Daily write-up - Feb 16th

They race at Carlisle and Lingfield (probably) this afternoon and there are a few interesting races.

However, non of them provide quite enough of an angle to warrant getting involved….

The best racing is at Carlisle – particularly the final 3 races on the card…

In the handicap hurdle at 4:00, I could have been very tempted by Upswing, for the resurgent Jonjo O’Neill yard.

He opened up 7/1 yesterday evening – but that was never going to last and the best you can get this morning is 3/1…

In truth, that’s probably about right. I think the horse will take all the beating, back over hurdles – even though he is running over a trip that appear to be his minimum.
If he is beaten, then it is likely to be by fellow market leader, Spanish Fleet.

In the next race on the card, I was half tempted by Lackamon.

His last time out fourth to Lie Forrit and Harry the Viking looks a lot better after their exploits over the weekend – and Lackamon has been dropped a couple of pounds as well.

I can see no reason why he won’t run a big race – and if I put up 10/1 shots EW, I would probably put him up.

But that’s not really my style – and I can see a few dangers in the race.
Chief amongst them is Howard’s Legacy – but a price of 6/1 on him, is about right.

Beg to Differ is the obvious one in the finale – but he has been priced up accordingly.
I would expect our old friend Hartside to also run a big race - but again there is no margin in his price of 6/1.

He is very speculative, but the one that interests me most is Suprise Vendor.

We were on him last time, when he disappointed over fences at Haydock. He is put over hurdles today - and off a potentially lenient mark.

You can get 25/1 about him this morning - and that might possibly be worth a risk…

Finally, assuming the Lingfield meeting takes place, the only race of interest is the handicap chase at 2:45.

It features another old friend, in Strange Bird – and I would give her a big chance, if she can bounce back to form.

She was a little disappointing last time at Chepstow, but hopefully todays step up in trip will help her.

That said, it looks a tricky contest to get a handle on, with both Tarabella and Leith Hill Legasi looking possible dangers.
I wouldn’t put anyone off supporting Strange Bird, but there seems limited margin in her 8/1 price.

Best of luck if you do choose to get involved today.

TVB.