Paul Nicholls, one of Britain’s most successful trainers, is hoping to reignite the form of Bravemansgame as the nine-year-old chaser prepares to line up in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday. Nicholls believes the gelding represents a strong opportunity for punters, despite recent performances, and is turning to a tried-and-tested tactic to restore the horse’s winning ways.

Blinkers: A Focused Approach

Nicholls has decided to fit Bravemansgame with blinkers for the first time, a move inspired by his previous success with See More Business, who benefited immensely from the equipment during a memorable Gold Cup campaign 25 years ago. The addition is aimed at sharpening Bravemansgame’s focus, as the horse has lacked his usual spark in recent outings, including a second-place finish in last month’s Charlie Hall Chase. The trainer sees no downside in trialling the gear, believing it has already shown signs of improvement in training.

This minor but potentially game-changing tweak could be pivotal for Bravemansgame as he prepares to face a strong field at Haydock. Nicholls hopes the blinkers will work their magic by concentrating the horse’s efforts, especially in the critical moments of the race.

Change in the Saddle

Adding to the adjustments, Bravemansgame will have a new jockey in the saddle for the Betfair Chase. With Harry Cobden committed to rides at Ascot, Sam Twiston-Davies will step in for his first outing aboard the chaser. This switch could provide fresh insight into how Bravemansgame performs under slightly different handling, adding another layer of intrigue to his bid for glory.

For bettors seeking free horse racing tips, Bravemansgame’s price of 14-1 offers a tempting proposition, particularly for those who believe in Nicholls’ ability to turn around a horse’s form. Horse racing punters typically look at fixed-odds and pari-mutuel betting when placing their wagers, and each has its appeal depending on one’s confidence in an outsider like Bravemansgame. Fixed-odds betting allows you to lock in current odds, while pari-mutuel pools offer returns based on the total amount wagered, making it a popular option for races with unpredictable outcomes.

In addition to outright bets on winners, each-way betting, a combination of winning and placing bets, might also attract interest given the competitive field. With Nicholls’ tweaks in both equipment and rider, the horse could deliver value for punters looking beyond the favourites.

Betfair Chase

Bravemansgame faces a formidable line-up as he aims to give Nicholls his seventh Betfair Chase victory. The field includes Grey Dawning, the 7-4 favourite, as well as other top-tier competitors such as Royale Pagaille, Ahoy Senor, and Hewick. Nicholls last claimed this prestigious prize a decade ago with Silviniaco Conti, and he remains quietly confident about Bravemansgame’s chances despite the horse’s current standing in the market.

Eyeing the Grand National

Beyond Saturday’s challenge, Nicholls has hinted at broader ambitions for Bravemansgame, including a potential tilt at the Grand National next April. The decision will depend on his performances in the Betfair Chase and the King George VI Chase later this year, as well as his handicap rating heading into the spring. The trainer’s comments suggest cautious optimism but emphasise the importance of proving Bravemansgame can still compete at the highest level.

For now, all focus remains on Haydock, where the gelding will look to demonstrate that his class and ability remain intact. Nicholls’ detailed plan to revitalise the horse through strategic equipment changes and careful race planning could lay the foundation for bigger targets in the months ahead.

Conditions at Haydock

Weather conditions will play a significant role in the race, with rain forecasted to soften the ground at Haydock. Current conditions are described as good to soft in places, but further rainfall could result in a more testing surface. With an anticipated 11mm of rain before midday, the going may suit some runners better than others, making the ability to adapt a crucial factor in the outcome.