Brian Hughes: Some nice chances at Aintree and Uttoxeter
Rose In The Park won nicely at Bangor last weekend. The ground was plenty quick enough for her and she looks sure to improve for a step up in trip, so at this stage she looks a nice filly.
That aside, it was a frustrating couple of days with plenty of seconds, and I think they should all be up to winning a race soon. I’m a few behind Sean [Bowen] at this early stage of the season, so I’d like to start getting a few more on the board soon, but there’s a very long way to go.
Friday 16th, Aintree:
Devil’s Kingdom (5:50pm) has a fairly patchy record on the Flat and now makes his debut over hurdles. He’s a handy size and his bred to do the job in this sphere, but we’ll know plenty more about him after tomorrow.
He’s being schooling nicely enough at home and everyone’s been really happy with what he’s been showing us, but he’s got to put that to use on the track now.
I’ve ridden against Cracking Destiny (7:00pm) plenty of times, but this is my first time on board him. I’ve spoken to Ewan Whillans and he seems pretty confident, so that’s always a good sign.
Blueberry Wine (8:10pm) is a horse on the up and I’d like to think he’s got a good chance despite the rise in the weights for his win last time out. He loves top of the ground conditions so I can see him going well.
Saturday 17th, Uttoxeter:
Four good rides here, kicking off with Soldart Forte (5:40pm).
He won on his hurdles debut nicely at Southwell back in April and was then second next time up at Ludlow. The horse he beat at Southwell reopposes here, and seeing as we gave him 8lb that day and now we’re only giving him 5lb, I’d like to hope he can confirm that form.
Present Storm (6:10pm) needed the run badly at Worcester last month, and the winner winner of that race, Pottlerath, has gone on to win his next two, so that looks a decent piece of form.
She needs to come forward from that run, which she should do, so fingers crossed.
Lady Mendoza (6:40pm) ran okay at Newcastle the last time I rode her. That was over 2m4f and I’d like to think the step up to 3m on better ground will see her in a better light.
Lastly, Millie Of Mayo (6:40pm) goes in the mares’ novices race. She’s got a nice racing weight, but judging by the fact she’s been a non-runner the last twice, much will come down to whether the grounds suitable for her.
If they’re happy and she runs, I’d like to think she’ll have a nice chance.
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