There’s no doubting Thomas can win this
THE ability to jump efficiently and with pace often dictates the result of high-quality chases, so
THOMAS PATRICK (Newbury, 3.00) appears to have the credentials required to win today’s Ladbroke Trophy.
Trained as an eventer before embarking on a National Hunt career with the in-form Tom Lacey, Thomas Patrick has clearly embraced his new vocation, combining a sound technique with an enthusiasm to race.
Part of that improvement looks thanks to the union with Richard Johnson, who boasts an excellent record aboard the six-year- old, with the duo narrowly denied a fourth victory at Sandown three weeks ago.
In truth, following another fine round of fencing, Thomas Patrick was unlucky to have his pocket picked close to home by one of this afternoon’s main adversaries, Elegant Escape.
The weights and measures followers will suggest Thomas Patrick, 5lb better off for a halflength defeat, will comfortably turn the tables.
I don’t see matters quite as straightforwardly as there is a small matter of 21 fences to negotiate and assistant trainer Joe Tizzard is on record insisting Elegant Escape was in need of the outing at Sandown, so could easily improve.
However, Thomas Patrick is also entitled to be sharper for the outing and, if the forecast rain hits Newbury, ground conditions will be ideal and he will enjoy a war of attrition more than most. The admirable Ms Parfois is feared and a wind operation may help.
Don’t underestimate her, or Black Corton, who bids to follow in the illustrious hoof-prints of the mighty Denman and win this pre- Christmas feature off top weight.