tracked leaders, jumped slowly 7th, ridden next, weakening when mistake 9th, very tired when fell last
tracked leaders, ridden to chase leaders 3 out, led 2 out, all out when headed soon after last
held up towards rear, smooth headway after 3 out, ridden to lead soon after last, kept on
in touch, ridden 4 out, weakened 2 out
mid-division, under pressure 4 out, weakened 2 out
in rear and not jump well, soon lost touch
keen and led 2nd, ridden and headed 2 out, soon one pace
mid-division, lost place 8th
held up towards rear, headway 9th, ridden to chase leaders 3 out, close up and held when fell last
led 1st, headed next, stayed prominent until ridden and weakened 3 out
Just A Splash can defy top weight at the expense of Avadi, Glen Thyne, Indian Gunner and Miss Wizadora. Humping top weight to victory at a track as stiff as Towcester is no mean feat, but that is what we hope Just A Splash will do in the opener this afternoon. Nick Gifford's six-year-old has been round here four times now, and although put in his place by Wild Is the Wind on what was his third start over fences in May, that course knowledge will prove invaluable, as will his ability to handle the ground. None of his opponents have outstanding claims, and he should go close. Avadi can go well fresh and is a possible danger along with Glen Thyne who is now two out of three here but who is a shade high in the handicap now. His trainer Caroline Bailey has now taken out a full licence after handling the likes of Teaplanter and Teeton Mill as a permit holder, and we wish her the best of luck. Old Indian Gunner is not the force he once was but cannot be totally discounted, while Miss Wizadora was very one-paced at Fakenham last time but will come into her own if it turns into a real slog. For the winner we return to Just A Splash.
