Racecards
13:05 Newcastle
James Fletcher Marquee And Pavilion Hire Novices' Chase (Class E) (Class E)
- 7 Runners
- Distance: 3m
- Going: Good, Good to Firm in places
- Form 5-04653
- Age 9
- Weight 10-10
- Trainer C Teague
- Jockey C McCormack
close up when blundered and unseated rider 1st
- Form 003-R04
- Age 6
- Weight 10-10
- Trainer T D Easterby
- Jockey R Garritty
held up, lost place from 11th when soon outpaced, blundered 14th, rallied approaching 2 out, kept on from last
- Form 10/110-2
- Age 6
- Weight 10-10
- Trainer J Howard Johnson
- Jockey G Lee
held up and jumped right, went 2nd approaching 3 out, led on bit last 100 yards, cheekily
- Form 44-5P35
- Age 8
- Weight 10-10
- Trainer A Crook
- Jockey Reserve
led, hit 13th, ridden approaching 2 out, headed last 100 yards, no extra
- Form 52322-5
- Age 9
- Weight 10-10
tracked leaders, left 2nd at 3rd, ridden and weakened from 3 out
- Form 04B0-30
- Age 10
- Weight 10-5
always behind, blundered 13th, never dangerous
- Form 54454-3
- Age 6
- Weight 10-5
close 2nd when carried out by loose horse 3rd
In depth
Verdict
This novices chase looks a competitive event with Joe Di Capo, Rosie Redman and Inching Closer all in with chances but the confident vote goes to the latter. The gelding from the Howard Johnson yard was far superior to his rivals over hurdles and made a pleasing debut over fences when second to Celestial Gold last time. He has conditions to suit here and it is hard to make a case out for an alternative to beat him. Joe Di Capo would have chances on his best form but he has been let down by his jumping of late. Rosie Redman was third in a handicap behind Tobesure last time and although this looks easier, that form has since been let down. Shinning Tyne would come into calculations if conditions became really testing, but they should all be fighting it out for place money because our selection Inching Closer is difficult to oppose.