Review of the day

As De Fer ran a really good race this afternoon – but unfortunately it wasn’t good enough to beat the hugely progressive Conais Taoi.

It was a great shame, because I suspect that running as he did, As De Fer would have won 9 times out of 10 – he was just unlucky to bump into a rival who is clearly on a steep upward curve.

These things happen, I guess…

On the plus side, it was a much better day for the mentions.

In truth, it didn’t look like that was going to be the case, when first Vicenzo Mio was disappointing at Sandown; and then Gowranauthat was arguably unfortunate at Ffos Las.

However, as hatrick of mentions wins, in the shape of Ancient Sands, Hidden Cyclone and Prairie Town, made up for the earlier disappointments.

I maybe should have taken a risk and tipped Prairie Town (I certainly thought about it) – but uncertainty over the ground and the way the race would be run, caused me to air on the side of caution.

The remaining three mentions didn’t do quite so well – though Delores Delightful, ran a huge race at Ffos Las – again, looking a bit unlucky to bump into one (though that was always a possibility in that particular race).

Cadawill flattered to deceive at Limerick; where Side Saddle ran on late in the bumper and will clearly want a trip when she is sent over hurdles…

Back at Sandown, Coneygree made an impressive return to action, jumping his rivals ragged in the intermediate chase.

The others will not find it easy to wrestle his crown from him.

Whilst there was a surprising treble for the currently injured Gary Moore – with Vino Griego responsible for the final leg.
He’s another one that I looked at closely – but his record of never having won first time out, persuaded my to look elsewhere…

Fine lines and close calls – it was very much a day for both.

TVB.