Bellewstown NAP and NB: Nolan targets Saturday William Hill series race It is brilliant to see jumps racing back at Bellewstown on Saturday, and I'm going to look at the highly competitive 14:40 race, the William Hill Each Way Extra Challenge Series Maiden Hurdle. There are plenty of horses with solid chances, but for me, I like the profile of Paul Nolan's Two Pair at a nice price of 17/2, available on William Hill. Nolan team in fine fettle She made her debut in a Punchestown bumper that was won by the highly talented Bambino Fever, who went on to Cheltenham glory a few months later. She has since followed up that run with a few decent performances, the most eye-catching coming when finishing second in Clonmel on the 23rd of October. The winner that day has gone on to achieve black type in some highly contested races, and the third was victorious at the Fairyhouse Easter Festival. Paul Nolan is a very patient trainer, and this horse has just needed time to learn through her racing. With the Nolan team in such fantastic form, including a double in Wexford last Friday and another double in Down Royal on Sunday, things are clearly clicking in the yard. I feel the conditions will suit her well, and she should go very close in what looks a strong and competitive race on paper. Progressive type to make bold show My next best in the race is Sticktothescript at odds of 15/2 for Philip Enright and Oliver McKiernan. That stable has been in great form over the last six weeks after what had been a fairly difficult season prior to that, which is encouraging to see. He is a five-year-old who has shown plenty of promise in all of his runs, often facing horses with a lot of ability along the way, including Star Of The Week and Shabby Hill. It is also interesting to note that he finished second in a point-to-point behind No Limit, who looks like he could develop into a very smart horse for Gordon Elliott next season. I also feel that the conditions will suit this horse, and the step back in trip may allow Enright to dictate matters from the front. If he gets into a good rhythm, he may prove difficult to peg back. Once again, it is a hugely competitive race, but I'm happy to take my chances with these two selections. Both bring solid form and appealing profiles into the contest, and at the prices available, they represent good value in what should be a fascinating race. 14:40 Two Pair Nap Sticktothescript NB Once again, a massive thanks to William Hill, who have been outstanding sponsors of Irish racing this season. The William Hill Extra Places Series has allowed trainers and riders who may not have as many winners to really have a strong opportunity at winning a competition, and the prize money on offer to yards and stable staff is both welcomed and appreciated. Hopefully, we will see them back next season sponsoring more races.
