It's the middle of winter and the word 'firm' appears in the going descriptions for both jumps meetings this afternoon. No wonder Cheltenham are pouring gallons of water on the track with the tapes due to go up on the Festival two weeks today. It's a scenario ante-post punters should have at the back of their minds as they ponder their big-meeting wagers.
Fast ground at Leicester's National Hunt track is virtually unheard of and that should be uppermost in the thoughts of those thinking of having a bet at the Midlands course. Bank on horses that have shown form on a quick surface for sure -- the ground is the single most important variable factor when considering the outcome of a horse race.
So Brash (3.20) has already proved he can handle the prevailing good to firm going when winning a handicap hurdle at Exeter in November. Crucially, he was no less than 8lb higher in the ratings than he is over fences here today and he looks a fair bet this afternoon.
The selection looked the likely winner at Taunton last time before a mistake two out cost him dear in the race won by Tosula. Provided his jumping holds together today, he should go one better.
Those who like to follow trainers in form will have their beady eyes trained on anything sent out from the Jamie Osborne camp at present. He has had four winners from his last seven runners alone and Thankuforthemusic (2.00) might improve that impressive strike-rate today at Lingfield.
His runner has only had one outing so far, when eighth in a maiden at the Surrey track a fortnight ago. Intriguingly, Osborne is sending his runner over a three-furlong longer trip this time and he looks worth chancing at what should be decent odds.
2.05pm Thankuforthemusic third at 10-1
Looks like this one could do with another step up in trip, as he was being rousted to hold his position from an early stage, before running on at the death.
The winner, Coral Shores, held on in a photo from rank outsider Poppy Red, returned 499-1 on Betfair.
2.30pm Catterick's meeting has been abandoned . . .
. . . due to high winds. The first race, secheduled to start at 2.10pm, was not run.
4pm One of those days
So Brash was an early faller in the 3.20.
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