Greetings from Gloucestershire!!! Arrived safely, comfortably ensconced in our billet and looking forward to great racing.
The main feature is Master Minded's attempt to win 3 consecutive Queen Mother Chases and following his return to form from injury at Newbury, he is hard to oppose. Scintillating in 2008, competent in 2009, I fully expect him to land the hat trick in style despite quickening ground. Defying all known logic, I see Big Zeb as his main danger.
The best race of the day is the RSA Chase where Nicky Henderson saddles two horses with great potential, Long Run and Punchestowns. However, both look vulnerable today and offer little value. I have long been sweet on Diamond Harry, particularly since his gutsy effort last year and expect him to finally come of age today. His run at Haydock in November showed a horse with a serious engine which can be hugely advantageous in this test.
The drying ground may diminish Quel Esprit's chances in the Neptune and he currently is a poor price. Flat horse, Manyriverstocross should be at home on the quicker going but he suffered an over reach after the Tote Gold Trophy. As Rites Of Passage lacks the necessary experience, it will pay to look elsewhere and if you can forgive his run at Navan, Summit Meeting looks to have to all the right credentials. Mrs Harrington does not normally travel for the fun of it and as she knows what's required to topple Quel Esprit, I am going to plump for her charge.
The final grade 1 is the Bumper, which looks more difficult than usual this year. Shot from the Hip had his form line further boosted on Sunday and looks the likeliest. Willie Mullins' runners always demand consideration but with Ruby on the Nicholls' runner, it looks as if they are not up to scratch, although Day of a Lifetime caught the eye last time.
good luck....
No comments:
Post a Comment