in touch, ridden over 3f, weakening when hampered 3f out
led early, tracked leaders, ridden when edged right 3f out, ran on well final furlong to chase winner
in rear, behind final 3f
slowly into stride, held up, ridden when hampered 3f out, some headway, stayed on one pace
mid-division on inside, ridden 3f out, weakened
soon led, ridden and headed over 3f out, weakened 1f out
tracked leaders, ridden to chase leader over 2f out, kept on one pace
dwelt, soon prominent and keen hold, ridden 3f out, weakened 2f out
tracked leader, led over 3f out, ridden soon after, edged right final furlong, ridden out
This does not look to be the most competitive of contests and unless Three Welshman improves dramatically on his second start of the winter this should be little more than a match between Big Bad Burt and Gavroche with preference for the last mentioned. Mark Wallace's colt failed to stay 1m4f behind the improving Yankeedoodledandy at Southwell last time but earlier form, including when landing a gamble here over the extended nine furlongs looks good enough to win this and he is given the vote to give weight and a beating all round. Former stablemate Big Bad Burt has looked a difficult ride and does not find much off the bridle. The step up in trip may help but Gay Kelleway's recent purchase has had plenty of chances and he is difficult to recommend with any confidence. Bretton was well held behind the selection last time but has been given a break since, while Comic Genius needs to improve. With Kevin Ryan's horses in good form, Night To Remember has to be respected but Gavroche makes plenty of appeal and gets the nod.
