TimeformBlog

Carragold enjoyed a productive 2011, and better than ever this year, winning here (8.5f) and in frame on all other starts. Shaped well when fourth to Edmaaj at York last time, and that form franked since.

King of the Celts demonstrated fair form over hurdles during the winter, and shaped as if capable of exploiting a career-low mark in this sphere when third over C&D last time. Outpaced before staying on then, and may need 1½m+ now.

Court Bertoni won handicap at Pontefract off 1 lb higher mark last year and exploited lower AW rating when scoring again in September. Hinted at a revival at Redcar last time, and one to bear in mind now.

Pintrada was successful over 1½m here and at Newmarket last summer, but patchy form in 2012, and folded tamely at Haydock last time. Now dropped in trip, and he's got a bit to prove at present.

Gold Rules was a dual winner for Luca Cumani in 2010, but decidededly in and out since. Possible to excuse both runs this season (went off to hard last time), and no denying he features on a potentially lenient mark.

Iulus looked a good prospect when winning a 9.3f Carlisle maiden last summer. Not gone on since though, including when dropped to selling company at Leicester last time, and eyeshields tried now.

Timeform Verdict:
1. Carragold
2. Gold Rules
3. Court Bertoni

Timeform View: Carragold is the clear pick on current form, and again shaped well when fourth in a big field at York last time. He's hard to oppose here, although support for the well handicapped Gold Rules would look significant, and Mick Easterby's charge is nominated as the chief threat.

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