NAKEETA SHAPING UP
DUMFRIES handler Iain Jardine is looking forward to the season ahead with stable star Nakeeta.
Last year’s Melbourne Cup fifth is in excellent shape and will once again kick off his campaign in the 188Bet Chester Cup on May 11.
The seven-year-old is likely to defend his Ebor crown at York in August before heading to Flemington in November for another tilt at Australia’s biggest race. Meanwhile, Waiting
GARRY OWEN Patiently has been ruled out of this month’s Aintree Festival by trainer Ruth Jefferson.
The rising star had been due to run in either the Melling Chase or the Betway Bowl but faces a spell on the sidelines after suffering a setback.
It isn’t thought to be career-threatening but he’ll miss the rest of the campaign and next season’s return date is still uncertain.
NIGHT STORY
(5.15) can continue Charlie Appleby’s winning streak in the novice event at Lingfield.
The Sharmadal gelding marked himself out as one to follow when cruising home over course and distance last time and rates a sure-fire improver for Team Godolphin.
BLOODSWEATANDTEARS
(2.10) can battle to victory for Willie Knight.
Still a threat at the age of 10, the gelding was a good second to Big Amigo in a similar contest here recently and can go one better today from a kind draw in Stall 4.
I’m siding with James Fanshawe’s (2.45) in the trappy 188Bet Handicap.
The Sepoy gelding signed off for last season by cosily landing a course and distance nursery in November and looks the type to be even better at three.
(4.15) will take all the beating for Marco Botti in the fillies’ event.
The daughter of Helmet was
INSURGENCE SWEET SYMPHONY
a good third to the useful Alifax over seven furlongs last time and can build on that excellent effort back over a mile.
The seven-furlong handicap is less clear-cut but
(4.45) could just be a value bet. A course winner in January, Henry Spiller’s filly remains on an attractive mark after a respectable third to Made Of Honour back here next time.
Tomorrow’s Flat fixture at Musselburgh has been called off due to the waterlogged track.
EXPRESS NATALIE