MASTER BREFFNI, WELL HANDICAPPED? OR NOT WELL HANDICAPPED?

We have three declared runners at Carlisle on Sunday, on what is currently described as good to soft, good in places ground.

Master Breffni appeared to leave all previous form behind at Catterick 12 days ago, when winning in a common canter, for which he is now 16lb above his previous success at Sedgefield in early February. The question that will be answered is, has Master Breffni improved enough to defy this hefty hike? My cup is half full, so (hopefully) yes, he is a vastly improved performer. Master Breffni runs at 3.00.pm, in the 0-120 novices handicap chase, over very nearly two miles and five furlongs, with Conor O'Farrell retaining the ride.

Singapore Trip got his just desserts for a consistent season last term, when getting off the mark for us at Perth in April. In three races this season he has failed to fire, so is now only 1lb above his last winning mark. He will have conditions in his favour here, and we will hopefully see a turn around in form. Singapore Trip goes to post for the 0-120 handicap hurdle at 3.30.pm, over two miles and three furlongs, with his regular rider Brian Hughes in the saddle.

It isn't through lack of trying that Milajess remains a maiden after 24 starts, it is simply that she keeps finding one or more too good. She was runner up for a second successive race at Musselburgh three weeks ago, for which the handicapper has put her back up 1lb. Her consistency is her big positive, and with first time blinkers fitted, she will go again at 4.35.pm, in the 0-105 mares only handicap hurdle, over two miles and one furlong, with her regular rider Josh Thompson taking 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, Phil Ellerby, D Pollitt & Partners, Andrew Phillips, and The Monday Club.

Master Breffni.