Didn't run badly, not having the clearest of runs Barwick, but let's be honest, once he was in the clear, he wasn't exactly firing and that was probably very much down to the trip I feel.
14.20 Epsom: Jakey @ 9/1 Bet365 - 3pts win + Aryal @ 18/1 Coral - 1pt win
Really interesting and competitive Handicap here tomorrow at Ascot. I do really like the chance of Jakey, for many reasons. I was extremely impressed with his seasonal reappearance as a 4 year old at Kempton three weeks ago. The race was run at a crawl which didn't quite suit him, he was sweating quite heavily before the off already and he was keen like a bull throughout the whole race, still tanking turning for home! He then looked for a short moment a bit in trouble when the front-runner increased the pace suddenly, but he quickly found his stride, and produced a lovely turn of foot to win with authority. He looks physically improved now as a 4yo and looks like a horse with loads of potential. He was mightily impressive when he won a maiden at Epsom last year over 10f, so he clearly is fine on the course, and I have no doubts about the trip whatsoever. Slight worry is the ground though, I would imagine he is better on good ground, but on pedigree at least, the soft going shouldn't be too much of an issue. We certainly find out tomorrow. I think this horse is ten pounds plus better than the current mark and I expect a huge performance, from this lightly raced gelding, if he can produce his best on this kind of ground.
I also expect an improved performance from Aryal. He is progressive, has not too many miles under the belt either, and it's interesting to see him back on turf and for the first time on softish ground in particular, which should perfectly suit on pedigree. He ran well on Good Friday in the Apprentice Handicap, when he set a quick, even pace but looked beaten for speed in the closing stages, while clinging on for fourth in brave manner. Trip should be ideal on breeding, and he might still be a bit better than his current mark either. I feel he is a good deal overpriced.
No comments :
Post a Comment