In a previous post I said we didn`t know what to expect from our latest syndicate jumper Charlie Wingnut at Sedgefield for his first run under NH rules since 2012.
He didn`t cost a lot at the sales, and in the parade ring, someone, who shall remain anonymous, commented….he`s never going to win a beauty contest, in fact he`s a great ugly looking beast of a horse!
So members present were quite happy just to hope for a decent round of jumping, and perhaps to witness a glimmer of potential for the future.
And indeed we certainly got more than a hint with an excellent performance after such a long absence.
Timeforms assessment of Charlies performance was as follows;
dual winner in points since last seen under Rules for Nicky Henderson, shaped well on belated return to this sphere, going through the race as if ahead of his mark and giving best only to an unexposed sort showing improved form; chased leaders, travelled best, went prominent fourth, led before 3 out, not fluent next, headed last, stuck to task, pulled clear of remainder; sure to be of interest again in a similar event.
The plan will be to prove Timeform are correct.
However, you only have to look at the stamp of this “beast” to realise that he`s going to be a better chaser than hurdler, so I don`t think it will be too long before Novice Chasing becomes the topic of discussion.
Certainly jockey Robert Hogg would concur, as he`s ridden, and schooled him at home, and is well impressed with his jumping ability.
He is a very lightly raced 9yo and I just think me and the lads may well have plenty of good days ahead with this fella, and I`m sure the Smiths, with their capacity to excel in bargain basement purchases, will be doing their damndest to succeed ….yet again.
So Charlie is indeed our darling right now, and we`re hopeful he will be for a long time to come.
