led, headed after 7th, weakened 8th
well behind from 2nd, tailed off when pulled up before 5th
held up, hit 2nd, tailed off 8th, 4th when fell 3 out
prominent and keen, led after 7th to 10th, ridden and switched right after 3 out, kept on one pace
tracked leaders, led 10th, jumped right from 4 out, ridden out
A small field for this novice chase and it looks a good opportunity for Young American to gain a victory at the first attempt over the larger obstacles at the expense of Winter Garden and Salim. Jonjo O'Neill's gelding is rated 115 over hurdles and has contested some very hot handicaps, including a class B event at Worcester last time when going down by just a length to Mr Ed. Today's opposition look quite inferior so all he really needs to do is jump. Winter Garden appears to be the biggest threat on paper having chased home some decent types in three novice events during last month. He wasn't beaten far on any of those occasions so could be the one to take advantage if the selections jumping is not up to scratch. The other three contenders look out of their depth but the best of them could be Salim who has shown bits and pieces of form over hurdles. So it looks a two horse race and Young American is taken to beat Winter Garden.
