Backing Tidal Bay could be key to unlocking big race value

A stellar cast of eight runners have been declared for the upcoming Betfair Chase with Tidal Bay one of the most interesting propositions for those seeking value in Haydock’s showpiece.

The Paul Nicholls-trained 12-year-old is a 7/1 shot with Ladbrokes for the Grade One event and there are plenty of reasons to support a charge who could outstrip more high-profile rivals.

Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth and last year’s renewal victor Silviniaco Conti head the betting as joint-favourites with odds of 9/4 about their chances.

But it’s Tidal Bay who looks one of the more intriguing prospects for those looking further down the market.

Nicholls has won this race in five of the previous eight runnings and he’s already acted to book jockey Sam Twiston-Davies for the ride having witnessed the pair triumph in the West Yorkshire Hurdle at Wetherby last time out.

And that recent winning run over the same 3m1f he’ll encounter on Merseyside is just what was required for 2012’s Lexus hero following his return from injury.

That aforementioned success in Ireland was the third top-flight victory of a glittering career and his successful comeback has only served to remind onlookers of his class.

Furthermore, another famous score should come as no surprise given the Graham Wylie-owned entrant’s previous performances on soft ground.

Seven of his 15 wins under rules have come when the going has been determined as soft or heavier with two of those previously mentioned Grade One triumphs delivered in similar conditions.

Rain has been falling steadily on Haydock’s turf throughout the week with Clerk of the Course Kirkland Tellwright currently rating the ground as soft.

And should Haydock fail to dry out sufficiently in time for the big race there’s likely to be even more support for Nicholls’ gallant outsider.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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