N.H. racing at Ffos Las, Warwick and Thurles (Ireland)

while the big story today is undoubtedly the start of the Dubai Racing Carnival (see separate story), there is also plenty of racing in the U.K. and Ireland, although obviousy at a much lower level. At Warwick, the 2 1/2 mile novice chase at 15.55 CET is the main event with 6 runners. Gansey (Sue Smith/ Richard McGrath) has to give weight away all round, but still looks the most likely winner. With the Alan King stable now in form again, Bakbenscher (Wayne Hutchinson) is the clear danger.

The handicap hurdle over an extended 3 miles at 16.30 looks more open, and last-time-out winners Minella Boys (Charlie Longsdon/ Andrew Tinkler) and My Friend Sandy (Jim Old/ Timmy Murphy) look the ones to concentrate on. Two horses in top form clash in the handicap chase at 17.00 - Senor Shane (Charlie Gordon/ Colin Studd), who has won his last 3 races, and Noun de la Thinte (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), who has won her last 5 , including 2 in the last 10 days. Both have gone up in the weights, but still seem capable of further improvement and can dominate this event.

Surprisingly, most of the top jockeys are in action at the new Welsh track at Ffos Las. The Irish have already discovered the attractions of this course, and Gordon Elliott can land a double here with Definite All Star and Lady Roberta in the maiden hurdles at 14.25 and 15.30 respectively, both partnered by Jason Maguire. Several of the runners in the mares novice chase at 16.05 met in a similar race at Exeter before Christmas. On that occasion Caroles Legacy (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) won by a nose from Cool Friend (Jeremy Scott/ Nick Scholfield) by a nose, but the latter can now reverse the form on 6 lbs better terms.

There are couple of graded races at the Irish jumps meeting at Thurles.The powerful combination of Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh can take the 2 1/2 mile chase at 16.25 with Snowy Morning, and Ruby also rides an interesting newcomer for his father in the 4yo hurdle at 14.40, Hail Caesar, who last ran in the Grand Prix de Paris. Otherwise the day could belong to Davy Russell, who has winning opportunities on Cool Hand Luke at 15.15, Vinnies Friends at 15.50 and Tally Em Up at 16.55