Review of the day

I was hoping that Masterplan would bounce back to form today – but it didn’t happen…

He faded out of things on his debut at Carlisle, and it was a similar story this afternoon.

You have to think that something isn’t quite right with him, because he certainly isn’t running as he was 12 months ago.

The race was won by Pilgrims Bay – but he was a touch fortunate to keep it, as he interfered with Antarctica de Thaix on the run in.

Nowadays though, not many horses lose a race, having crossed the line in front…

In the opener on the card, Azure Fly almost stole the race from More Bucks on the run-in, but the latter managed to cling on for victory.

In fairness, he looked the best horse in the race – but he only just managed to get home.

I suspect he was idling rather than tiring – but whatever, it ended up very close.

At least it should see his handicap mark only being raised a few pounds (and he was probably value for greater).

In the novice hurdle, Ballyandy was pipped by Messire des Obeaux.
In theory, it was a good performance by the winner, giving the runner-up 7lb – but the reality appeared more that the runner up isn’t as good as had been hoped…

Maybe he’ll improve over further (or over fences) – because he’s certainly not looking a world beater over 2m4f and hurdles.

Finally, Greywell Boy had waited almost 2 years to jump his first fence in public – and it was all clearly a bit too much for him !

He crumpled on landing and that was that.

Hopefully it won’t be another 2 years before he gets to try again...

TVB.