Sean Bowen: I’d say each of them has some sort of a chance

This is a competitive little race, but I actually think he is a nice horse, so if he does strip fitter for that last run, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if he put up a bold showing.

2.05 Ascot – Strong Leader

I’m very much looking forward to riding in the Coral Hurdle (I had to get that in there!), and although it’s a relatively small field, it does look a competitive renewal.

Strong Leader showed some high-class form as a novice last season, and I don’t think there’s any doubt that the best of that form gives him a huge chance in this race. He didn’t handle the track too well in the Supreme, but he made up for that when finishing second at Aintree behind Inthepocket, and he did just shape like he needed further that day, so this stiffer test of stamina will definitely be in his favour.

I think Olly was a little bit concerned he wasn’t 100% where he wanted him going into the race at Ffos Las, and that’s how he felt to be honest, he just felt a bit flat and never really travelled. He seems in much better form now, and I think this is the right race for him, so in receipt of weight from the top couple, I think he goes there with a really good chance.

Sunday

11.55 Uttoxeter – Itsnoteasy

He does need to step forward from his run here the last day, but I think there are definitely reasons to believe he will. I think the softer ground this weekend will help him, and we were quite forward on him last time, so I think we’ll change how we ride him, and hopefully that will help him put up a better showing.

It does look a competitive race, and there looks to be a few in here capable of winning, but I’m hopeful there will be a few things in his favour on Sunday, so hopefully he can go well.

12.30 Uttoxeter – Little Miss Dante

She’s a filly we’ve always thought a lot of, and following a pleasing start when second in a bumper at Huntingdon back in January, she’s won her last two in impressive fashion. She was a bit green at Ayr last time on her first run over hurdles, and the ground was probably as quick as she’d want it, but she still got the job done in good style, so she’s definitely a filly with plenty of ability.

She does carry a penalty here which is never easy, but she carries that for a reason, and I’m really looking forward to riding her again on Sunday afternoon.

Sean

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