All season, Karl Burke's two-year-olds have been in flying form at Spigot Lodge and Housemaker is likely to continue that winning vein of form today. This daughter of Nayef is bred to enjoy a trip, racing in the familiar silks of Hubert John Strecker [Libertarian, pictured]. This bay filly was born in January, so an early foal, bred by Usk Valley Stud, purchased at a knock-down price of 15,000gns by Lars Kelp Bloodstock. Housemaker was well backed (20-1 - 10-1) when making her debut in an EBF Maiden Fillies' Stakes over 7f at Newmarket. Always prominent, she finished a promising second, ridden by today's partner, Jim Crowley. There was money for this youngster on the exchanges last night with a few die-hard punters stepping in at odds-on. However, that price has drifted to nearer 2-1. In some regards this price is still on the short side but if touching 11/4 or so (optimistic) this looks a fair bet.
A Maiden race over 7f 32y on standard going. Eleven three-year-olds compete with half a dozen colts taking on the fillies. Karl Burke is a class trainer who not only knows his horses but places them well. Jaeger Train, a bay gelding from Captain Rio out of a multi-winning mare, was expected to take a small maiden auction stakes over this course on debut when racing over 6f. Market Avenue Racing Club Ltd have never been afraid to get stuck when backing their horses and this 25,000euro purchase by Spigot Lodge (Burke) was a little too ring rusty to catch the eventual winner. This step up in distance and experience should afford a strong performance today. The tissue price suggests this youngster will start favourite. However, this gelding has very good win and place claims.
