Arzaak, a beaten-favourite over course and distance last month, when Alkashaaf prevailed by a neck, attempts to retrieve losses and go one better in the six furlongs Maiden Stakes on Chelmsford polytrack tonight. David Probert takes over from Josephine Gordon.
Doubtless the champion apprentice is taking time off because Arzaak achieved a 'career-best' when finishing second for the third time in four outings; there has to be a reason for change but, there again, 'Probe' is as good as it gets and mine is not to get involved with 'politics!'
There is certainly nothing with the attitude of Arzaak and though 85-rated Porto Ferro is rated 9lbs superior to this Casamento gelding we're happy to nap Chris Dwyer's charge.
Realistically with three places on offer, unless there is a withdrawal, Arzaak represents an outstanding each-way bet.
Incidentally Porto Ferro was formerly trained in Ireland where, to all intents and purposes, this Arcano seems to have been over-rated by the handicappping system; we will see if my time-handicap assessment is right.
Earlier Among Angels also looks a solid place prospect in an 'aged' handicap over six furlongs of Southwell on the back of a 'best-ever' course and distance effort nine days ago; fillies in form at this time of year can be devastating.
An obvious danger is top-weight Sophisticated Heir, mount of mercurial Robert Winston, which comes out similarly to Among Angels judged on polytrack and tapeta performances; will Michael Herrington's charge handle the 'deep stuff?'
Certainly Winston is a plus, his riding these past few months has continually impressed; recently he received an award for riding performance of 2016 on Librisi Breeze at Ascot last October.
My old pal Barry Hills says,'they all look good when they win' but he has colossal admiration for the talent and dedication of Winston; uses him whenever possible, which says it all.
One incident of disquiet to report; we timed a race at Ayr, Tuesday, it was 'wrong' by SEVEN SECONDS in the Racing Post!
Can you understand why I'd rather stuick with electrically-timed all-weather racing as against guessing over jumps?
Selections
SOUTHWELL
11.00 Among Angels (e.w)
CHELMSFORD
2.50 Secret Bird (e.w)
5.00 Arzaak (nap)