Aashiq up to heavy task
RISING star Aashiq (Nap) can confirm his new Class Three status with a win in the third where an interesting tussle can take place with another useful performer in Lucky Century.
Aashiq took a voluntary promotion to contest a similar Class Three, 1,400-metre event last time won easily by just under four lengths.
It was a scintillating performance but the Lawrie Fownes-trained galloper has paid the price with a rise of 14lbs. to a topweight of 138lbs. It's an onerous burden, but this horse has a lot of class.
The Try My Best four-year-old will probably appreciate longer than this trip a little later, but it still looks right for him here and, if he can account for Lucky Century, should have the rest covered.
Lucky Century may not be a particularly robust type but he does have undeniable ability and he showed that last time when hacking up over this trip in late October.
Nigel Tiley has not been gifted with the best draw but he should angle the well-bred Australian import across and be in the firing line.
It is likely that these two younger horses will dominate betting while another handy younger campaigner, Determinater, may be worth considering.
