Harry Cobden Previews Ascot Rides, Reflects on Newbury Successes
Ascot Racegoers can find the latest odds and betting options for Saturday’s ITV Racing fixtures on the Paddy Power website and app.
Top jockey Harry Cobden is gearing up for a busy Saturday at Ascot, where he’s slated to ride in six races. Following a successful outing at Newbury last weekend, Cobden shared insights into his upcoming mounts and reflected on recent victories, offering valuable perspectives for racing enthusiasts. Fans can also catch Cobden’s weekly analysis on the Paddy Power Racing YouTube channel and the “From The Horse’s Mouth” podcast.
Newbury’s “Super Saturday” and Emerging Talent
Last weekend proved particularly fruitful for Cobden at Newbury, highlighted by the impressive performance of Sober Glory, who secured a commanding win by 27 lengths. Initially, Cobden admitted he wasn’t entirely convinced of the horse’s potential. “Before Saturday, I wasn’t actually 100 per cent sure about him. I thought he was a good horse, but not maybe a ‘proper horse’,” he stated. However, Sober Glory’s relaxed demeanor early in the race, coupled with his strong finish, changed that perception.
The jockey emphasized the horse’s adaptability to soft ground, noting that if conditions remain favorable and Sober Glory is entered in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at the Festival, he would be a strong contender. “If the ground is soft…I’d give him a big chance,” Cobden explained. “He’s certainly improving so roll on March! He’s the one that could potentially be overpriced in the Supreme Novices Hurdle.”
Cobden also celebrated a surprising victory with Tutti Quanti in a handicap hurdle. “I was on Tutti Quanti who bolted up…and I have to admit that I was surprised,” he confessed. He attributed the win to the horse’s unexpected ability to handle the ground, describing how Tutti Quanti “demolished them!” While acknowledging Tutti Quanti’s preference for soft ground, Cobden suggested a potential challenge in the Champion Hurdle on firmer surfaces, but believes the horse has a bright future as a chaser. “I’m sure he’ll be a fantastic chaser next season but I’ll leave that up to Paul Nicholls!”
Saturday’s Ascot Lineup: A Race-by-Race Breakdown
Cobden outlined his expectations for each of his six rides at Ascot:
- 13:15 Ascot – Etna Bianco: “Etna Bianco ran nicely when 22 lengths fifth in the Challow Hurdle…and he’s a nice horse. It’s a lovely ride to pick up and he’s got a big chance.”
- 13:50 Ascot – Thomas Mor: Described as a “great spare ride,” Thomas Mor is considered a strong contender, having finished second in the Kauto Star Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. “I’m delighted to be riding him and he should be there or thereabouts.”
- 14:25 Ascot – Captain Teague: Cobden identified Captain Teague as a potential each-way bet, acknowledging a less-than-ideal performance in his last race at Windsor. “There were a lot of negatives around his last run…but he’s got a lot of class, he’ll handle the ground and he should improve a good bit from the last run.”
- 15:00 Ascot – Threeunderthrufive: While acknowledging the horse may be “too high in the handicap,” Cobden remains optimistic. “He won this race two years ago and he was second last year…If Threeunderthrufive puts his best foot forwards, he’ll go close.”
- 15:35 Ascot – Pic DOrhy (Best chance): Cobden expressed strong confidence in Pic DOrhy’s chances in the Ascot Chase, despite a recent third-place finish. “We can definitely forgive his last run…I’m really sweet on him on Saturday. He’s the fresh horse going into the race and he always runs a big race when fresh.” Facing off against Jonbon, owned by Cobden’s future employer JP McManus, he downplayed any added pressure, stating, “it’s just another day and another race! I would love to beat him.”
- 16:10 Ascot – Solar System: Cobden noted that Solar System is a “good ride to pick up,” but suggested the handicapper may have accurately assessed the horse’s capabilities.
With a mix of seasoned performers and promising contenders, Harry Cobden is poised for an exciting day of racing at Ascot. His insights provide a valuable guide for punters and fans alike as they anticipate a thrilling afternoon of National Hunt action.
