The new, longer trip makes clear appeal for 2m4f handicap winners Fresh Speculation (second choice) and Coastal Rock, and maybe also for handicap debutant Miami Steve. Preference, though, is for a second handicap newcomer in VISUAL IMPACT who raised her game with a bold show over 3m on soft ground last time out and is surely open to further improvement.[Richard Austen]
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Second in an Irish point in 2023 (3m, soft); four runs under rules, clearly best of those when 20-1 but giving the odds-on favourite a big fright in maiden hurdle at Ayr (3m, soft) 17 days ago; ridden by 7lb claimer (has had recent winners) on this handicap debut and surely has more to give.
His first three races were for two other yards; ran in three handicaps for current stable, on second occasion coming home strongly from off the pace to win seven-runner race at Uttoxeter (2m4f, soft) despite some iffy jumping; however, he showed little at Taunton (2m3f, soft) one month ago; very mixed messages, therefore, despite the likely benefit on new trip.
Seventh attempt over hurdles when off the mark in novice handicap at Ffos Las (2m4f, soft) in November with a strong-staying performance; headed when blowing any remaining chance with a blunder three out at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good to soft) on New Year's Eve, but he has to be considered seriously in this small field over a new trip that may well suit.
0-9 over hurdles but could hardly have gone any closer in handicap at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft; acts on soft) on Boxing Day on penultimate start; disappointing favourite at Ludlow on Wednesday and has much more to prove at this trip judged on her two attempts beyond 2m4f.
Has shown some ability in bumpers and over hurdles, well beaten when trying 2m4f on last two occasions but he did rally; needs improvement on this handicap debut but the extra 3f could be a plus point.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
