The first of today’s French racing tips runs at the early meeting at Tarbes, with Speed Chop looking a great each-way option against the favourite.

Jane Soubagne is a dab hand with juveniles and has made another fast start with her two year olds this year.  Maroon Six went very close to providing her with another winner when runner-up on debut and deserves to be favourite, but I am expecting an improved run from Speed Chop.

Sent off favourite on debut for his excellent trainer Didier Guillemin (who is one of the leading trainers of early-season two year olds), he showed ability but just looked in need of the experience at La Teste. The wide draw today isn’t ideal, but there is time to get across before the right-hand turn if breaking well.

Bred for speed (by Kheleyf out of an Indian Rocket mare), he looks highly likely to build on that run, particularly given Guillemin appears to be a little behind with his two year olds this year.

The yard has an exceptional record at what is a local track for them and had 7 winners from 12 runners at Tarbes in 2020, further enhancing a record that now stands at 35-99 in the past five seasons.

10.20am Tarbes – 2pts each-way Speed Chop @ 4-1 (all firms)