Key quotes for Newbury's tricky novice handicap finale

3.35 Newbury
Betway Novices' Handicap Chase | 2m6½f | 4yo+ | ITV4/RTV

You would have been wise to predict last year's winner De Rasher Counter would go on to Ladbrokes Trophy glory, but perhaps one of Saturday's 11 novices can take this handicap as a springboard before tackling big prizes.

The trends suggest improving six-year-olds have the right profile for this race. However the four market leaders are all that age.

Tidal Flow heads Saturday's betting following his comfortable victory at Uttoxeter last time. He's been raised 7lb for that success and is seeking a third course win here.

What they say

Philip Hobbs, trainer of Tidal Flow
He won his bumper and novice hurdle at Newbury, so it makes sense to run him as his best form is at the track. It looks a very suitable race to run him in and, even with top weight, I hope he has a strong each-way chance.

Chris Gordon, trainer of Mellow Ben
The ground is probably a bit too soft, but he's in great form at home. He's had a great year and we've given him a bit of a break since his last run.

Tom Lacey, trainer of Kateson
He's in good form and he's run well at Newbury before. The ground is perfect for him. I thought he got to the front a bit too soon at Exeter, and we're hoping he can run well.

Kim Bailey, trainer of Commodore Barry
He was probably unlucky last time. He's got good form but this looks quite a competitive race. The ground should be fine, he'll go on soft.

Nicky Henderson, trainer of Burbank, Morning Vicar and Post War
They're all really nice horse. Post War has been off for a long time, Burbank has got plenty of ability and could win a race like this. The ground might be a little bit soft for him, but he's got to keep going. Morning Vicar ran a really nice race the last day, it's his first run over fences, but he's a chaser so we better get on with it.

Emma Lavelle, trainer of Down The Highway
Things haven't quite gone to plan for him so far this season, but he's in great order. He stepped on his shoe and pulled it off at Chepstow so he was a little bit sore afterwards. I think the track and race will suit, and he'll think he's loose with 10st 5lb on his back. We'll see what happens.

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