We send three up to Carlisle on Sunday, where the going is currently heavy, and there is standing water on the track, although at the time of writing no inspection has been called.
We will be doubly represented at 2.47.pm, in the £30,000, 'MARK NIELD WEALTH MANAGEMENT GO NORTH ONE MAN SERIES FINAL HANDICAP CHASE,' over two miles, a race which is part of the wonderful initiative that gives Class 4, 5, and 6 horses a chance to run for Class 2 money.
Duo D'Enfer was a decisive winner from a 3lb lower mark than now at Sedgefield in February, but failed to back that up in a better race next time, and with his last start being over hurdles when finishing fourth, there is every reason to think that he is still in form. He has conditions to suit here, and has the champion jockey Brian Hughes in the saddle for the first time.
Our other representative in the race is Trac, who coped the best in heavy ground at Newcastle last time, when appearing to record a new personal best, (by quite some margin) to win easily by four and a quarter lengths, for which he has been raised 7lb. He will face similar conditions here, and although two miles is on the short side for him, the testing going, and stiff uphill finish will play to his strengths. Trac will once again be partnered by Conor O'Farrell.
Carrigeen Castle also gets a tilt at the big money, when he goes to post for the MARK NIELD WEALTH MANAGEMENT GO NORTH MONET'S GARDEN SERIES FINAL HANDICAP CHASE,' at 3.22.pm, over two and a half miles, where he will be re-united with Brian Hughes, who was also on board for their emphatic 11 lengths demolition of the opposition at Wetherby 19 days ago. That is the second time that in recent weeks Carrigeen Castle has won easily at Wetherby, which has seen his mark climb from 94 to 119, but such is his authority when winning, that you wouldn't put it past him to defy this new rating.
To keep up to date with all the latest happenings at Oakwood Stables, Sharp Hill, and Curlew, click on 'NEWS' at www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections, Samuel Sutton, Randall Orchard, Gary King & Partners, and The Cheltenham Trail.
Carrigeen Castle.
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