Thursday, April 14, 2016

Eric Alston hoping Ridge Ranger is in the hunt for Lansdown glory at Bath


Eric Alston is optimistic Ridge Ranger can continue her progression with a big run in the Whitsbury Manor Stud & EBF Stallions Lansdown Fillies' Stakes at Bath on Friday.
The daughter of Bushranger has won first time out for the last two seasons and had improved from handicapper to Pattern-race performer by the end of the campaign.
After finishing a close third to seasoned campaigner Maarek in the Beverley Bullet, Ridge Ranger ended 2015 with a fine effort in losing out by just a nose to Steps in the Group Three Dubai International Airport World Trophy at Newbury in September.
She now bids to make it third time lucky in Pattern company in this Listed race over an extended five furlongs.
"She's wintered very well and I'm hoping she'll improve again this year," said Alston.
"She's a big, strong filly and has won first time out both years. She seems pretty fit.
"The Newbury form is very good. If she runs up to that she could have a great chance."
Iffranesia has to carry a 4lb penalty for winning a Listed race at Chantilly in October and her trainer Robert Cowell believes she has a bright future.
"She's in very good form. Her coat looks really well. She won a Listed race at the backend of last year so she's got a penalty," said the Newmarket trainer.
"She might go on to better slightly better things this year now she's a year older and we hope for the best. She'll like the ground."
Mick Appleby is expecting a decent run from Demora after she returned from a spell in Dubai.
"She come back from Dubai well and is in good order," said the Newark handler.
"The more the rain the better for her. If the ground goes softer that would help more. She should run well."
Paul d'Arcy felt Shadow Hunter was unlucky on her reappearance at Wolverhampton last month and is looking forward to the three-year-old taking her chance.
The Arcano filly kept classy company as a juvenile. Although unable to cut the mustard in the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket won by leading 1000 Guineas contender Lumiere, she was an excellent third to Quiet Reflection in the Cornwallis Stakes back at Headquarters.
"She's done very well since Wolverhampton. She missed the kick there and I think it may have almost cost her the race," said the Newmarket trainer.
"We're very hopeful. I think she's a very good filly."

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