Today’s selections drew a blank (sorry Pikey!) although King Barry was 2nd at Haydock and will hopefully pay his way over fences as the season progresses.
There is only one runner from the list to follow tomorrow and that is One Sniff in the 1.20 at Hexham. One Sniff is a former Irish points winner who made a big impression when winning over hurdles at the second time of asking at Kelso in April. Stamina looks to be his strong suit and this extended 3 miles should be fine for him. The Reverend represents the danger. This one looked a hot prospect last season when beating the well regarded Wild Cane Ridge at Carlisle. Was subsequently down the field in a handicap won by the ill fated Olaso but by then Howard Johnson’s horses were under a cloud.
There was a real fairytale ending to the Haldon Chase on Tuesday. This of course was the race where Best Mate died last season and it was fitting that Jim Lewis should gain some compensation this year with Impek carrying the owners Aston Villa colours to victory. Impek had his critics earlier in his career and some questioned his temperament. His record stands up to close scrutiny now though. He has now won 8 times in the UK since arriving from France with 4 of those wins coming at Grade 2 level.
See you tomorrow.
ahorse 