Take Stormin Tom to blow away his rivals

Easterby’s stayer can defy weights rise after encouraging outing at York

Stout stayer STORMIN TOM looks the one to be with at Catterick.

Tim Easterby’s six-year-old has already had a fine season, even if his consistent efforts might not have yielded warranted success.

And there are sound enough reasons to suggest he can poke his nose in front for a second time in 2018 when he takes the plunge in the Racing UK-sponsored handicap over a mile and threequarters.

Stormin Tom was a really pleasing scorer at Beverley last month when he cashed in from off a topsy-turvy gallop to end the winning streak of Sir Mark Prescott’s Altra Vita.

The gelded son of Dylan Thomas was raised 5lb for that two and a quarter length triumph and was subsequently pitched into better company in a twomile handicap at York on July 28.

Stormin Tom found Davy’s Dilemma too good on the day, but he still emerged with plenty of credit as he refused to buckle once overtaken by the winner, who was perhaps better suited to the easier conditions than Easterby’s inmate. The handicapper has burdened him with another 2lb at Catterick, but this is nowhere near as competitive as that York race, while the descent in trip will be off no consequence whatsoever.

With the weather set to remain dry, everything looks set fair for this game little trier to claim another deserved victory.

Karl Burke is enjoying an excellent campaign and looks set to add to his tally at Ayr with PLAY MATE.

The daughter of Showcasing was a good winner at Wolverhampton three weeks ago and the Shop At Ayrshire Cancer Support Novice Stakes looks a good opportunity for her to follow up.

SELECTIONS

AYR: 5.40 Fognini, 6.10 Macho Lady, 6.45 Merry Banter, 7.15 Play Mate, 7.50 Logi, 8.20 Mystical Mac, 8.50 Rosemay.

CATTERICK: 2.05 The Big Bad, 2.35 Imperial Legend, 3.10 STORMIN TOM (NAP), 3.40 Nifty Niece, 4.15 Mango Chutney, 4.45 Claramara, 5.15 Christmas Night.

DOUBLE: Stormin Tom and Play Mate.