Even allowing for the loss of waterlogged Ayr today, the fixture list surely needs an overhaul, with two all-weather cards and a jumper at Carlisle hardly guaranteed to generate lots of business. At least the novice chases at Carlisle hold some promise, and Astarador (4.05) looks the one to be on in the two-miler. A 135-rated hurdler, he hails from the stable of Howard Johnson which has made a brisk start to the season.
At Lingfield, a mark of 89 surely underestimates the ability of Charm School (4.20) and his absence since April need not be a worry with the John Gosden stable in such fine form. Indeed, Charm School is reported to have been working really well at Newmarket in recent weeks.
Another Newmarket runner having a first look at a handicap is Mango Lady (4.55). Chris Wall's well-bred filly quickened up nicely to win an admittedly modest maiden event first time, and she doesn't look overburdened.
