ROBIN - Plumpton 3.10 Handicap Hurdle - Class 5 - 2 miles 4 and 1/2 furlongs - 13 run - Good to Soft

 

A competitive race for early in the NH season at this winter NH venue.

 

Proper twelve is a worthy favourite based on it's last 2 runs of last season when it suddenly all clicked, a 135 days break and a 9lbs penalty won't make it easy and I am happy to take it on given those possible reasons for it not hitting the ground running immediately. Icare Grandcamp is a typical Gary Moore ex French recruit that could be anything or may equally be nothing. It' been bought by one Harry Redknapp, frankly I can't really assess it on form but it's no appeal to me at an e/w price. Rebel Intentions has a 3lbs penalty for a win at Fontwell but was Pulled Up on sole attempt here and as with the other pair at the top of the market I'm happy to take it on.

 

Aviewofthestars has moved to Fergal O'Brien to see if he can work some magic that the very capable Sheila Lewis couldn't so another probably best watched, Rocco was inexplicably poor last time but gets the capable assistance of Harry Cobden and came close to an investment and for those that like to know would be my reserve in the event either of my selections doesn't run. Sir Canford would have a squeak but mixed messages at this trip, and it's a tough finish here that can expose any lack of stamina. 

 

If you want a £1 e/w on anything today then have it on ULYSEES early 66-80/1 i out of form but back to the mark of a quite impressive Worcester win not that long ago and clearly has more ability than its shown more recently.

 

My pair against the field though are CHERRY COLA who has twice been runner up over this Course and Distance including in this race last year and for whom Marc Goldstein, very much the jockey to follow here on anything at a backable e/w price makes a welcome return after serious injury following a crushing fall last season. TEN PAST MIDNIGHT has also won at this trip, is race fit and a pound below its last winning mark and with Bowen in the saddle you know it'll have every assistance if good enough.

 

Tips (1) Cherry Cola / (2) Ten Past Midnight (see notes on Ulysses)