Just Cameron out to repeat last year's Castleford victory

2.15 Wetherby
racingtv.com Castleford Handicap Chase | Class 2 | 1m7f 36yds | 4yo+ | Racing TV

Four rivals will take on Altior in the Desert Orchid on Thursday; for everyone else there is the Castleford Chase. The competitive field assembled for this year's race is potentially one of the best since the Desert Orchid was inaugurated in 2006.

Last year's first and second, Just Cameron and Duke Of Navan, are in attendance again but this year face stiffer opposition.

Nicky Richards, trainer of Duke Of Navan, said: "He ran well at Cheltenham [head second to Modus], but maybe had a bit too quick a turnaround between that and his next run at Ascot.

"He seems fresh and well at home now and should run a good race – it's competitive, but that's the level he's at now. He's a Presenting and should like a bit of decent ground, but they're calling it soft and that will be fine for him."

Nicky Richards: saddles Duke Of NavanCredit: Alan Crowhurst (Getty Images)

At the last Wetherby meeting, Bouvreuil sprang back to form to win on his debut for Ben Haslam. He is up 5lb but remains well treated on his best form and has historically thrived in big handicaps.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, said: "He won well last time out and Ben is very happy with him, he's in good form."

Sue Smith won this race with stable favourite Mister McGoldrick in 2005 and, on the same day Vintage Clouds runs in the Welsh Grand National, saddles Cracking Find.

"It's quite a competitive race and he's going up in grade, but he's a game little horse who always tries hard," she said.

"On quicker ground he might stay two and a half miles well, but I think when the ground is soft like this, then two miles is fine. He may get a bit outspeeded by those good horses but he'll be staying on at the end."

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