This Weekends Racing – Reviewed by The Sportsman Racing

One of which would be my each-way play as long as all eight runner’s stand at 13-2 with Stan James. Somersby is a bold jumping sort who likes the right-handed Ascot track having finished second twice at the course in Grade 1 and Grade 2 events. Finian’s Rainbow and Al Ferof come into the race open to further progression but Somersby has both the experience and the pedigree. Somersby would prefer further than the 2m1f but that can be offset by an anticipated fast pace with Wishfull Thinking going off like a bat out of hell recently and pace also guaranteed in the race courtesy of Finian’s Rainbow. This could set the contest up for the stalwart that is Somersby who will be staying on as one or two decelerate. Wishfull Thinking’s reputation has been dwindling this season with a couple of half-hearted outings and he would need to up his game while Forpadydeplasterer is a likable sort but has been off the track a long time. At Haydock there is a Champion Hurdle Trial with the market led by the odds-on Celestial Halo but you can bet your boots none of this field will be winning the Champion Hurdle itself. Away from the big races there are two horses to follow this weekend. Billy Merriott from the Paul Nicholls’ camp is entered in a handicap hurdle at Wincanton (2.45) and was an eye-catcher at Exeter on New Years Day. The six-year old stayed on strongly when second to African Broadway in the Novices Hurdle over 2m3f. Billy Merriott steps up to 2m6f and with the extra distance sure to suit, this genuine type can go close. From the same New Year’s day meeting Mic’s Delight was another to stay on strongly when second in a 3m novices chase. Victor Dartnall has entered his charge in two beginners chases on Sunday and it is hoped he settles for the Towcester race over the same trip rather than dropping back in distance at Market Rasen. Mic’s Delight will have been well schooled at home and if he can brush up his jumping on the track he can ease any Saturday hangovers.]]>