Firstly, Bravemansgame winning the Graduation Chase for Paul Nichols and Harry Cobden. You will struggle to see a better round of jumping anywhere this season. He looks an extremely exciting horse for his connections.
Then A Plus Tard cantered round in the Betfair Chase, making some talented horses look very ordinary. The Irish dominance continues, but one thing is for sure, I would love a go on both Bravemansgame and A Plus Tard. The Haydock crowd have most definitely witnessed two superstars.
As for my own rides on Betfair Chase day, Silva Eclipse unfortunately needed the ground to be a lot softer but ran ok and hopefully the handicapper will relent a little and he will get back to winning ways once the rain comes.
Bass Rock ran a proper race to finish third in a very competitive hurdle race. Had the ground been softer I think he would have won and he is a very very exciting horse going forward. We may even aim him at a race at the Cheltenham Festival.
Empire Steel also ran an incredible race to finish second on his first start this season. He will come on for the run and just like Bass Rock is very exciting. The problem will be deciding where to go next as he is creeping up the handicap. No doubt we will see him in a Grade 2 very soon.
So, no winners on Saturday but horses all tried their best and ran really well and most importantly they are all safe and well.
