prominent in chasing group, weakened 3 out
chased clear leader, mistake 2nd, closed from 5th, led 3 out, mistake next, clear last, driven out flat
prominent in chasing group, chased winner from 3 out until approaching 2 out, 5th and weakening when fell last
pulled hard in rear, weakened 5th, tailed off when mistake 2 out
always behind, tailed off 3 out
close up and chasing group, ridden 5th, stayed on under pressure to take narrow 2nd last, no chance with winner
close up and chasing group, effort and ridden after 3 out, weakened between last two
mistake 1st, held up, ridden and headway under pressure after 3 out, chased winner approaching 2 out, one pace when lost 2nd last
took keen hold, prominent in chasing group, weakened 5th, tailed off 3 out
The Philip Hobbs-trained Logsdail showed enough on his hurdling debut to suggest that he could be interesting over timber but he may again have to settle for a minor role here with some interesting newcomers in opposition including Chief Yeoman and Trouble At Bay, with the latter getting the vote. The selection showed progressive form on the level this summer over middle distances and looks the type to make the grade at the winter game. Already prominent in bookmaker's lists for the Triumph Hurdle, a big run is expected from Alan King's gelding. Chief Yeoman is rated of a similar level as the selection on the flat and has to be respected, especially with Tony McCoy booked, while Uncle Max has to be respected with the stable of Nigel Twiston-Davies in such good form at present. Atahuelpa, who holds Burnt Copper on running at Plumpton recently, has the benefit of hurdling experience but has been deserted by McCoy this afternoon. The remainder make limited appeal and, in a potentially informative contest, Trouble At Bay gets the verdict.
