Gulland ready to Rock at Catterick

Catterick stage a competitive eight race card today, and Gulland Rock looks weighted to take all the beating in the 5f sprint that opens proceedings (1.30).

Trained in Lambourn by Bill Muir, the well-bred colt hinted at ability in three maiden runs before coming good on his handicap debut over 5f at Musselburgh off an opening mark of 58.

The son of Exceed And Excel relished the fast ground to make all that day, and then reportedly finished lame when last seen in action on the polytrack surface at Kempton over 6f.

The drop back to 5f and return to the turf look sure to suit, and off just 3lb higher than when last successful Gulland Rock is likely to take some pegging back if allowed his own way up front.

Gold Show put in an eye-catching effort last time out and is taken to get back to winning ways in the 1m 4f handicap (2.30).

Edwin Tuer’s mare last scored 12 months ago when staying on strongly to beat Carragold at Ponetfract off a mark of 68.

The daughter of Derby winner Sir Percy now gets into this off 3lb lower, and hinted that she could be ready to take advanatge when third to Pertuis at Pontefract 15 days ago over 1m 2f.

The five-year-old held every chance two from home until being unable to find a change of gear inside the final furlong, and it was a run which suggested that Gold Show may well be suited by today’s 1m 4f trip.

Wannabe King has a good record fresh and is weighted to go well at a big price in the 7f handicap (3.40).

Geoff Harker’s charge was last succesful at Redcar 10 months ago when running on strongly to beat Orbit The Moon off a mark of 89 .

The eight-year-old now gets into this 3lb lower, and is a dual winner over the trip who handles the forecast quick ground.

Connections are also now refitting Wannabe King with cheekpieces, and that is interesting as the son of King’s Best wore headgear (a visor) when last victorious.

Selections:
1.30: Gulland Rock (NAP)
2.00: Thatcherite
2.30: Gold Show
3.05: Polar Eyes
3.40: Wannabe King (NB)
4.15: Spring Lady
4.50: Trinity Star
5.20: Alluring Star