December 13 – Wolves – Beattie Is Back – 99
Fieldsman ensured this seven-furlong handicap was run at an unrelenting gallop from the start and, having always been handy throughout, Richard Fahey’s inmate was in the best place to strike turning for home. Staying on strongly all the way to the line, the son of Mayson clocked a big number for the grade and he looks the type with more to offer now connections have finally worked out his trip. Of the rest, Min Till did well to finish as close as he did considering he got virtually wiped out at the start and he is worth another chance next time.
December 14 – Lingfield – Goldsmith – 97
A well-run 1m2f for the grade and it went the way of a horse who showed much improved form on his first start for new connections. Previously a little disappointing for David Menuisier, the son of Shalaa was picked up for 7k at the HIT sale and on the evidence of this performance, that purchase price looks a bargain. Held up right out the back, the three-year-old made smooth headway to race on the heels of the leaders turning for home and when asked to go and seal the deal late on, he found the necessary requirements to run down Sundayinmay, who looked likely to scoop the prize two furlongs out. His run style means things will no always fall in his favour, but when they do, he’s clearly a useful horse at this level.
December 14 – Kempton – Hickory – 95
Competitive numbers-wise, but a race turning into a bit of a procession by a horse clearly going places fast. Making his handicap debut, James Fanshawe’s gelding travelled like a dream throughout and he only had to be nudged out to ensure a cosy success. Where he goes from here is anyone’s guess, but he remains one to keep on side on the all-weather. Of the rest, Granary Queen deserves a special mention for coming from an unlikely position to snatch second and on this evidence, her time will surely come soon.
December 15 – Southwell – Blind Beggar – 97
Just five went to post but the winner made sure it was a strongly run affair and, as such, the form looks fairly reliable. A frustrating type for Ger Lyons in Ireland, the son of Equiano was given a small break and fitted with cheekpieces for the first time on his return to these shores and based on this performance, he should turn out to be far more reliable for new connections.
December 16 – Southwell – Eligible – 98
A wide-open seven furlongs handicap on paper beforehand and it went the way of a horse who fared much better returning to this C&D. Previously disappointing over six at Newcastle, the son of Dark Angel was once again held up off a strong pace at the Midland venue and in similar fashion to his victory here in October, he came through very easily to score with plenty in hand. Clearly well suited by the surface at the Colwick Park, the six-year-old can continue to pay his way under similar conditions.