ROYAL BAJAN (Southwell, 3.20) can often pinch a couple of lengths out of the stalls and, if he can pull off that manoeuvre on Thursday, James Given’s speedster could take some pegging back.
The grey has a track record of 122, has won following a break so the 37-day absence could well be a positive and goes well for Graham Lee. He does face competition for the lead from Moorhouse Lad, but Royal Bajan is a smart handicapper on his day and this looks a great opportunity for him.
The petrol gauge began to flicker for RYDALIS (Ludlow, 2.00) as the six-year-old approached the last fence at Exeter on her reappearance. Unfortunately for her supporters she was worn down on the climb to the line by Gas Line Boy as a lack of condition told but, with that run under her belt, the selection could make an impression in an interesting handicap. The likes of Plein Pouvoir, Kapga De Cerisy, Richmond and Last Shot have all been chase winners for Venetia Williams in the past week and Rydalis should find conditions to her liking today.
Dougie Costello teamed up with MADEIRA GIRL (Southwell, 12.20) to land a handicap at the track back in August and the duo look to have leading chances in the opener. The step up to 11 furlongs looked the key for the Bachelor Duke filly two starts ago when she ground out a tenacious win and today’s extra furlong should play to her strengths.
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