Newcastle is the setting for today's all-weather meeting, with all seven races broadcast only on Sky Sports Racing…
2.03 Newcastle – Fireblade Contest and Royal Approval for Powerful Apprentice
A cracking novice as Andrew Balding's Royal Assent will attempt to concede weight in all respects.
Royal approval He has built on his maiden career at Sandown when he was comfortably given a novice of the course over 10 furlongs and this step up in distance should be appropriate.
Trained by John and Tade Gosden Firebladebrother to the superstar Cracksman, has struggled to break his number one, finishing in three of his four starts, and should be at the front again under Benoit de la Sayette.
Ruler of the North He should be taken into account as he made his first start at Carl Burke's outfield after joining from William Hagas. He has shown a lot of ability in three appearances so far, but has been narrowly beaten in his last two matches.
2.33 Newcastle's advantage – Al-Mundaj and Al-Farabi
Integrated He has proven a revelation since undergoing wind surgery, winning twice and finishing second in four starts since November, and this looks like a good opportunity to extend his good form despite a 2lb higher mark.
Al Farabi He had a race full of promise when finishing fourth behind Brooklyn Nine at Southwell in his second start for trainer Stuart Williams and should be keen to build on that as he slips down the division under Clifford Lee.
Others to note include the double course and the distance winner Strong Johnson While the Sugar Hill Babe cannot be discounted given its all-weather successes in the fall.
1.33 Newcastle – Percy Willis and Humble Spark clash
Trappy issue who sees The humble Spark He attempted to follow up on his recent success on the course as he progressed through the journey under Paul Mulrennan.
Jed O'Keefe Percy Willis He is a six-time all-weather winner including three wins at this track but will need to improve on his fifth-place finish behind The humble Spark Here last month.
It is clear and Show no fear Completing the quartet are Amy Murphy and Rebecca Menzies respectively.
Better than the rest
Paul Mulrennan has a lovely book of trips at Gosforth Park, including a previous course winner Dandy Magic In the competition at 1:03 p.m. He also edged Annandale at 3.03pm, which could prove dangerous if he gets off to a good start from the third stall.
In Happy Valley, record-chasing Zack Burton has a whole other book as he chases Douglas White's record. He will ride alongside Andrea Atzeni, whose horse also has chances.
Watch every race from Newcastle live on Sky Sports Racing on Wednesday 8 January.
