What is it like to ride Chester?
Chester is a unique racecourse, being in the city centre, and it’s surrounded by the city walls. It’s a tight track, as you’re always on the turn, and the draw can play a big part in your race. Having a low draw is often a positive, as you’re in a prime position to grab the inside rail. If you’re drawn wide, you can be in for a tough race.
My Chester rides
1.45 – Hiya Honey (Karl Burke)
This filly hasn’t been with Karl long. She was previously trained by Roger Teal last season, and she showed some promise by finishing second at Newbury. There are only four runners in this race, and I’ll probably go forward with her. She’s been going well at home, and it looks like she has a strong chance of winning here.
2.20 – Washington Dancer (David Evans)
I don’t know too much about her. She’s run twice so far, and her best effort looks to be her third-place finish at Kempton back in April. We’ve got a wide draw in Stall 8, which isn’t ideal, but hopefully she can put her experience to good use and run a solid race.
2.55 – Gifted Angel (Tom Dascombe)
I haven’t ridden him before, but he’s returning to the Flat after performing well over hurdles in the winter. He finished a respectable third at Chester last September off a similar mark, indicating that he favours the track. Stamina shouldn’t be a problem for him, so I’m hopeful he can be competitive.
4.05 – Liamarty Dreams (Karl Burke)
He’s got a good draw in Stall 3, and he likes to go forward. He’s won around Chester before, and he won’t mind the ground if it’s riding on the soft side. It looks like he’s got a lot of things in his favour, and I can see him going well.
4.40 – Alfa Moonstone (Craig Lidster)
It was a good run on her seasonal return when she finished fourth at Catterick over 5f. This is a fillies’ handicap, so it should be a bit easier running against her own sex, and I can see her improving for the step up in trip.
5.15 – The Hun (Karl Burke)
He’s got plenty of ability, but it hasn’t quite clicked for him yet. The trip and track should suit him, but I’m a little bit unsure about the ground. He’s wearing first-time blinkers just to perk him up, so hopefully they’ll have a positive effect.
Have a great weekend, and I’ll catch up again with you soon.