tracked leader, led 5th, ridden and headed approaching last, kept on but no chance with winner
held up behind leaders, led on bit approaching last, easily
well behind 8th, tailed off and pulled up after next
tracked leaders, ridden after 3 out, 4th and weakening when pulled up before next
led until 5th, stayed prominent, ridden after 3 out, one pace
A disappointing turnout for decent prize money and East Hill is given our nod in the first race. Toby Balding's charge has ability but has been a tad disappointing during the earlier stages of this season. He showed a glimpse of a return to form when staying on over 2m 5f at Cheltenham behind Icare D'Oudairies and we will hope that that was a sign of more to come today. Wintertide fell in the race when fourth at the time. He should have no problems in staying the trip and is best judged on a second to Chief Witness at Fontwell last February. Native Star was the winner of a weak bumper at Ayr last April. The team of Hobbs and Johnson are always to be respected and they are in receipt of a couple of pounds from our selection. Roman Court will make a useful chaser in time while Here Comes Harry looks difficult to fancy on all known evidence. East Hill is duly selected in our opener.
