THREE DECLARED FOR SEDGEFIELD.

We send three up to Sedgefield on Friday evening, where the going is currently described as good.

Celestial Reign was probably an unlucky loser at this track over three furlongs shorter 22 days ago, when being brought down two out when coming to make his challenge. His Irish form on the flat last year for his previous yard (notably when second at Sligo in May) suggests that a race like this is within his compass. Celestial Reign runs in the first at 4.15.pm, in the maiden hurdle, over the extended two miles and three furlongs, with Emma Smith-Chaston taking the ride.

Bodygroove broke his duck over hurdles at Wetherby in March from a 3lb lower mark than now, but wasn't as good at Market Rasen eight days later, when unseating his rider at the last, over four furlongs further. Bodygroove is a keen going type so the return to the minimum trip should suit, it is also possible that his latest run came too soon after his win at Wetherby. Bodygroove runs at 5.25.pm, in the 0-100 handicap hurdle, over the extended two miles, with Joshua Thompson retaining the ride.

Lillistar showed her first real form over hurdles at the track when last seen in February, when dead heating for third. That run doesn't tell the whole story as Lillistar made a bad mistake at the last that day, but to her credit she rallied up the run in. She can now race from a 2lb lower mark, and also steps up in trip by over two furlongs. Lillistar runs at 6.25.pm, in the 0-105 mares handicap hurdle, over the extended two miles and three furlongs with Brian Hughes on board for the first time.

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 & Partners, Mrs B M Lofthouse, and John Sidebottom & Mrs Kate Sidebottom.

Lillistar.