Review of the day

Fouburg put in a disappointing effort at Taunton this afternoon, never threatening to get involved in the finish.

In fairness, he was a risky one, so there was always a chance that he would run poorly – though I did expect him to a least flatter, at some point in the race.

That didn’t happen however, as he was too keen, from the moment the tape went up – and a spent force, not long after half way.

I’m sure he has plenty of talent – but unless someone can figure out how to harness it, he will just continue to perform poorly.

He’s not one to be involved with in the short term…

It was a shame really, as short priced favourite, Miracle Cure, seemed to be feeling the effect of his run last week, so the race was there for the taking...

Minellacelebration had run much better, in the proceeding race on the card – though he was no match for Relentless Dreamer.

I though Minellacelebration might get an uncontested lead – but Relentless Dreamer had other ideas – and was ultimately just too good.

Minellacelebration lost little in defeat - but will likely get a pound or two for his efforts, which will make life a little bit tougher going forward…

Elkstone was the big interest over at Towcester.

He had run too freely last time at Huntingdon - but travelled really nicely, over the shorter trip – and in a hood.

It was therefore particularly disappointing that he found nothing when challenged, after the second last.

It would be difficult to support him next time, based on todays performance.

The race should really have been won by Distant Rain. He powered clear of Elkstone rounding the home turn - but evidently did too much, too soon, and was out on his feet after jumping the last.

He might be able to find compensation…

The opposition was too good for Verygoodverygood in the handicap hurdle – and he could manage no better than a laboured fifth place.

The race was won by Lord of the Island, one of the 3 who I felt could challenge the favourite: with Ascotdeux Nellerie a slightly frustrating fourth, for anyone who backed him each way…

The final race of interest on the Towcester card, saw Vinnieslittle Lamb run a decent race on debut for Venetia, to finish third.

Tutchec showed no signs of revival in the same race and you have to wonder what the future holds for him…

Over at Thurles, Champagne Fever and Lord Windermere fought out the finish to the conditions chase – with the former just coming out on top.

Bizarrely, the runner up was allowed to start at 25/1 (50 on BF !) – and the forecast paid £26:70.

Maybe an opportunity missed.

Finally, Accordian Twilight ran a fair race to finish fourth in the handicap hurdle.

At least that explained, to an extent, why he had been so popular in the early market…

TVB.