PUNTERS hoping to get off to a flyer at Newcastle this evening should look no further than Mark Johnston's Abolition (6.30) in the opener.
On the strength of some sparkling homework at Middleham, the cash came for Abolition on his track-and-trip debut, money which appeared well-placed when he cruised into the lead a furlong out.
But just as favourite backers began to feel on good terms with themselves, Ian Semple's unconsidered 50-1 shot, Burnwynd Boy, came hurtling by for what at the time appeared an unlikely victory.
However, far from being a one-hit wonder, Burnwynd Boy has since won quite a valuable juvenile contest at Pontefract, confirming the gilt-edged nature of the Tyneside form.
Kevin Darley reported that Abolition had merely got a little tired in the closing stages, but with that run under his belt there should be no such fitness problems in the Sendrig Maiden Stakes.
Darley might also be on the premises aboard Feelin Foxy (8.30), who had the misfortune of first missing the break, then failing to obtain a clear run, when apprentice-ridden at Redcar on Tuesday.
Derek Shaw's filly hardly broke sweat and his jockey rather frustratingly cantered past the post with an embarrassing double-handful when the race was all over.
Given the above circumstances, it's no surprise Shaw has whipped out Feelin Foxy so soon after that debacle, a hint not to missed, especially with Darley's superior knowledge and ability in the saddle.
Tim Easterby's Viva Volta (9.00) is gradually reaching concert pitch, judged by his latest fourth placing in which he was not stopping come the final furlong.
Sure to be sharper for the outing, Viva Volta is one of the more solid each-way options in the James Burrell Handicap, a wide-open 17-runner affair which is heavily-weighted in the bookmakers favour.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article