In the first division of the conditional jockeys’ handicap hurdle at Newcastle (4.20pm), Tumbling Dice looks a potential improver for a trip and better ground and is a small bet today.

The six year old has shown more than enough ability to win races and there was a lot to like about the way he travelled at Market Rasen in December and again at Catterick on his next outing in February.    He is down to a mark of 76 and his yard’s conditional is able to claim 10lbs, so is getting plenty of weight from his rivals here.

The big angles with Tumbling Dice are the trip and ground.  He has plenty of size about him and looks a real galloper who should be suited by the flat track and staying trip that he gets today.  Furthermore, his half-sister (Bus Named Desire) wanted good ground, while the dam’s three winning siblings were all at their best on a sound surface.

Sue Smith’s team have been in excellent form since landing the Ultima at the Festival with Vintage Clouds, with two more winners and two places from their five runners since. Hopefully Tumbling Dice can add to a month that has already seen them record six winners at a strike-rate of 23%.

4.20pm Newcastle – 1pt win Tumbling Dice @ 13/2 (various, take Best Odds Guaranteed)