made all, clear between last 2, easily
tracked winner to 7th, ridden 3 out, regained second approaching last, no chance with winner
tracked leaders, chased winner 7th until approaching last, weakened flat
mid-division, weakened halfway, tailed off when pulled up before 7th
towards rear, never dangerous
behind when jumped right and unseated rider 1st
Ichi Beau looks the proverbial penalty kick against a plethora of moderate opposition. Ferdy Murphy's charge was rated 140+ over chase fences and even though his handicap mark over hurdles is way below that, it is far in excess of anything else in this contest. Albundy is at least open to some improvement at the age of four but he was beaten a long way behind useful Northern novice, Laouen and it is hard to see him being good enough here. Son of Snurge is exposed at selling grade and is still a maiden over the sticks despite many many chances. The remainder have more duck eggs than could be found in Delia Smith's kitchen. Having considered the opposition, it looks increasingly difficult to see past Ichi Beau landing first prize tonight.
