Gillburg ran a great race on debut and will take some beating here. Given a caring introduction at Nottingham, he returns today and is justifiably favourite. There doesn't look too many in this with a chance. Of the others with potential are Duke Of Rainford, who held an entry for the Brocklesby and costing 60,000gbp, is no cheap purchase. However, attaining a level similar to Gillburg, and doing so debut, is a stiff task to say the least. Military Call, owned by John Fretwell, must be respected. Although his juveniles are often under priced he seems to have the knack of winning at bigger odds when contesting more competitive races. I am a big fan of Ed McMahon's stable and this two-year-old is certainly worth watching today. Hannon's King's Approach was one of three juveniles entered for this race from the stable at the five-day declarations. I think the jockey booking of D O'Donohoe is a negative. Ignatieff, trained by Stubbs, didn't show much on debut but actually running in a stakes race first time out may be an encouraging sign and this stable has an excellent win and place statistics on second start. In summary, Gillburg will take all the beating here.
A watching race.
Race review: 'Gillburg gives good reason why betting odds-on is a dangerous exercise. Thankfully we never back short priced juveniles. But what happened to Gillburg? I can't believe he ran his race. He was unsettled behind the stalls and looked awkward in the closing stages of the race making me wonder if he had an injury or suffered sore shins. Time will tell but this was a bitter disappointment to the many who backed him. Roi De Vitesse certainly ran on well at the death. The form of the Folkestone race, which he contested on debut, has held up quite well and I will have to review that race again. Patrick Morris' Secret Millionaire ran well at huge odds (50/1) and connections will be wondering how they got caught on the line, which looked quite unlikely. Rob Lloyd Racing Limited is an interesting owner and their two-year-olds have done well this term. King's Approach drifted markedly in the betting but ran a decent race. At this time I am not sure what to make of this contest. I can't help but consider it was pretty average but you can never tell until a few form lines have been tested. Gillburg has something to prove after this fall from grace.'
Full result: http://www.racingpost.com/horses/result_home.sd?race_id=478254&r_date=2009-04-18&popup=yes
