tracked leaders in 3rd and in rear, beaten 4 out, left remote 2nd from 2 out
tracked winner, staying on and about 2 lengths down but looking held when fell 2 out
made all, pushed along before 3 out, about 2 lengths up and looking in command when left clear 2 out
OUT SAM looks potentially useful and should have few problems gaining his first success over fences. A dual novice hurdle winner, he made his debut over the bigger obstacles in a Grade 2 at Ascot where his jumping left something to be desired but this is a huge drop in class and he should go on to better things. Major Ivan has a victory over timber to his credit and has been generally consistent and makes his hurdling bow alongside Halcyon Days, who has shown nothing in five starts over timber.
Halcyon Days 25-1 (10-5) Midfield, mistake 8th, never dangerous, 9th of 10, dist behind Lord Wishes (11-11) at Kelso 2m 6f hcp (4) gd in Apr.
Major Ivan (IRE) 11-4 (11-11) Led after 1st, headed 2 out, weakened quickly, 4th of 6, 30l behind Isaacstown Lad (11-8) at Haydock 2m 7f hcp (3) hvy in Dec.
Out Sam 11-2 (11-0) Held up in rear, jumped slowly 10th, went 3rd and pushed laong 14th, ridden and weakened before 2 out, left modest 3rd last, 3rd of 6, 12l behind Le Mercurey (11-4) at Ascot 2m 5f (1) sft in Dec.
