Review of the day

Sergeant Mattie bumped into one at Ludlow this afternoon…

Pougne Bobbi had only run 4 times previously under rules – and just once over fences – so was pretty much impossible to assess.

His mark of 128 didn’t look particularly generous – but someone knew it massively under-stated his ability and he was very strong in the market, for what was an extremely competitive race.

In fairness to Sergeant Mattie, he did try and make a race of it with him, and was still pretty much on terms when he made a shocking blunder at the fifth last (probably because he was having to race a stride faster than he wanted).

He actually managed to recover from that mistake – and briefly looked like he might still get placed – however, he was a tired horse up the home straight and made another mistake at the third last.

As a consequence, he could only finish fourth – but I would be inclined to mark up his effort and would certainly give him another chance…

Earlier on the Ludlow card, On Demand had tried to make all in the mares handicap hurdle – and for most of the race, looked like doing so.

However, the stamina sapping ground eventually took its toll and she was collared close home by Tara View

Over at Carlisle, Dick Darsie’s stamina also gave out the novice handicap chase. He may be suited by a drop back in trip – or some less taxing ground.

Finally, Rigadin de Beauchene could never quite get to the front in the finale – and he eventually faded out of contention.

That was always a danger, in a race where a strong pace was almost guaranteed.

He’ll be dropped a few pounds - and if he gets very heavy ground and an uncontested lead, there could still be a race in him…

TVB.