chased leader, ridden approaching 4 out, weakened flat
led, hit 12th and next, ridden and headed last, one pace
bumped 9th, ridden and lost place approaching 10th, tailed off and pulled up before 3 out
held up, headway 11th, hit 3 out, soon ridden, led last, driven out
chased leaders, hit 1st, ridden 13th, weakened 4 out
in touch, hit 5th, ridden and lost place after 9th, behind when pulled up before 11th
mistake 3rd, always behind, tailed off and pulled up before 10th
always behind, tailed off and pulled up before 4 out
Uncle Mick and Three Eagles both have winning form over fences and warrant respect but, in receipt of weight, we prefer to side with Mounsey Castle from the Philip Hobbs stable. The selection showed progressive form over hurdles winning novice events at both Hereford and Stratford but has always looked likely to do better over fences. The son of Carlingford Castle now tackles larger obstacles for the first time, is sure to have been well schooled, and is expected to make the most of the weight he receives from his main market rivals. Uncle Mick won his second chase when making all for a victory at Uttoxeter last week. He has to be respected but may struggle under the burden of a double penalty. Three Eagles was an unlucky loser when falling here last month but has since made up for that with wins over fences at Bangor and over hurdles at Southwell. While Michael Scudamore's gelding is clearly in good heart at present, he needs to improve again if he is to complete the hat trick. Jonjo O'Neill's Rainbow Dance showed little aptitude for chasing when last seen and is probably best watched today. The rest look moderate at best and we are happy to stick with Mounsey Castle, who is taken to make a winning chase debut.
