Catterick - Thursday Dec 28

Not a very enticing card after the meeting got the all-clear, the going good to soft and likely a bit tacky.

The opening novice hurdle looked a tricky three horse affair with each protagonist bringing something different to the table.

In the end, none made a particularly positive impression, coming home in a heap after a slow early pace, with the next two moderate looking types hot on their heels.

The well-backed Enola Gay ground out the win and it's possible he may want softer ground, while the wayward Teescomponents Lad nudged out debutant Swashbuckle for second.

The runner-up appeared to have the race at his mercy but wandered around when produced at both the penultimate flight and the last, and can surely win one of these as he builds experience, possibly over further.

Swashbuckle was moderately strong in the market but the betting belied wariness and his jumping was novicey; had it been better he would surely have won. It still seemed disappointing that he couldn't go on in the straight and perhaps better ground will suit this 85-rated flat winner.

Gang Warfare is only moderate looking but was close by in fourth, ahead of Young Tom, another that doesn't look up to winning a novice en route to handicaps.

The second race was arguably the one to get stuck into on the day, featuring as it did one of two well-backed horses on the day from the M Keighley yard in Cup Of Ambition.

He is a horse that appears to already have plenty of 'badass' attitude about him and, lacking in stature, he made no appeal and he duly blundered his chances away.

There wasn't a great deal of solid form around but Paddling from the red hot Hammond yard had put together three consistent runs and the extra yardage looked sure to bring on further improvement; thus it was surprising he went off as big as 4/1.

Nothing came forward in a weak affair and Paddling duly bolted up given a patient ride, the front running Frankie Ballou and Reverse The Charge filling minor honours suggesting this wasn't great form.

I had no interest in the seller, in which the winner Shalamzar looked to be carrying plenty of condition, although he's far from certain to build on this. Roman Numeral once again proved himself unreliable under pressure and he's undoubtedly a favourite of the in-running sharks.

Another no-bet race saw Lake Field predictably follow up in the novices chase with a solid round of jumping, and rising nine they are sensible in pressing on with him.

It's one of the worst feelings when a yard decide to adopt negative tactics and my bombproof each-way play on Golden Investment was doomed from flagfall when he was dropped right out for a second time successive time, after such tactics failed last time.

The McCain chaser has just the one pace, and mostly on the bridle, so asking him to make up 15 lengths off just a moderate gallop was plain ridiculous. Talking through my pocket, yes, but I like to think I'm as objective as can be on these pages. I noticed they dropped Whitsundays out at Sedgefield the other day and he made up eight lengths after the last to get done a nose. Stick to the tried and tested, Mr McCain!

Red Danaher is really quite small and his position at the head of the market was largely connections-based, but the plodder has not delivered on numerous occasions and he lacks resolution and bravery. A return to timber may see him in better light but I wouldn't bet on it.

Cottersrock was the other Keighley horse backed but he too bit the dust, an entirely predictable scenario based on his previous chase efforts. There weren't many you could fancy, and Attention Please proved most straight forward once again to defy a rise.

Hattons Hill can't act round these tight turns and looked to still need the run anyway.

I took the progressive Durbanville and American Life, who looked well, against the progressive and penalised Triopas in the staying hurdle. To be honest I rarely get these quick returning types right and my view that recent Towcester winners struggle to follow up never seems to materialise when the money's down.

Having handed all the earlier takings back and more besides, it was a gloomy drive home. We can only hope Donny passes tomorrow's early inspection.

Wetherby - Wednesday Dec 27

Soft ground but it wasn't too bad considering the recent weather, not a brilliant card but the opening novice hurdle looked very deep for the track and should produce a few winners.

Previous winners Bulkov and Some Reign headed the market but neither was very strong and they looked vulnerable, particularly Bulkov whose form on these shores hasn't looked that great.

Some Reign refused to start last time and that meant he went off at bigger odds than his form implied - he was quickly trimmed upon the tapes rising - but he's not always excited me physically, he's quite narrow and doesn't move especially well.

Trainer's husband A Dobbin esq rates the horse highly but he's got questions to answer at present, finding little behind an impressive winner, and it could be that he requires much better ground.

Lisdoonvarna Lad had shown very good bumper form which would have put him in with a shout here, but he flopped last time when pulling too hard. He settled nicely in the quiet hands of B Hughes here though and ran right away from them in the end.

The best looking of these, albeit with a slight quirk, he was deeply impressive and the further they went the better he looked. It's interesting that the trainer has been having winners after a very quiet time.

Quest For Life was one of the smallest but had shown solid form previously, and came through for second under the quietest of rides, and this run will have been missed by no-one.

Going Gold is a nice horse who disappointed considering his good bumper form last time out. Costing 80k, I'd expect much better from him but he does shape like a stayer and he'll need much further than this sooner rather than later.

Just Bobby looked really well and is a decent prospect, but he was given a very quiet ride in the worst of the ground and I suspect he'll be teed up for a handicap on better ground than this in the spring.

The novice chase cut up to three unfortunately and the market called it correctly as Bordeaux Bill finally delivered on his hurdles promise, relishing the trip as he scooted away from Sharp Response in the straight.

The winner has taken his time to get his act together over fences but the way Cook gunned him at the last four suggested his confidence is now on the up and he can land a decent handicap this season.

He only did what the figures said he should do though, Sharp Response being a reliable yardstick albeit at the lower level. He did little wrong barring a couple of minor errors and I expect the runner-up to boost this form in the weeks ahead.

The juvenile hurdle saw a nice sort in Albert's Back, who was all the rage after his win here on debut, and he is almost certainly an above average recruit for the bang in form MW/D Easterby team.

He was chased home by Turning Gold, a miler on the flat, but he stuck on well and looks of interest especially when the ground dries out in the spring, as he has loads of scope.

Cornerstone Lad looked well but had a bit to find on the book, that said I thought he'd do better than he did, while American Craftsman took a huge step backwards and this lightly-framed animal, who was regressive on the flat, now has questions to answer.

The feature race was the Castleford and it looked wide open with chances to be given to all six rivals, which to these eyes meant Cyrus Darius was a very short priced favourite considering the questions he had to answer over jumping, trip, and to some extent, resolution.

They all looked trained to the minute and I thought Duke Of Navan was ready to land a decent pot after too much time on the sidelines. Given a positive ride, he looked all over the winner in the straight and if the jockey had kicked turning in he may just have nicked it.

As it was, Just Cameron wore him down for the red-hot Hammond yard and connections can have the handicapper to thank for his kindness, allowed to run off a 4lb lower mark than when successful here in January. I didn't think he'd quite have the pace but, rising 11, he's clearly still on his game.

Cyrus Darius failed to answer any of the questions posed to him in finishing a tired third, and the odds are he simply isn't the force he looked prior to injury. There'll be more races in him, but at present his mark is flattering.

For the first time I can remember I managed to miss them in the paddock ahead of the mares staying chase, which was annoying as I didn't fancy the short priced favourite Same Circus as she doesn't look a natural over fences, and based on this evidence a return to timber will suit ideally.

Milly Baloo has loads of scope and was held together by Hughes, she looks green and lacking confidence and is probably weighted to her best, but can surely improve on this and win again if things fall into place...she stays well but may do better off a faster pace over shorter.

The winner Sheneededtherun was noted on these pages last season, going well at Southwell and then landing a penalty kick at this track. She's an out and out staying chaser and shouldn't have been the price she was in a weak race, and with a tongue tie added. Well-handicapped, she can't go up much and may well win again if kept to similar races, and she'll stay even further too.

The closing staying hurdle had some nice looking horses declared and of most interest was Tickanrun from the Hammond yard, who looked straight enough off a 600+ day absence upon leaving the Grant kennel. Most importantly it was strong in the market and it looked as though the punt would be landed up the straight.

But Final Fling, who I followed for a long time before letting him go some time back, is a dour stayer and wouldn't lie down, out-gunning the grey from the last. The winner lacks size and has been struggling over fences - he's a proper hurdler but may now struggle off higher marks.

Flemerina relished the softer ground but she's really only moderate and can pick up weaker races than this on her favoured terrain, while Honeychile Ryder - a former horse to follow - once again showed a glimpse of ability and she can win one of these types of races over shorter...she's a keen sort but much better than her rating suggests. It's to be hoped she can string a few runs together now and I haven't given up on her.

Wetherby - Saturday Dec 9

A card decimated by withdrawals owing to the ground, which was reported to be very hard work and still frozen in the more exposed parts of the track. The less said about this state of affairs, the better.

The opening novice hurdle was the most interesting on the afternoon with several to note for the future.

While Wemyss Point looked overpriced when winning at the last meeting, physically he didn't have anywhere near the presence of some of these chasers of the future, and well-backed again he represented any value other than in the place market.

Knight In Dubai was noted as a strong sort in need of softer ground when routed in a Sedgefield bumper nearly 10 weeks ago, but given time to strengthen by his astute trainer took a giant leap forward here.

Despite looking more unfurnished than most, he travelled incredibly well and won with his head in his chest. It looks he's run to around 120 here and he's a useful recruit that can defy a penalty.

Game On and Indian Hercules were closely matched on their Uttoxeter running and both have a future over fences. The former doesn't have much respect for timber but should be able to pick up one of these granted softer conditions, while the former is well made but didn't seem to appreciate this terrain.

Overworkdunderpaid was a surprising springer in the market as he looks a really big ugly tank of a horse, who won't come into his own until further down the line. But he shaped with promise and is another to take out of the race.

Finally, Trixter wasn't given a hard time back in the pack and this compact sort is one to look out for in something like a 0-110 where his trainer likes to have a bit of a touch.

Ami Desbois did what he had to do in the novice chase against A Vos Gardes, who has used his time on the sidelines to strengthen up quite nicely. The winner looked strangely quirky in front but I suspect he wanted a bit of company and if it comes up on the soft side at Cheltenham in March he'll be at the forefront of my plans.

On A Promise was the selection in the staying hurdle and he travelled like the winner on this hat-trick bit, but the stone rise did for him although in fairness he beat the rest pointless behind Pop Rockstar, who followed up his Haydock quite well in the end. Obviously very well in, it may be that the second didn't stand much of a chance.

Six went to post in the next and it fell to perennial rogue Captain Mowbray, who took the step up to 3m in his stride to finally get off the mark.

That doesn't tell the full story as he did his best to chuck it away two out with a dreadful blunder that shot T Kelly forward, and the Irishman did a remarkable job to stay in the plate in the save of the season.

If anything else could raise a gallop they were done for but Big Meadow and Mr Love, two big chasing types making their debut, were spent and Kelly was able to rally the Captain to an epic win, which also gave his trainer a well deserved winner.

Aristo Du Plessis made it two from two at the track this term despite not being able to take up his usual front running role, and it's to the credit of jockey C Nichol that he kept to his own even tempo, which was more than enough for two rivals. Sakhee's City looked more wayward than ever and he surely now wants blinkers.

Only three left in the handicap chase as well, Movie Legend winning again with Pistol Park again not jumping with much fluency and Ifandbutwhynot stopping to nothing. The winner may be getting better but I'd be wary if he gets a big rise for this.

Just a fillies bumper over 12 furlongs to finish and the market sorted out the best looking of them, the well-made Behranell coming in for support ahead of Perfect Myth, who was a bit on the weak side but had some quality about her.

The biggest of them by some way was the nicely bred Kuragina, but while she was expected to learn plenty for the outing she galloped all over them and won with something in hand in the end, landing a small touch for the shrewd Slack yard.

The amount of times the biggest, strongest filly wins in these races is remarkable and something for us all to remember.

Haydock - Wednesday Dec 6

Across the old 62 we went for a six race card with only a clutch of runners in each, but it was competitive enough and not without fun.

Most horses are rocking up fit at this stage of the season and paddock views are largely a case of what takes the eye in terms of structure and well-being.

Thomas Patrick was probably the nicest on show in the opening handicap hurdle but he went down in a head-bob to Pop Rockstar, whose form probably entitled him to win, for all that physically he is more a work in progress.

The following novices chase was a real headbanger and I ended up staying right out of it, although the couple I didn't really want to be with happened to bomb out.

Rolling Dylan was one as he didn't look very big against some of these and the 5lb penalty appeared to make things difficult, not that it mattered in the end as he was done for turning into the straight.

Buster Thomas is a nice strong sort physically but he's pretty backward and again he pulled too hard, exhausted when coming down at the last. Once he settles, he'll want a good distance of ground.

Eamon Na Cnoic was part of my betting plan on the last day at Wetherby but he jumped stickily prior to a heavy fall five out that day. Sent off an unconsidered rag here, he was smooth over his fences and this expensive purchase has the size and scope to be quite decent and this was his second course win.

Sainte Ladylime is strong but not that tall and clearly finds jumping difficult, not so Ballydine who looked as straight as he could be for his first run back off a 600+day absence.

He's a real stayer though, and just plugged on over this trip after getting outpaced on the turn in. He's a strong chaser who jumped cleanly, and given a decent break he's one Longsdon inmate to have on your side this winter, while he also goes on better ground so the Festivals may not be out of the question.

Niblawi and Shivermetimbers shared favouritism in a small field novice hurdle and you wouldn't find two more different animals, the former a small, stocky ex-Flat horse against a huge great chasing type who must go through the motions of a season or two over timber.

Neither made great appeal in the circumstances, although I foolishly didn't fully consider the third 'runner' Joke Dancer, who I've noted favourably here on his two previous starts.

A nicer horse you couldn't wish for but he'd been quite fractious and green before his races, and keen going in the race.

He's getting better each time though and was settled nicely off a slow pace before Cook rushed him through to lead two out before powering clear. I thought the flat horse's pace would do for him but Niblawi didn't really show a great deal to warrant following again.

The handicap chase was the key race of the day as Just Georgie was a well-backed jolly to break his maiden tag under rules, but it looked a bit 'too obvious' and essentially 2/1 was short enough in a race where some of them looked well handicapped.

One such was Morney Wing, who wants further but got an easy sit on the lead and backers would have found his finishing effort a shade disappointing.

Whiskey Chaser was promising two seasons back but was hit-and-miss last term and clearly isn't one that is easy to catch right. Despite dismal reappearance efforts for the past three years he looked pretty straight, but then there was nothing wrong with him when I piled in at Sedge two years ago when he was beaten a distance.

But he was on his game today and stayed on strongly to deny the willing Back To The Thatch, who is quite well made and should do better in time, once his scratchy fencing improves.

Just Georgie had just moved into contention but inexplicably put down on Cook at the last ditch and that was the end of that. He's proving costly to follow but surely would have gone close and may just be worth another chance if the odds allow.

Purple Harry is a big sturdy white horse who always looks on good terms with himself, but he's a dour stayer and looked in need of this outing. It only took him one run to hit top form in the spring and if they have a clear run this winter he should win again from this mark.

Ravensdale was all the rage ahead of another novices hurdle and he again filled the eye as he had at Southwell the last day, only stripping a good deal fitter this time.

He's a well made, professional looking animal who is just the type to continue progressing as the season goes on, and as he is stepped up in trip.

It was perhaps a little disappointing that his lead was being eroded close home by the staying on Duke Debarry, but the feeling was that the winner was only doing as much as he had to.

The runner-up may not be all that straight forward, but he'll enjoy a return to further and this at least proved he goes on soft ground.

Spider's Bite caught all the eyes at Aintree last time but that form may not be all that and he most certainly is not straight forward. Tall and light framed at this stage, he's a keen sort and typically for a Scorpion he has a lot going on upstairs. He's one to be a little wary of.

Graystown is only modest looking, at least amongst these more expensive types, but he put in another solid shift and connections will be hoping the handicapper cuts him some slack.

The finale looked wide open and Clan Legend looked vulnerable at the top of the market, up 9lb for beating a very weak field at Hexham, while the extra yardage wasn't necessarily going to suit.

You can't afford to be in the least bit keen on this ground and the way he went suggests he'll remain better over shorter, and this mark could stretch him in this grade.

One For Harry is a solid benchmark and once he got on the lead he was always going to be hard to beat. A touch of class at this level goes a long way and he ground out the W, as is his wont.

Its'Afreebee might have been an interesting poke at long odds but he was surprisingly well backed and looks to have completely gone at the game for the time being.

I quite liked Quids In and this well made youngster looked sure to run his race. This probably just stretched him but the form has a solid look and he can surely pick up something similar.

Round-up - Doncaster Dec 1/2

Some rain overnight meant the ground was good to soft, although slightly better on the hurdles track.

Friday December 1

Race 1
A good novice hurdle over 2m4f, Enniscoffey Oscar a well-backed favourite who was entitled to win, but not as well as he did and this goes down as a very decent effort, having come on a good deal physically since I saw him at Aintree. The placed horses lost little in defeat despite the margin - Dandy Dan making most and shouldering a 6lb penalty, he should be able to defy it in a weaker race. My Charity was slightly disappointing, but he's a good sort who was a bit keen over this trip and he should pick up one of these over shorter, while Talkischeap had a mountain to climb with the double penalty and he should come on for the run. Stormy Milan is only light framed currently but ran with promise and is one for the long-term.

Race 2
A toxic looking handicap headed by the strongly supported No Ceiling, who was back down to his favoured minimum trip and he duly landed the punt despite some dodgy jumping. He won it easily but it wasn't a great race, Blandfords Gunner returning to something like his old self for a new yard, while Nicolas Chauvin ran his race again but the weight rise did for him. Welcome Ben got very warm after his long trip south and the run could be excused; he couldn't get on the lead and the ground was damp enough. Valseur De Granval ran a desperate race and he's become disappointing.

Race 3
A handicap hurdle in which Manny Owens was the third well-backed winner on the card, sprinting clear to justify the quick run back after Catterick last week. This didn't take much winning either though, Peggies Venture running well again but the handicapper has her measure and she doesn't have the scope to progress much, while Rio Bravo was arguably the nicest of the bunch but didn't get home again and it may pay to give him a more patient ride. Barton Knoll would have gone close had he not crashed out at halfway and he's a big raw chaser to look out for next year.

Race 4
A queer handicap chase in which it was hard to make a serious case for many, not least the quirky Powerful Symbol who looked to have been handed victory at Southwell last time out, but now he's won again, the third came out and won and the second ran okay next time. He came up against a complicit opponent in Nightline, who is looking hard to win with and didn't appear to have many excuses, while Red Infantry surprisingly traded odds on for much of the trip but as he always does found nothing when push came to shove. Hey Bill may be slowly finding his feet and could be one for the spring, while Cracked Rear View looked fit and strong after a lengthy absence but ran as though he needed it, while he's probably not straight forward either. Gibbes Bay looks a big lethergic horse and remains one to be wary of.

Race 5
I've backed Monbeg River so many times in the past but have been scuppered by either too aggressive a ride, too patient a ride, or simply looking handicapped to his best. But this most consistent of horses and soundest of jumpers got everything right this time, or rather his jockey did; Brooke letting him go on after the early pace wasn't to his liking. A big track like this was always likely to suit him and I'm pleased for the horse as much as anything else. It didn't help the wallet though; I deserted in favour of Drumlee Sunset whose form with some big names made him look well handicapped on his first start for T George. However, you just don't improve horses from the P Hobbs barn and this medium-sized horse doesn't jump well enough, or certainly didn't on this day. It wouldn't surprise me to see him rate higher over timber, and by the way he stuck on a step up to 3m is going to help him. Master Burbidge is a keen sort and he looks best kept to the smaller tracks; he found little off the bridle.

Race 6
Chapel Stile was another jolly to go in when he landed the staying hurdle. This 105-rated Scorpion is quite a backward type mentally and physically but starts from the right end of the handicap and he can rate much higher in the years ahead. He was on and off the bridle from a mile out but stuck on to suggest he has plenty of stamina in the tank. Tanarpino was his main pursuer from two out but I'm convinced he'll be better over fences so it's surprising he's now had three goes over timber already this term. He just about stayed this 3m, but it has to be said he's looking disappointing.

Race 7
Quite an interesting bumper but it was clear that much was expected of Sangha River, who was well-backed and well-prepared by trainer O Murphy, he looks a quite stylish, athletic horse and he was given a very patient ride by JJ Codd. Having gone clear he was almost reeled in by Kingsplace, who looked quite backward and small by comparison so ran a massive race in the circumstances. Invisible Clouds is a strong sort but didn't look straight forward in the prelims and ran as though he's very green mentally - he was weak in the market and better can be expected in time.

Saturday December 2

Race 1
Kalashnikov is in many a notebook already and he proved once again that he's got a proper engine, seeing off Irish Prophecy from the second last in the style of a very useful recruit. They went slow enough for him once again and he'll be better coming off a sounder gallop and the advice is to keeping backing him until he's defeated. Don't forget his full sister Kalane was a 140+ horse and this one is going to be even better. Irish Prophecy couldn't deal with the turn of speed but this embryonic chaser also has a bright future and he'll come into his own with more time. Deyrann De Carjac looked quite a nice physical sort in the paddock and he finished with gusto from the last and he could also be one to follow. Ollie Vaar showed a glimpse of what he is capable of and he should be able to pick up a small handicap this winter.

Race 2
Redemption Song was all the rage for the mares novice hurdle and this could prove to be far better than the usual race of its type. The front four in the betting all looked quite useful types in the prelims but while the favourite got warm, she was disappointing having come off the bridle early and only able to plug on at one pace. I do think she's just mentally backward more than anything else, but she shapes like a stayer and may be one for the three mile mares race back here in the New Year. The Lavelle yard has hit form and Majestic Moll took a step forward to take it in decisive fashion, she's  quite light framed so expect her to continue to improve. Jet Set hailed from the cold Longsdon barn but gave chase to the winner, and she's a good size and will benefit from this first start over timber; the form of the Aintree bumper being strong. Blue Valentine looked fit enough without really taking the eye.

Race 3
There were good reasons to side with Irish Roe in the next, this bonny mare hailing from the small but shrewd P Atkinson having come on nicely from Wetherby, where she chased home a revitalised William Of Orange. It still looked like this experience would do her good as she was quite novicey at times, but she travelled like a horse a good deal ahead of her mark and even a 7lb hike shouldn't prevent her from winning again. William Of Orange stayed on again after looking likely to drop out so clearly is in good heart, while Chelsea Flyer couldn't give Lavelle a quick double and his form has questions marks about it. Dexcite looked really well after a long absence but raced as though it was more needed than I thought.

Race 4
Not much interest in this three runner chase, Deauville Dancer not having to improve to win again. As such any rise in the weights may see him struggle, with Derintoher Yank not really in much form four days on from a Sedgefield defeat, while Apple Of Our Eye didn't jump a fence and he lacks a bit of size, and essentially hasn't shown a great deal for a while.

Race 5
Little interest in a weak handicap hurdle won by C Mann's Fixed Rate, a tall leggy animal benefiting from first time blinds. Sumkindofking was favourite almost by default and he was disappointing once more, while Pot Committed is a big rangy animal who may have a future over fences.

Race 6
A 0-100 staying chase with may of the usual suspects. Brown Trix and Smiling Jessica represented that Powerful Symbol Southwell form and while I'm sure the former would have won that day, he made a bad mistake four out here and jumping is clearly an issue with him. The latter ran on from knowhere to take second behind Attention Please, who bolted in having dropped all the way down to 76 in the ratings with cheekpieces applied. A 17-length margin will make a follow-up tricky, while there wasn't much else to take from the race other than Lakefield Rebel being some way short of fitness for his seasonal return.

Race 7
The junior bumper looked an open contest on paddock inspection, although it was clear that the form already shown by Zoltan Varga probably wasn't going to be enough against a few likeable sorts, notably Skyline, who was well prepared as you'd expect by H Morrison, and Malinas Jack from the shrewd J Mackie yard. Lavelle's Shiroccan Roll is quite nice but looked big and backward, while the eventual winner Ettila De Sivola was quite typical of the trainer's, being a lengthy French import that was quite well forward without really suggesting it was going to be his day.

Wetherby November 29

Not the best card on soft ground, including a couple of small field chases and a pair of weak mares bumpers.

A juvenile hurdle opened proceedings where Alan King looked to have picked up a nice strong youngster in Doctor Bartolo, who was worthy of support in a fairly weak looking race.

He was novicey at his hurdles, no more so than at the last, and although it was disappointing he was run out of it he should benefit enormously from the run.

The victory went to Albert's Back, who continued MW Easterby's fine run over the sticks of late. This big rangy animal will jump a fence in the years to come and was clearly marking time on the level.

His 18/1 SP was very surprising as not many others could be fancied, Falcon Sun is an ok looker as you would expect from the Skelton kennel but didn't produce much on his debut and was third at a fair distance here.

Bid Adieu came in for strong support but the Irish raider looked a very active type beforehand and he duly went bombing off in front, effectively running his race in the first mile.

Richard Strauss is quite athletic and could be a handicap project, while The Blues Master lacks a bit of size although he should make a fist of it in this sphere.

Captain Chaos was a worthy favourite in the novice chase but he doesn't look like one for the mortgage money for reasons not easy to pinpoint, but didn't do a great deal wrong in fairness and winning under a penalty suggests his 140+ rating is entirely fair.

He was closed upon by Threeways, who lacks a bit of size for fences, between the last two but the winner pinged it when he needed to. The runner-up is a gritty staying sort and gives the form a solid look, the disappointment being Secrete Stream.

Jefferson's horse has always been a lovely chasing type and was turned out in great shape, but he isn't bred for this stamina test; that said he was beaten long before that became an issue. It's to be hope he hasn't gone wrong again.

The novice hurdle over the minimum was actually a belter with a handful of horses showing similar form in bumpers and novice hurdles.

King Vince was backed into favouritism but I felt he had more questions to answer than most, having no form on this ground and looking like a horse that needs time physically.

The visually impressive winner Fin And Games looked a horse of quality and strength beforehand and the solid support for him came as little surprise.

The current form of the McCain team is hard to fault and this performance suggests the son of Oscar has a really bright future.

He brushed aside Not That Fuisse, who travelled like the winner until two out, although the Skelton team will be happy to have their horse back on track. He's quite unfurnished, but this may turn out to be a fair effort.

Jersey Bean lacks a bit of size but shaped like a thorough stayer in third, while The Dawn Man is a big raw chaser that faded quite disappointingly after making the running. I thought he'd go better than that but again perhaps that just shows there may be plenty of depth to the race.

Destined To Shine was held up this time and it's back to the drawing board for him, while The Road Home is probably only modest.

Gino Trail looked the proverbial good thing in the four runner handicap chase and the only surprise here was the fact he traded odds against right up to the off.

This classy performer didn't need to improve to win from a perch of 140 and he duly obliged despite opting for a shortie at the second last when he'd gone very long at several others.

Never Up didn't stand a chance of keeping up in this grade and I wouldn't he hard on him as he wants further and a drop to C4, while Pain Au Chocolat was a huge price for a likeable horse and I can see him going very well back here over Christmas, when hopefully his yard is in better form.

Speaking of which, none is going better than M Hammond and he banged in another at the remarkable odds of 33/1 in the handicap hurdle via Becky The Thatcher, who was fit from the flat and bound to improve for the step up in trip.

She had her share of weight but is a bonny filly and got a good ride from O'Toole, who didn't go for her until after the last. Away For Slates was run down after the last but ran to his mark, but I never thought he was that straight forward and perhaps found less than expected.

Micky saddled the third in Only Orsenfoolsies despite minimum assistance from the saddle, while Reverant Cust has been given quite a few chances now and this small individual didn't find anything off the bridle and needs headgear.

The first mares bumper was the stronger of the two by a mile and it went to Harrisons Promise, who was entitled to go well on the back of a couple of solid efforts, and may not have improved much to take it. The connections are much maligned but are having winners and this one has a better physique than many of theirs.

Jennifer Juniper was heavily backed but the F O'Brien inmate looked very slow and never showed, possibly amiss. Shantung should improve on this as she looked mentally backward, while Strawberry Spirit is quite small and possibly wants time. The Mistress has loads of size and I expect she'll head over timber now.

The finale was very weak indeed, O'Brien's well made Belle Amis eventually wearing down Birch Vale to win going away. She should improve fitness-wise, while the second is a large daughter of Presenting who can only improve for obstacles.

Sammamish was the sole market rival to the winner and although she looked a bit backward her effort was deplorable, while Looe Bay attracted each-way support but she looks of little account, getting worked up and she clearly lives on her nerves.

Round-up - Mkt Rasen/Catterick Nov 23/24

Market Rasen - Thursday Nov 23

Good to soft ground and a card with quite a bit of interest.

Race 1
Dans Le Vent had the form in the book and didn't have to improve to land a weak novice, although he'll need to smarten up his jumping if he is to take higher rank. He's not over-big but has still to turn five, and he looked well. Second favourite Musical Slave ran well in a Punchestown bumper on his only previous start but looked quite green and edgy in the paddock, and showed practically nothing on the course, dropped out and never taking a hand. Haafapiece is only small and will probably only end up being something like a 115 horse at best, while New Quay stripped much fitter for his Aintree spin and should do better over further, but he's only likely to be moderate as well. Tayzar is a lovely, lengthy staying chaser for teh future and this return to better ground saw him in much better light.

Race 2
The nap of the day ran in the shape of Molly Childers, who I'd seen a couple of times previously and was a mare that had been crying out for a bit more real estate. She was unsurprisingly strong in the market and delivered the goods despite the odd jumping blemish, but she'll continue to improve physically and should remain competitive from a much higher mark.Undisputed got warm and probably ran to form here, she's possibly not entirely straight forward.

Race 3
Arthur's Gift stood out in the paddock as a horse likely to rate better than his current 121, quite angular but tall and with a touch of good looks. He took his time to wear down Psychedelic Rock but stamina won the day here and the winner looks sure to do better with a gradual step up in trip. Just Milly was very fizzy beforehand but again ran well from a mark that looks high enough. Cake De L'Isle is a big chase type that needs some time.

Race 4
An intriguing little novice handicap chase with just four runners but we were treated to the sight of a lovely big strong son of King's Theatre in Acting Lass, who posted a very professional display of jumping to win from a mark of 135 on chase debut. The fourth well-backed favourite to oblige, H Fry's inmate may just be a Festival horse although with a lack of racecourse experience they may be best waiting another season, but he could be that good. Bordeaux Bill is slowly getting his act together and did well to get so close to the winner, which augers well.

Race 5
The staying handicap wasn't that strong and there was wise money for Vinegar Hill, who has been very progressive and with a sighter behind him was worth siding with against some very exposed sorts. The cut in the ground suited him and he'll stay further, plus he loves the mud. Copperfacejack couldn't land the hat-trick from a higher mark while Ultimatum Du Roy also looks high in the handicap, although ran one of his shockers. Amiral Collonges did his usual thing of tanking for a couple of miles before hitting a flat spot and then running on again. He should be better than his mark if only they could channel that energy, and he's young enough to progress.

Race 6
A desperate handicap hurdle in which the favourite Druid's Diamond was pulled up after taking some false steps. Tell The Tale was left the de facto jolly but he's only very small and doesn't tend to see his races out, leaving Morning With Ivan to come through and beat Teescomponents Max after the last. The winner looked sprightly and fit enough beforehand, on this her first start since leaving M Todhunter.

Race 7
The bumper looked a a decent one on paper and in the paddock, although the favourite was not among those considered most likely to lead them home. Shall We Go Now arrived late in the paddock and looks quite moderate at the current, and he'd already disappointed first time out. There at least a couple of likely types, Benny's Bridge from the F O'Brien bumper factory looking one of the most forward, and Inheritance Thief. Venetia's had shown decent form in the spring and was straight enough, but he was outpaced late on and he looks more of a soft ground stayer. Norman Stanley showed plenty in third and this big, tall horse can win one of these and should relish obstacles. Northern Soul is from a family the Jefferson's know very well and he's a nice big horse that will do better in time

Catterick - Friday November 24

Good to soft ground again generally and looking at the times it may have been a touch quicker.

Race 2
Oak Vintage was a short priced favourite after winning at Kelso 13 days previously. Clearly a horse fulfilling earlier potential, the concern was whether this would come too soon after a couple of quickish races, and I thought he ran a bit flat. They also seem very keen to rush him to the front, which doesn't seem necessary, He won over 2m4f as a hurdler having been held up and easier tactics may suit this horse, especially at this trip,m which looks his limit on breeding. He was hassled up front by King Golan, who looked fit and well and was well punted each-way, but eventually beaten miles. The winner Middlebrow was enjoying a drop in the weights and hence, grade, and duly picked up the pieces as so many of McCain's do. His jumping was okay for a horse I've never liked, as he doesn't move great and seems to lack scope. This race fell apart and I'd want to take him on back up in class. Minella Suite was awful here, weak in the market, and is a horse with a load of issues.

Race 3
A weak novice hurdle won in taking fashion by southern raider Espoir De Teillee, a big baby of a chaser who looked to be carrying condition. His jumping was notably fluent and this expensive purchase is worth keeping an eye on. Blairs Cove was anchored by the double penalty, while Jack Devine put up a much better effort than last time, although his mark si going to suffer on the back of this. Black Art is a big, strong and hard fit, but he backed out of it. I think he just went too fast early on and he's possibly a soft ground slugger over a trip.

Race 4
Delusionofgrandeur had everything in his favour for the feature handicap chase but everyone knew it and he was a solid 6/4 shot. He was short enough at that considering he can make mistakes, but he got them out of the way early on and dominated the second circuit. I felt Thumb Stone Blues would be a worthy opponent at the prevailing odds but the Bailey horse didn't serve it up to the winner like I thought he would in first time cheekpieces, and was a disappointment. It's fair to say he's not a straight forward ride, although you could make the excuse that he wants softer ground. Total Assets definitely does, and she shaped as if in peak form. Like stablemate Boric, there could be further races to be won from this higher mark granted a thorough stamina test.

Race 5
A poor novice hurdle made weaker by the fact that warm favourite Parthenius was such a poor mover in the paddock, it's rarely you get to see a horse with such stiff front legs. He clearly doesn't have a great future in this sphere, and found little when push came to shove. He snuck in a race a Plumpton last time but I'd be wary of following him either under a penalty or if tried in handicaps. As ever, McCain picked up the pieces with Rockalzaro, who form was anyway not far behind the favourite. Hello Bertie was the only other to have shown ability over timber before the race but again was very disappointing. The Steward looked pretty fit, and this useful Flat horse should be able to build on his runner-up placing,

Race 6
The early market had Alzammaar in as favourite over Divine Spear, a lovely big chasing type who was merely marking time last season. That looked wrong and the betting got it right eventually, as the Henderson raider did what he had to do despite not looking fully wound up. Alzammaar wasn't seen to best effect as he was held onto by the jockey, where positive tactics on a thorough stayer may have forced a different result. Ramonex was close up in third after a better round of jumping, while Valgor Du Ronceray should be able to pick up a handicap or two providing his jumping stays together.

Race 7
Another decent bumper and these races are proving very good betting mediums. There was a good word for the Dalgleish trained I'm To Blame and he looked a decent animal, albeit a tad edgy and keen. He took quite a pull in the race and messed about in front, but the manner in which he won suggests he could be very decent. Going Gold had previous form and this staying type lends the form a solid look, while Jefferson's Return Ticket is a big unfurnished chaser that looked well and he too should pick up races this season. I'm not sure what went wrong with the jolly, Lough Ryn, who backed out of it very quickly. Bambys Boy probably had a difficult task here under a penalty and this strong sort should find a novice hurdle come his way if they can keep the wheels on.

Southwell - Tuesday Nov 21

The official ground was on the soft side of good but the times suggested it was riding on the dead side, and they finished quiet tired generally.

The opening handicap chase was significant in that there were four horses that need holding up and anything that led into the straight was going to have to face down the snipers late on.

The money for Global Domination was a queer one as he'd been off for a very long time and I thought he would need the run for all that they must have got a load of work into him.

As a winner over 3m he looked the one that was going to make the pace and looked extremely vulnerable even before he started jumping right and was essentially beaten turning in.

Chasma and Manwell came through from the back and the pair rose as one three out, but two better leaps from the former essentially sealed the deal here, which was more than a shame for your correspondent, who was all over the runner-up after his sighter here last time. The England yard is not having the best of luck, it must be said.

Chasma has improved for fences which is surprising bearing in mind her physique, and winning first time out from a much higher mark is some feat of training, so hats off to her handler who also sent out Rear Admiral first time last week.

Pretty Reckless wasn't able to pick up from a 5lb higher perch while Captain Mowbray again went in snatches and punters surely can't keep giving him the benefit of what has become a huge pile of doubt.

The novice chase was a peach of a race especially if you fancied the winner Fountains Windfall, who should have been a short price favourite on his progressive hurdles form, while the trainer had been clear about the regard in which he is held.

In Stowaway Magic he had a fit opponent with loads of ability, but the Henderson inmate needed to improve a chunk to stare the winner in the face and having done so two out was readily brushed aside by a horse with RSA Chase aspirations. He's got loads of scope and I liked him.

The next was a messy affair before during and after, H Bannister doubling up aboard Hoke Colburn. Nothing much appealed, Suggestion still looking narrow and weak and this flat bred appeared not to get home, while Scooby looked well and having strengthened up could progress this year, but he really needs further and maybe fences will be on the agenda. Good ground suits, too.

A staying hurdle for novices came up next and it was match featuring Another Stowaway, who chased home subsequent Cheltenham winner On The Blind Side last time out.

If that run was to be taken on trust, he was a shoo-in but this was a longer trip and he hasn't looked straight forward in the prelims and again was on his toes - there was something, maybe a slightly high head carriage, that didn't make him a good odds-on shot.

In Equus Secretus he faced a previous winner and one who has stamina to burn, a good strong animal who can only improve.

With B Pauling's star in the ascendancy we just had to side with the youngster despite having to shoulder the penalty and he gutsed it out from the last with a performance to be proud of.

I had been keen all day on the chance of Banjo Girl in the mares novice hurdle on the back of a promising outing at the track last term, mentioned in dispatches here. 

The soft ground did for her on that occasion but the form of that run was still better than anything the hot favourite Passing Call had achieved on her return to action last time.

The King horse was heavily supported but I'd seen her a couple of times and wasn't that impressed with her small frame or the way she travelled in a race.

I didn't think the market was right here off level weights and although I wasn't bowled over by Banjo Girl beforehand, she looked just about straight enough to get the job done, and so it proved.

I think she got tired after the last but stuck on well and she gained lengths at each obstacle which may have been the difference. She's not entirely straight forward, but likeable and can go on from this albeit at a sensible level.

I don't 'do' handicap hurdles very well but even the most myopic could see that Vado Forte was the one to be on in the next, in the absence of anything much else to get excited about.

The T Lacey inmate has enough size about him to think he'll be half decent in time, and with the drop in trip to suit it was his for the taking.

Unfortunately, the race was shot to pieces by the mid-race move of perennial shithouse Hey Bob and the much-improved C Bewley, who stole 10 lengths and more on the field when the pace dropped to a crawl.

The hard-pulling maiden seemed to enjoy the freedom out front, to the extent that he actually dug in for pressure when Vado Forte loomed upside after jumping two-out. Not an easy reverse to swallow, and there was nothing to take from the race.

The mares bumper wasn't too exciting, with Wetherby duo Jane Lamb and Tierra Verde reopposing. The former was backed on the switch from O'Keefe to Skelton but there was a bogey lurking in the shape of the nicely bred Everglades, who duly rattled home under Coleman to get off the mark at the first time of asking.

There's not much of her but she was well prepared, while the third placed Quine Des Champs has enough about her to suggest she can win races over the sticks. Shoreline looked quite weak and may require some time to progress.

Round-up - Newcastle/Wetherby Nov 17/18

Newcastle - Friday November 17

There were rumours the ground was on the quick side of good for the first meeting of the season but it looked like nice terrain and they came home well.

Race 1
A novice hurdle that revolved around three of them, but really the interesting one was French import Jassas who was having his first start for the in-form J Ewart.

Paddock inspection was more than enough to confirm he was the business - a big strong horse horse fully wound up for the debut - and with Johnson booked it was very surprising he wasn't a short priced favourite.

Inniscastle Lad had showed enough last time behind a good one but he's pretty moderate looking and not certain to go on this season, while Hello Fellas came in for support but he's crying out for softer and a distance of ground.

Joke Dancer is a lovely stamp of a horse and he reminds me of the same stable's Emral Silk, a big raw horse at this stage with plenty to learn.

But he could be quite talented and after once again looking slightly fractious beforehand and keen in the race, he knuckled down late on to give the Ewart horse a fright. He's one to watch and he's only four.

Race 2
A staying handicap hurdle where the market was lop-sided due to last week's Warwick winner Triopas running off the same mark with Johnson looking for a quick double.

This very sturdy beast tanked along before getting outpaced when it mattered, and the each-way money was spot on for Chu Chu Percy, who looks much improved this term and could be the sort to keep building.

Kings Eclipse once again suggested he has a race in him while The Conn wasn't best positioned turning in and he can certainly do better with some soft ground and ideally a change of jockey.

Race 3
Cracking Find looked a shoo-in for the novices handicap chase over 2m but it may not have been straight forward had Gris De Pron not crashed out at the second last when apparently tanking.

I'm a big fan of the winner though, as he'll keep jumping and galloping, and he shouldn't go up much for this so remains one to have on side when stepped back up in trip.

Gris De Pron is a nice strong youngster who had jumped brilliantly until his exit; he just got a bit low when travelling at speed and should bounce back from this.

An Laoch doesn't have a great deal of substance physically and was never likely to have the basic speed to go with the the other pair, but his jumping kept him in it and there should be races around for him, although he'd be of more interest in the coming years.

Race 4
Not much of a mares novice hurdle, Tokaramore looked a bit on edge and not especially fit but still went off favourite ahead of the nicely bred Mary Eleanor, who didn't have to achieve that much to win.

The less said of the ride on the runner-up the better; it was a lamentable effort and Katy Royal is surely better than she has shown in three runs to date.

Both Clovelly and Cheenys Venture were well held but have enough about them to suggest a small handicap is not out of reach for them.

Race 5
The handicap chase wasn't a race to get too involved with for all that Dica looked to have finally been nailed by the handicapper and forced into a better race as a result. He ran his usual admirable race but finished held.

With No Planning unable to front run and then losing his action, it fell apart a little and it was left to a smattering of weak finishers to fight it out, the roguish Rear Admiral responding to pressure after trying to take the last with him, he's a big lad but looked pretty straight.

Jet Master was set an impossible task and may yet have a race in him from this mark, but Baileys Concerto was very tame once more and his better days look to be behind him.

Race 6
Ballinslea Bridge was a worthy favourite on form and looks in the closing bumper but in the end he was just out-fought by Chanceanotherfive, who isn't much to look at but was tenacious and did well to defy a penalty.

Glinger Flame is a nice sort to go to war with and Sultans Pride looks more of a stayer, but Sweet As Candy was backward and will need time.

Wetherby - Saturday November 18

The ground was good to soft after a dry week for a competitive looking card.

Race 1
Talk about hindsight being a fine thing. The opening novice hurdle looked quite deep with four of them having shown fair form and a Longsdon raider that was making its debut.

The disparity in the market was very wide, however, especially in the morning where solid bumper performer Wemyss Point was 25/1 and bigger despite having shown comparable form first time over timber as the Skelton hotpot Cabaret Queen.

Now the latter clearly had bundles in hand when winning at Market Rasen, but the penalty for that made things interesting while Nicely Indeed, a stablemate of Wemyss Point, had the best form in the book but appears to find winning very hard following an injury absence.

With Just Don't Ask looking a nice big chasing type (looked fit enough) the market didn't know what to make of it all, other than Wemyss Point being over-priced and eventually backed down to 7s at the off.

The well-bred five-year-old has his quirks and looked lazy at various times during the race, but the useful T Dowson kept him up to his work and there looked to be plenty in the tank at the end.

Cabaret Queen didn't travel as well as expected and only plugged on to grab second, ahead of Just Don't Ask who should find a novice race in due course. Nicely Indeed backed out of things worryingly and he is expected to go backwards from here.

Race 2
A novice chase that looked a two-horse race with useful staying hurdler Ami Desbois taking on a speedier type in Whatduhavtoget, the market just favouring the former in the end despite the trip being on the short side.

There's nothing not to like about Ami Desbois, who jumped like an old hand I thought and this 143 -rated hurdler only has to improve a stone and a bit to go well in the RSA Chase at the Festival; if it came up soft there'd be few tougher in the field.

Can someone please tell me how the 104-rated Mortens Leam hasn't been able to pick up a handicap hurdle prior to giving Ami Desbois a big fright here.

My 'cliff' horse and horse to follow looked the type to go through the ratings this term but his mark has been shattered now with an extraordinary first effort over fences.

* I've been reminded that the horse's official mark can't be affected owing to the new rules in these novice chases. Essentially he'll appear to have at least a stone in hand wherever he goes next.

He's not over-big at this stage and he got quite low a few times, but was nimble enough and I suppose it was vindication of sorts that he should be able finally to show his true ability. Where he goes now I know not.

Whatduhavtoget looked a bit lairy beforehand and she may not be one to rely on; very fresh early on she somehow found a leg at the third but crashed out at the same fence next time around when held. She needs to calm down.

Race 3
Early Retirement is a horse worth following as mentioned here before but he had his work cut out in this deeper race from a 7lb higher perch than when beating a modest bunch at Southwell.

All eyes were on Skipthescales who had stayed on eye-catchingly well here a fortnight ago and with the extra yardage to suit he was strongly backed to get off the mark.

Things looked dicey on the turn in as Dowson was scrubbing away, but it was another endorsement of the youngster's talent that he got him home after the last, Early Retirement not for the first time looking a little immature as he veered left under pressure.

Both will remain of interest, as does Little Bruce, who was well-backed to bounce back from last week's flop in the slop. He seems to love this track and needed all of this trip, so with some headgear applied he can win again in a bigger field where they'll go quicker.

Western Rules was very fit for his return from a lengthy break, but he's a bit slow and heavy ground is what he needs.

Race 4
A run of the mill staying chase featuring many of the usual suspects. Golden Investment was taking a slight drop in class and this sound jumping strong traveller had to go well for all that his attitude has looked poor in the past.

He did little wrong here though, battling past Doktor Glaz after the last although you wouldn't say he hit the line running. But the pair came miles clear after travelling much the best, however what they achieved may be over-rated by the assessor.

The runner-up isn't bred to stay and it wasn't a total surprise to see him reeled in. The way he went a shorter trip should suit, but he's enormous and this type of track will always see him in better light than, say, Kelso.

Red Danaher plugged on into third but he lacks size and scope and it wouldn't surprise me if he reverted to hurdles, his sliding mark not really helping here and he's essentially very ordinary.

Can't Pay Won't Pay is moderate looking to say the least and after countless blunders prior to his exit it could be that he too is seen in better light over timber. Sharney Sike flopped again and isn't one to trust.

Race 5
There were plenty who thought that William Of Orange was ready to deliver over hurdles for the first time and they were spot as as Hughes was able to dictate steady fractions at the head of the field.

He saved plenty for late in the piece and nothing got a blow in, Irish Roe battling on for second after numerous errors and she should enjoy going over further, while Keep In Line found disappointingly little and he too could now be poised for a step up in trip.

Race 6
The handicap chase took some figuring out as nothing made great appeal. Get On The Yager is a useful looking sort but his form doesn't match up and he was downright poor here, suggesting he's not quite right.

Poker School had become disappointing while Wolf Sword was starting to look high in the weights. However, the pair had the finish to themselves, both finding more than is often the case, and it's now becoming harder to crab the winner for his consistency.

Indian Temple looked fit enough but is probably being held back by the assessor at this time, while Cusheen Bridge looked all over the winner until fitness probably told late on.

Twenty Eight Guns is a nice big sort who should relish softer and further and this should tee her up nicely.

Race 7
Schiaparannie has long since shaped as though she might be quite useful over obstacles and she was a warm order to land a mares contest in the finale.

Overcoming some novicey errors, she basically outstayed them here and a step up in trip looks sure to see her pull out more improvement. She has loads of size and scope and could be decent.

Our Belle Amie is quite sturdy and will come on for this run, but there's something that tells me she might not be straight forward. Autumn Surprise looked quite fit and she's a nice daughter of Yeats that should continue to progress, while Northern Girl has shown enough to pick up a little handicap somewhere.

Hexham - Friday November 10

It was soft ground but they weren't finishing exhausted; the second last hurdle was omitted again which meant one hurdle jumped in the last six furlongs.

Race 1
Bulkov had the highest rating of 129 by some way and although nobody believes he's up to that standard he should have been favourite; even if you took a stone off it the 2/1 jolly Tetraites Style still had a stone to find himself on previous form to be competitive. The latter pulled pretty hard early on which didn't help his chance and they'll probably drop him in next time. He's not that big and may need some time as stamina should eventually be his forte.

Bulkov came to win the race but was picked off after the last by Go Go Lucas, who was making his hurdles debut. He's quite small but looked fit and well; there was each-way support at big odds and this looked a weak race. The runner-up was fit and there's a question mark over his resolution.

Grand Morning is a big chaser of the future so to run into a place here does him some credit, although Ouro Branco has lost the plot and is a keen sort and also backward physically. No doubt he can gallop and once his exuberance is harnessed he'll be back on the up.

Race 2
Another weak looking favourite here in Handy Hollow, who is very much on the small side and had a question mark over whether he'd handle the ground. He was really well supported but this looked a better race than the opener with nice nicer sorts on show.

Black Art is a strong son of Black Sam Bellamy and he looked forward enough to be backed against the jolly, and there was quite a bit of late support. He appeared to have done enough taking over going to the last but Crixus's Escape, a really nice looking horse albeit just an unfurnished youngster, showed a decent turn of foot to come from some way back to win. This was quite a taking performance and both the front two are worth keeping an eye on.

Silk Or Scarlet looked strong and quite fit so better was expected, although he was a bit too keen.

Race 3
It looked a match but Baracalu looked really burly and that was reflected in the market as he was pretty friendless. He's a nice strong chasing type and has a decent future, while the winner Niceandeasy is a very different type; not much to look at and really weak. He must have some engine because he messed about for most of the race before being coaxed to the front by the excellent C Nichol. They'll have to mind him, both mentally and physically, but he could be very useful in time.
It's worth mentioning Millrose Bell in third. V Thompson's horse didn't look anywhere near fit but the Flemensfirth mare ran on well. She may hold down the level of form, but I take the view that she may have some ability, while the young jockey didn't look a hopeless case either.

Race 4
The feature race was the staying handicap chase and the early money for Iskabeg Lane had gone up in smoke by the off; he'd doubled in price probably owing to the fact that he didn't look fit and his jumping turned out to be pretty useless. I had a feeling this might be too much too soon and it's back to the drawing board for the time being. He'll come good at some stage and he's loads of size and scope.

Western Jo was ridden with confidence from the front by J England and this formerly useful tool has really got his act together again. He stayed this trip earlier in his career and stayed on well enough to hang on by a neck in the end from debutante Ronn The Conn.

The runner-up has shown loads of ability in his short career and this debut for the Menzies yard bodes well for the future. Like all of hers he looked like the race would do him good so to go so close is to his credit, and while his jumping was novicey he'll relish the stamina tests to come this winter.

Teddy Tee looked fit and well and this lightly raced horse shaped with some promise, although quite how much ability he retains is open to question. Jump For Dough wasn't put into the race at any stage and this chasing debutante can do better than this for all that he's not very big.

Race 6
On A Promise was back in action off the same mark as when winning comfortably at Wetherby last week, and he looked the proverbial good thing to double up being 11lb well-in. He's a lovely well-made grey with a good nature, and does everything easily enough, jumping fluently and staying on to assert under pressure. Rivabodiva came here in form and clearly stays well, but was never likely top get past the winner even if she wanted to. Poetic Presence ran another sound race in third and she can surely pick up a mares handicap in due course.

Race 7
A typical handicap chase for the track in which both picks Corner Creek and Flying Jack hit the deck. The latter looked really well again and it was good of the handicapper to leave him on a mark of 90 after running above himself in a Sedgefield novice. Whether the assessor will give him another chance is unlikely after his spill two out when he appeared to be the one to beat. However his stamina is not fully tested at 3m and it's not certain whether he'd have won, however with Frank The Slink taking the honours you'd like to think he would! They all just seemed to chase the winner up the straight at their own pace, and none of them are worth even mentioning in dispatches.

Market Rasen - Thursday Nov 9

Race 2
They didn't go much of a pace in the mares novices hurdle but the classy grey Redemption Song got the job done on her first outing over timber. She's a big mare and looked to be carrying condition, but showed loads of ability in bumpers and was simply too good for the opposition. She looks quirky when hitting the front, but I suspect that's just greenness at this stage and she'll be better as she goes up in class. I can see her mixing it with the best of the Southern-based mares and will make a lovely chaser in time.

I thought the runner-up Lucca Lady stepped up on her solid debut effort and she's a likeable mare. She's now bumped into a couple of decent sorts and one of these will come her way; she shapes like a stayer and I'm certain she'll go on soft ground.

They were clear of Raised On Grazeon, who was quite well backed despite lacking resolution in a finish and also that she was very unlikely to stay this extra half mile. She pulled too hard off the slow gallop and is one that should be opposed in all but the very weakest of races.

Race 3
The feature was a Listed mares chase and it produced a most impressive performance from the vastly improved Mia's Storm. By no means the biggest of these, she looked well though and is clearly thriving. She jumped supremely and unlike many of these can call on deep reserves of stamina. Physically she can keep improving and while soft ground may be a concern, she's in very good hands.

While Desert Queen won this last year she is usually campaigned over shorter and this buzzy type was brought into the paddock very late. She was on her toes and the money for her in the market was overdone as her form didn't entitle her to be so short.

Arguably most eye-catching was runner-up Antartica De Thaix. The Nicholls horse was never at the races and made a  number of errors in the first part of the race. She looked burly beforehand and the weakness in the market rather backed this up. She was rusty but stamina looks to be her forte and as this was her first venture over 3m, I think she's capable of much better and appears to go on soft.

Race 4
Shady Glen got his head in front after travelling well throughout the handicap chase, but this was very uncompetitive and I don't think he's had to improve to win here. Kap Jazz is a really sluggish looking horse and made numerous minor errors before plugging on, perhaps much softer ground would suit. Ultimatum Du Roy is very sturdy and surely needed this seasonal debut, while Themanfrom Minella posted another shocker.

Race 5
Another extremely weak race and it looked like another good opportunity for Pretty Reckless, who pulled it out of the fire at Warwick last time. Tenacity is half the battle in these sorts of races and the race was run perfectly for the four-year-old, as the strong-travelling Elkstone provided the perfect target to aim at. The latter has proven intractable at times but seemed to settle better here, and actually looked to find a bit extra off the bridle, although the winner was dossing. He remains one to oppose, but this did offer a bit of hope. Tower Of Allen didn't look great and needs to fall in the weights.

Musselburgh preview

No great insights unfortunately and the three handicap chases are very ordinary to say the least, but a couple of them are worth having a closer look at.

2.25
John Williams is undoubtedly the nicest horse in this 2m contest but it's going to be a real test of speed and he required every yard of the trip on heavy ground at Hexham last time. This ground is more to his liking and they'll probably try to have him up there all the way, but at less than 2/1 he doesn't appeal.
Cooper's Friend has stopped to nothing on his last couple of outings suggesting he has some sort of problem, be it physical or mental. It could be that he no longer stays 2m4f+, hence this drop to the minimum. However, this is in fact the shortest trip he has faced under rules and his victory at Sedgefield came over 2m3f. I think he checks out at the business end at any trip.
Muwalla is getting some respite from the handicapper but hasn't shown much at all on his last three outings. Ground and trip suit and he could bounce back and go well, but even so he doesn't find much off the bridle when in the best of form, so he's not a bet from a win perspective.
My Idea is another that finds nothing when let down, he's had injuries and isn't the force of old, winning only a very weak race in the summer.
The pace angle is interesting as Stormbay Bomber loves to front run and simply must have good ground or quicker. I think he'll love it round here and if he's on form, which to be fair is probably a worse than 50/50 bet, then he could take some pegging back. I made him no more than a 12/1 chance so it's worth paying to find out if he's on a going day.
Duhallowcountry is unlikely to be ready first time but does go freely and is likely to ensure they go a real good clip, which of course means he could be a spoiler for backers of Stormbay Bomber.
Endeavour has been a grand servant and still pops up now and then, but his chase mark does look high and he's not certainty to perform to that level.
The other runner is Chestnut Ben, who has dropped to a good mark and he is certainly a player, although 2m on fast ground is sharp enough for him and they'll need to fall in a heap for him to collect. That is entirely plausible of course, and 12/1 was a crazy price. 8/1 still represents value, so I'll take he and Stormbay Bomber to small stakes.

3.30
Just five go in the finale over just shy of 3m and this is the sharpest staying trip in the UK. It looks right up the street of Bright Prospect, who loves good ground and jumps really well on the whole. He looks well handicapped and is the most likely winner, however I couldn't make him any shorter than 7/4 so I'm not surprised he's drifted all day. If he continues to drift to anything silly like 9/4 on the show, he's worth a bet.
As it stands though, there's value around as No Such Number still looks high in the weights after last season's winning spree, and while he's every chance of staying this 3m, his stamina will be ebbing away late on and he didn't appeal at the odds.
Blue Kascade is back in his grade but he is a giant of a horse that likes big tracks, and I'm not sure this tight circuit suits even though he won round here last term. The money for him isn't surprising, with his yard going well, but his overall profile doesn't encourage me to back him at 7/2 or less.
Swantykay has shown practically nothing for his new yard, so I don't know where to start with the market move for him, which leaves Chicago Outfit.
The veteran was revitalised by G Bewley and he made Hexham his own for a while, until age and the handicapper caught up.
However, he won a point in the spring for his permit holder, who had a first-time-out winner under rules the other day through Havana Blue. With C Nichol in the plate, the inference is that he's fit to go first time and now that the assessor has taken an axe to his rating, like Stormbay Bomber at big odds I'll pay to find out if he's still got what it takes.

Southwell - Monday Nov 6

Good ground prevailed once again although it seemed to cut up a bit later on as you would expect at this time of year.

The opening staying handicap was one of those where you'd get a different result on any given day, that said it fell to the best horse in Dotties Dilema who put a couple of moody efforts behind him.

It helped that he was being chased by Shaizar, who showed once again why he remains a maiden over fences after belting the last when appearing to claim the winner, who wasn't doing a great deal himself.

Clearly this is forgettable form and most of these will continue to be worth opposing, although Tommy The Rascal didn't look fit for his return. Galros Lady appears to have gone completely although might want really quick ground, while French Seventyfive looks the type to benefit from much stronger handling.

The next wasn't much better being a 0-105 and featured a very opposable favourite in Gorran Haven, who had shown precious little in his last three outings other than plenty of attitude.

With the readily opposable and disappointing Powerful Symbol also in the field, it looked a fairly straight forward task on paper for Brown Trix, who might have won last time out but for walking through the third last.

With cheekpieces added he looked a great bet from a derisory perch of 76, and things were going to plan until disaster struck a mile out, appearing to go wrong after a minor error. Quickly pulled up, he was then cantered back and I overheard connections bemoaning their ill fortunes as the horse appeared to be fine.

Watching the ghastly Powerful Symbol potter up to the line in front with the comedy head carriage would have been funny it wasn't so tragic.

Log On was desperate again here and appears to have problems.

Chirico Vallis was 1/10 to land the following novices chase and this big, sturdy animal put in a tidy round of jumping ahead of Manwell, whose own fencing improved as he went and could prove well handicapped back on soft ground after this pipe-opener.

The seller was a match on paper but Octagon, who had lots of potential at one time in the north, looked a mile better than Cliffside Park and I thought he'd win with more panache than he did. He was bought in, so perhaps there is more to come, but his mark of 125 looks high.

A cheeky little handicap hurdle followed and it had a nice shape to it as the piglet that is Master Of Finance headed the market for a good time, which was bananas considering he hasn't won in an age.

With huge stamina concerns over the ex-miler Hidden Oasis it looked a match between the well-backed Stepover and Generous Day.

The former has been a model of consistency and may have prevailed had she not been given so much to do in the first half of the race. By contrast, Generous Day was kept close to the pace and found plenty after the last under an excellent ride from J Davies.

The winner is a nice sort and is probably one to keep the right side of as he is stepped up in trip this season, while it's notable that the H Oliver inmates have been needing their first outing of the campaign.

I'd taken a liking to Marten on his debut in bumpers last term so was intrigued to see him again, up against the pricey Sky Pirate in what was effectively another match in the novices hurdle.

B Pauling really does have some fantastic looking animals under his care and Marten is no different, looking well-balanced and certain to jump a fence in time. He was a more complete article than the odds-on favourite, who is gigantic behind the saddle but still to grow into the rest of the frame.

Giving the penalty away wouldn't be easy and so it proved, the favourite's effort off the bridle proving disappointing bearing in mind his impressive debut win.

The bumper featured some really nice looking horses and was a well-run affair, so I'm expecting the form to stand the test of time.

Strong Glance proved weak in the market but the O'Brien yard is firing in the winners and this nicely-bred sort has the looks to suggest he has a very big future. The fact he was a bit of a handful in the prelims suggests he has a little bit of attitude you often associate with a quality animal.

It was no surprise to the see the market favour Doctor Rex though, a lovely athletic horse who looked more forward and speedy than most. He travelled like a good horse for a long way, and although he had no answer to the winner's burst I'm sure he's one to follow.

Commanche Red filled the places which was a sterling effort considering he looked seriously unfurnished, while the fourth home Dancing Doug was quite small and exceeded expectations.

Barley Hill is an extremely strongly made gelding from the Pauling kennel but he looked to be carrying plenty of condition and he can step up on this effort, while Mind Your Back is a nice strong son of Getaway but doesn't do anything in a hurry and will want a trip over timber sooner rather than later. 

Weekly round-up - Sedge/Wetherby

Sedgefield - Thursday Nov 2
Good ground still prevailed in the first week of the new month which meant for competitive fields, while times suggested it may have been a bit slower than the official description.

The opening novices handicap looked deeper than the market suggested and Robbing The Prey looked to have strengthened from last year, I thought he jumped accurately and was just run out of it by one with greater stamina.

Beggar's Wishes was largely overlooked in the market, but he travelled and jumped well and this chasing type should be picking up two or three more of these when considering he has already won on soft and shapes as though further will suit.

Crackdeloust was well supported but not for the first time let his supporters down...he's a nice big chasing type though so no doubt will get another chance.

Gris De Pron ran a pleasing race on debut for H Hogarth and this robust four-year-old should have races in him, but new recruits to the yard don't always progress and as his allowance diminishes he could find life hard from similar marks.

The novice hurdle didn't look much of a contest and it looked a straight forward opportunity for the likeable Court Liability, who can do nothing but improve for this. He's backward physically and mentally but has something about him.

I didn't rate very highly the race in which Judge Earle came second last time and he showed little here. There may have been something amiss as it as to bad to be true and he should be better in time though.

The same owner's Blunder Buss and Cloth Cap should progress from here - the latter still in need of the outing after travelling cosily - while Jack Devine looked very immature and could be costly at 50k.

Sue Smith's Quietly looked considerably fitter for his Carlisle spin a fortnight ago and I took him to defy market weakness in the staying novice chase, but he was green last year and spooked at the fence away from the stands, dumping Cook into the birch. He'll probably be given a more patient ride after this.

The Happy Chappy looks like he'll turn into a solid staying chaser. Robust and sound jumping, he relishes this decent terrain and he looks a reliable sort. An Laoch was run out of it again in second and just as at Kelso made late errors, while his finishing effort once again wasn't all it might have been. He's backward physically and my mind is open on him.

Beneficial Joe looked in terrific form for the staying hurdle but he's not straight forward and his blunder at the last was hardly out of character. Sun Cloud has been fantastic for connections but this race was nothing special.

There was only one horse being backed for the Durham National and that was Audacious Plan, who went off an astounding 6/4 for what looked a wide open contest.

Boric looked a horse still on the up last time out, and he was completely overlooked in the market so I had to dabble at 16s, and he came up a neck short without ever looking like winning.

Delusionofgrandeur got on the front end and a return to Catterick in the New Year with some cut in the ground will see him back in the winners' circle. He threw in an error or two, as is his wont, but he'll look well handicapped in the right conditions.

Stablemate Smooth Stepper wants a big track and soft ground, while Washed Ashore lobbed round like one ahead of his mark but the petrol gauge emptied after a blunder two out.

S Thomson's Wide Awake was noted by more than one paddock judge ahead of the mares handicap hurdle and this lightly-raced eight-year-old out-ran her odds by some way, and there's surely a race to be won with her this season, particularly if sent over fences.

Flemerina looked fit and well but this race merely served to prove that she must have soft ground and/or further at this stage.

The taxi was called prior to the 0-100 handicap hurdle, where Boytonrath looked a tiny, hard-trained little creature that is probably of little account. 

Wetherby - Friday Nov 3

The going was good to soft but looked softer on the chase track.

There was a strong market move for On A Promise in the opening boys' race who started at 7/2 after being available at double figure odds. Shrewd connections knew the time of day here and the grey looks a well-made sort who should build on this; he can go in again.

Alfie's Choice did little wrong and simply bumped into one, while Skipthescales showed much more in the headgear and this strong sort can go two better next time given a greater stamina test.

I've had a watchful eye on Very First Time since his bumper days as he always showed plenty of ability for a horse so physically backward. I had surprised to see him sent over fences but he looked a good deal stronger this time around, albeit likely to come on for the run.

He was serving it up to the hot favourite Some Invitation, a strong staying type, when they both clobbered two out, the jolly being the one to find another leg.

Hughes was convinced he was on the winner and the Easterby youngster had jumped soundly to that point. That second last is not the easiest to navigate and I'm not going to hold this blip against him - indeed he looks a good bet to atone for it before long.

Malaya looked the part prior to the Wensleydale Hurdle and produced a polished performance from the front, although the tactics aboard City Dreamer left something to be desired and King's juvenile emerges with great credit.

Guitar Pete has used up more excuses than an errant teenager but faithful followers piled in and he duly picked up the big prize of the day in a fast time. His jumping is largely accurate for a smallish horse and he's not my type, but that doesn't mean he can't win races. Softish ground is probably important, and the handicapper will make life quite hard now.

Sametegal looked really fit and well for his return from an absence and just ran into one, with the pair a mile clear.

Zamdy Man failed to stay again, while Marquis Of Carabas' jumping went to pot and he has possibly had enough after running consistently well through the summer; I'm sure he can win races back in his grade.

Aristo Du Plessis was 20lb below his winning handicap mark of two seasons ago after a dismal campaign and if he retained anything like that form he had to win the following handicap hurdle.

I couldn't figure out why he wasn't a short-priced favourite as he was guaranteed a solo up front, and he just did what he had to do under Hughes, for whom this was mere bagatelle.

The rest were a real ordinary looking bunch bar Minella Fiveo, who simply isn't that good and has had injuries, and Mahlerdramatic, who struggled again in a tongue-tie but who I'm convinced is running over an entirely inadequate trip.

Carlos Du Fruitier was well-backed for the closing novice hurdle but he hasn't improved much physically and I suspect he may struggle in handicap company. This wasn't a great race, as Jammin Masters looked in need of the run and Planet Nine was surprisingly backward physically. The latter was very novicey and may need some time.

Florrie Knox was noted in dispatches pre-race and very much caught the eye, running on into third, while it was good to see Just Georgie back on a racetrack. He wasn't fit by any means but if he'll stay sound this season and pick up a race or two.

Wetherby - Saturday Nov 4

Overnight rain had turned the going pretty claggy for 'Charlie Hall' day - it was soft all over and tiring stuff.

The novices handicap for staying chasers looked a deep contest and there'll be winners coming from it. Daklondike took the honours and was vastly improved in a new headgear combination. The Pipe horses are running well and he looked typically light framed and hard fit, and went like the winner from a mile out.

The others looked pretty slow by comparison, led home by the plodding oaf that is Krackatoa King, who looks like he wants four miles and should be suited by Haydock and Ffos Las.

Delgany Demon is a big strong horse but looked unbelievably slow, and those who backed him from 10s into 7/2 soon knew their fate.

Bells Of Ailsworth may not have enjoyed the ground but showed more than enough to suggest he can win races with this race under his belt; a sturdy animal, he's bound to improve.

Nortonthorpelegend didn't look anywhere near being fully wound up and if given a good month off after a couple of quick runs will be ready to regain the winning thread. He jumped and travelled well again and back in a run-of-the-mill northern handicap will be one to follow.

The market for the novices hurdle was skewed towards the Skelton youngster Al Shahir, who I thought had looked a bit paceless in previous sorties. A laid-back animal, he surely wants further and in the well-touted Kalashnikov he faced a horse that has a bit of an x-factor.

Full sister Kalane showed a fondness for good ground so this soft stuff was a concern for the four-year-old, but he looked fit and well and really turned the screw once let down in the straight. He's a really nice sort and for once the market got this completely wrong.

Ballymoy is only moderate looking but that doesn't stop the Twiston-Davies yard churning out winners; however this ex-pointer was surprisingly green and novicey and needs a bit more practice. There wasn't much depth here.

Born Survivor was an absolute good thing in the novices chase and this strong looking King's Theatre gelding is going to be dynamite in this sort of ground up to three miles. He has loads of scope and I thought his jumping was outstanding. I'd want him on my side anywhere bar the Cheltenham Festival.

Many of the Greatrex horses I've seen have been 10 percent short of peak fitness and The Nipper was no different; time will show she didn't stand a chance here anyway. Kings Walk showed there will be races to be won this season, although Eamon An Cnoic may be better returned to timber for now.

Greatrex's La Bague Au Roi did look in good order though and has long been one of the best looking mares in training, and this tall scopey type had her sights lowered here after mixing it at the spring festivals, although she hadn't faced ground this soft and that wasn't reflected in her tight odds.

Lady Buttons was capable of form only just inferior on soft and she survived a big drift near the off to give the jolly a fright, trading long odds on between the last two before the winner's class took over. She's a good mare and they came clear of a rather moderate looking bunch, many of whom didn't have the pace to go with a useful pair.

Wholestone was all rage ahead of the West Yorkshire Hurdle and although he looked in great order I didn't quite get the fascination. The disparity in the market was mind-blowing really considering the bare form and Colin's Sister wouldn't have surprised many by landing the spoils here at 10/1.

She didn't do much wrong last term and this rangy, likeable mare relished the extra distance in ground she loves. She could go very far and if they're brave enough she'll have no problem jumping fences. Lil Rockerfeller isn't easy to win with and he's such a robust horse, and lazy too, you'd have to think he'll be fitter for this outing.

Greys are notoriously difficult to assess in the paddock and most of them look as though they need the run, Bristol De Mai was no different ahead of the big race although he was in good order. Still only six, this could be a big year as he's given weight and a beating to a good field.

Blaklion keeps running into one or two but he's hard to crab and his turn will surely come, but I didn't think Definitly Red quite came up to scratch on the looks front and as good as he is, and as much as I've always liked him, he's not up to this standard and his jumping always seems to fall a little short when it matters.

Diamond Fort put the closing handicap hurdle to bed between the last two flight in the style of one ahead of his mark, and he'll improve fitness wise as well. Ice Cool Champs stood out a mile in the paddock and it was no surprise when the money arrived.

He was quite keen early but with this out of the way he can surely prove himself to be better than this, especially over further as he was staying on after hitting a flat spot.

Aintree Sunday Oct 29

A bright sunny day and racing on officially goodish ground, although they weren't exactly rattling home and looked a bit dead, with times confirming it was more like good to soft.

The opener was an okay sort of novice although they weren't a fantastic looking bunch all told, especially considering the cost of some of them. As expected On The Blind Side looked best, as Henderson's often does, but he's just an embryo of a horse with strengthening to do.

Global Citizen has some quality about him without looking anything special, while Aye Aye Charlie, Almost Gold and Perfect Harmony look good chasing types for the future. Another Stowaway is tall and will relish a fence.

They went no pace for a over a circuit and so we didn't learn much about them, Global Citizen showing just one pace after pulling quite hard. The least appealing were Enniscoffey Oscar, a really unfurnished son of Oscar, and Skelton's New Quay, a plain looking Mahler that was carrying loads of condition.

There was a staying handicap next and while eventual winner Bon Chic was overlooked by all, runner-up Black Ivory looked really well and is a nice big horse who looks certain to keep improving this term up at 3m, and will relish a fence.

Red Infantry was cherry ripe but has proved disappointing and again his effort flattened out here, while Almost Gemini was likely to improve for the trip but he was on and off the bridle and is becoming difficult to win with.

Another Frontier looked by far the better of the Twiston-Davies pair, the well backed favourite Verygoodverygood looking a pretty moderate type that appeared to be carrying condition after six weeks off.

The veterans chase was fiendishly difficult as nothing brought solid claims, the well-supported winner The Romford Pele providing T George with a much needed winner on his first outing for the yard.

A lot of these looked marginally in need of the run, including the two Smith runners that had already had a spin over hurdles, while Theatrical Star looked well but again was let down by jumping.

The handicap hurdle saw Bags Groove go off a very well-backed favourite and he travelled like a dream throughout, delivering after the last in the style of a well-handicapped horse.

Stamp Your Feet continues to suggest he has a decent pot in him and ran into one here, but he's a lovely scopey sort that will improve further over fences in time. Inner Drive looked in tremendous form and very fit, but there were one or two not straight here including Return Flight and, more interestingly, Bobo Mac.

Ballyalton wasn't fully tuned up and will have landed in a few notebooks, while Three Musketeers ran on from the back under tender handling and there'll be a good race in him back over fences this winter.

The Old Roan was a cracking heat and I was of the opinion that the younger legs would come to the fore; but I was wrong.

Smad Place was undoubtedly well handicapped but the drop to 2m4f didn't look the move he wanted and he didn't look especially tight around the belly either. But he was nibbled at in the market and ridden with confidence, and you always got the impression he was going to outstay Cloudy Dream from the last.

Jefferson's grey has grown and strengthened and was another grey that looked as though he'd improve for the outing. I didn't think he was especially well treated on this first sortie out of novice company but he beat Oldgrangewood by further than at Ayr in the Spring on worse terms, suggesting this was a very big effort indeed.

I had the Skelton horse down as one to have onside here but he wasn't that strong in the betting and just ran okay to take third, and possibly softer ground would serve him better. This was his stiffest test to date and I do think he'll have a good winter.

Bouvreuil came in for support but he was by no means the best of these on looks and continues to frustrate; he's not one for any notebook and looks a difficult conveyence.

You could say the same of Traffic Fluide, who is running out of excuses after a more prominent sit here, staying on again when it was all over. He may want it softer but isn't one to be chasing over a cliff.

God's Own looked well but ran as though he needed it quite badly, but Aso ran on well and he could be interesting this year as stamina looks to be his forte and he loves the soft. He'll improve fitness-wise.

Vintage Clouds was well backed for the staying chase and the world and his wife knows he's a very well handicapped horse. However, soft ground and a trip are pre-requisites and with all the fences omitted up the straight this could have turned into a sprint.

But they went a fair pace, and the absence of the fences probably suited him more than most as jumping isn't really his forte. He's always needed his first run of the season and again looked a bit tubby. It's hard to know where he goes from here, and an 18 length win means he'll go up plenty for winning a race that has fallen apart.

Ballyarthur is a tank of a horse but he not the most mobile and was clumsy on the second circuit, that being said he'd have preferred if all the fences had been jumped. He'd finished weakly on many occasions over timber and he may be one that never finds much off the bridle. He looked fit.

Nobuttaboy is a good looking sort who will improve for the run. He might not be particularly well treated, but should pick up a race or two this winter. Some Kinda Lama hasn't taken to fences yet, but it's early days, he didn't look great in his coat, and the Scottish National could be a target as he likes good ground and has bottomless stamina.

Not many took the eye in a big field of mares for the closing bumper where Posh Trish stood out as an imposing physical specimen, who looked well forward for this debut.

She looked beaten when Grageelagh Girl cruised upsides but pulled out plenty and has a bright future. Schiaparannie has plenty of size and should excel over timber, while others for the future include Forget Me Knot and Jet Set.