Templegate returns with his standout selections from the racing action over the past weekend, featuring a possible Dan Skelton target for a major handicap down the line.

ACE OF SPADES - Cheltenham, Saturday

Dan Skelton launched last year's Pertemps winner Supremely West in this event and, while Ace Of Spades cannot be recommended with equal confidence, his return performance stood out.

He broke slowly and remained at the rear for the majority of the contest before passing several opponents up the slope.

His current rating is 138, but he performed strongly off marks in the high 120s last term and would appreciate the stamina test presented by the Pertemps Final.

Should he somehow enter that race or a similar contest next spring off a mark around 130, attention should be paid.

INDIAN RIVER - Cheltenham, Saturday

Many observers likely criticized him after he appeared to travel comfortably before fading under Brian Hughes behind North Shore in the Masterson Holdings Hurdle.

To these eyes, he appears to be a runner who favors a lefthanded flat course such as Aintree, where he delivered his peak performance in April.

A return to that venue or a comparable track should result in another victory.

KASHCHEI - Cheltenham, Saturday

Cian Collins' jumper delivered a solid performance to finish fourth behind the capable Woodstock Octo and Road To Wembley, staying the three-mile distance adequately.

His main issue involved jumping markedly to the right at every obstacle, which surrendered significant territory, making his four-length defeat a strong effort.

Switching back to right-handed tracks will naturally lead to more victories for him.

GRAN DIA - Doncaster, Saturday

This two-year-old produced a strong performance for Andrew Balding by staying on to secure second place in the Group 1 Futurity Trophy at Doncaster.

Despite remaining raw on only his second outing, he finished well over the mile distance on testing ground.

He appears to be an exciting prospect for middle distances in the upcoming season.

BULLETSNAP - Doncaster, Friday

This youngster lifted his knees exceptionally high with each stride, meaning he thoroughly enjoyed the extremely heavy ground at Town Moor.

Make a note of him whenever heavy conditions arise next season.

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