led, headed before last, one pace and no impression
tracked leader, challenged 2 out, soon led, shaken up run-in, readily
soon well behind and struggling, tailed off
Hammersly Lake was second over this trip in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham in November but has been mainly racing over further and he may not have the pace to lie up with the headstrong MARRACUDJA on this sharp track. Paul Nicholls’ novice was picked off close home by Mick Thonic at Cheltenham last time but should recoup losses here. Next Exit is likely to complete in his own time but has no chance of causing an upset according to official ratings.
Marracudja (FR) 8-11fav (11-8) Led into start, led until 3rd, led after next, headed 2 out, driven before last, left with every chance flat, stayed on, held towards finish, 2nd of 4, 1/2l behind Mick Thonic (11-0) at Cheltenham 2m (2) gd in Apr.
Hammersly Lake (FR) 16-1 (11-10) Towards rear, hampered 8th, soon lost touch, pulled up next, at Cheltenham 2m 4f hcp lst (1) gs in Mar.
Next Exit (IRE) 22-1 (11-4) Tracked winner until 13th, mistake and outpaced 4 out, tailed off, last of 3, dist behind Net Work Rouge (11-4) at Huntingdon 3m (4) gd in Apr.
