Timeform UK SmartPlays: Thursday December 27

Thursday's three selections are in action at Kempton.

Timeform bring you two backs and a lay at Kempton on Thursday...

The first of today's SmartPlays comes in the mares' handicap hurdle (13:30) as we take a chance on the Nick Williams-trained Swincombe Flame. Well handicapped based on her success in last season's Lanzarote Hurdle at this venue, Swincombe Flame, who has been seen tackling the larger obstacles of late, could be suited by the return to hurdling. She hasn't tackled this kind of trip before but she has shaped as if it will be well within her compass and testing conditions aren't likely to pose any problems. She may prove best of all in what is sure to be a competitive and attritional contest.

In the next race on the card (14:05), we will rely on another of Nick Williams' leading lights, For Non Stop. A Grade 1 winner over fences last term, For Non Stop returned to action this season with an ultra-impressive display at Aintree, bounding clear of his rivals and winning with a great deal of authority. He didn't quite travel or jump with his usual fluency at Ascot last time, and testing conditions are perhaps a slight concern, but the form of that race has been well advertised by Captain Chris's display in the King George and we will take For Non Stop to confirm the form with third-placed Ghizao, who arguably had the run of the race that day.

Sanctuaire (14:40) undoubtedly shaped second best behind Sprinter Sacre in the Tingle Creek, despite fading into third place, overhauled close home by one of today's rivals, Kumbeshwar. However, he hasn't always appeared to be the most straightforward of performers and had a hard race at Sandown, so isn't one you would want to be taking a short price about. On the best of his form he would take this contest, but his headstrong tendencies, which often result in him racing keenly, could be a major disadvantage in testing ground such as he will face here. Wishfull Thinking is a legitimate rival who shouldn't have any problems with conditions and the solid Kumbeshwar could also take advantage should Sanctuaire not be at his best.

Timeform SmartPlays:
All at Kempton
Back Swincombe Flame @ 4.57/2 in the 13:30
Back For Non Stop @ 3.211/5 in the 14:05
Lay Sanctuaire @ 2.26/5 in the 14:40

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