tracked leaders after 4 out, weakened next
always behind
disputed lead until led approaching 2 out, soon clear
disputed lead every chance 2 out soon outpaced
in touch reminder 6th outpaced next kept on one pace flat
There is another disappointing field for the third race on the card with just the five runners declared for this two mile handicap chase and it may be worth taking a chance with Watch The Wind, who gets the vote with Stoneriggs Merc and Hollows Mill rated the pick of the remainder. The selection is at least proven with cut in the ground and a reproduction of recent efforts under similarly testing conditions at Carlisle and Ayr may well suffice. Stormy Beech does have winning form under testing ground and has to be respected but may be a shade high in the weights, while Flaming Heck has given little sign of encouragement in recent starts, including on a soft surface of late. Stoneriggs Merc, a winner at Musselburgh in January three starts ago, represents an in-form yard and along with Hollows Mill, who is a confirmed good performer under testing ground, both have to be respected. Marginal preference though is for Watch The Wind, who looks to be better treated at the weights.
Hollows Mill 12-1 (11-12) Held up towards rear, never dangerous, 8th of 11, 36l behind Barney (9-9) at Carlisle 2m hcp chs 0-100 (4) gs in Apr.
Stormy Beech 20-1 (11-11) Always behind, 9th of 11, well behind Barney (9-9) at Carlisle 2m hcp chs 0-100 (4) gs in Apr.
Flaming Heck 28-1 (11-6) Close up, lost place 5th, behind when pulled up 2 out in race won by Lady Sambury (9-12) at Newcastle 2m 4f hcp hdl 0-100 (4) hvy in Apr, 16 ran.
Stoneriggs Merc (IRE) 11-2fav (10-5) Chased leaders, led 4th, headed 8th, weakened after next, tailed off when pulled up 2 out in race won by Lily Tara (11-3) at Wetherby 2m 7f cnd hcp hdl 0-95 (5) gs in Apr, 24 ran.
Watch The Wind 14-1 (10-12) Chased leaders, ridden approaching 3 out, soon weakened, 6th of 12, 18l behind Painted Sky (11-2) at Wetherby 2m hcp hdl gd in Apr.
