Clouds forecast in Marsh thriller
THE rain clouds can help Clouds reign in the Peter Marsh Handicap Chase (2.40).
Relentless downpours have turned the Haydock turf into conditions better suited to bog snorkelling but the ground shouldn’t bother VINTAGE CLOUDS.
Sue Smith’s grey also fits the trends for this Grade 2 handicap. They are:
■ Placed on one of the last two starts
■ Had a run within the last month
■ Older horses have a good record
■ Likes the track
This race has a rich history with Little Owl, Bregawn, The Thinker and Jodami all going on to Gold Cup glory. Vintage Clouds might not be a contender for Cheltenham’s greatest crown but he’s got some smart form, including at the Festival.
He’s been placed in the Ultima Chase in each of the last two years and his Haydock form is also impressive.
In 10 visits, he’s notched up two wins, five seconds and two thirds. The only time he hasn’t been placed was when he fell three fences from home in this race three years ago when he was running well behind top-class Bristol De Mai.
His latest effort came over today’s course and distance when a slow jump down the back straight put him on the back foot at a crucial time in the Tommy Whittle Chase won by in-form Lord Du Mesnil.
The way he came storming home from an unpromising position was most pleasing and I expect him to be sharper in the early stages today. Vintage Clouds might have reached a doublefigure vintage but, in the last 10 years, half of the winners were aged 10 or older from far fewer runners.
With in-form Sue Smith (above) going for her third Peter Marsh win in the last five years, Vintage Clouds looks sure to play a big part.
Have 2pts each-way at the generally-available 8-1.