tracked leaders until weakened 3 out
led, not fluent 4th, ridden and headed last, not pace of winner flat, finished
in rear, steady headway from 8th, hard driven to chase leaders after 3 out, kept on same pace from next
held up, headway to tracked leaders from 4th, went 2nd 8th, challenged on bit 2 out, led and not fluent last, quickened clear, easily
chased leader, not fluent 4th, weakened before 3 out, on chance when mistake next
prominent until lost place rapidly and dropped rear after 7th, tailed off when blundered next, pulled up before 3 out
A small but competitive field go to post for this handicap chase. Raleagh Native was a good second behind Granby Belle on his debut this season but that was on fast ground and he has failed to complete when the ground has been this soft. Zabadi is a grand old campaigner, however he has been slightly disappointing this season and his best form is also on faster ground. Villair ran well last time out when fourth behind Smart Guy but he gave the impression he will be seen to better effect over a longer trip. Inaki has shown a modicum of ability and he is from a shrewd yard so a market move could be significant. Golden Rose is proven on the ground and is well in on his best form but he has become slightly disappointing of late. Our Jolly Swagman would win easily on his best form but he has failed to complete the course in three attempts this season.
