Virtual Rock Targets Redemption at Fontwell as Southwell Lineup Takes Shape

A full program of National Hunt and flat racing is scheduled for Tuesday across two British venues, with Sky Sports Racing providing live coverage from Fontwell and Southwell.

At Fontwell, the day’s opening race sees Virtual Rock ridden by Shane Fenelon in the Betting.Bet Free Racing Tips Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle. The gelding is bidding to overcome a seven-pound rise after securing his trainer’s first victory since moving from John Butler’s yard earlier this month. His recent success at Uttoxeter marks a return to winning ways following an April 2024 triumph over two miles at the same course.

Goodwin Face, previously sent off as warm favorite at Cartmel in June, enters the contest following an extended break. Despite finishing outside the placings in a nine-runner field at that earlier appearance, the horse could prove to be a significant threat if he can recapture his previous form.

Also among the contenders is Tilehurst, who improved to a rating of 110 after a decisive win at Worcester in July. Although he finished second at the same track and distance later in the month, he carries a favorable three-pound weight penalty under Bradley Harris.

Meanwhile, at Southwell, the well-bred Shipbourne will face a field of ten opponents in the attheraces.com/marketmovers Handicap. Ridden by Rossa Ryan, the Frankel and Special Duty offspring is rated at 87. Shipbourne showed promise by doubling his win tally on reappearance at Doncaster but has since registered two subpar performances. This contest marks his second start following a recent gelding operation.

Londoner, who was beaten by a head in a closely contested race at Wolverhampton recently, returns with a two-pound increase in weight but remains a strong contender given his competitive record. Politely also draws attention, coming into the race off the back of two victories in her last four starts and a solid performance in a competitive fixture at Ascot.

Back at Fontwell, the 3:57 Setford Handicap Hurdle features top-rated Siam Park returning to action against Motazzen, who is carrying a four-pound penalty after securing his fifth hurdle victory earlier in the month. Siam Park, trained by Joe Tizzard, has not won since November but has recorded two second-place finishes and is making his first appearance following wind surgery.

Bright Legend, who attended the Punchestown Festival in April, is another notable entry in that race. Having failed to finish at Punchestown, connections remain high on his prospects, with his recent success at Sedgefield serving as a benchmark for his potential performance.

The card also includes eight races from Auteuil, featuring two Grade Three events and a Listed race, alongside other key fixtures including a clash between Tapley and Jet Smart at Fontwell, and a Class Three contest at Southwell headlined by Edwardtheninth, who faces a seven-pound penalty.