tracked leader, led 3rd to 5th, outpaced from next, jumped slow 10th, lost touch from 13th, tailed off
settled in touch, joined leaders 6th, went 2nd after 8th, mistake 9th, outpaced and no chance with winner from 14th, lost 2nd 2 out, finished tired
led to 3rd, led 5th to 7th, ridden after 13th, stayed on to take modest 2nd 2 out
not fluent 1st, close up, joined leaders 6th, led 7th, mistake 8th, clear from 14th, not fluent 3 out, stayed on well unchallenged
The Venetia Williams-trained Misty Future did not beat much when winning a beginners' chase at Hereford two outings ago and was well held back in handicap company at Bangor last time so looks opposable here in a race that is expected to go to Mark Pitman's progressive Gigs Gambit, who has a fitness advantage over both Valigan and Dirk Cove. The last mentioned has struggled in handicaps off a similar mark in the past and is entitled to need this on his first start since May. Valigan, who won off today's mark at Musselburgh in December 2001, has been seen more recently in the point-to-point sphere and in hunter chases and also looks opposable after a lengthy absence. Gigs Gambit has no such problems and, with Mark Pitman's gelding having been an easy winner at Fontwell in his last two starts, he is confidently expected to defy another 5lb rise.
