Hi all,
I was expecting more selections today, but my early Meydan fancies were short in the early betting which left me with just Ouzo and he’s drawn out wide in stall 14 in the mile handicap (5:30) that concludes the Meydan card.
Given his long losing run I have decided to leave Ouzo out. That could turn out to be a mistake but Saffie Osborne will have to produce a good ride win from that berth.
That leaves just two from Chepstow.
Chepstow
3:30 – The step up to 3m 2f will suit progressive staying handicap chaser Fairlawn Flyer. The 7-year-old made it 4-5 since going over fences when winning at Ffos Las in December. He was a bit lucky to win as he looked booked for second before French Paradoxe fell at the last. He’s been raised 1lb by the handicapper but French Paradoxe did run out a comfortable winner at Newcastle this week. Of more concern would be the drying ground as all his improved chasing form has come on soft and heavy.
Sandy Boy won over the distance at Uttoxeter in November 2021 and he’s just 1lb higher here. We haven’t seen the 9-year-old since. He hasn’t always been the most resolute in the finish in the past but he’s won off a long layoff before and he will be suited by the drying ground. On a competitive mark if ready to roll and there has been some encouragement this week that the Philip Hobbs stable is hitting form after a quiet spell.
Sandy Boy – 1pt win – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes.
4:05 – The refitting of the tongue tie suited Santos Blue who made a winning handicap hurdle debut at Wetherby over Christmas. Up 7lb here but there should be more progress in the 6-year-old.
Santos Blue – 1pt win – 5/1 @ Bet365.
Cheers
John