PASTURE LOOKS PERFECT

In a weekend slightly ruined by the weather, the quality of the races on offer has dropped somewhat. However, there is still something to be had out of what's left, the highlight of which being a decent all weather card at Lingfield. Hopefully today will act as a good advertisement for the fledgling All Weather Championships, being the first time racing on the surface has been shown on terrestrial television since the Championships were introduced.

3:10 Lingfield- In a card where the races are rather hard to call, this is no different. PERFECT PASTURE is the selection, on a roll at the moment, with 5 wins from 5 all with the application of a visor. I thought he was well handicapped when he ran at Ripon off a handicap mark of 57. He didn't win that day but look at him now. He's seen another rise in the weights since his last win but I do not think that will be enough to prevent a sixth win on the bounce, his connections are bullish about it too. Also think Diamond Charlie and Kyllachy Rise have chances of placing.

2:00 Lingfield- I had narrowed this field down to two, Joyous and PRESUMIDO. To me, Joyous is far too short a price and Presumido has a very similar chance. He won well at the course last time out and a five pound rise may not be enough to prevent another success.

3:45 Lingfield- Course specialist SCOTTISH GLEN is the selection here. Having come in the top three on the Lingfield all weather course on all occasions bar one (when 100/1 on debut), you would see no reason as to why another solid effort should be discounted this time. Main dangers are Naaz and Ishikawa.

2:15 Newcastle- My one for the jumps is NAUTICAL TWILIGHT. In a race that looks pretty dire in truth, the horses capability on such bottomless ground may be the pivotal factor as to who comes out on top. Circus Star and Lysino have never won on ground this heavy, which may be enough to stop them winning today. Although my choice also has not won on ground like this, she has not been exposed to it. If she likes it, she should do well. Factor in her weight allowances meaning her jockey carries less results in her having what I think is a decent chance today. Sam Lord is possibly the biggest danger.

Best of luck to all on a truly rancid day weather wise.


HAPPY PUNTING