chased leaders, took closer order after 14th, ridden and effort after 4 out, weakened after next
held up, headway 9th, hit 11th, chasing leaders and mistake 4 out, soon ridden, one pace
in touch, blundered badly, nearly unseated rider 3rd, never recovered and pulled up before next
held up, ridden after 12th, no impression and jumped left from 3 out, slipped after last
chased leaders, hit 12th, weakened approaching 4 out, pulled up before 3 out
held up, smooth headway after 14th, led 3 out, hit next, readily
led, ridden and headed 3 out, kept on but always held by winner
chased leaders, ridden after 12th, weakened approaching 4 out
Timmy Murphy prefers Mondial Jack to Tresor De Mai of Martin Pipe's two representatives in this handicap chase but neither of them looks to be particularly well treated and a chance is taken with Le Duc. The selection is highly regarded by trainer Paul Nicholls but has yet to live up to expectations. However, the five-year-old has conditions to suit today, looks well treated on his best and reverts to fences after an encouraging spin over hurdles earlier this month. Top weight Nil Desperandum was disappointing in the Hennessy last time and look to have plenty to do under the burden of 11st 12lb. Hawk's Landing and Mondial Jack, who fared best in sixth place, were also involved in the Newbury race and have to be respected. The testing conditions are unlikely to suit the likes of Spring Grove, Prominent Profile or the well-handicapped Merchants Friend but there are no such problems for Le Duc, who looks the best call under the conditions.
