The last two winners of the Virgin Bet Daily Extra Places Eider Handicap will try to win the race for a second time at Newcastle tomorrow (2:43 p.m.). Knockanore, who has showed little since his win twelve months ago, and Anglers Crag, who has switched stables since his win in 2024, both have strong chances of victory if running up to their best form.

This marathon contest of nearly 4 miles 2 furlongs is not for the faint of heart although this year Newcastle seems to have missed the worst of the rain as the going is currently ‘good to soft’. This race is often run on ‘soft’ or ‘heavy’ ground with the runners well strung on by the winning post.

My preference tomorrow is for DOM OF MARY, an out-and-out stayer who has done well for trainer James Owen since being switched from David Bridgwater’s yard in the close season. The ten-year-old gelding won at this course in November over a distance of 3 miles 6 furlongs and was then sixth in the Coral Welsh Grand National in late December on ground too quick for him (officially ‘good to soft’ but in reality much faster).

The outsider of the field, Whistle Stop Tour, is interesting at a big price

The outsider of the field, Whistle Stop Tour, is interesting at a big price

James Davies rides Dom Of Mary for the first time tomorrow but he is a good jockey to have on board in these big staying handicaps. Back Dom Of Mary one point each way at 15-2 with Skybet, paying a generous four places in this ten-runner contest.

The outsider of the field, Whistle Stop Tour, is interesting at a big price. He was seen as a potential stable star this time last year and a Grand National horse of the future. Then it all went horribly wrong, starting at the Cheltenham Festival when he was nearly brought down in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the first fence. He........

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