2:22 – Atlantic Storm 17/2
A race full of inconsistent types and those with plenty to prove. Two of the six reach for first time headgear while the favourite unseated last time out when seemingly going well, although I do struggle to have faith in that particular yard and that mishap was only seven days ago.
As such, I’m happy to take a chance on the summer stalwart, Atlantic Storm who almost certainly wouldn’t be here if the weather hasn’t been unseasonably dry.
His summer campaign was a solid one, winning once back in May from a mark of 109; that performance sandwiched a host of respectable efforts from similar marks. He runs here from a career low mark of 102 and while he is thoroughly exposed, he doesn’t yet have the profile of a rapidly regressive type and I’m surprised that the handicapper has dropped him eight pounds over his last two starts.
His penultimate run was at the end of a long summer campaign so perhaps he was in need of a rest, while his most recent effort came after a two month absence over a trip thats almost certainly too fair for him.
Back down to an appropriate trip, I think Market Rasen will suit given his hold up style and the very long home straight at the Lincolnshire track. He did actually run here for Dan Skelton back in 2018; off 119 that day, he should’ve won but he threw the race away having hit the front too early, hence why he needs to ridden with meticulous patience.
Rob Summers brings his stable star to Market Rasen for what is his first runner at the track since 2014. He looks to have found a very winnable opportunity in a weak affair. Charlie Hammond, who’s ridden him for the majority of his recent runs and has been on board for his past two wins, takes over from James Best.
overandclear.com 