The Gray Ghost put in a superb round of jumping to win at Ascot.
He was brilliant apart from one where he got in a little close, but he didn't lose momentum. Charlie Price oozed confidence in the saddle, and I think everything went right for him today, and he could easily win a similar event if the handicapper doesn't whack him too much with a hike in the weights.
Haas Boy crept through the field like he was going to be a major player, but when he was swinging for home, I knew nothing was catching the winner. He made some mistakes throughout, and combining that with racing widest of the field, his stamina was sapped. I wouldn't give up on him, but he needs to be flawless if he wants to win something in Class 2 company.
Patrick's Wells 5/1 – Carlisle 12.38
At the top of the market is Fishery Lane, who is making his first start for Dan Skelton after moving from Willie Mullins. Usually, I'd be wary of backing against a newcomer from the Skelton stable, but I think it speaks volumes that Mullins couldn't get the best out of him, so it's hard to believe he's on a great handicap mark.
I thought Patrick's Wells was a very interesting horse in this lineup for his chasing debut. He didn't set the world alight during his short stint over hurdles, but with how quickly they have transitioned to fences, the larger obstacles must've always been where they were thinking he would be best suited.
Based on his win on his second start in PTP races, he could be well treated off a handicap mark of 115. Obviously, the form of PTP races can be hit and miss, as horses can improve and just because you beat them back in the day, it won't translate. However, he beat Royal Jewel, and that horse has done well for the Hobbs & White stable and is currently rated 132 over fences.
Grand Geste 5/1 – Carlisle 3.33
The ground isn't going to be as slow as I'd like it for Grand Geste, but he has the class to win on quicker-than-ideal conditions.
Grand Geste had a fruitful first season over fences, which saw him win twice and finish inside the top three on three other occasions. His wins came in Class 2 and Class 1 (Grade 3) company, which is much better than the form of the others in this field in last year's performances.
His handicap mark of 132 and weight of 11st 11lbs make it a little dangerous to back him on his seasonal return, but he is coming back with a recent wind surgery, and that might be able to eke out further improvement.
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