tracked leaders, chased winner from 5th, held after 3 out when mistake 2 out
held up, ridden from 3 out, no impression
in touch, headway to chase leaders 3 out, ridden 2 out, one pace
held up, headway on inside 5th to track leaders, ridden and weakened soon after 3 out
tracked winner, driven after 5th, weakened quickly 6th, well behind when pulled up before 2 out
made all, set good pace and keen hold, ridden clear approaching 2 out, unchallenged
The cream of the lady riders are on view and Emily Jane Jones should be capable of steering Direct Descendant to victory in the finale. The horse loves fast ground and ran out a ready winner of a selling hurdle at Hexham. He would not have to show too much to land today's prize. Secret's Out has left Bill Clay to join Mark Brisbourne. He ran a career best when second at Hereford under Richard Hobson and does have the benefit of having his regular rider aboard. Mutadarra won this race last year and is a notoriously difficult ride. He was in better form before last year's renewal of the race though and faces a difficult task to retain his crown. Antony Ebeneezer often finds nil for pressure over hurdles and will test Polly Gundry to the limit. Vidi Caesar is at least unexposed and has a useful rider on board. He stays further than today's trip and the market should be consulted. Wild Power and Balkirk probably need softer ground. Having considered the alternatives - we will stick with Direct Descendant to take the nightcap.
