THE Tommy Wallis Handicap Hurdle at Wincanton today represents the perfect medium for value hunters a manageable nine runner field and a few easily discounted contestants.
Best value bet in the line up is Bob Buckler's hurdler Ground Nut, who makes his second appearance over hurdles having failed to get the grasp of fences in the novices' division.
To say he faced a stiff task on his reappearance over hurdles is an understatement, but he still ran with great credit against formidable opposition in the form of Alderbrook at Kempton. Well there until two out, he gradually faded to finish 27 lengths last of seven but it was a promising run nonetheless.
Buckler was delighted with the performance and yesterday claimed. "He would have been even closer if he hadn't flattened the second last flight. He is in brilliant form at home and I expect an improved performance," he continued. "Although he does act well on soft ground, he should, go on the laster ground and I don't think that will be a problem."
The improving Keep Me In Mind looks sure to prove Ground Nut's fiercest rival. The seven year old bounced back to form last time at Wincanton but races off a 7lb higher mark here. That may just be enough to let Ground Nut at more attractive odds sneak it.
At Catterick, the Grey Monk's half brother Seven Towers can continue on the winning trail by landing the Pitlochry Knitwear Handicap Chase.
Mary Reveley's charge successful on his first two outings this term, looked to have come unstuck when managing only ninth place behind Major Bell at Kelso in January. But he was found to have lost a shoe at the Borders track and made amends in no uncertain style when beating Seeking Gold by five lengths at Ayr next time.
Best bet of day at Towcester is Cawarra Boy who can be excused an off day last time as he had previously been in great form. He is taken to regain the winning thread in the Swan National Handicap Hurdle.
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