Thoughts on todays runners

First up is Chitra in the 1:10 at Newmarket, a five furlong handicap. The indomitable filly made a fine reappearance under regular rider Richard Kingscote a couple of weeks ago, where the stiff nature of the track and it being her first run for a while just found her out towards the end. Hopefully that run should bring her forward for today.

A typically competitive race over five furlongs at this sort of level any number of horses could be in with a chance. Hans Solo Berger is effective on turf and made a his reappearance a winning on the all weather. Colonel Frank has plenty of ability and acts on most going over a variety of trips he is normally seen over further and his only win over five was on heavy ground. Grisons won last time out but this is step up in grade for him. Despite being veterans Line of Reason and Secretinthepark whilst perhaps not the forces they once were could be effective here.

Chitra will be led up by James Pulley, Shaun Johnson rides her out most of the time at home. She races for Gary and Lesley Middlebrook who bred the seven time winner at their Wood Farm Stud.

River Sprite runs in the 6.30 at Lingfield. Adam Kirby rides in the six furlong handicap. The filly hasn’t quite built on her promising two year old debut that saw her finish second. However we are dropping her back to six for the first time tomorrow. It will also be her first start on turf. Her draw isn’t normally the best place to be on the track.

The race looks an open sprint. Craigburn brings solid form to the table over this trip and sets the standard. Princess Mayson ran very well last time out over seven furlongs and the drop back to six looks to be in her favour and she probably rates the biggest danger. Bratat should appreciate the extra furlong which is probably enough to reverse placings with recent rival Spurofthemoment. Come on Girl warrants respect as a recent course and distance winner.

River Sprite will be led up Ilse Belien. The filly is owned by the Diskovery Partnership and was bred by Fiona Denniff who has retained a share.