ROSS COM is fancied to make its mark despite top weight at Cartmel's evening meeting tonight (Saturday).
Sue Smith's 11-year-old goes for the Cartmel Grand Veterans Handicap, which is restricted to horses over the age of 10.
The distance of 3 miles 6 furlongs should be no problem as Ross Comm was fancied as a Grand National contender at one stage. He was beaten over an inadequate two miles and a half last time, but had previously run well when fifith to Hot Weld in the Scottish National, and before that at Cheltenham.
That sort of form, plus with a capable 7lb claimer on board, makes him look worth supporting.
Micky Hammond had a couple of lively looking entries for the opening 5.30 race and has plumped for Trafalgar Man.
However, Evan Williams' Hopeful Purchase is an interesting newcomer to the hurdles game and should be noted in the market.
This son of Grand Lodge has some fairly decent flat form behind him and the Welsh trainer is fairly canny at placing his charges.
There is also positive news for Super Revo (6.30), coming to peak form after a thrd last timne out.
Saturday's racing is dominated by the Irish 2,000 Guineas and Cockney Rebel is sure to be a warm order. A price of 5-4 looks fair.
Prince Golan is fnacied to take Haydock's Silver Bowl Handicap (3.40) for the shrewd Kevin Ryan and Lovelace (5.15) should be watched in the market now that a longer trip is tried.