Towcester preview: Oscar Jane primed to open account

David Metcalf | November 5, 2015

Oscar Jane has posted some really solid efforts of late and can take advantage of a handy mark to open her account in the 2m 4f handicap hurdle that opens proceedings on today’s card at Towcester (12.50).

The Johnny Farrelly trained mare was rated 102 at her peak but is now able to race off just 77 having returned to form in her last three outings.

After finishing third to the thriving Bulletproof in the first of those at Newton Abbot, Oscar Jane looked set for victory when coming to grief two from home at Chepstow.

The eight-year-old held a length advantage and seemed to have things firmly in control, and had she stood up there is little doubt in my mind that Oscar Jane would have prevailed.

Oscar Jane then showed that tumble had left no lasting effects when an excellent second of 11 to Native Display at Plumpton 17 days ago.

The daughter of Oscar travelled powerfully at the head of affairs, and after being headed two from home rallied strongly on the run-in to go down by just 3/4 of a length.

It was a run which suggested her time was near, and a repeat should be good enough to see Oscar Jane go one better and notch that illusive first success.

Arthur Mc Bride one to watch

In the 2m 4f handicap hurdle (14.15), Arthur Mc Bride is a fascinating contender on debut for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies.

The gelding has so far been badly let down by his jumping in five runs over hurdles, but had some very smart bumper form to his name when trained by Fergal O’Brien.