VETERAN TO ROLL BACK THE YEARS

14:40 York

The second handicap on the card at York sees me side with a duo of horses who have fantastic course records.

With support in the betting many also feel that Hartswood is expected to go close and I can’t disagree. Three previous outings here has seen him produce two places and a victory in total. He should’ve perhaps done better on seasonal return at Thirsk but he’s likely to improve a lot for that outing especially with fitness now on his side. It’d be hard to dismiss Richard Fahey’s charge with such great form at York and another big run can be expected.

Fellow course and distance victor Brunch is an ultra-consistent type who has even better form here. He’s unbeaten with two victories from two starts at this venue but at 4/1 he’s worth taking on purely on the price.

Both Johan and Kynren have a solid run in their locker but they’re hard to time right. Unpredictable but wouldn’t be a massive shock if they were to finish in the money.

At a much bigger price I’m going to throw up David O’Meara’s Firmament. The nine year old may be the oldest in the field but don’t let that put you off. He’s raced over this course and distance nine times and has one win and five placed finishes in the form book. What’s interesting is that those six solid performances all came off today’s mark or higher. At 33/1 he looks fantastic value and is certainly worth a small punt.

HARTSWOOD (E/W)

FIRMAMENT (E/W)

written by Rory Paddock