In the last at Fakenham, I hope to see Midnight Mary (4.25) maintain her progression having won three of her last five starts including over C&D last time when she beat Ratoute Yutty who reopposes this afternoon on 2lbs better terms. I remember the mare going out like a light at Warwick on her penultimate start although I consider the combination of heavy ground and an additional quarter of a mile taxed her stamina on that occasion.
The selection – 15/8 at MansionBet – cannot beat Avithos on previous course form from last January, but she has improved significantly in the last year and can make it four wins in six starts since March. I think River Tyne will appreciate the step up to three miles for the first time for Nick Gifford and she represents the main danger.
Over at Sedgefield and The Big Jetaway failed to get home over three miles in his points but did hint at ability when third at Wetherby on his latest start over hurdles although visibility was poor, and it looked as if the first three were the only ones busy on the day. He could be a different proposition over fences, and he represents the powerful Donald McCain/Brian Hughes axis.
The vote, however, goes to Claret Dabbler (3.07) who jumped extremely well at Catterick last time but was mugged close home and Ryan Mania may play his maiden later than was the case in the garrison town. He has been raised 2lbs for his latest effort but still receives a stone from the McCain runner. The 4s with Boylesports looks fair.
Brian Hughes rode Leeswood Lady when she made all to here ten days ago and she looks sure to run another big race from the front under James Bowen. She carries a 7lbs penalty for that win and do note the runner up – Demi Sang – runs in the 3.37. It goes without saying that a big run from Sara Ender’s horse would be a boost to the chances of Brian Ellison’s mare.
The former champion jockey, however, rides Latino Fling (4.40) who appreciated the drop back to the minimum trip when scoring at Catterick last time and a 7lbs higher mark may not prevent her following up. Hughes is unlikely to give Leeswood Lady too much rope and the hope is that he can swoop fast and late on the Donald McCain-trained mare. The 2s with 10Bet looks fair.
