chased leading pair, ridden approaching 3 out, one pace and no impression from next
always behind, tailed off when pulled up before 12th
led, headed 5 out, soon ridden, one pace from next and no impression
with leader, led 5 out, ridden approaching 2 out, under pressure last, all out
held up, chased leading pair 9th, went 2nd 3 out, soon ridden, challenged last, just held close home
Silver Knight appears to be the one with fewest questions to answer in a race of many imponderables. Tim Easterby's representative doesn't do things quickly by any stretch of the imagination but the trip should bring his stamina into play and having witnessed his hurdling efforts, it has always appeared that those would serve as a pre-cursor to a career over the larger obstacles. Surprising went into many notebooks as a potential novice chaser to follow over last season and this led to him unquestionably proving to be one of the biggest let downs as a result. Despite switching back to hurdles, he looked thoroughly unhappy with the game and while he is the best on official BHB ratings, even the magical Tony McCoy will be hoping that a switch to Oliver Sherwood's has sparked an improved response. Tyneandtyneagain's participation appears to rely on the weather. Richard Guest's charge looked a decent chaser in the making but the combination of injuries and fast ground have limited his chances on the racecourse proper. Karajan should have no fitness worries. His races have been significantly weaker than this and both he and Middleway are readily opposed. Mister Dave's sole success came on fast ground over Wetherby's hurdles course. While he fences adequately, he is vulnerable to any horse of ability. Having considered the alternatives, Silver Knight looks the percentage call.