Poor day this afternoon at Lingfield. King's Colour looked poised to score for Kieren in the opener but, despite trading at 1-2 in the run, faded in the home straight. Hard to fathom why. Kieren said he was felt flat.
Ibiza Sunset has an issue between hs ears. A pair of blimkers and drop in grade are needed. Mawaakef probably didn't stay but needs to be able to dominate, not possible today in a race choc-full of front runners.
The biggest injustice of the day was Will Kennedy losing his winning percentage after landing the Lanzarote Hurdle on the game Swincombe Flame. Kenneny struck the horse 10 times in scoring by a nose.
I know rules are rules (eight is the maximum hits) and the sport can't survive without them, but to take away his percentage, around £2,000, but still allow the owner, trainer and punters who backed Nick Williams' mare to profit? It can't be right.
It was an inspired ride by Kennedy, still reeling from losing the ride on Time For Rupert, who now has time to reflect as to whether taking another career path is an option.
On a positive note it has been heart-warming to see Dominic Fox trying to rebuild his career. It been a tough couple of years for the 3lbs claimer. Coming back after a 18-month injury break, Fox had to endure the death last year of his father, Richard.
Fox's winner on Saturday at Lingfield was his fourth from just eight rides in the past two weeks. He also picked up two rides from the powerful Roger Varian yard. His dad would be proud.
Many dismissed Menorah as a serious contender for the Arkle despite him winning again at Kempton. It's fair to say the round wasn't blemish free, but did it justify Hills knocking him out to 16-1 fot the novice Blue Riband?
Menorah has shown a liking for Cheltenham in the past (he has won there three times and finished fifth in the Champion Hurdle). The problem with Menorah is that he loses concentration.
A bigger field and a faster gallop will see him in a much better light. He should also get the fast ground he craves. 16-1? Way too big.
race planner and profiler for Ismail Mohammed, pundit on Timeform radio and Nottingham Forest fan
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