25 March 2009 Preview: Cattistock - Littlewindsor
Southwestern, who was sixth in Cheltenham's Christie's Foxhunter, could reappear in the Cattistock Mens Open at picturesque Littlewindsor this Sunday, 29th March.
The 18 entries include Southwestern's stable companion King Of The Jungle, who disappointed at Kingston St Mary, course winner Martin Pitchwood and Niver Bai, winner of two races in 2008, but yet to reappear this season. Thoor Ballylee landed a Buckfastleigh gamble for owner Kit James, but Southwestern is fancied to resume winning ways.
The Ladies Open has attracted a high-class 19-strong entry, including last year's winner Rimpton Boy, who is seeking his 30th career success. Angela Rucker's Blue Business, unbeaten in two outings this season, Lady Myfanwy, second at Cothelstone after two uncharacteristically lacklustre efforts, and Perouse, who chased up Double Honour at the B&SV are other candidates, along with Innocent Rebel, winner of three races last season but only fourth on reappearance at Wadebridge recently. The Littlewindsor course puts emphasis on stamina and Ask Again is fancied to outstay his rivals and provide a comeback winner for Sarah West.
Rimpton Boy is an interesting entry for the Novice Riders race, along with Thisthatandtother, who was collared close home at Larkhill. Master Overseer, a winner at Wadebridge and third to Southwestern at Ottery St Mary, looks their strongest challenger.
Thisthatandtother will be the automatic selection if connections opt for the Hunt race, which has attracted seven entries. In his absence, the consistent Imperial Sun, who was bang in contention when losing his rider in the Quantock Staghounds Ladies Open at Cothelstone, may gain a deserved success.
The 17-entry Restricted looks a competitive contest. Kenickie impressed at Ottery St Mary and gets the vote. Ballygulleen and Ivorsagoodun were both disputing the lead when departing on Sunday, and have chances if putting in a clear round.
The 2m4f Open Maiden has received an entry of 25. The three suggestions are the Leslie Jefford-trained Desert Wells, the consistent Persian Warrior and Shire, who set a furious pace for two miles before falling at Badbury Rings on Saturday.
The meeting closes with the 3 mile Open Maiden race. Choice Connection, Cupidus and Primitive Lass may fight out the finish.
There will be a parade of the Cattistock Hounds during the afternoon and racing is followed by two pony races, qualifiers for the Wessex Series Final at the end of May.
The course lies off the A3066 between Beaminster and Crewkerne. First race: 1.30 pm. Admission charges are £20 per car, £15 car and driver only and £5 pedestrians.
