Crown has run a couple of times and displayed an element of promise. It is difficult to know what to think of her last effort, which in some ways seems a touch disappointing. She wasn’t knocked about when her chance had gone, being eased towards the line. A good-looking filly, connections will be expecting a better run today and they will be trying their utmost on this third start. Crown looks to have the form to beat Kate Skate after a luckless run at Bath, although Cole’s juvenile did pull quite fiercely early and he has good statistics on second start. With a big field, it will be interesting to see how the draw affects their chances.
As noted in my previous post, it is slightly surprising to see Patrick Mathers riding Tagula Pearl when he was booked to ride Sheka (4:35 Ripon). It may be the case that he had no choice or contrary that this filly is better than we have seen. After the poor effort shown on debut at Doncaster, she certainly needs to find improvement. In addition, Tom Eaves was booked to ride Dower Glen so this may be something of a negative for this two-year-old now ridden by Philip Makin.
My Mandy has run a couple of times showing an element of ability. She looks a touch one paced and may be a juvenile that struggles to win but runs consistently and deserves respect. The same applies to Tom Folan who certainly has a good, battling attitude. Not the biggest of fillies, she has fair form although probably better suited to an auction event. Again, she will run her race but she may struggle to win this, potentially, better race.
Lewyn and Aalsmeer are both from very strong yards and must be respected. It is never easy to win on debut but these established trainers are certainly capable of finding a winner on debut with a talented youngster. In addition, Lewyn’s trainer, Kevin Ryan, has a good record in this race. It wouldn’t be the biggest surprise to see an unraced juvenile showing a fraction more ability than what these form horses have to offer.
A watching race.
Tom Folan (NR)
Usquaebach (NR)
Crown (NR)
Race review: 'A few form horses on show but a couple of non-runners, too. My Mandy made a bold attempt to win on the rail and looked for most of the way to have done just that only to be demoted by Eternal Instinct trained by Jim Goldie. This would have normally been classed as a surprise win - but the starting price of 9/1 indicates that this was far from a shock. In general, two-year-olds from Libo Hill Farm are likely outsiders and to win on debut must be a fair sign that this filly has the scope to go on. The Ed McMahon-trained Aalsmeer ran with credit and very well backed. The first three went clear of the field. Karl Ryan's Lewyn (7/2) pulled and seemed to blow up. She may be worth consideration on her next start at a respectable price. Difficult to tell what the form of this race amounts to, however, you can't knock the first three considering they went clear of the field.'
