held up in 5th and well off the pace, stayed on from 4 out, went 2nd last, strong run flat, not quite get up
held up in 4th, headway 9th, disputing 2nd and held when mistake 2 out, weakened flat
tracked leaders, went 2nd 11th, led next, clear 2 out,hard driven flat, just held on all out
took keen hold, chased leader, led after 9th to 12th, not fluent 3 out, disputing 2nd and held when mistake 2 out, weakened before next
held up in rear, stayed on from 3 out, no chance when mistake last
led, hung badly right and then wide throughout, ridden from 7th, headed after 9th, weakened 11th, lost touch before 4 out
In a good race, Duchamp is anticipated to make his race fitness count at the expense of Korakor and Itsonlyme. Andrew Balding's charge met a decent rival in Fear Siuil last month following a six month absence. Provided that he has stripped fitter for the outing - he has the right man on board in what may turn out to be a tactical race. Korakor has acquired a high BHB rating without visiting the winners enclosure on too many occasions. He appears to appreciate fast ground and there is every likelihood that he may be sent on upfront despite some niggling doubts about his stamina. Itsonlyme hacked up in a very poor race at Wetherby last May. His sometimes suspect jumping could be tested here and it is hoped that Venetia Williams has been giving him plenty of instruction between then and now. Carbury Cross had been touted as a National horse by Jonjo O'Neill. In fairness, he ran a fair race at Aintree last April but he looks to have got very wise to the game and invariably tends to down tools in his races. Wise King is certainly not getting any younger while Xaipete is upped in class. Mr Woodland is watched in the market while Klondike Charger has a tough ask from one stone out of the handicap. Having considered the options, Duchamp is given as our pick.
