Timeform Notebook: Saint to Roque next time

Court Minstrel caught the eye last week in the often-informative Grade 2 Sharp Novices' Hurdle, shaping better than the bare result as he finished third in a slowly-run contest. A strong-travelling type, Court Minstrel was unsuited by the slow gallop which prevailed, finding himself poorly positioned to launch a challenge as they quickened in the closing stages. He was also hampered on the approach to the final flight, forfeiting crucial ground on the leaders who were quicker away from the obstacle. Court Minstrel finished strongly to snatch third, looking as if he had plenty left to give, and he is definitely one to keep onside when a stronger pace is assured.

The Paul Nicholls-trained Saint Roque was certainly unlucky on Friday, still travelling well when he was brought down at the third-last hurdle. Although too far out to form any definitive conclusions, Saint Roque arguably looked like the most likely winner and will definitely be of interest next time. He was given a breathing operation prior to his Cheltenham reappearance and it is possible that he is a well-treated horse, handicapped on the form he produced when possibly struggling with his breathing.

Teaforthree faded late on in the Henrietta Knight Handicap Chase on Saturday, but there were positives to take from the performance having travelled and jumped extremely well for much of the way. Teaforthree, a winner over four miles at the Festival, was probably lacking for fitness on his seasonal return and a better display can be expected next time. His bold-jumping, strong-travelling style, allied to his ability to handle soft ground and proven effectiveness at Chepstow would make him look like an ideal candidate for the Welsh National.

Runners Debrief:

It was another quiet week for us as most of our Flat horses have been put away for the winter, but there are a few interesting types still operating on the all-weather and last week English Summer was in action. English Summer has been a tad unlucky lately, consistently running well but bumping into one too good, and he finished a narrowly-beaten second once again, finding only an improving type from the Mark Prescott stable too good. He is steadily creeping back up the weights, but remains capable of winning more races. He has an entry at Wolverhampton on Friday and will be of interest should connections decide to run him.  

Crowning Jewel, whose form behind Ifandbutwhynot and Eduard has been well advertised by their subsequent victories, holds an entry at Haydock on Saturday, where the step back up in trip promises to suit. It is sure to be a competitive race, but he looks well treated and could go well at a decent price.

Get open access to Timeform data for just £2.50 a day with Timeform Race Passes. It's like a Form Book, Black Book & Race Card all in one! Find Out More!