Thursday 15 April 2010

2:00 Thirsk

A fascinating Stakes race over this fast 5f where a high draw can often be an advantage. (16th April)

Three winners and a field full of debutantes.

Arctic Feeling ran out a ready winner at Southwell and Fahey has made a strong start to the season. This colt by Camacho is a well balanced juvenile and nicely put together. Not lacking for experience on debut he should make a bold bid for a second win although the draw may not be ideal in such a large field.

David Evans is another trainer firing out the runners early season and Bathwick Bear done well to beat his experienced stablemate at Ffos Las. The second, Scarlett Rocks, ran well at Windsor next time out and the third ran respectably at Kempton last night. Clearly Evans is making the most of his son's 5lb claim. It will be interesting to consider how he fares against other winners.

Novabridge makes the trio of winners. Haynes' runner skipped through the heavy ground at Folkestone to win in style. The form of that race isn't easy to assess, however, you can't knock an easy winner and there could be more to come.

A number of debutantes are worth noting although all will have a stiff task against experienced winners.

Brian Smart does very well with his early season two-year-olds and for one of his youngsters to start its career in a Stakes race is an encouraging sign for the future.

This will be an exciting season for Michael Dods because of the significant investment made by Andrew Tinkler and increased string of two-year-olds. Reachfortehstars may not have the best draw but this colt by Silver Train could well run a big race here.

Tom Dascombe has an impressive string of juveniles and it is only a matter of time before the winners start to come. Coconut Ice is an interesting runner as her trainer is capable of sending out a winner on debut although the booking of Atkinson may be a negative.

An exciting race to watch and test a few form lines. Stakes races are never the easiest to assess as although the form horses have the benefit of experience and a level of ability there is always the likelihood a talented debutant may bring about a surprise. However, Arctic Feeling, Bathwick Bear and Novabridge will be trying hard to grab a second win. Fahey has done well with his juveniles so far and he has been quoted as holding this colt in some regard. I was impressed by the win at Southwell as he is a very well balanced juvenile and sturdy type.

More of a watching race - but a good source of future winners.

Other races:
1:30 Newbury