Donald McCain’s Our Mick is the favourite after his prominent run in the race won by Katenko back here in January. He looked unlucky to be bumped and unseat his rider 3 out when still in with a chance. He races off the same mark here and ran a fine race when third in the same race last year behind Alfie Sherrin and Fruity O’Rooney. All three horses look weighted to feature prominently again this year. The Package finished a respectable fourth last year but may bypass this as he is being prepared for a tilt at the Aintree Grand National.
Alfie Sherrin went on to finish a highly respectable third in the Irish National and could have been brought along with this race in mind. Fruity O’Rooney went in vain pursuit of Katenko last time but that horse had Gold Cup aspirations prior to incurring an injury.
Opening Batsman got the better of Rolling Aces in the Racing Plus Chase at Kempton but is thought unlikely to turn out again here. The runner-up raced wide throughout that day and put up a brave display for a novice. He would have to be respected but 11st 10lb looks plenty of weight. Paul Nicholls may be represented by Sire Collonges who was well beaten by Our Father here in November. He had previously won well at the October meeting but may lack the necessary experience at this level.
This is one of several races for which David Pipe’s Ballynagour is entered, although the market suggests that the Byrne Group Plate may be his destination. Cantlow is yet another with several entries at the meeting but he may struggle against these seasoned handicappers.
Sue Smith’s Cloudy Too has won his last two races in good style but this represents a steep rise in class. Mick Channon has a couple of decent chances at the festival this year and Loch Ba is difficult to assess on his easy Newbury success.
Summary
Two races may hold the key to this tricky handicap. Last year’s running resulted in Alfie Sherrin beating Fruity O’Rooney and Our Mick and all three return with chances. Fruity O’Rooney was again gallant in defeat when second to the rapidly improving Katenko in January but Our Mick looked to be going well before unseating his rider. Fruity O’Rooney seems to act on any going and looks worthy of each-way support but could be vulnerable to a strong finisher. If Alfie Sherrin arrives in the same form as last year he could well repeat his triumph.
Betfair:
Bet on Henrik Stenson to become the BMW PGA Championship Winner.
Paddypower:
Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
Betway:
Back Rafael Nadal to become the Mens French Open Winner.
Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
