tracked leader until ridden and weakened 3 out
in touch, mistake 1st, behind from 5th
towards rear and keen, never a danger
prominent until weakened 6th, pulled up before 2 out
led, until ridden and weakening when headed approaching 2 out, mistake 2 out
in touch and going well, smooth headway 6th, quickened up to lead approaching 2 out, ridden clear
always behind
in touch, headway 4 out, every chance 2 out, ridden and not quicken
in touch and keen, ridden and one pace from 3 out
held up, some headway 4 out, soon ridden and weakened
held up towards rear, headway 5th, ridden to chase leaders 3 out, faded soon after
mistake 1st, always behind, pulled up before 2 out
tracked leaders, until ridden and gradually weakened from 3 out
held up and keen, brief effort 6th, weakened next, pulled up before 2 out
mid-division, lost place and behind from 5th
mid-division and keen, lost place approaching 6th, pulled up before 7th
Potentially a useful novice event with a number of flat converts taking their first racecourse bow. Ile Michel had a touch of class on the flat and if the jumping holds up - he could be something quite special over hurdles. The horse won over a mile and a furlong for Lady Herries and was subsequently claimed in a Premier Claimer at York. He was hardly a cheap purchase by any stretch of the imagination and connections will be eager to get a quick return on their monies. Pop Gun has no doubts about stamina. He stayed two miles on the flat for Barry Hills and would probably need further in time. Fleet Street's breeding is that of a flat horse and while Nicky Henderson's newcomers are respected - the fact that Mick Fitzgerald has elected to ride Limon is a concern. Mulabee did not train on from juvenile success and returns here after a long absence from the flat. A remark that similarly applies to Bresbee. Ren's Magic and Canny Scot appear flattered by their form figures and in the absence of further betting information from the track - we will side with Ile Michel to get off the mark with a possible each-way saver on Compton Commander.
