Claims can be made for all 5 but SOMESPRING SPECIAL arguably has the strongest case on the back of 2 very solid runs for her new stable. Last year's winner Time To Bite arrives at the top of his game so rates the main threat.
Somespring Special
Time To Bite
Sherborne
Win or Each Way
Each Way terms: 1/4 odds for first 2 places
5. Time To Bite
J: David NoonanT: Chris Honour
F: 46P7115-1
Price History:
2.75
Age:
10
Weight:
11-0
Gear:
blinkers
Official Rating:
106
Days Since Last Run:
9
Verdict
Won this last year and arrives at the top his game having won 3 of his last 4 starts (defeat came on heavy going), including at Warwick last week in decisive fashion. Likely to go well again under a penalty.
2. Somespring Special
J: Micheal NolanT: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White
F: P11/54012-
Price History:
-
Age:
7
Weight:
12-0
Gear:
tongue strap
Official Rating:
120
Days Since Last Run:
27
Verdict
Made a successful start for this stable at Wincanton in March, coming clear with plenty in hand from one that scored next time. Beaten only by a subsequent winner at Cheltenham since and solid claims once again.
3. Sherborne
J: Freddie GingellT: Joe Tizzard
F: 32/224141-
Price History:
-
Age:
9
Weight:
11-10
Gear:
tongue strap
Official Rating:
116
Days Since Last Run:
33
Verdict
Better than ever of late, winning 2 of his last 3 starts, including at Fontwell last month. On a career-high mark now but respected in current mood.
4. Paddy De Pole
J: Harry CobdenT: Paul Nicholls
F: 511/13332-
Price History:
-
Age:
7
Weight:
11-9
Gear:
cheekpieces
Official Rating:
115
Days Since Last Run:
247
Verdict
Rattled off a quick-fire hat-trick in handicap hurdles a year ago. Decent placed efforts after and this Irish point winner should do well over fences. Off 8 months.
1. Opening Bid
J: Callum PritchardT: Chris Down
F: P535194-2
Price History:
8.00
Age:
10
Weight:
12-1
Gear:
cheekpieces
Official Rating:
121
Days Since Last Run:
11
Verdict
Won 5 times in 2023/24 and returned to winning ways at Exeter in October. Disappointed next 2 starts but back to best when second at Uttoxeter on return 11 days ago, albeit flattered by his proximity to the winner. Front runner.