tracked leaders, ridden approaching 2 out, soon no impression
led to 2nd, remained prominent, led 3 out, ridden clear next
prominent, mistake 5th, ridden 4 out soon weakened
always towards rear, never dangerous
behind, reminder after 5th, some headway after 4 out, ridden approaching next, kept on same pace from 2 out
held up in touch, ridden and weakened 4 out,
chased leaders, led 2nd, ridden and headed 3 out, soon beat
held up in touch, ridden approaching 3 out, soon no impression
This trip could be on the sharp side for a few of these so there could be some mileage to be gained in allowing Sharpastrizam another chance to reward a minimum stakes play here. Prairie Minstrel holds the likes of Mulkev Prince on recent form and is preferred over Cool Monty as the one expected to give the Peter Beaumont-trained nine-year-old the most to do. Whereas Lord North has been running as if in the grip of the handicapper of late and is probably best watched this afternoon. Therefore, Sharpastrizam, who has dropped to a fair mark, looks to be the percentage call as he is at least suited to this sort of distance. The gelding is set to race off just a 3lb higher mark than he did when successful at Catterick earlier in the season and he is taken to be too nippy for the majority of these today. Prairie Minstrel is a consistent sort but he has not won at this sort of trip since his first season over hurdles so he may find Sharpastrizam has his measure if this develops into a dash for home.
