Although still a novice Nine De Sivola had an amazing season two years ago finishing runner up in both the Irish and Scottish Nationals as well as the Eider Chase. After a year off with injury he is due to make his comeback in the 1.35 at Carlisle tomorrow. He is entitled to need the run of course but he is a fascinating prospect for the new season anyway.
In the 2.10 I am hoping that Tidal Bay can start his campaign off with a win, while Cadoudalas looks interesting in the 2.40 where the trip should suit him.
At Huntingdon the 1.15 is the race that catches my eye. Shoreacres mixed in in top bumper company last season and looks the type to make a successful hurdler. Uffa Fox, trained by former jockey Ben de Haan won on his debut in a bumper at Ascot where he had Shoreacres just behind in 3rd. Henrietta Knight only had one bumper winner last season, which is in itself noteworthy as she normally excels in that discipline. That Somersby could win by 12 lengths while the stable was not enjoying the best of seasons could be an indication that he is a decent prospect. Nicky Henderson is represented by Carole’s Legacy who won both her bumpers last season including a listed event at the Aintree Grand National meeting.
Later on the Huntingdon card Benetwood might be worth a small interest if the ground is riding good.
On the fibresand at Southwell the two I fancy in the 2.30 are Tarkheena Prince and Hurlingham. Slight preference is for the former who has been running consistently this season and is the more straightforward of the pair. He was third at Pontefract on his last start but may have found the 2.25 miles stretched his stamina too far.
In the 3.00 I see that Aegean Dancer is slipping down the weights and could go well at a price but for my selection I am going with How’s She Cuttin’ who didn’t get a clear run at Newmarket last time and has Jamie Spencer in the saddle.
I have 3 selections in Ireland. Cork 4.00 Tranquil Sea; Leopardstown 3.15 Solwhit and 4.20 Total Excitement.
Today’s picture is by kind permission of the artist Nick Fegan (see links).
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