Walton chasing Newbury gold

Kate Walton is hoping the handicapper’s verdict on Nevertika is accurate as the seven-year-old goes for glory in the Connaught Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury on Saturday.

The official assessor has given Nevertika a rating of 140 after winning his first three races over fences at Hexham, Wetherby and Doncaster.

All his victories have come in novice company and now he takes on seasoned campaigners including Ollie Magern, Mister McGoldrick and Oneway as well as promising types such as Regal Heights and Maljimar, in the two-and-a-half mile feature.

“We don’t really know what he’s beaten so far. This is a big step up but I think he justifies going. He’s ready for another question so it’s fingers crossed,” said the Leyburn trainer.

“He’s going up against old-timers and we’ll see how favourable his mark is. I would think it might be a little bit high, but we will see and I hope the handicapper’s right.

“It’s a nice galloping track which should suit him and he’s been grand since Doncaster.”