My Silver Lining impresses with stamina in Classic Chase, delighting handicap fans

Thanks to the saving of the Veterans’ Final, cancelled at Sandown the previous weekend, Warwick staged not one but two 14-runner staying handicap chases. Meanwhile, Kempton’s Lanzarote Hurdle saw 19 runners, and the winner came back at a handsome 33-1 for anyone clever enough to have solved the puzzle. One For Arthur won the Midlands version of the race on his way to Aintree glory seven years ago, but he was rated 122 on Saturday, which is not high enough to make the cut for the National. Emma Lavelle, who has now won three Classic Chases in 11 years, is said to have her sights on the Midlands version. My Silver Lining had been running well over three miles but not quite quick enough. However, she seemed to love the steadier rhythm of this longer race at Warwick and performed exceptionally.

Published on 14 January 2024 in The Cook Review, the thrills at Plumpton were much needed after the weather threatened to take racing off-air. Galopin Des Champs emerged as the true king of Christmas, despite another crazy King George. El Fabiolo and Jonbon also bagged big prizes over the weekend, while Shishkin continued to build an impressive record without actually running. At Cheltenham, Stage Star and Jonbon ensured that the status quo was preserved as the big two dominated.

All of these thrilling events and performances are covered extensively in The Cook Review, providing readers with the latest updates and insights.