tracked leaders, chased winner 11th, mistakes 13th and 4 out, joined winner 2 out, every chance when mistake last, one pace flat
refused 1st
made all, ridden and pressed from 2 out, kept on well under pressure flat
chased winner to 11th, stayed chasing leaders until weakened approaching 2 out
slowly and not going well in rear, closed on leaders 3 out, 3rd and beaten when blundered 2 out
With the Nigel Twiston-Davies yard in good form at present, Champagne Lil should be the answer ahead of His Nibs and Great Crusader. The latter has been absent for some time and at the age of 11 surely does not have as much scope as the first two mentioned. However, he was nothing if not consistent last term and may pick up the odd race or two this winter. His Nibs also makes his seasonal reappearance and is sure to have been well schooled over fences. Connections have been patient with him and the recent rain will have come as a bonus. On this occasion though, the fitter Champagne Lil should be hard to pass. A dual winner over hurdles in May, she has impressed with her jumping and will not be daunted by the larger obstacles. She looks just the sort to follow when given a stiff stamina test, and is expected to make the most of the weight that she receives here.
