Racecards
14:10 Ludlow
Ludlow Racing Partnership Juvenile Novices' Hurdle (Class E)
- 9 Runners
- Distance: 2m
- Going: Firm, Good to Firm in places
Ashton Vale
14- Form 1231
- Age 3
- Weight 11-12
- Trainer P F Nicholls
- Jockey Mr R M P McNally
soon tracking leaders, ridden after 6th, weakened 3 out
- Form 1
- Age 3
- Weight 11-5
- Trainer A W Carroll
- Jockey V Slattery
led to 2nd, led again 6th, ridden and headed 3 out, eased when no extra towards finish
- Age 3
- Weight 10-12
- Trainer C Von Der Recke
- Jockey A P McCoy
took keen hold, always prominent, led 3 out, ridden clear flat, ran on
- Form F5
- Age 3
- Weight 10-12
- Trainer F Murtagh
- Jockey Mr A Tinkler
towards rear, ridden 5th, headway 6th, weakened 3 out
- Age 3
- Weight 10-12
- Trainer R Price
- Jockey M Bradburne
headway 6th, went 3rd approaching 3 out, soon ridden, weakened next
Karakum
43- Form 05
- Age 3
- Weight 10-12
- Trainer A Chamberlain
- Jockey Mr S Walsh
prominent, led 2nd to 6th, soon ridden, weakened approaching 3 out
- Age 3
- Weight 10-12
ridden after 5th, weakened after next, soon tailed off (wore cheek pieces)
- Form U
- Age 3
- Weight 10-7
- Trainer W Turner
- Jockey R C G Harris
always behind, tailed off from 3 out
In depth
Verdict
Ashton Vale is the TEAMtalk selection in this puzzling novice hurdle. A gradual improver, he had a bloodless victory last time out at Wincanton and is a confident choice despite having a double penalty on ground that will suit. Short Change showed he had ability last time out at Hereford but will need to improve to land this. The German challenger Adecco adds an interesting flavour to the mix and any market moves should be noted.