Saturday’s ITV Racing coverage splits between Sandown and Wolverhampton and leading pundit Matt Chapman has shared his selections for the day’s action. Chapman, a familiar face to racing fans, has highlighted a handful of horses he believes offer value across the two venues, with Two Tempting standing out as a particularly interesting contender in the Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton. His picks span a range of races, from hurdles to flat handicaps, offering a diverse set of options for viewers tuning in.
Chapman’s selections reflect a mix of established performers and potential up-and-comers, with an emphasis on horses he believes are well-positioned in their respective races. He’s identified potential each-way opportunities as well as horses he feels have a strong chance of winning outright. The day’s racing includes the Imperial Cup Handicap Hurdle at Sandown, a competitive race that Chapman believes presents a decent opportunity for No Ordinary Joe, despite the horse being overlooked in the betting.
Here’s a breakdown of Matt Chapman’s ITV Racing tips for Saturday, March 7, 2026:
Sandown Park
- 13:50 – Laguna Beach (each-way): Chapman notes that Laguna Beach was hampered by a mistake at Ascot but believes the horse has the potential to improve, particularly given his staying ability.
- 14:27 – No Ordinary Joe: Chapman believes No Ordinary Joe is “a crazy price” given a better run at Ascot and a favorable weight adjustment. The horse has a history of performing well in similar races, including a win at Sandown in a bumper and placing in the Greatwood and Martin Pipe.
- 15:00 – Burds Of A Feather: Acknowledging a degree of uncertainty, Chapman suggests Burds Of A Feather could be competitive if she settles well, having shown promise in a recent win at Warwick.
- 15:35 – Invincible Nao (each-way): Chapman feels the 4lb drop in rating for Invincible Nao’s last run at Ascot may be an overreaction, and the horse’s past course form makes him a viable each-way contender.
Wolverhampton Racecourse
- 14:05 – Silky Wilkie: Chapman believes Silky Wilkie is “well handicapped” and capable of performing well in this 6f handicap, benefiting from a good draw and a 5lb claim from jockey Jack Nicholls.
- 14:42 – Two Tempting: Chapman is particularly keen on Two Tempting in the Lincoln Trial Handicap, believing the horse is “overpriced” and has a favorable advantage over re-opposing First Principle, having beaten him at Kempton in November.
- 15:15 – Witch Hunter: Despite his age, Chapman sees Witch Hunter as a “potent threat” in the Lady Wulfruna Stakes, noting his past performance in the race and ability to finish strongly when the pace is fast.
Chapman’s analysis highlights the importance of considering factors such as course form, handicap ratings, and jockey claims when making selections. He emphasizes that Two Tempting, in particular, represents good value given his previous success against First Principle and a favorable draw.
The Lincoln Trial Handicap, featuring Two Tempting, is an extended 1-mile race. Chapman points out that Two Tempting previously defeated First Principle at Kempton, carrying a 10lb penalty (13lb including the jockey claim), and now enjoys a 5lb advantage. He also notes the horse ran well in a recent Listed contest.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift towards the Cheltenham Festival, with many of these horses potentially lining up for future engagements. Chapman’s insights provide a valuable guide for punters as they navigate the weekend’s racing action and prepare for the upcoming festival.
What are your thoughts on Chapman’s selections? Share your own tips and predictions in the comments below!
