At the time of writing it is only two sleeps till Sedgefield. Yes you know the new winter jumps season is fast approaching when the wonderful County Durham track is back in business. The going at the time of writing for Monday is good, good to firm in places.
We will be doubly represented in the first race at 2.30.pm, in the maiden hurdle, over the extended two miles. Myboymax has been a prolific winner for us on the flat, and was a winner as recently as last month at Catterick. His only previous run over hurdles was back in November 2021, when finishing fifth at Catterick, and then scoping dirty post race. He will probably need further in time, but this will be a guide to his appetite for hurdling. The blinkers, and the visor he has worn on recent runs are now discounted, and he will be ridden by Alice Stevens.
We are also represented in the race by Storm Spirit, who will have the services of Josh Thompson in the saddle. Storm Spirit made her hurdles debut at Market Rasen 37 days ago when unfortunately unseating her rider at the third, so basically this is her first day at school again. Storm Spirit has shown good form when being placed in two all weather bumpers, and if she can settle better, we will see where we are with her.
Top of the ground is essential for Getaway Jewel to show his best, and although we haven't seen the best of him for a while, his overall profile suggests that his zest for racing is as good as ever. He now finds himself 10lb below his last winning mark, with Brian Hughes, who has won on him four times previously back in the saddle. The race is a 0-100 handicap chase, at 3.05.pm, over two miles.
Another horse who is aided by good ground is Balkotic, who ran right up to his best at Cartmel when last seen at the end of June. He may not have a lot of room for manoeuvre off his current mark, but his general consistency is always an advantage. Balkotic runs at 3.40.pm, in the 0-120 handicap hurdle, over the stamina sapping three miles and three furlongs, with his regular rider Emma Smith-Chaston in the saddle.
Ingennio ran his best race for us in three starts since arriving at the yard at the beginning of June, when finishing a staying on second at Stratford just over 10 weeks ago, for which he has been raised 2lb. Ingennio now takes a significant step up in trip of three furlongs, but all the evidence suggests that he has the required stamina. He runs at 4.50.pm, in the 0-100 handicap chase, over three miles and two furlongs, with Brian Hughes retaining the ride.
To keep up to date with all the latest happenings at Oakwood Stables, Sharp Hill, and Curlew, click on 'NEWS' at www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections, Anthony Bithell, The Rat Pack Racing Club, Phil Ellerby, Raypasha, and Phil Ellerby, D Pollitt & Partners.
Sedgefield Racecourse.
Comentarios