Frankel brings Flat to the Fore

The Flat season comes to the fore this week. We have already had the Craven meeting and Frankel's seasonal debut in the Greenham today at Newbury moves things up a notch. Last year's top juvenile should get a good test today from Strong Suit, but it's very difficult to see him being beaten en route to the 2,000 Guineas. The Fillies trial (Fred Darling) looks much more open. However, it's unlikely, that we will see the 1,000 winner, but french import Pontenouvo might be worth a close look. Along with the Spring Cup, the meeting should make for interesting viewing, but going to mark the onset of the new season with a trip to Naas, where amongst others, old friend Inxile runs in the feature (will report on anything notable).

The NH season is beginning to wind down with the first of three staying handicap chases, the Scottish Grand National at Ayr. Poker De Sivola for Ferdy Murphy & Graham Lee must have solid claims (appears to have been laid out for this in typical fashion) and another old friend Lothian Falcon (good second last time) is worth a small bet at long odds.

good luck....

Hats off to Haydock

Amazingly today's racing at Haydock survived the wintry conditions and hats off to them for managing to beat the weather. The longstanding Tommy Whittle is the feature race of the card and as usual, quite competitive. On stamina sapping going, I am going to the stick with The Vicar, who showed a high level of ability on similar conditions last term. He has been disappointing twice since but with the stable in good form and Graham Lee on board, he is given another chance to shine.

good luck.....