Nigel Twiston-Davies hopeful as improving Red Riverman hopes to wash out opponents at Market Rasen

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Local trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies is hoping Red Riverman can urge forward towards the Cheltenham Festival, as the improving handicapper bids for a hat-trick at Market Rasen (3:00).

The nine-year-old made a brilliant return from a two-year absence to finish a close second at Catterick.

Remaining on a mark of 111, he improved from his outing at the North Yorkshire venue to win at Uttoxeter in impressive style.

When last seen at Stratford a week ago, he found a 6lb absence no problem to win a class two handicap by just under two lengths.

He faces only a 3lb rise from the handicapper, and Twiston-Davies, who owns and trains the horse, is looking forward to the hat-trick bid.

“He’s done nothing wrong this year, and we are really happy with him,” said the Gloucestershire-based handler.

“He won well last time, and has only gone up 3lb in the weights. He’s come out of that race well, so hopefully his good season can continue.”

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Zac Baker is one of the leading amateur jockeys in National Hunt racing

Red Riverman is rated 120, but has the potential to continue increasing that mark; potentially getting him into some of the Cheltenham Festival’s illustrious handicaps.

Promising amateur jockey Zac Baker takes the ride, and takes a valuable 5lb off. He enjoyed five wins last season, and has already visited the winner’s enclosure this season.

Harry Fry’s Innocent Girl looks the strongest of rivals, she hasn’t finished outside the top three since October and made a decent return back when third at Stratford.

Top weight Trafalgar Rock could also be a danger. Dr Richard Newland’s improving six-year-old won well at Southwell back in June and has been placed in his last two outing since.

Iconic Festival winning trainer Alan King is represented by Mille Nautiqu, who was last seen finishing second at this track, whilst Caroline Bailey runs the consistent McCabe Creek.

The six-runner field is completed by Domtaline for Northumberland trainer Peter Winks.