in rear, close up and in touch when fell 7th
keen hold tracking leader, led 7th, headed next, ridden and weakened 3 out
led, headed and mistake 7th, weakened quickly
behind, tailed off when hit 8th, fell next
tracked leaders, led 8th, headed approaching 9th, ridden when hit 2 out, no impression
held up, keen in rear, hit 4th, closer order 7th, led after 8th, in command when blundered badly last
A small but competitive field goes to post for this novice chase and the principals look to be Well Chief, Saint Esteben and Hawk¿s Landing, with the confident vote going to Well Chief. The gelding from the Martin Pipe yard was better than all these rivals over hurdles, has reportedly schooled well at home, and with conditions to suit he will be hard to beat. Saint Esteben rates the main danger on his second behind Look Collonges in a similar race, but that was on fast ground and it is hard to know how he will cope with these softer conditions. Hawk¿s Landing has been in fair form of late over hurdles but although he travels well in his races, finds little off the bridle. However, fences may well improve him. Of the remainder, No Shenanigans is held in high regard but will be suited by further and has a 688- day absence to overcome, and it would be some training performance if he beats the selection, Well Chief.
