31 March 2009 Preview: Tedworth - Barbury Racecourse
BOWDENS LANE: bids for another big race victory
The coveted Tedworth Gold Cup takes centre stage at the Tedworth's Point-to-Point meeting at Barbury Racecourse near Marlborough this Sunday, 5th April.
Julie Houldey and Dave Mansell, who took last year's running with Cottage River, have strong claims with Bowdens Lane, who won the Classic Lord Ashton of Hyde's four-mile race at Dunthrop in January, and Just Talking, who extended his unbeaten sequence to four at Maisemore Park on Sunday. John Manners' Aitchjayem has chances, along with the South East-qualified Master Alf, a two-time 2009 winner for Suzy and Peter Bull this season. Braeroy has twice beaten Knighton Combe this season and is fancied to confirm those placings and deny the Houldey/Mansell representative.
Cottage River, who has been off the course since pulling up after bravely trying to keep tabs on Kingscliff at Dunthrop in December, is among the 21 entries for the Conditions race. Swift Wood catches the eye, along with Hi Fi, who has been in the frame in his last three outings. Godfrey Maundrell's Lisadell King has been absent since winning three races in January and February last season, so Cottage River gets the vote to make a winning return.
There are 15 entries for the opening Confined race, including Mytabean, who is unbeaten in two 2009 outings for Tim Sage. Whereareyouknow may set a fast pace, but Top Benefit has impressed in his three winning outings this season, including here in January and is a confident selection to provide yet another win for Julie Houldey and Dave Mansell.
The Restricted race looks a competitive affair, with 28 entries. Cottenham winner Kings Rhythm, Port Talbot, who made all and just lasted home at Badbury Rings, good Larkhill runner-up Silent Gunner, impressive Eyton-on-Severn winner The Rainbow Hunter and Ottery winner Kenickie may be five to consider.
The 2m4f Open Maiden race looks challenging, with 42 entries. Wynbrook has been knocking on the door and may give punters a good run for their money. Punters may have equal difficulty with the Open Maiden, which has attracted 40 entries. The consistent Derry City (placed in his three outings to date) and Villa Mara (in the frame in his last seven races) may be two to choose from.
The course is 3 miles NW of Marlborough, off the A346 or A4361. First race: 2.00 pm. Admission: £10 per head (adults).
