Radanpour can get Howard Johnson off the mark for 1999 in the Tote Hurdle (Showcase Handicap) at Catterick today. Johnson has not had much luck recently but there are definite possibilities about Radanpour, who is a very interesting runner.
The seven-year-old has proved frustrating since being brought over from Ireland, where he won a Grade Three hurdle at Navan in 1996 for Willie Mullins.
He has gone close quite a few times, notably over two miles and a furlong at Sedgefield in November when two lengths second to Country Orchid, the pair finishing 11 lengths clear.
A subsequent switch to fences did not produce much joy but this significant step up in trip to an extended three miles and a furlong may provide the answer.
Radanpour has certainly looked short of finishing speed but given the fact that he won a two and a half mile bumper in Ireland, he should not be short of stamina.
He has been slipping down the handicap for a couple of years now and is worth another chance to provide a bit of value in a very trappy contest.
Turnpole has a second go over fences in the Stayers' Novices Chase - but only money-buyers will be able to get involved.
He was last tried in this sphere almost exactly two years ago when unseating his rider at Newcastle but should have no trouble making the grade.
Mary Reveley's eight-year-old has proved useful on the Flat and smart over hurdles and should stand head and shoulders above his rivals in what looks a soft opportunity.
Most valuable race of the day is at Southwell, where 16 line up for the £14,000-added Ladbroke AllWeather Challenge Series Handicap (Final).
This six-furlong event is devilishly difficult to unravel but it is fair to say that Elton Ledger will provide some each-way value.
Norma Macauley's 10-year-old practically has a second home at the Nottinghamshire track and although some may snort that he is a "mere" plater he always gives his best.
He has run very well in handicaps over this, his ideal trip, several times in the past and will be suited by what may turn out to be a cut-throat pace.
Local trainer Mark Polglase has been ticking over nicely since his move from Newmarket and Pip's Brave can keep the ball rolling in the Kelham Handicap.
Powder River, who returns to Britain after a successful stint in the Czech Republic, is an interesting runner in the Mansfield Handicap.
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