TIERRA NEEDS TAUNTON

It’s been a busy month for Jeremy Grayson as the jumps season gets up to speed

- Jeremy Grayson

LUDLOW, 12 November (Good, good to soft in places)

1m7f212yds (+100yds) Novices’ Handicap Chase (class 5)

It’s taken TIERRA VERDE a trio of runs to return to form following a 564-day absence, and her credentials for chasing set against younger, more purpose-built rivals aren’t necessarily the most encouraging as a sprint-bred Josr Algarhoud rising ten years of age.

There were definite positives to take from this near 5l fourth on her belated chase debut, however, not least how strongly she hit the line despite having walloped Ludlow’s infamous fourth from home, her only mistake of note in a race littered overall with jumping errors.

It’s not a given that a step up in trip is required now, considering she was played rather more patiently here than for either hurdling success in early 2019, and 2m-2m1f under an assertive ride may still represent her optimum.

Right-handed venues in general appear to be preferred, but a return to Taunton, where her hurdling record reads 3211, to continue her chasing education would particularly pique the interest.

NEWCASTLE, 13 November (Good) 2m7f149yds 0-105 Handicap Hurdle (class 5)

FINAL FLING probably isn’t the same animal that recorded three victories in staying hurdles during 2017-18, prior to a 21-month absence from the track.

Ability definitely remains, however, although ground quicker than he likely prefers nowadays has limited the impact Rose Dobbin’s gelding has been able to make late on either start this autumn.