There is nothing original in the method, but it sure works for Sir Mark Prescott -- get a horse handicapped with three outings over wholly inadequate trips and then go up in distance off a low mark. Ultimate Quest (2.40) fits the bill at Great Leighs today. Prescott gave this colt three quick runs over 7f in January and now steps him up to 1m6f. The stoutly bred son of Rainbow Quest gets in here off a rating of 58 and his recent home work has been good, so he will lack nothing in fitness.
Deep Winter (4.40), who was a late withdrawal from a race at Carlisle recently owing to fast ground, could be suited by the Polytrack at Great Leighs. She looks well treated and Kerrin McEvoy is an interesting booking for Richard Fahey's raider.
John Gosden's Tazeez (3.30) could not be said to be thrown in off 94 on his handicap debut at Newcastle. But this is an interesting prospect who is lightly raced and won readily from a decent three-year-old at Yarmouth.
Jim Bolger exclusive
Don't miss the exclusive Jim Bolger interview in the Guardian on Saturday as the trainer of Epsom Derby winner New Approach gives the lowdown on his colt's Irish Derby bid this weekend.
2.20pm Live racing
Tony Paley guides you through the racing with news and views from this afternoon's action.
2.30pm Quest for fame?
Ron's tip in the next at Great Leighs, Ultimate Quest, has been the subject of good reports and we are hopeful of a big run from this one. These 000 horses trained by Sir Mark Prescott are always worthy of respect and this one is a very interesting runner if the news we hear is correct.
Up at Newcastle the going is good to soft, good in places. Underfoot conditions are crucial with regards to the draw at the Gosforth track and the first race, due off at 2.30, may give us some clues as to any bias.
2.40pm OK to go low at Newcastle
The first race at Newcastle suggests it won't be a problem drawn low there in the straight this weekend. Plan to have a good look at Buachaill Dona who is drawn 2 in the Gosforth Park Cup tomorrow night.
At Great Leighs Ultimate Quest looks far too slow. He was under pressure fully a cicuit out and needs every encouragement from the saddle before struggling home in fourth some way behind the well-backed winner. He will probably find a race but will need a much stiffer test of stamina on this evidence.
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