Chester 3.40
By UK Flat / AW (Northern)
NORTHERN - Chester 3.40 - Handicap - Class 3 - 1 mile 2 and 1/2 furlongs - 13 run - Soft
The ground softened considerably yesterday and the nature of this track means its a battle to find fresh ground. Focus will be on stamina therefore and ability to handle the conditions and it can nullify the draw bias and also help those drawn wider, where the better ground may be.
The favourite Pride of Priory really could be anything but lacks experience so IF you want a win saver at 3/1 or bigger odds it may be a wise move.
Beware of bets and Bookie slips as there is also PRIDE OF AMERICA in the race and this is interesting on Course debut for Amy Murphy with SDS riding. His tactical brain is a big asset around here. The horse is worth an investment as other than Course experience it ticks all the right boxes.
Aasheq is a Course and Distance winner, drawn 5 for Tim Easterby and David Allen, its had one run back after 500+ days off over a mile to open the tubes, on past form it would have a good e/w chance but I just think having watched that race back that it'll just need this but one to watch and track onwards. Fairmac for the Johnsons has run well here in the past and ticks the right boxes other than Going and i do think underfoot conditions have just turned against it. The more I looked at Lunar Jet at a big price the more interested I became after the rain but even wit that boost, I do think its better over a longer trip. Its one to watch for the first few hundred yards "in running" and if the place price goes double figures, one you may want to have a crafty £2 on.
I am very keen though on GROUP ONE POWER for Andrew Balding, who loves Chester and David Probert, who I think is finally getting the rides he deserves. Its well handicapped, has solid Course form, the Going has come right for it and its handily drawn in stall 5. I'll be very disappointed if its not in the first 2-3 at the finish.
TIP - Group One Power / Tracker - Pride of America