FERDY Murphy has high hopes that his Coral Cup winner Naiad Du Misselot can make a big impression this season in his new role as a chaser and the gelding gets the opportunity to shine at Kelso tomorrow.

The John Merry Beginners’ Chase is the intended target for the French-bred performer, who will be partnered by Graham Lee, just as he was when he made such a promising chasing debut at Haydock earlier this month.

Narrowly denied by Rightway Star, after making a couple of minor errors, Naiad Du Misselot came home powerfully in second place, leaving the impression that he would not be long in going one better.

His Cheltenham success in March in the Coral Cup stamped Naiad Du Misselot as a horse with a big future. He can prove the point at Kelso.

Mr Barnacle should not be overlooked in the Ashleybank Investments Reg Tweedie Novices’ Handicap Chase.

Trained by Nicky Richards, whose horses have struck form with a vengeance lately, Mr Barnacle ran a race full of promise when only fading three out at Carlisle on his reappearance. He should strip fitter this time.

Howard Johnson has tremendous strength in depth within his County Durham yard and Presenting Forever will be worthy of close attention if he faces the starter in the opening novices’ hurdle.

A high-class horse in Irish point-to-points, Presenting Forever was a big-money buy for the Johnson yard, courtesy of principal patron Graham Wylie. He looks an exciting prospect.

Mister Pete, fit from the Flat, is likely to turn out in the Scotdisc Handicap Hurdle.

Wilf Storey’s gelding has been in good nick in recent weeks and he may well be able to capitalize on his proven well-being with this return to hurdling.

Mark Johnston sends Keenes Day to tomorrow evening’s meeting at Wolverhampton in a bid to extend this in-form colt’s winning sequence.

Successful on his last two starts, at Southwell and on this course four weeks ago, Keenes Day has been raised 7lb by the handicapper for his latest victory, but he is expected to prove equal to his latest task.

Geoff Oldroyd has good prospects of lifting the Evening Racing At Wolverhampton Apprentice Handicap with Admiral Bond, who is awarded the nap vote.

The Brawby trainer, who sent out 33-1 shot Miss Xu Xia to score at Southwell on Tuesday, saw Admiral Bond finish a half-length second to Ryedane on this course a fortnight ago. It would be no surprise to see him go one better under Nicky Lawes. He may have most to fear from Julie Camacho’s Elkhorn, who, although on a long losing run, has slipped to a very handy handicap mark.

The promising Party Frock (8.20) and the hat-trick seeking Plush (9.20) are two others to note on this seven-race card.


Racing selections

Kelso (tomorrow – selected races)
12.15 Presenting Forever, 1.15 Mr Barnacle, 1.50 Naiad Du Misselot, 2.25 Mister Pete,

Wolverhampton (tomorrow)
6.20 Admiral Bond (NAP), 6.50 Bluebell Ridge, 7.20 Stravita, 7.50 Monsieur Fillioux, 8.20 Party Frock, 8.50 Keenes Day, 9.20 Plush.

Tomorrow’s other meetings:
Ascot, Exeter.

Today’s meetings:
Great Leighs, Hereford, Market Rasen, Wincanton.