Sunday 25 July 2010

1:50 Carlisle

A restricted auction race over 5f.

By all accounts a weak race and it will be something of a surprise if Earl Wild doesn't win this in style. After a determined effort in a competitive maiden at Musselburgh on debut, Howard Johnson's bay colt by Kodiac had no luck at Chester when running wide - which made the difference between winning and losing. On this more conventional track there should be less concerns today. A capable two-year-old who should win this and take his chance at a higher level.

The rest of the opposition have shown little form and need a marked improvement to upset favourite backers. The most likely danger comes from Ann Duffield's Riverdale, an £8,000 colt by Choisir. On average, it is unlikely an unraced juvenile will have the ability of a proven form horse such as Earl Wild. It is worth noting that Duffield has a 33% strike rate at the course and has had a number of horses run big races on debut.

Earl Wild should win this in handsome style and then connections will no doubt consider the Gimcrack (Group 2).

Other races:
2:05 Pontefract
2:15 Ascot