GYTO Saturday Notebook Double

Harry Fry remains in good form with a 25% strike rate over the past fortnight and LYDFORD LAD looks to have a great chance of getting his head back in front at Uttoxeter on New Year’s Eve. He made a bright start for this yard finishing second on chase debut at Ffos Las last month. He was held up in rear and had a lot of ground to make up but kept on well. I expect him to be a lot sharper from that now and while there are lots of runners here it is a race that does lack strength in depth.

Bak Rocky is being backed and might be the danger as he should have more to offer yet. Rock Of Star fell on chase debut at Chepstow but was shaping well at the time. He can improve so if his confidence isn’t knocked too much he might go well for a long way too. Pass Me By should be suited by going back down in trip and is best of the rest.

Uther Pendragon arrives in the form of his life having won his last 3 now but he did look under maximum pressure at Kempton and another 6lb could see him vulnerable. I really like Mastercraftsman filly VISION OF HOPE for George Boughey. She looked to relish the step up to a mile and a half for her handicap debut at Southwell winning with a bit up her sleeve. The second Starfighter had won convincingly prior to that so she was beating an in-form rival. She is only up 3lb and I’d be amazed if there isn’t further improvement to come now. Hopefully Pledge Of Peace goes forward to avoid this turning tactical. The danger could be Ruskin Red who was a good second over C&D last month and he remains on a workable mark up just 1lb from that. He only has 1 win to his name though which is a bit concerning.