chased leaders, blundered 1st, behind from 11th tailed off
led, headed approaching 12th, weakened approaching 2 out
track leaders, led 12th, headed last, stayed on towards finish
held up in touch, weakened approaching 12th, pulled up before 3 out
held up, joined leader 4th, led breifly until jumped slowly 12th, ridden to lead last driven out
Nonrunner
French import Iris De Balme posted an encouraging effort on his first start for Sean Curran and is fancied to fend off the challenges of Passenger Omar and Marjina, who are expected to give him the most to think about. Marjina won over hurdles on heavy ground at Chepstow last season, so is not expected to have anything to fear on the account of the going. However, the daughter of Classic Cliche needs to brush up on her jumping even though she will be suited by this step up in trip. Passenger Omar showed ability over timber last term and showed a liking for Warwick with a couple of smooth successes. The Noel Chance-trained gelding is sure to have been well schooled for this chasing debut and a bold bid is expected. However, Iris De Balme showed a likable attitude when chasing home Snakebite at Folkestone earlier this month (holds Forest Miller on that form) and is going to be a tough customer to deal with if posting a similar effort.
