1:45 Ayr 18 Apr 2026 3m (3m 20y) CPMS Novices’ Champion Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) (5yo+)
Race Analysis – Today’s Card
Surface: Jumps Handicap Chase | Focus: Recent chase form, progression over fences, and race fitness
A competitive chasing handicap with several progressive types and lightly raced improvers. Strong emphasis on recent winners and horses still on upward trajectories, with a few bounce-back candidates from underwhelming latest runs.
⭐ Main Contenders
Diamond Dealer
Progressive chaser who is 3-5 over fences and clearly on the upgrade for a top yard. Looks the one to beat based on overall trajectory.
Young Jack
Enjoying a progressive first season over fences and scored nicely at Newcastle latest. Still unexposed and looks a major player.
Blakey Boy
Arrives on a hat-trick after winning his last two starts. This is tougher but he may still be improving and remains of strong interest.
I Wish You
Form of his Wetherby win has been franked and he looks in good hands to continue progressing. Solid profile in an open race.
⚠️ Next Best / Dangers
Big John Wayne
Lightly raced 8yo who won at Hexham and could improve for this step up in trip. Unexposed at staying distances.
Just Over Land
Finished third at Sandown despite mistakes. Step up in trip looks suitable and he could go well if jumping improves.
Kdeux Saint Fray
Inconvenienced at the start at Cheltenham but retains ability. Left-handed track looks a positive and remains of interest.
Caughtinyourtrance
Ran well in defeat in first two chase starts and shaped like an each-way contender again last time. Still lightly raced over fences.
❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles
Al Kalila
Won at Kelso last time but only beat three rivals and needs a clear step forward to be competitive here.
Ayiko
Pulled up at Fairyhouse recently but could benefit from returning to a left-handed track. Bounce-back required.
Califet En Vol
Won at Kempton in February but disappointed at Ayr last time. Needs to re-establish consistency.
Gamesters Guy
Won a small-field novice chase in December but has failed to kick on since and looks vulnerable.
Milcree
Won first two chase starts but pulled up last time. Remains of interest but needs to rebound strongly.
Pounding Poet
Veteran who ran okay when back over fences in December but likely needs more to feature here.
Walking On Air
Third at Doncaster in January but below par since and now tries a first-time visor for revival.
📊 Race Summary
- Progressive chasers dominate the top of the market
- Recent winners and lightly raced types are a strong theme
- Step up in trip could unlock improvement for several runners
- Several come here with bounce-back potential after poor latest runs
Best Profile: Unexposed, progressive chasers with recent winning form or solid placed efforts in stronger races
🏁 Final Verdict
1st Choice: Diamond Dealer
Main Danger: Young Jack
Value Angle: Big John Wayne
Preference is for progressive, lightly raced chasers with upside, with Diamond Dealer narrowly selected in an open contest.