15:00 Ascot - Ardkilly Witness (2lb. out of the handicap but has a squeak in this. Staying on 4th LTO and stays the trip (sire won over 14f in heavy going on the flat at York). Taken 13/2 B.O.G. Best of British today everyone!
I don't think conditions at Ascot are bad enough for Reve. I'd be quite keen on Zarkandar because of that. It's no price but is a proven grade one horse. The rest aren't and it would be a bit of a surprise to me if he loses today facing these conditions.
Cant believe how badly wrong the punters got that. Absolute masterclass from Williams to get 13/2 about a 5/2 shot. Zarkandar was never a 3m1 at Ascot horse and if you took those odds him today you need locking up.
That's one reason why I'll never be confident when STD rides a horse trained by Paul Nicholls. Far more confident if Ruby Walsh or AP rides.
Just what did STD do wrong? He didn't kick on a mile out, the horse took him to the front jumping the last and it didn't stay. Too much pocket talking I think!
spot on, the horse is not a weak finisher, his class took him so far but was as blatant a non stayer as you will see, 2m4 is his trip really, handles even 2 miles on soft, competitive at 3m but not a true staying hurdler
I had Zarkandar in a double with Irish Saint just like Gaz so was gutted but I saw no jockey error. I agree Boris, he's a 2m4 horse just like God rest his soul Oscar Whisky was. High time Cheltenham put on a hurdle race to cater for these beasts!
Did not get home, if that was Reve De Sivola last year at 8 he would have won a lot further, Zarkandar has always done most of his running off the bridle, at 3m1 he was clearly stretched to the limit and got outstayed, for a horse who outbattled The New One, dont you think he downed tools a bit quick there? Out on his feet.
Can't agree with being lazy in front as he used to be a front runner! A very tired horse after 3m on soft ground imo.
