Southwell preview: Benenden weighted to strike

Brother Scott has since run well to finish runner-up on three occasions, twice off a rating of 101, and is now able to race off 93.

That gives the gelding a big shout at the weights and he comes into the contest having shaped as if returning to form last time out when fourth at Hexham.

Lava Lamp weighted to shine

Lava Lamp is not the easiest to catch right, but if putting his best foot forward is weighted to take all the beating in the 2m 4f handicap hurdle that closes proceedings (17.15).

The Evan Williams trained gelding has not scored since landing a class 3 contest at Newton Abbot 11 months ago off a mark of 113, but is now able to race in this lower grade class 4 affair off a rating of just 108.

That is the lowest mark the nine-year-old has raced off in over three years, and Lava Lamp comes into the contest on the back of a much improved effort at Uttoxeter five days ago when staying on in eye-catching fashion to finish a 2 1/4 length fourth.

It was a performance which suggested Lava Lamp’s time was near, and if building on it the son of Shamardal can get back in the winners’ enclosure.

Selections

14.15: Steps And Stairs
14.45: Never Up
15.15: Brother Scott
15.45: Miss Sassypants
16.15: Blagapar
16.45: Benenden (NAP)
17.15: Lava Lamp (NB)

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