THE LESSONS TO LEARN

THE run-up to Christmas is one of the few times that the best take on the best outside of the Cheltenham Festival, and it goes without saying that there are clues aplenty for the big March meeting.

However, it’s not just the big races that can provide future winners. Keep a close eye on the novice and maiden hurdles at Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup Trophy meeting as they are a rich source. Jonbon beat subsequent Ascot handicap scorer Good Risk At All in one of them last year.

The Henry VIII Novices’ Chase at Sandown is usually one of the strongest novice chases of the season, and last year was no different.

Subsequent Arkle winner Edwardstone routed a field that included next-time-out winners War Lord, Third Time Lucki and Minella Drama. Even Do Your Job and Stolen Silver, who didn’t win next time, went on to land Graded contests.

The Silver Cup, run at Ascot on Long Walk day, also threw up subsequent scorers last year. The winner Annsam won over hurdles later in the season, runnerup Phoenix Way was successful when back at Ascot next time, and the fifth-home Checkitout won on his next outing at Fontwell.