Patriote games in the Imperial Cup at Sandown

Prestbury Park warm-up to get you in the mood

Cheltenham is fast approaching but there’s still a decent weekend of racing ahead.

There are cracking cards at both Sandown and Wolverhampton, with the latter seeing some prime flat racing action.

And the ITV Racing crew up will be at both courses for your viewing pleasure. The Coral News Team bring you the best storylines of the day ahead.

Le Patriote can win it again for Newland

Dr Richard Newland won the Imperial Cup at Sandown three years ago with Ebony Express. And he might just have a second winner on his hands in this renewal if Le Patriote has a say.

Newland’s impressive six-year-old won in impressive fashion at Ascot last month, beating fellow Imperial Cup contender, Fright Night Light by a length.

Because of that, he’ll have to give away 8lbs in the weights. But connections feel he’s still got more to give, and that the soft-ish ground expected will suit him.

Melrose place? Melrose win

Rain is forecast for around Sandown tomorrow and one horse who should relish the conditions is Melrose Boy in the 1.50pm.

Harry Fry’s six-year-old was a very solid third here in the Grade 3 Heroes Handicap Hurdle last month. He faded a touch in that so the drop back in trip here will suit.