led 2nd, mistake and unseated rider 13th
led to 2nd, with leader, jumped slowly 11th, left in lead 13th, ridden and headed 2 out, no impression approaching last
mistake and pecked badly 1st, prominent, ridden and no extra approaching 2 out
always prominent, joined leader 15th, led 2 out, stayed on well
held up, took closer order 4th, ridden after 3 out, weakened after next
always behind, jumped slowly 2nd, tailed off from 5th, pulled up before 11th
A low-grade chase with Gortmore Mews heading the weights rated just 96, but while he can't be left out of calculations, preference is for Auburn Spirit, who confirmed his well-being at the last meeting here when chasing home the locally-trained Agincourt. While clearly of limited ability, Auburn Spirit showed the right attitude that day, and although the Handicapper has seen fit to put him up 4lbs for that effort, he has the experienced Wayne Hutchinson aboard and is taken to see off his rivals. Winning pointer Gortmore Mews isn't badly treated on the best of his form, just 1lb higher than when beating another of today's rivals Glanmerin at Hereford nearly two years ago, but Glanmerin, although on the downgrade is 21lbs better in for 11-lengths. However, he has failed to complete in his last three outings and is probably best watched. The locally trained Regal River has gone well fresh in the past and has won twice for his rider. He looks sure to come in for support, but Auburn Spirit comes here in good form and is the one they all have to beat.
