with leader, led 5th, ridden approaching 4 out, headed 3 out, weakened quickly, behind when pulled up before 2 out
in touch, led 3 out, ridden and headed 2 out, weakened last
chased leaders, ridden approaching 10th, weakened 3 out
held up in rear, steady headway from 8th, led 2 out, ridden out
held up, ridden 10, weakened 4 out
led, hit 3rd, headed 5th, stayed in touch, ridden approaching 4 out, weakened next
behind, ridden after 9th, headway approaching 3 out, weakened after next
held up, ridden after 9th, soon weakened
Although strictly held by Julie's Leader on running at Newton Abbot last month, there are solid reasons for believing that Polar Champ can reverse that form and take this, with Pure Fun looking the biggest danger. The selection is better treated now than for some time and may have found that Newton Abbot outing in claiming-company coming too soon after running in the Grand National. Julie's Leader was the winner on merit that day and has franked the form by winning in handicap-company since but, as we have said, Martin Pipe's gelding did not show his true form then and, having been given time since, is worth supporting today. Pure Fun is a progressive performer but looks to be in the grip of the handicapper now. Wontcostalotbut is capable but, along with Golfagent, faces no easy task at the weights.
