We were definitely a tad unlucky not to walk away with one winner on Saturday.
Hawksbill was backed into favouritism in the last race at Haydock, got the dream run through and travelled like the best horse. Unfortunately, he couldn't put the race to bed and didn't manage to pass the front runner, who was tough as nails. He lost by a nose, but that was definitely a winner which got away.
Lorna B 3/1 (1pt) – Haydock 5.45
When a horse like Lorna B has racked up three wins from four in a season, it's surely a matter of time before the handicapper catches up to them. However, they are going back up in trip with her, and I think that might be the correct decision, which could be enough to see her eke out another win.
This horse is very game, which is a brilliant attribute to have when backing a racehorse. There are far too many horses you back, and they are either too keen, have horrible head carriage, or just don't want to put it all on the line. Lorna B is as simple as they come, and she wears her heart on her sleeve. Her win at Carlisle last time out was a brilliant effort. She was challenged for many furlongs, looked to be beaten, but kept fighting and eventually pulled away at the line, which gives me hope that the step back up to seven furlongs is the correct decision.
The older horses towards the top of the weights are horses who have to be respected, but when you have such an inform filly like Lorna B, it's hard to say no. The odds are more than satisfactory, and I believe Seb Spencer has a nice handicapper on his hands. He knows the family well, as he also trains Archduke Ferdinand, who has been his flag bearer for many years now.
Belgravian 7/4 (2pt) – Haydock 6.45
Most people would stay clear of this race if they fancied anything against the Sir Mark Prescott horse, but I don't think they have to be avoided that much, as they don't always win! Belgravian looked like a real stayer last time out, and I think he will enjoy this track and a stronger pace.
Luke Morris has decided to leave String Of Pearls for his ride on Kylian, who is in a Listed race in Germany. The prize difference from the two races is £4k, so it makes you think that he could have easily cashed in on this race and not have to travel abroad, which makes me think String Of Pearls isn't as well handicapped as first thought.
They went a bit of a crawl last time out at Doncaster, but Belgravian still managed to quicken up nicely and stayed on, before being eased towards the finish. I rate that performance for his first time over the trip, and with both jockey and trainer being in great form, there's plenty to like.
GambleAware