Come Racing At Hexham Friday 6th October Handicap Chase (Qualifier)

A disappointing numerical turnout, and it's more than fair to say that none of the four runners appear progressive. Friendly Royal and Presented have both been largely out of form and are beginning to fall in the weights, but with little to recommend either, the pair to concentrate on are the course winners MAN WITH VAN and Tickenwolf. The latter is a younger horse and thus open to more improvement, but he's blotted his copybook on a couple of occasions since making a pleasing start over fences, so preference is marginally for the once useful top-weight. Now approaching twelve he's undoubtedly not the force of old, but Patrick and James Griffin know how to best handle their horses, and it's perhaps notable that the first time hood is applied.

1. Man With Van
2. Tickenwolf
3. Friendly Royal