Analysis and Key Quotes for a Deceptive Staying Handicap Chase – A Closer Look
The form of Pilot Show’s second-place finish to Guguss Collonges in November has turned out better than expected. Additionally, his conqueror at Hereford, Hipop Des Ongrais, has shown potential as a young stayer. Jonjo O’Neill Jr, who will be riding Pilot Show for the first time, has had a 35% strike-rate with six wins out of 17 rides at Warwick this season. However, Pilot Show is facing an increase in weight due to jockey Micheal Nolan taking over and not being able to claim a weight allowance. Despite this, Pilot Show had previously won off a rating of 132 and will now be competing off just 107.
Race conditions are expected to be largely dry on the day, with gusts reducing to 35mph and maximum temperatures of 9C. Trainer Warren Greatrex expresses optimism about Pilot Show’s chances, noting his consistency throughout the season and unfortunate near-misses for a win. The trainer believes that the track and ground conditions will suit the horse, and that he deserves a victory.
Richard Mitford-Slade, trainer of Samuel Jackson, comments that his horse has improved since his last run over hurdles at Bangor. Samuel Jackson has been eager for a run in the past two weeks and is expected to return to form. The horse is in a favorable class and the distance of the race will suit him, having previously run over three and a half miles-plus.
Rockinastorm, trained by Henry Daly, has taken well to chasing. The horse had a less successful run at Uttoxeter due to not being in the right position, but still jumped and ran well. Philip Hobbs, joint-trainer of Head And Heart, explains that the horse will wear cheekpieces in hopes of improving her performance, as she did not travel well in her last outing.
Overall, there is optimism from the trainers about the performances of their respective horses and hopes for a successful run. The text concludes by mentioning that Racing Post has the best offers all in one place.