A restricted auction maiden over 5f on good to soft ground.
A number of familiar faces - a gathering of optimistic connections desperate to gain that elusive first win.
It is probably time to change the name of First Fast Now to Second (Fast Now) because Nigel Tinkler's youngster has made a habit of being the eternal brides maid. Perhaps her luck will change today? In truth, this determined filly has done little wrong other than being just the wrong side of having enough ability to win a race. In fact, this daughter of Kheleyf has been runner-up to a few fair juveniles in her time. The concern is trying to judge if/when she will regress. This looks a fine chance to gain that first win, if running her standard it's-my-time-soon type of race. She certainly deserve her day in the sun, even if it is a rainy day at Musselburgh.
Koolgreycat seemed to enjoy the drop back to 5f last time and ran respectably at Thirsk. The form has some merit and she has a fighting chance at this level. Quite an attractive filly, she isn't the most fluent runner with a scratchy action. She is progressing in the right direction and Wilson will see this as a great opportunity to steal the glory.
Conclusion: A pity to see Rougini withdrawn - although no surprise - as it would have made the race more interesting. First Fast Now is likely to be held up off the pace and then make her characteristic - gritty - challenge. It will be intriguing to see if Koolgreycat takes a similar path or whether Nicholls presses on. The key to winning these low grade races is having a horse that runs to the line and that is why First Fast Now could be a tough nut to crack because there looks to be no thorn in her side in this event. After umpteen seconds, it may be a touch daring to imagine Tinkler's juvenile can win a race.
Fingers crossed.
HCE: ''I'm sure as First Fast Now crossed the line victorious, I heard someone shout 'She's getting married in the morning'. It was great to see her not only win - but do so in style.''