tracked leader, narrow lead from 4th, drew clear after 2 out, ridden out
led, narrowly headed 4th, stayed pressing winner, ridden after 3 out, soon outpaced
always in rear, jumped slowly and lost touch 8th, tailed off 4 out
A disappointing turnout in terms of number for this ¿10,000-added contest with just the three runners lining up in the likely absence of Ibal, who has a preferred engagement at Chepstow. Fait Le Jojo has some useful form in handicap company over hurdles and has made a fairly smooth transition to the larger obstacles this term with wins at Uttoxeter and, most recently, Ludlow, beating Regal Exit (winner since) by two lengths. Two defeats behind the high-class novice Azertyuiop in between those successes indicate the gelding's true ability over fences though and he may again have to settle for minor honours behind the selection, First Love. A debut defeat when second to Claymore does not read as badly now considering the improvement Oliver Sherwood's gelding has shown since then and, having shown progressive form since, the son of Bustino is now beginning to look more the finished article. Nicky Henderson's gelding has a touch of class about him and can take the honours here before going on to better things. Caliwag looks out of his depth in this company.
