Market Rasen
3.40 2m3f Class 4 Handicap Chase – Brave Spartacus 5/1
Not been the most consistent since his switch to Gillian Boanas yard just over 2 years ago, but hard not to think he’s very well in still, even after his 5lb rise for his latest win, the gelding was once rated 145 over fences for Keith Reveley, he won off a mark of 126 for Gillian in August 2017 for his mark to be raised to 133 before his form dipped and his mark at the same time quickly dropped 28lbs within a year, he capitalised last month in a 0-115 when making all when well backed over this C&D to add to his good course form. The way he drew clear of his rivals also gives the impression his very well in at present and the 5lb rise shouldn’t be enough to stop him around a course he loves and on ground he thrives on, also he steps down slightly into a 0-110 race and should get his own way again upfront.
Haydock
4.20 3m Class 4 Veterans Handicap Chase – Buffalo Ballet 9/1
A very lightly raced veteran from a yard that’s not just firing over fences this season, but also in great current form and one to keep onside, Mr Alexander doesn’t tend to venture out of the Scottish regions too much, so the 500+ mile round trip is of significance. Buffalo did run in this race last year for his first and only stint in a veterans race, he ran a fine race in defeat when finishing 2nd in the first time blinkers off a mark of 107, since his just had the 3 runs against much hotter company but still ran and shaped well with his mark handily dropping to a nice 102 in the process, the switch to veterans company will be much easier and could look very well handicapped.
Chepstow
5.05 2m3f Class 4 Handicap Hurdle – Tegerek 5/1
Has been improving well and impressing over the minimum trips, although not bred for stamina trips, all his best work has been in the latter stages and this step up in trip looks the right move especially on his 10f flat win in France shows he has stamina. His last run which was his first in handicap company was very pleasing especially after running very freely but still finishing just 4 lengths away in a good-looking novice race which is backed up by the 2nd winning a maiden very well NTO and the distant 9th also winning. Tegerek doesn’t look like he needs to improve that much to take this, but if he settles better and the trip see’s more from him, added to his likely usual progression and into a more exposed field he looks very dangerous.
Brought to you by Russell Blair Racing.
