mid-division, chased leaders after 5th, pushed along 7th, ridden in 3rd when fell 8th
with leader, ridden 3 out, weakened from next
always towards rear, pushed along
towards rear, hit 7th, weakened next, tailed when pulled up before 2 out
chased leaders until lost place 4th
in rear, pushed along 5th, headway 9th, led after 2 out, eased towards finish
tracked leaders, led 3rd, hit 3 out, ridden and headed after next, mistake last, one pace
chased leaders, mistake 1st, pushed along approaching 6th, weakened next, pulled up after 8th
led to 3rd, lost place approaching 8th, ridden and outpaced when fell next
A chance is taken with Green 'N' Gold, who has no doubts about his stamina for the trip and is selected over Rival Bidder and Orbicularis, who are just two of the rest that can make this a good test. The last mentioned is still quite lightly raced and shapes as if this trip is ideal for him. He does nothing quickly though and has to be susceptible to anything that can quicken at the end of three miles. Rival Bidder is yet to conclusively prove that he is capable of such a thing and, although very much respected, he is passed over in favour of a more proven stayer this time. Which brings us to Green 'N' Gold, who has been knocking on the door of late and deserves a change of fortune. Mickey Hammond traditionally does well at this track and his charge can make the short journey from Middleham very worthwhile if Jim Crowley can get the best out of him this afternoon.
