Thoughts on Friday’s runners

We saddle two runners today, Percy’s Lad makes his seasonal debut in the 1.30pm at Chester with Richard Kingscote taking the reins. Elterwater also runs for the first time in 2023, lining up in the 8.25pm at Wolverhampton with Luke Morris in the saddle.

Percy’s Lad

Percy’s Lad had an outstanding first season with the team at Sarsen Farm, winning three times. One of those wins was over today’s course and distance. He also broke the track record that day and we have had this as his target since the beginning of the year. Unfortunately the draw has not been kind and it will take a big effort from 13 of 13.

Its probably best to concentrate on the well drawn runners. Revich looks the most obvious contender and has put up two good runs this season in high quality races. Boardman is another who has the ability and the draw on side, but a little to find. Croupier has to prove he is effective but as a four year old might still find further improvement.

Percy runs in the colours of owner Alan Kerr and will be led up by Sammy Barnett who cares for him daily at home.

Elterwater

Elterwater is a big filly who should come into her own this season. She’s just ready to start her season and we are looking forward to seeing how she progresses over middle distances this season.

An open looking race, with three last time out winners meeting a couple of handicap debutants. Blue Yonder won well on his first go over ten furlongs last time, he probably didn’t beat very much but he did it convincingly. Man Made of Smoke got a deserved win but probably needs to improve further to win again. Indication Rocket won nicely over a mile last time but has a stride pattern that suggests he could well be equally as effective over the longer trip and is probably the one to beat.

Elterwater runs in the colours of owner breeders Gary & Lesley Middlebrook and will be led up by Kieran Watson who rides her daily at home.