held up in last pair, headway over 4f out, chased winner 3f out, no impression over 1f out, stayed on same pace
held up in last pair, ridden 5f out, weakened over 4f out
held up in touch, led 3f out, ridden over 1f out, ran on
tracked leaders, ridden over 3f out, weakened over 2f out
took keen hold, led until ridden 3f out, soon beaten, weakened over 2f out
tracked leader, ridden 5f out, soon weakened, tailed off
MASTER FIDDLE looks an interesting newcomer and although unlikely to be a great price, he may come out on top of the more experienced Nelson's Chief and Islamouth. Nicky Henderson's gelding is from a strong-staying family so may need further in time, however he may be wise enough and speedy enough to score on his debut. His trainer has a 50% strike-rate in bumpers at the track (only had two runners though) and a bold bid is expected. Dixie Bull looks another likely newcomer as he is related to plenty of winners and was bought for £32,000 as a foal. Emperor Charlie needs a market check as this cheap purchase makes his racecourse debut, whilst Himayna and Belvidera may just struggle on debut up against the boys. The more interesting runner is Nelson's Chief who has his final bumper run today. He has shaped with promise but was a bit of a let down at Southwell last time out and this is only his young pilot's sixth ride in public. Islamouth ran a blinder back in November when second to Another Kate at Hereford and then shaped fairly well when third at Wetherby last month. This son of Karinga Bay is owned by the 'This Horse Is For Sale Partnership' and a bold performance may create some interest. He's unlikely to be a fantastic price, but Master Fiddle may be good enough to win first-time-up.
Dixie Bull (IRE) Milan gelding out of Calora.
Emperor Charlie Emperor Fountain gelding out of State Lady.
Master Fiddle Alflora gelding out of Fiddling The Facts.
Himayna Generous mare out of Himaya.
Nelson's Chief 6-4fav (10-4) Tracked clear winner until 2f out, no impression, 4th of 13, 20l behind Quousko De L'isop (11-9) at Southwell 2m NH flat (6) gs in Feb.
Belvidera Golden Snake filly out of Satiric.
Islamouth 4-1 (11-3) In touch, chased leader over 4f out, edged left, lost place over 2f out, no extra, 3rd of 16, 14l behind Fridaythorpe (11-0) at Wetherby 2m NH flat (6) sft in Feb.
