tracked leaders, took closer order 13th, went 2nd 14th, driven to chase winner 5 out, ridden approaching 3 out, held when hit last
tracked leader, disputed lead from 12th, led after 13th, ridden 3 out, idled approaching last, kept on flat
led, not fluent 10th, joined 12th, headed after 13th, and lost touch from 15th
Just four go to post for this opener and it looks a good opportunity for Pure Platinum to follow up his recent victory, Pardini and Pewter Light are the obvious dangers. Jonjo O'Neill's gelding had shown nothing over hurdles before winning a modest chase at Chepstow. Tony McCoy needed all his strength to get this one home so he is obviously no world beater. However today's opposition are of a similar standard and Pure Platinum should only have to run up to that form to collect here. Pardini makes a quick reappearance after chasing home O'Neill's The Sister at Uttoxeter on Saturday. If those exertions haven't taken their toll he will be a big threat to the selection. Pewter Light put in a couple of decent efforts last season and should do better than the other runner here Dun Locha Castle, but Pure Platinum should be able to take advantage of the seven pounds her receives from Pardini and gets the vote.
