They weren't the results followers of the Top 40 Prospects in OJA were hoping for but all three horses showed promise for the future at Chepstow on Wednesday. Tripoli Flyer was withdrawn from an engagement at Ascot on Satuday due to the drying conditions and was rerouted to the Welsh track instead. Patiently ridden, Fergal O'Brien's runner jumped well and travelled strongly. Still in contention approaching the final flight, the winner Jurancon jumped across him at the last obstacle and, while it would be pushing it to say it cost him the race, it didn't help. Plus, the winner had the benefit of a run beforehand. Time will tell, but I feel the Getaway gelding will always be at his best on flatter tracks - he is all speed, whereas the winner is a strong stayer who will improve over further. The third Disguisedlimit is held in high regard at Minehead but didn't give himself a chance of lasting home racing much too keenly. Once learning to settle, we will see what he is capable of.
Let It Rain was unbeaten in bumpers last term but hadn't seen a racecourse for 320 days. Absent since beating the geldings in a Listed contest at Ascot a few days before Christmas, she was uneasy in the market for the two miles three maiden hurdle. Positioned on the inside, the Kayf Tara mare went through the race like the best horse and was seemingly going strongly jumping the second last. However, it was evident that the petrol tank was running low - any thoughts that Harry Skelton wasn't hard enough on her on the run-in are nonsense - and she was outstayed by French Ship. Similar to Tripoli Flyer, she was beaten by a rival who had the benefit of a run beforehand. It is also possible the trip stretched her - a drop back to two miles wouldn't go amiss. She, too, remains a promising mare who will have no trouble going one better.
In between watching the action from Wales, I spent most of Wednesday studying the form for the Paddy Power Gold Cup and Greatwood Hurdle for the November Update. Hopefully there is some value to be had. If you haven't ordered the OJA Updates, including the November version, please head to the Publications section of the site.
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