Making do....

Pity that Newbury succumbed to the snow, but at least there is racing at Naas and Musselburgh. Competitive and somewhat tricky cards may not provide the Cheltenham clues we were seeking, but nevertheless whets the appetite for the Grade 1s at Leopardstown on Sunday.

Bog Warrior seeking to redeem his reputation, is the day's most interesting runner and it's very hard to oppose him here, with his main rival Blackstairsmountain disappointing last time. Tony Martin's talented novice has shown great potential and one wonders if a good show will prompt a trip to the Cotswolds. It has not been a vintage year so far in the Bumper arena, but Mozoltov impressed at Thurles and could also earn his passage by winning the last.

Early last year, I saw Creekside make a successful and promising racecourse debut on the flat in the colours of Sheikh Mohammed and under the careful tutelage of Messrs Oxx and Murtagh. He competed against some  good sorts subsequently and curiously this afternoon, he will more than likely go off favourite in the Scottish Triumph. Worth watching?


good luck with a short priced treble....