November Update

Apologies for not updating a bit more regularly recently, but I've been very busy with work and just haven't had a chance to do racing justice.

A few observations on autumn jump racing in Scotland and the North recently.

SNOW'S RIDE has progressed nicely on the fast ground and after his fortunate 'win' at Kelso, picked up a race at Sedgefield. The ground is turning against him now, but one worth bearing in mind when the ground dries out in the spring. If kept on the go he may just find an opportunity at Musselburgh, a course which soaks up the rain better than most.

SCHINKEN OTTO returned to form with a win at the same Sedgefield meeting, but he's another one who is favoured by fast ground.

JOHN DILLON won the juvenile hurdle and should win again, but STROBE was well clear of the rest in second, and did enough to suggest he can pick up a hurdle or two.

I rather wrote off LOST IN NORMANDY last season, but he's hit some form and won well at Newcastle. He'll no doubt be put up quite a way in the handicap, but stays and jumps well, seems to handle cut as well as fast ground and might remain competitive up to 0-110 class.

In a competitive bumper, Nicky Richards' NOBLE ALAN won very smoothly and should take another race or two. WATERLOO ROAD was well held by the winner, but held off the rest. KINGSBEN comes from a stable with a useful record in these events, made decent late progress and is one to watch out for next time.

GLINGERBANK was a nice winner of a novices' chase at Kelso on Nov 10. Should progress from this, and a step up from 2m 1f will help.

The weather has gone downhill a bit this week, and it's forecast chilly for Friday, but I should be at Kelso to report on what looks a competitive card.