led to 3rd, led again 11th, made rest, hit 4 out, ridden out flat
held up, headway 3rd to chase leaders, blundered and unseated rider 8th
towards rear, tailed off from halfway, pulled up before 3 out
close up, pushed along 8th, lost place next, outpaced 4 out
close up, led 3rd, headed 11th, every chance 4 out, weakened after next
held up in mid-division, headway 9th to chase leaders, hit next, outpaced 4 out
towards rear, reminder 5th, soon lost touch, tailed off and pulled up before 4 out
held up in mid-division, headway 9th, effort and chased winner 3 out, kept on same pace running
You're Special bids to post a hat-trick tonight at the expense of Artemesia and In Extremis II. Pat Haslam's charge is often ridden by Tony McCoy and was due to have been so tonight. He possesses clear ability but does look to be a tricky ride and Andy Thornton will need to ensure that the horse's mind is completely kept on the job throughout the race. Artemesia adds the spice to the contest. Ferdy Murphy's mare was lesser rated over hurdles than You're Special but she finished her hurdling campaign with a couple of decent efforts and the canny Irishman is not one to enter his horses in races where they possess little chance. In Extremis II was highly flattered by his proximity to Flame Creek at Wetherby last time out . His BHB rating of 69 says it all. Huge Heart was a winner on firm ground during his stay in New Zealand. He has yet to show anything for new connections in Britain although it is interesting to note that he was entered here by Lucinda Russell instead of some of her other declarations at the five-day stage. Cristophe is another to make a chasing debut but he would need to substantially improve on all known hurdling form to make his mark in this contest. Jumbo's Dream and Regar are still novices despite their pensionable ages while the market is watched with regard to Scowling Brig. Therefore, in summary, barring accidents it looks difficult to oppose You're Special.
