held up, ridden approaching 3 out, soon weakened
held up in touch, headway to lead 3 out, ridden clear next, easily
held up, ridden approaching 3 out, soon weakened
led, ridden and headed approaching 3 out, soon weakened
tracked leaders, ridden approaching 3 out, weakened next
chased leaders, ridden after 4 out, soon weakened
held up, chased leaders 4th, ridden and weakened 3 out
tracked leader, ridden to lead briefly approaching 3 out, weakened 2 out
Petanque might just be good enough here ahead of Tik-A-Tai, Archie Babe and Baby Gee. The Nicky Henderson-trained selection was unlucky not to have won at Wincanton last time, where a final-flight flounder forfeited the winning initiative. Clearly none the worse for that, she can make amends. The trip might not be ideal for Tik-A-Tai so the rain-softened going will help and he possesses a fair amount of natural ability and will come here fit following two placed efforts this season. Baby Gee caused a shock from out of the handicap at Catterick last time and, just five pounds higher in the ratings, is entitled to respect. Archie Babe will love the soft going and this could yet see some improvement over hurdles from this grand dual-purpose performer. Conversely, Besieged, whose bid for a six-timer came unstuck last time, seems best on better going, while Gimmick has failed to build on his Wetherby win from Rigmarole earlier in the season. Overall, then, the one for us is Petanque.