Racing Line

Here are the latest top tips for the weekend's horseracing from our resident expert, Benny The Book.

Although Newbury gets its Flat programme underway the card there looks a tad lightweight, with several of the hoped-for runners not going.
So to concentrate on Ayr's jump meeting first, tomorrow's card includes the Scottish Grand National (3.40pm) and Champion Hurdle (3pm).
The latter looks fascinating as Lough Derg tries to take the Order of Merit crown from Kauto Star. David Pipe's charge needs only a fourth-place to take the title on points but faces stiff opposition to land the race from David Nicholls' Sporazene.
Indeed, Lough Derg's owner was quoted yesterday as saying his horse had only a one in 20 chance and given the huge weight he must carry and having little experience over two miles that view must be considered.
I wouldn't write either off although a better bet for my money would be Pearl King, very impressive when winning at Aintree last time.
For the Grand National, Noir et Vert has made steady progress over the past year. The seven-year-old, trained by Ferdy Murphy, ran smoothly when fourth in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham, with the opinion being that run would put him just right for tomorrow.
The nearest thing to a dead cert will probably be in the novices chase (2.30pm) where Noland, with Ruby Walsh riding, can atone for his poor show who in the Arkle – but whether the price will be worth taking remains to be seen.
Newbury's big race is the Greenham Stakes where Sir Michael Stoute's Confront can see off his seven rivals and maintain his trainer's successful record in the race.
The group 3 fillies stakes at 3.35pm can provide Nahood with another win to add to the Lowther Stakes at York in July, although one to keep an eye on is Annie Skates who made the frame in her three races last summer and currently stands at around 12/1 in the betting. Each-way returns could beckon.
Finally, after what seems an eternity, Britain's newest racecourse, Great Leighs in Essex finally starts racing on Sunday.
Due to open its gates in October 2006, protracted delays have put that date back and back.
Sunday's event is for invited guests only with the public getting their chance on May 28.