Newcastle 3.10
By UK Flat / AW (Northern)
AW / NORTH - Newcastle 3.10 Handicap - Class 5 - 1 mile 4 and 1/2 furlongs - 12 run - Standard to Slow.
What stands out a mile here is that there are a lot who like to run prominently and from the front and a fair few of those are as yet not fully convincing at this extended 12 furlongs.
Spirit Of Ash has won its last two over Course and Distance and gets another 2 lbs penalty and runs off 58 here and that just makes it vulnerable. Purple Gown improved over Course and Distance to finish runner up last time at 50/1, I've watched the race back a few times and I'm not convinced its exactly solid form and I'm happy to take it on at a much shorter price. I'm not sure about this trip for Cusack, Restorer is a solid yardstick but this 11 year old has always been more at home on Turf. Oscar Doodle i a Course regular at 10 furlongs, runs prominently and is one of a number who I expect to ensure an end to end gallop.
At the top end of the market I think that BOBBY SHAFTOE is the most solid and most likely to appreciate the pace angles its an hold up horse so will need luck in running but has the proven stamina some of the others don't.
There are a couple at bigger odds who quietly excite me in here and they are BRISTOL HILL a Course and Distance winner off a mark of 54, has had 2 recent runs, a mark of 62 with a 3lbs Claimer reflects improved overall form since that Course and Distance win and I think it's a very solid e/w poke. At bigger early odds too I like FREDDY ROBINSON it has winning 2 mile Hurdles form so can get the trip, it runs prominently over hurdles so should not be too outpaced early and there is something there I think to warrant a small punt.
Tips (1) Bobby Shaftoe / (2s) Bristol Hill / (3s) Freddy Robinson