Nick Luck’s blog: I’m in the Mood

The ITV cameras head to Prestbury Park on Friday for the first day of Cheltenham’s November meeting. Our man, Nick Luck, has run his eye over three of Friday’s races.

Cheltenham

KAP AUTEUIL can give trainer Toby Lawes a first Cheltenham success in the TV opener at Prestbury Park on Friday (1.45pm) at 13/2. A horse with a really progressive profile, he arguably produced a career best when winning a warm race at Stratford last time. He will be strong at the finish here, which should prove crucial, as Stolen Silver and Editeur Du Gite are likely to make this a serious test at the trip. Bun Doran is another who can run well if revitalized by a wind op.

DIESEL D’ALLIER looks the relatively safe option at 11/2 in a tricky Cross Country (2.55pm). He won here a couple of years back when with Emanuel Clayeux before running a belter at the Festival behind Easysland and Tiger Roll. His new trainer Richard Bandey has more than once given notice that he shouldn’t be underestimated and this horse still looked in good heart when last seen out in the spring.

CURRENT MOOD makes a fair bit of appeal at 9/1 in a warm looking novice hurdle (3.30pm). Sure, her form needs improving on, but this race is all about potential and she looks to have plenty judged on two recent wins where she’s barely come off the bridle. With the ground likely to stay on top, the emphasis could be on speed, which looks her strong suit. She gets a nice a chunk of weight from most of these – and fully nine pounds from the likely favourite.