05 May 2011 Preview: Devon & Somerset Staghounds - Holnicote
by Brian and Gill Armstrong
Rainbow Tree can complete a four-timer for Worcestershire's Katherine Smith-Maxwell and Alex Dunn in the Devon & Somerset Staghounds Ladies Open at Holnicote near Minehead this Saturday, May 7th (first race 2.00pm).
The 11-year-old was unplaced in his first three outings this season, but followed up wins at Brafield-on-the-Green and Chaddesley Corbett by completing his hat-trick at Maisemore Park on Monday. Bobsleigh, the 2010 winner, and Miss Midnight, whose three race winning sequence ended at Flete Park a fortnight ago, look the strongest challengers.
The opening Hunt race has its customary impressive entry, including former Horse & Hound Cup winner Southwestern, who looks right back to his best despite a recent Trebudannon reversal. The Pearns have entered Absolut Power and Deloughtane, who had Miss Midnight in arrears when beaten a nose by Dr Cerullo at Flete Park, while Touch Of Flame and El Hombre Del Rio, first and second in the 2010 contest, could renew rivalry. Southwestern is the automatic selection if facing the starter. In his absence, Cherry Winzer's Kingston winner Three Half Crowns may give punters a sporting run for their money.
The Intermediate race has attracted nine entries, including Monday's comfortable Cattistock winner My Minds Maid. Roisini Bay recorded a good time when winning at Trebudannon on Easter Monday and is fancied to follow up.
Stafford Cross winner Fredwal is among 12 entries for the PPORA Club Members Conditions race. Absolut Power has chances if connections take this option, but course winner Quizzling is the suggestion.
Eggesford winner Apple A Night and the consistent The Great Iam are two to consider for the Restricted. The lightly raced Merriott's Oscar was in contention when falling at Upcott Cross and can make amends here.
Here's Johnny beat subsequent winners Rockwithacaveman and Three Half Crowns at the Eggesford and can follow up in the Mens Open. Cappoquin won two races - one a walkover - at Stafford Cross on Sunday and looks the one for the forecast.
Winter Warmer finished third at the Quantock Staghounds and could be the one for the closing Maiden.
The course is off the A39, 3 miles W of Minehead and 2 miles E of Porlock. First race: 2.00pm. Admission is £20 per car; £10 single occupancy; £5 for pedestrians.
