We get stuck into the premier handicap chase at Ascot this Saturday. I'm very confident that both selections will play a part in the finish with prefernece for Phoenix Way.

Phoenix Way was all set to run here last month only for that Ascot meeting to be abandoned due to freezing temperatures. Harry Fry ran him at Cheltenham in their premier handicap chase instead over an inadequate two and a half miles. Phoenix Way ran well coming from off the pace to claim fourth place albeit beaten over 16 lengths. The handicapper was kind dropping him another 2lbs which sees him down to his last winning mark of 140. That win came here in January 2022 when beating Fanion Destruval over 2m5f. It came off the back of an excellent second place to Annsam over course and distance. A major player tomorrow especially with Lorcan Murtagh claiming off another 3lbs.

Danny Kirwan needs good ground and that is what he gets tomorrow. Paul Nicholls has freshened him up following a big run over course and distance last October. Danny Kirwan jumped well that day and looked a winner coming to the final fence. A slow jump cost him momentum and he ran out of fuel nearing the line allowing Our Power to come through and win. He races off a 3lb higher mark of 136 tomorrow with Harry Cobden riding. Danny Kirwan likes running at right handed Ascot and hopefully Harry can save enough petrol early doors to give Danny Kirwan a good chance and seeing out this three mile trip strongly.

Of the rest Revels Hill was tempting running in the colours of the all conquering Noel Fehily racing syndicate. He runs in first time pieces and if able to hang onto the coat tails of the leaders will come home strong as a proven stayer.

Ascot 2:25

0.5 point each way Phoenix Way 9/2 Skybet 5 places else 4/1 generally, 4 places.

0.5 point each way Danny Kirwan 6/1 Skybet 5 places else 13/2 William Hill 4 places.

Best of Luck, Nicky