Sean Bowen Saturday rides blog: 'She's got a nice racing weight and could be a big player'

1.50 – Red Oak

I start off at Newbury with Red Oak, who was a little disappointing last time when pulled up in a graded race at Kelso. That run was below what he’d been showing beforehand, as he’d been really consistent. It’s a bit hard to pin down exactly what went wrong that day – it was a long trip up there, so maybe being back closer to home at Newbury will suit him better.

If he can bounce back to the form he was showing before Kelso, then he’s definitely got a chance. He just needs to put that last run behind him.

2.25 – Coastguard Station

I won on Coastguard Station at Market Rasen back in September, so I know what he’s capable of. He was a bit disappointing at Newcastle after that, but he’s been freshened up since, which should help.

He comes here off what I think is a fair mark, and if he turns up at his best, he’s got every chance. It’ll be interesting to see how fit he is after the break, but I’m hopeful he can run a good race.

3.00 – Queenofthejukebox

I thought Queenofthejukebox ran well when second at Wetherby in February. She’s had wind surgery, and has improved with each run since, which is always encouraging.

If she continues progressing the way she has been, then I don’t think she’s badly handicapped. At a bigger price, she could sneak into the places and maybe even do a bit better.

3.35 – Madam Speaker

I ride Madam Speaker here for Nicky Henderson, and I’m looking forward to getting on her. There’s been a bit of a jockey switch with James and me, as he can’t get down to 10st 3lb. Obviously, you never turn down the chance to ride for Nicky Henderson.

This filly ran at Wincanton on her debut and looked a bit green, which is normal first time out. You’d expect her to improve for that experience, and she’s got a lovely pedigree. If she steps forward from that first run, she’s got a nice racing weight and could be a big player. With Nicky’s horses in good form, you certainly couldn’t rule her out.

4.45 – Elysian Knight

My final ride is Elysian Knight. I think he’ll really appreciate better ground – he’s probably not at his best when it’s too soft. He ran well at Musselburgh, and his last run wasn’t too bad either; he just made a couple of mistakes that didn’t help his chances.

The first-time cheekpieces could sharpen him up, and the step up to 2m7f on nicer ground should suit. If everything clicks for him, I think he’s got a good chance of running a solid race to finish the day.

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