tracked leaders, hit 5th, ridden approaching 2 out, weakened last
held up, headway 2 out, going well and every chance when hit last, found nothing
led to 4th, led again 3 out, ridden and challenged when hit last, driven out
always in rear, weakened 3 out
prominent, led approaching 4th, headed 3 out, soon ridden, weakened last
refused to race, took no part
At first glance this looks a tricky finale with all eight runners holding some sort of a chance. John Spearing's Bitter Sweet has a 7lb penalty to carry for his narrow success over Bound at Warwick last week and may struggle to follow up. Afadan was not beaten far, although last of seven, at Sandown three days ago and, if coming on for the run, would have claims, as would topweight Nouf, if fit enough for his seasonal reappearance. Neither Serious Position or Fashion Victim make much appeal on the form of their recent efforts and, while Neville Callaghan's Lapland may do better now that he is in handicap company, the TEAMtalk selection has to be Caballe. Lack of a recent outing should not be a problem for Nicky Henderson's mare as she is best caught fresh and, having slipped to an attractive mark, the daughter of Opening Verse gets the vote.
