Exeter
1.00 This novice chase features the first and second from the 2009 Triumph Hurdle. Zaynar has already had a couple of satisfactory runs over fences but I slightly prefer Alan King’s Walkon who should be suited by the trip.
2.05 I was a bit disappointed with Ambion Wood when he was only third at Fontwell recently. It is too early to give up on his and I am sure he will win races over hurdles but he may have to give best to Close House here. Close House was second in what was probably a decent bumper at Doncaster in March and looks a nice prospect for hurdles.
2.40 Dual bumper winner Swincombe Flame was runner up on his hurdles debut and the third horse in that race has won since. She is worth another chance to go one better here.
Sandown
1.20 This race has only gone the way of the market leader twice in the last 9 years and it may pay to look beyond the favourite. Loch Ba and Trafalgar Road are both worth considering. Trafalgar Road ran better than his finishing position suggests on his last start and looks value at around 6/1.
1.55 A case could be made for 6 of the 7 in this race. In particular Fingal Bay and Somonsig look highly promising. On what they have achieved so far Fingal Bay holds the edge. The Strawberry One is an admirable sort but may just find this a little too tough. She is certainly one to note in mares only events though.
2.30 Big race winners from last season Quinz (Racing Post Chase) and Boston’s Angel (RSA Chase) both failed to get round on their seasonal reappearances. Royal Charm has always been well regarded at home and has a touch of class. He has not quiet lived up to the hype as yet but clearly has ability. Quinz has to come back from a poor run; Royal Charm is not guaranteed to stay so Boston’s Angel is the percentage call.
From the archives
Broomfield was 4th in a maiden hurdle at Newbury last week. A horse of the same name ran in one of the most remarkable Grand Nationals, the 1951 renewal. For a start there were 11 fallers at the first fence! Broomfield fell at Bechers on the second circuit leaving only two runners standing, Nickel Coin and Royal Tan who had been runner up in the Irish National 12 days earlier. Nickel Coin sprinted clear after the last leaving Royal Tan to finish second again. Two earlier fallers Derrinstown and Gay Heather were remounted but Gay Heather refused at the last fence leaving Derrinstown to finish a remote 3rd.
Today’s picture is courtesy of Sarah Clegg.
ahorse 