Race review

Another disappointing afternoon, with neither of the selections in the Cork National ever holding much of a chance.

That is actually a complete understatement for The Bishop Looney, who managed to fall at the very first fence !

For a Finish did at least make to the fourth last fence, where he was pulled up when weakening.

He was given a very peculiar ride, settled right out at the back and then making ground on the second circuit. However, his exertions took their toll and he was a spent force approaching the home straight.

The race was won by Raz De Maree, who shrugged off the weight raise incurred for wining the Munster National.

Though whether he would have been successful if Outlaw Pete had not run out at the last, is a mute point…

At Carlisle, Bold Sir Brian was mighty impressive, cruising up to – and then sauntering past, Mr Moonshine. It will certainly be interesting to see how far he can progress this season.

Valley View came to win his race under AP but whether it was the extra distance or the lack of race sharpness, he just didn’t get home and finished a tired fourth.

He will be a different proposition next time, with that run under his belt.

Over at Huntingdon, Attaglance was a NR in the novice chase (presumably on account of the rain softened ground).

Two thirds of the field were NRs in Benny the Swinger's race, which was a shame, because the way he sauntered home, you have to think he would have taken the beating regardless of which other horses had run.

So, very much a weekend to forget – but hopefully the week ahead will see an upturn in fortunes.

There is a surprisingly good card at Kempton tomorrow, so I am now off for a bit of studying.

Some of you will hear from me later ;)

TVB.