made all, quickened 3f out, clear well over 1f out, ran on strongly, unchallenged
tracked winner, driven and effort over 2f out, soon under pressure, never able to challenge
A disappointing turn out for the money but that won't worry the connections of DOCTOR ZHIVAGO who should be able to get the better of Purple Gallery. Mark Johnston's colt is related to some capable performers and appears to have his share of ability having scored over course and distance on his first attempt back in December. His handicap mark looks more than fair on that evidence given the subsequent performances of the runner-up who has won once and finished second twice in his next three starts whilst it's reasonable to expect the Middleham based colt to improve. Purple Gallery was good value for his maiden win at Lingfield given the circuitous route that he navigated around the final corner but that was a rather worrying sign and he lacks the scope of Doctor Zhivago.
Doctor Zhivago 3-1 (9-3) Chased leaders, pushed along halfway, ridden and headway over 1f out, led inside final furlong, ran on, won at Southwell 1m 2yo mdn stks (5) fbs in Dec beating Master Leon (9-3) by 2l, 11 ran.
Purple Gallery (IRE) 5-2 (8-7) Tracked leader, led over 3f out, hung badly right bend entering final 2f, soon headed, came up stands side rail, driven and rallied to lead post, won at Lingfield 1m mdn stks (5) pol in Jan beating Darshonin (8-7) by 1/2l, 10 ran.
