tracked leader, left clear 6th, in command when jumped left and hit 3 out, jumped left last 2 comfortably
held up 4th, mistake 2nd, left 3rd 6th, never a danger
chased leaders, left 2nd 6th, ridden approaching 3 out, weakened 2 out
Marodima has scared off all potential participants with his presence here and he should have little difficulty in overcoming his three rivals. He has been keeping good company right throughout this season and appears most effective when allowed to dominate at his own pace in smaller fields. Last seen in the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham, he was outclassed there when weakening as they came down the hill while before that he was taken on for the lead at Ascot where both front runners cut each others throats. His performances post Christmas were impressive and while he may have been showing the signs of a busy early season recently, he should get things his own way here. The second season novice Muhtenbar is the only conceivable danger to Marodima and although receiving 10lb from the selection, should not be good enough. Twelve outings over fences have yet to yield a success and his best outing to date is arguably a 9l second to Mahogany Blaze off level weights two outings back. He has a history of bursting blood vessels and that is a major issue at this stage with him. This looks a simple task for Marodima to get his head in front once again.
Marodima (FR) 33-1 (11-7) Raced keenly, tracked leader, led 7th to 8th, blundered 9th, soon beaten, 9th of 14, 44l behind Tidal Bay (11-7) at Cheltenham 2m nov chs Grd 1 (1) gs.
Charming Oscar (IRE) 28-1 (11-5) Held up towards rear, headway 5th, ridden after 3 out, soon weakened, 11th of 14, 44l behind Mous Of Men (11-12) at Wincanton 2m nov hcp hdl 0-110 (4) sft in Jan.
Kirbys Glen (IRE) 16-1 (10-7) Led, headed when pecked badly 3 out, weakened approaching last, 2nd of 6, 12l behind Manhattan Boy (11-0) at Taunton 2m beg chs (4) sft.
Muhtenbar 9-4 (11-0) Led until after 4th, chased leader, hit 7th, weakened after 4 out, tailed off when pulled up 3 out in race won by Boomshakalaka (11-0) at Kempton 2m nov chs (3) gs in Nov, 5 ran.
