led, ridden and headed after 3 out, weakened approaching last
tracked leader, mistake 2nd, led after 3 out, clear last, easily
held up, headway approaching 8th, ridden approaching 3 out, soon weakened
tracked leader, ridden after 4 out, weakened approaching 2 out
held up, headway approaching 3 out, ridden to chase winner approaching 2 out, beaten when hit last
Samsaam is given the narrow verdict ahead of Kinnescash and Shannon Quest in a competitive closing race. Martin Pipe's inmate was formerly a classy performer on the flat but had ran a bit flat after making early progress as a Novice hurdler. His recent effort at Ascot behind Rosco represented a substantial step up on recent efforts and he is given the nod tonight. Kinnescash would be very difficult to oppose on old form but his recent performances rather sour the optimism. That said, recent Peter Bowen runners have not gone off without support and it would not be beyond the realms of possibility that he could return to form. Shannon Quest is better known as a chaser these days. He posted an encouraging run at Wincanton over 2m 6f last time out but there may be a little too much speed on offer today. Martin Pipe should know all about his ex-inmate Iorana. His prolificness in claimers is not however matched by his recent performances in handicaps.
