Newland’s West has the Edge
WEST OF THE EDGE found one too good in the Eider Chase last time out, but compensation awaits in the Betfred Midlands National at Uttoxeter today.
The 10-year-old was stepped up to an extended four miles by trainer Richard Newland to tackle the Newcastle feature and it seemed to be an excellent decision as he looked a likely winner when taking up the running with two fences to jump.
However, Baywing had deeper reserves of stamina that day and sailed by after the last with West Of The Edge just keeping on to finish four lengths adrift in second.
He gets his favoured soft ground again and with stamina now proven he must surely be there or thereabouts once more.
Big River was also entered in the Midlands National, but Lucinda Russell has opted to run in the Betfred Supports Jack Berry House Novices’ Handicap Chase instead and the hint should be taken.
He showed his rivals a clean pair of heels in a competitive event at Kelso last time and he appears to be improving.
In Kempton, Just A Sting can make his mark in the Matchbook Racing Is Commission Free Silver Plate Handicap Hurdle.
He came home third in a novice heat at Ascot on his latest start but given the winner, Vinndication, has gone on to score at Listed level while the second, Champ, is held in the very highest regard by Nicky Henderson, it does not look too bad an effort at all.
Starting off a mark of 125 here, handicaps could be the making of Just A Sting.