tracked leaders, led over 2f out, ridden out
held up in rear, ridden over 3f out, effort 2f out, chased winner over 1f out, no impression final furlong
tracked leaders, lost place over 4f out, headway and effort 2f out, one pace final furlong
led for 1f, tracked leader after, led briefly 3f out, no extra final furlong
led after 1f, headed 3f out, soon ridden, weakened final furlong
The handicapper has looked to have the measure of Starry Lodge in his last couple of outings and there may be some value to be had in opposing Luca Cumani's top weight with a small stakes interest in Celtic Saphire in this modest little handicap. The Tim Easterby-trained selection is still open to improvement at this sort of trip and will not be found wanting for effort with Kieren Fallon booked for the ride. The daughter of Celtic Swing had some useful form as a juvenile but has so far failed to build upon those experiences this season. However, there is unlikely to be a blistering pace on here, which should enable Celtic Saphire to get home over this testing mile and a half. Dubonai, Longmeadowsboy and Call Of The Wild are already exposed as being moderate so Delham could be the springer if Celtic Saphire and Starry Lodge under perform.
