Ladbrokes Trophy Ante-Post Selections

The first horse that takes our eye in the Grade Three event is the Emma Lavelle trained De Rasher Counter and this seven year old gelding looks to be a big improver for a inform yard.

De Rasher counter made his seasonal reappearance at Uttoxeter finishing sixth of 11 runners that was more used as a prep run to blow away the cob webs and it certainly did that.

The gelding should be much fitter and stronger for that run and he has an added advantage on some of the field having been a course winner last season.

The step up in trip will be welcome for Emma Lavelle's runner with three miles previously proving to be a really steady stamina test for him and at 11/1 he is a very nice each way price.

Our other selection at a slightly bigger price is The Conditional for trainer David Bridgwater who has started the season off in really healthy form.

This contest is a huge step up to contests he has been racing in previously but from what he has already done this season he looks like a horse to improve for his runs.

The seven year old made his seasonal bow at Worcester in a weak event finishing third of six runners that was used as a prep run to get him fitter.

He then went to Cheltenham for jumps racing HQ's October meeting and stepped up a huge amount to take the Class 2 Handicap Chase with that form being franked since.

The gelding went on to beat West Approach for Colin Tizzard and during the November meeting that horse went on to land a competitive race that boosts The Conditional.

At 20/1 he likes very much overpriced in this ante-post market.