A claiming stakes over 6f.
Not a race type I would generally consider, however, Pint Size, trained by David Nicholls, will put in a good show today. This bay gelding by Misu Bond takes after his name because he is a sparse little thing but also a determined soul. Nicholls went to Musselburgh last time - actually bypassing a winning two-year-old at Catterick - to take the mount and must have been disappointed to be outpointed by a Keith Dagleish newcomer. This is a speedy type who will travel with ease for most and likely to touch short prices in running. My only reservation is that 5f may be more suiting although this is a fast course. (As a safeguard, if betting on the exchanges I would definitely lay the stake at huge odds on just in case he tires in the last 50 yards.) Not much of a price but decent juvenile for this grade.
Latte is a lovely looking gelding but he seems to be making hard work of winning and could be regressing after reviewing last time's effort, which didn't inspire confidence. Stubbs must be pulling her hair out with this son of Multiplex because he has shown ability but seems lacking at the finish. To me, he looks a little weak and may need more time. Fallon is in the saddle, which is a plus, but I couldn't bet on Latte after a lacklustre effort at Ayr.
Mad For Fun could be a good bet for in-running punters. If you ask for fancy odds mid-race you may get a few takers because it would be no surprise to see Midgley's youngster comprehensively outpaced. However, as shown last time when running against Pint Size, she can finish to some effect. That is the key to winning at this grade - simply running to the line. The problem is that Mad For Fun may simply be too far off the pace but I will have a few quid at huge odds in running (if available) as it isn't beyond the realms she could fly home after looking a hopeless case.
Of the rest Unforgiving may have claims. Alan McCabe is a canny trainer and she is thrown in here off a minimal weight.
Conclusion: A low class race but intriguing in its way. Pint Size is the horse to beat. I expect him to travel like a winner throughout but there is a slight concern he is vulnerable at the finish. I would feel happier betting over 5f but he will take some stopping today. If you want a speculative punt, stick a few quid on Mad For Fun mid-race at fancy odds and fingers crossed she finishes like a good thing. It is possible. At best Latte would have strong claims but he just doesn't seem to have that wining touch and may be regressing.
HCE: ''An effortless win by Pint Size.''
