Chester
2.10pm
Apollinaire
He probably has a tough task on here with his 6lb penalty for his win in a three-runner race at Doncaster, but we have a decent draw in three and he has pretty strong form claims, as he was only just touched off under a penalty at Newmarket last time. He will probably need to improve again to win this and he has to prove he can handle soft ground, but he looks a promising colt, for certain, and Ralph’s horses are in great form.
2.40pm
Fearless Warrior
He could have had a better draw and is another unproven on soft ground, but the handicapper has given him a bit of a chance after he was placed in both his starts this season. If he returns to the form of his second at Newmarket last October then I think he is weighted to go close. He is also a pretty well-related colt too, so hopefully there is more to come from him as he gains experience.
3.10pm
Corked
I know this filly well, having ridden her to finish twice when she was at Hugo’s. You have to be happy enough with her draw in three, and maybe the step back down in trip after her run over 1m2f at Chelmsford last time will suit, too. She has also been eased in the weights a bit. Once again, soft ground is an unknown for her.
4.20pm
Bit Of A Quirke
He won over course and distance last season and comes here on the back of a good, recent second at Beverley. A 2lb rise for that seems fair enough and hopefully the first-time visor, replacing the blinkers, has a positive effect. The softer ground is a slight concern but he should go very well if handling it.
