ireland on Sunday so the jockeys will be having a well deserved rest in preparation for Christmas and, more importantly, Boxing Day.

On the global scene, the biggest betting race in the world takes place on Sunday, the Arima Kinen. The Grade 1 takes place at Nakayama and has been won by Japanese greats such as Heart's Cry (2005), Deep Impact (2006), Orfevre (2011, 2013) and Kitasan Black (2017).

Look back on the best jumps action of the year in the new edition of the Racing Post Annual. Click here to order or call 01933 304858