The predicted going at Musselburgh on Monday at the time of writing is good, good to soft in places, and that will not be a problem for either of our two representatives, Rockcliffe, and Kisumu, who both step up in trip to the extended two miles and seven furlongs for the first time, in Division 1, and Division 2 of the 0-100 handicap hurdle.
Rockcliffe runs at 3.0.pm with Billy Garritty taking the ride. Rockcliffe is now back on the same mark of 82 that he won off at Musselburgh back in April 2018 over a full mile shorter, but he has been placed over two miles on the flat, suggesting that he should get this trip.The ground at Sedgefield on his last run was too soft, but prior to that, also at Sedgefield, he was only beaten eight and three quarter lengths, staying on over two miles and one furlong.
Kisumu who runs at 3.35.pm has the unenviable record of being a 47 raced maiden, but he has gone close to winning over hurdles on a number of occasions, most notably at Wetherby back in March just before lock down. He was second that day, beaten by 1/2 length, and on Monday with Emma Smith-Chaston retaining the ride, he will race off a mark of 75, which is 2lb higher than that Wetherby run. Kisumu appears to act on any going, and has shown similar form over both two, to two and a half miles,and should stay the extended two miles and seven furlongs.
To keep up to date with all the latest happenings at Oakwood Stables, and Sharp Hill, click on 'NEWS' at www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections RM&T, S Toomes, J Hill & Partners, and Tasker-Brown & Partners.