Can Teddy Blue bounce Back?
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Sunday’s ITV Racing schedule promises exhilarating races from both Leopardstown and musselburgh, kicking off with a Grade 1 novice hurdle over 2 miles at Leopardstown. While Kopek des Bordes is favored too win, horse racing expert Matt Chapman suggests taking a chance on REDEMPTION DAY each-way.
Chapman believes the Willie mullins-trained runner, ridden by Danny Mullins, has untapped potential that wasn’t fully realized during his disappointing hurdling debut at Leopardstown in December. The horse’s return to wearing a hood further bolsters Chapman’s confidence. This strategic insight underscores the importance of considering factors beyond a horse’s raw talent.
The Grade 1 dublin Chase over 2m1f at Leopardstown is another race to watch, featuring GAELIC WARRIOR, who recently lost to Solness in his seasonal debut. Although Solness had the advantage of being race-fit, GAELIC WARRIOR is expected to be a formidable force.
Adding intrigue, GAELIC WARRIOR will be sporting a hood for the first time, which could prove advantageous. “He’s basically the best horse in the race,” states a seasoned racing analyst. Paul Townend will be in the saddle for the formidable willie Mullins.
The Edinburgh National Handicap Chase over nearly 4 miles at Musselburgh is another race to watch. Toby lawes-trained SURREY QUEST, a consistent performer in Scottish terrain, is a standout contender. Last year’s Scottish National runner-up and recent second-place finisher at Cheltenham, SURREY QUEST is sure to be a force to be reckoned with. “A big chance for SURREY QUEST who likes some Scottish air!” proclaims the analyst. despite unseating his rider last time out, SURREY QUEST’s typically sound jumping suggests it was an isolated incident. With a workable mark of 139,he is well-positioned for success in this race.
The Musselburgh card also features a handicap hurdle over 3 miles. TOP MAN TOM, trained by Sandy Thompson, has shown marked improvement since stepping up in distance. Although facing tougher competition this time, his low weight under Danny McMenamin is a significant advantage. TOP MAN TOM’s early-pace setting tendencies also give him a tactical edge.
“The great thing is with him he started at the bottom end of the handicap, scoring off 98 and 104 at this track,” notes a racing analyst.
Can Teddy Blue Bounce Back at Musselburgh?
The Musselburgh racecourse is set for a thrilling afternoon of competition on February 2nd, 2025, with a especially intriguing 2-mile handicap chase taking center stage at 15:35. one horse carrying hopes of a resurgence is Teddy Blue, currently rated 124.
His recent form has been lackluster, including a disappointing finish behind nearly all other competitors at Cheltenham in November. Though, there’s reason to believe this slump might be temporary. A year ago at this time, Teddy Blue captured the attention of racing fans with a commendable fourth-place finish at Ascot, competing off a rating of 131. If he can recapture that form, he could easily dominate this field.
Trainer Harry Derham and jockey Paul O’Brien are banking on a change of tactics to revitalize Teddy Blue. The introduction of blinkers for the first time is aimed at helping him refocus and rediscover his potential. Trainer Harry Derham commented, saying, “They’re banking on the blinkers, worn for the first time, to help the horse refocus and rediscover his potential.”
Matt chapman’s ITV Racing Tips
Renowned racing expert Matt Chapman has shared his insights, identifying several promising horses across today’s events. His selections include:
- 13:40 Leopardstown – Redemption Day (Each-Way)
- 13:55 Musselburgh – Asta La Pasta
- 14:10 Leopardstown – Gaelic Warrior
- 14:25 Musselburgh – Surrey Quest
- 14:45 Leopardstown – Horantzau d’Airy (Each-Way)
- 15:00 musselburgh – Top Man Tom
- 15:20 Leopardstown –
Chapman’s attention is drawn to the Grade 1 Irish Champion Hurdle, stating, “In the main event, the Grade 1 Irish Champion Hurdle, the spotlight shines brightly on State Man.”
While State Man hasn’t quite reached the heights anticipated this season, he boasts an impressive history in this race. last year, he delivered a stunning performance, edging out bob Olinger and Impaire et passe. With Paul Townend riding and Willie Mullins at the helm,State Man remains a formidable contender.
The racing world eagerly anticipates Teddy Blue’s comeback story and State Man’s potential triumph. Will Teddy Blue overcome adversity and prove himself? Can State Man reclaim his championship title? One thing is certain: the Musselburgh racecourse will witness a captivating display of skill, strategy, and athletic prowess.
Can Teddy Blue Bounce Back?
Teddy Blue, a horse with undeniable potential, enters the Musselburgh handicap chase today with a promising prospect. Matt Chapman, a respected racing analyst for ITV Racing, has analyzed Teddy Blue’s recent performances and believes the day could mark a turning point for the talented horse.”It’s been a frustrating period for Teddy Blue’s connections,” Chapman admits. “His form dip,especially that disappointing run at Cheltenham,raised eyebrows. But remember, horses go through inconsistent phases. It’s crucial not to panic.”
Chapman points to the recent drop in Teddy blue’s rating and the addition of blinkers as positive signs. “This, coupled with the switch to blinkers, suggests his handlers are working hard to find the key to unlocking his potential again,” Chapman explains.
the blinkers, Chapman believes, could be a game-changer. “Blinkers can really help refocus a horse, especially one that might be prone to drifting or distraction during a race,” he says. “It’s a relatively simple change, but sometiems those little tweaks can make a big difference. I’m certainly intrigued to see how Teddy Blue responds.”
Beyond the blinkers, Chapman highlights Teddy Blue’s positive track record at Musselburgh and his suitability for the course distance. “If he can rediscover the form he showed last year at Ascot, he absolutely has a shot at winning this race. He’s got the ability; it’s just a matter of putting it all together on the day.”
What gives you particular hope for Teddy Blue’s performance today, Matt?
Can Teddy Blue Bounce Back?
Matt Chapman, ITV Racing analyst: “It’s been a frustrating period for Teddy Blue’s connections,” Chapman admits. “his form dip,especially that disappointing run at Cheltenham,raised eyebrows. But remember, horses go through inconsistent phases. It’s crucial not to panic.”
What gives you particular hope for Teddy Blue’s performance today, Matt?
Chapman points to the recent drop in Teddy Blue’s rating and the addition of blinkers as positive signs. “This, coupled with the switch to blinkers, suggests his handlers are working hard to find the key to unlocking his potential again,” Chapman explains.”The blinkers can really help refocus a horse, especially one that might be prone to drifting or distraction during a race.” he says. “It’s a relatively simple change, but sometimes those little tweaks can make a big difference. I’m certainly intrigued to see how Teddy Blue responds.”
So, you think the blinkers could be the missing piece of the puzzle then?
Beyond the blinkers, Chapman highlights Teddy Blue’s positive track record at Musselburgh and his suitability for the course distance. “If he can rediscover the form he showed last year at Ascot,he absolutely has a shot at winning this race. He’s got the ability; it’s just a matter of putting it all together on the day.”
What say you,our readers? Do you think Teddy Blue can bounce back? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
