Rock Of Deauville is undoubtedly well treated in the 2.15 at Wincanton and with the headgear now fitted is of major interest at 4/1.
Paul Nicholls’ four-year-old was very disappointing when well beaten on his reappearance at Cheltenham, but is definitely worth another chance to prove that was not his true running.
He showed that he had plenty of ability in his first season over the sticks, where his runs included and excellent sixth of 23 to What a Charm in the Fred Winter at the Festival.
He looked poised to open his account on his final start at Ascot when travelling strongly on the bridle only to come to grief at the second last in a race won by Ultravox, and this looks the perfect opportunity for him to make amends.
The gelding would have been clobbered in the weights if he had stood up and sauntered home at Ascot, but as a result of his unfortunate tumble he found himself off 116 to kick of the new campaign.
Although he couldn't take advantage of that rating when heavily backed at Prestbury Park nine days ago the handicapper has been quick to react and dropped him 2lb to just 114
That menas he is now only 2lb higher than his run in the Fred winter, and given that he looked the type who would improve significantly with time then he will surely take advantage sooner rather than later
To me he looks the type to keep on the right side in the early part of the season, and I can see him rattling up a few wins before the handicapper gets to grips with him if the headgear does the trick.
With James Cowley taking off 10lbs he is potentially thrown-in at his best in this line-up and rates the day's best bet on the card.
Recommended bet: 4pts win Rock Of Deauville (4/1 generally available - BOG firms)
