Another competitive little race.

 

It's very hard to split or to look beyond the 3 at the head of the market but none are bomb-proof.

 

Relkadam is very consistent and Tim Easterby does very well with his small winter string. Big Bad Buzz was subject to a significant gamble after a wind op last time and although that gamble failed there must be something some significant punters know or knew about! and Aire Valley Lad for Sue Smith looks like a typical slow developer from that Yard about to flourish. Those three may well dominate but there is plenty to like about a few at more speculative prices.

 

The booking of Brian Hughes on Thais Thoir for the Wintle yard is a bit of an eye-opener; Getaway Jewel for the in form Hammond yard is having only its 2nd chase run so could improve and play a part, Zolfo racked up a 4-timer in 2020 so knows how to win and Jennie Candlish is always a Trainer to keep an eye on with horses of this type, slowly coming back down to a handicap mark it can win off and any signs of a glimmer of a revival should be noted and tracked.

 

I'm most keen though on the consistently inconsistent GRAYSTOWN. It's had chase wins off 83 and 90 and 82 and 92, last 2 runs has been pulled up and still off a mark of 93 but I just feel these are optimum conditions and it's one of those that can and has gone PP1PP1....just look back!

 

Of more interest though and at a bigger price is VICTORY ECHO. It's seemingly unfancied and in here to make up the numbers. I'm not so sure though as a closer inspection suggests that off 12lbs below it's last win mark and a runner up off 115 and 108 in the not too distant past it's not a hopeless case. I'm also 100% convinced that for the first time this season it runs off its best trip here on the Going it likes most. At the price i'll be very disappointed if it has more behind it than in front of it and on the form as explained, a confident each way punt at nice odds.