tracked leaders, led 2 out, hit and left well clear last, eased towards finish
tracked leader, left in lead approaching 2nd, headed 2 out, left moderate 2nd last
led until ran out 2nd
always towards rear, never dangerous
in touch, headway 6th, weakened next
in touch, ridden and headway next, kept on, no impression from last
held up towards rear, hit 4th, tailed off when pulled up before 6th
tracked leaders, left 2nd approaching 2nd, pushed along after 5th, weakened approaching 2 out
in touch, ridden and no impression from 2 out
held up towards rear, saddle soon slipped after start, pulled up before 2nd
in touch, pushed along approaching 5th, ridden and no impression from 2 out
First Boy could provide the answer in the opener, with Spectacular, Door Of Knowledge and, possibly, Eastern Dagger. The selection has shown promise in each of his hurdle races to date, and could well make it third-time-lucky here. His fourth to Tiger Tipps Lad at Towcester last time certainly reads well in the context of this contest and you can expect a good run for your money. Looking at the others, Dalriath has Flat form enough to show up in this run-of-the-mill affair. Heathyards Swing showed promise in the first two of his hurdle races to date and has been going reasonably well on the Flat. Eastern Dagger could be very interesting as he did well as a two- and three-year-old before losing his way in four runs from last summer onwards. However, he would not be the first horse to be rejuvenated by eight flights of hurdles for his new trainer so do not be surprised if he goes well. If Door Of Knowledge can get back to the level of his winter hurdling form, he has to be considered, while Wiseguys' Flat form gives him a shout but three hurdling runs to date have left a good deal to be desired. Torkin King is certainly bred for jumping and Sterling Guarantee has Flat credentials enough to attract support. In fact, the betting for this race might prove invaluable. Not least does that comment apply to the Richard Guest-trained Australian-bred, Off The Edge, while Johnny Reb hails from a good stable but needs to improve on what he has so far shown over hurdles. However, for the winner, once again, we return to First Boy, who can be first home in the first race today.
