19/12/13
Rydalis ran well for a long way, but for the third time this season bumped into a more progressive horse. The favourite emphatically answered the two questions I had and is still improving. A solid jumper and strong traveller it will be interesting to see what Evan Williams has in mind for him. The front two pulled a long way clear again and although Rydalis looks like a relentless galloper, without a change of gear, I am sure there are races to be won with her.
Anyway, there is no point in reflecting for too long in this game as there is always another race to be analysed…
I will be betting 1 point on GORGEHOUS LLIEGE in the 2.10 at Towcester.
Firstly this is a unique course that many horses simply do not seem to like and as such previous Course and Distance form is a plus in my book. GL is one of two CD winners in the field and as such is of immediate interest. In fact 3 runs at the course have yielded 2 wins and 1 second. He is taking a drop in class here and it is possible that the distance was a bit too far for him at Haydock. The form of his run behind Fine Parchment on his seasonal reappearance looks solid and he is the one for me. 7/2 is not massive but represents a fair price and I suspect he may go off favourite.
My brief thoughts on the others are below:-
O’Callaghan Strand – needs to prove his liking for the distance
Who owns Me – this is his 3rd chase run and will need to step up on previous efforts
Present To You – well, he is 1 from 23 in chases! And 0 from 11 right handed. 11/2- no thank. Admittedly some decent runs in form book but I just can’t back horse with that type of SR, certainly not when they are 11/2.
Armedanddangerous – some ok winning form but I am not sure that it stacks up to much. And if GL runs like he did on his first run of season I cant see this horse beating him (famous last words!)
Smart Exit – 4th start over fences and he has tended to make jumping errors. Yes he is young and still learning but not one who I could fully trust, I would rather stick with experience and proven winning form.
Jolly Boys Outing – 2 from 23, appears to appreciate good ground. Not for me this time.
Good luck!
