12:25 ascot Saturday 17th January 2026

This could go the way of WINSTON JUNIOR (10) who held some fair form on the flat in Ireland and did well both hurdle starts racing for new connections. Trained by Faye Bramley and shaped nicely when second at Fontwell on his hurdling debut before posting a much stronger effort when filling the same position behind a very useful performer in a Class Two at Cheltenham. Can come out on top. DOWN TO BUSINESS (2) might show progress with the first-time tongue-tie applied following a pleasing hurdling debut third at Newbury. NOVELISTA (8) was a winner tackling a staying trip on the flat and must be considered when resuming hurdling. MACSHADOW DES CRAI (7) is next best.