Market Rasen 3.25
Market Rasen 3.25 - Nice 2 1/2 mile Hurdle and a lot with chances. The top of the market looks OK but not bomb-proof and of those I think EARLOFTHECOTSWOLDS is easily the best each way value. A Course winner who is seeking the optimum trip now. This one looks ideal on all evidence and the gentle climb up to the finish should suit perfectly. The handicap mark is very appealing and Trainer/Jockey combo is a good sign, will be very disappointed if it does not place at the very least. I can't ignore two of the longer priced horses totally though and both TIMOTEO and CRYSTAL LAD have some appeal. Timoteo has had a couple of runs after a long break, ran very well for a long way last time and looks like it is getting to that stage where they will find out IF the ability remains, or whether they need to set sites lower, or go to the Paddocks. Crystal Lad looked to be an outstanding prospect 2 years ago and was highly touted, niggles and issues since but another who has shown glimmers of form. The move to Chasing just didn't work out, could never put a race together without jumping errors but the form shown at Cheltenham last April would make it a very well handicapped horse here over a trip that like Timoteo and Earlofthecotswolds looks ideal. I am now restricted to 1 point e.w or 2 point win bets. So 1 point e/w on EARLOFTHECOTSWOLDS and the other pair in a small Unit Tricast Perm but I would not put anyone of a small side e/w bet on the other 2 at nice odds.