Pete's Paddock Picks
The service has shown promise in its first few days of testing with 5 wins from 6 selections and has been around since 2022. Brilliantly titled Petes Paddock Picks:
December 2024 ended: +£44.78
Year 2024 finished: +£364.90
Year 2023 finished: +£469.27
Results to £1 stakes
1:55pm Newcastle – Ascending Lark
Ascending Lark (7/4) makes her handicap debut off what looks a lenient mark following two impressive wins over hurdles for Harry Derham. Despite the yard’s recent poor run (0/38), her
form on both soft and good ground makes her a strong contender in this small but competitive field.
The main threat is Fromheretoeternity, who has thrived since joining Jennie Candlish, winning three of her last six. However, her fall at Haydock last time raises questions, and she’s now 4lbs higher. If Ascending Lark handles the step up in class, she should go close.
Recommendation: Ascending Lark – 1 pt win @ 7/4
2:55pm Newcastle – Torneo
Torneo (6/4) has been consistent over fences, finishing in the top three in all four starts and winning last time at Taunton off a 5lb lower mark. Sam Twiston-Davies takes the ride in place of Gavin Sheehan, who is at Chepstow, but he’s more than capable of delivering.
King Of Tara and Cold
Sobar are the main rivals, but both have questions to answer. King Of Tara was disappointing last time, while Cold Sobar’s yard is out of form. Torneo’s consistency and progressive profile make him the most reliable option.
Recommendation: Torneo – 1 pt win @ 6/4
3:17pm Chepstow – The Scorpion King (Nap)
The Scorpion King (9/4) has been raised a stone for his recent wins
on soft/heavy ground, but he still looks well-handicapped and is the standout pick in this competitive handicap chase. Despite carrying 12st today, he’s proven under similar weights, having won with 11-13 and 11-11 in his last two starts. Conditions are ideal, and he arrives in top form after beating the in-form Haut Folin last time.
The main dangers include Jo Lescribaa, who won narrowly at Uttoxeter, and Grove Road, who faded late at
Fontwell but is 1st lighter here. Bampton Star could improve with a stronger jockey booking, while Twilight Glory is closely matched on form but may lack the same upside. Oliver Signy’s seven-year-old looks the one to beat.
Recommendation: The Scorpion King (Nap) – 1 pt win @ 5/2P) – 1pts @ 4/1