Da Ponte is on a dangerous mark in the 1.20 at Lingfield if able to bounce back to his best after a break and looks worth an each-way interest at 16/1
The gelding’s last victory came Goodwood in June 2011 off a mark of 73 when trained by Walter Swinburn.
He stayed on really well that day to beat Aristeai by 1/2 a length, but then lost his form badly and failed to trouble the judged in three more outings.
It has been the same story this year since he joined Michael Scudamore, but there was clearly something amiss and he has been given a long break since last being seen in action back in May.
If they have sorted out his issues and got him back to anywhere near his best then he is capable of a really bold showing in this off a mark of just 65.
He also has the services of David Kenny in the saddle who takes another 5lb off his back, and what is interesting is that connections are now returning him to the scene of his first success.
The son of Librettist is 1-1 at the track, and that win came over today’s distance.
Backing him clearly comes with risks attached, but there are reasons to believe he is capable of going close in this and at the odds on offer it looks a risk worth taking.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts each-way Da Ponte (16/1 bet365 – BOG)