Wincanton preview: Varom weighted to strike
Published:
David Metcalf | December 3, 2015
Varom disappointed last time out, but looks worth another chance to cash-on on what looks a lenient mark in the the 2m 5f handciap hurdle on today’s card at Wincanton (13.25).
The gelding won his sole start in a French bumper in 2012, and shaped with bags of promise on his hurdling debut for trainer Paul Nicholls when second of 10 to Gone Too Far in a decent contest at Wetherby back in 2013.
After racing keenly on the heels of the leaders, Varom kept on nicely to be beaten 2 3/4 lengths without being unduly knocked about.
The winner is now rated 125, and Varom finished a length in front of the third home Gassin Golf who is now rated 140.
That represents strong form in the context of this class 4 contest, and suggests that Varom is potentially thrown-in at the weights off a handicap mark of just 109.
Although the six-year-old disappointed off it on handicap debut at Warwick last month, that was his first run for nearly two years and Varom shaped as if needing it.
The son of Charming Groom travelled strongly until weakening three from home, and with that run under his belt fit Varom is likely to prove a different proposition for a yard in fine form at present.
Cash in on Capilla
In the 2m 4f handicap chase (15.10), Capilla can make light of a 7lb penalty to land the spoils.
The Evan Williams trained gelding shaped with plenty of promise when third on his chasing debut at Ffos Las last month, and duly built on that effort to score in facile fashion at Lingfield two days ago.
Capilla made a total mockery of his handicap mark of 95, jumping superbly at the head of affairs for much of the contest before overcoming a blunder at the second last to win easing down by 25 lengths.
It was a performance which suggested the 10-year-old needed keeping firmly onside, and it’s no surprise to see connections turn Capilla out quickly before the handicapper has his say.
Under a penalty Capilla is able to race off a mark of 103, and that is still 6lb lower than his highest rating over hurdles.
It makes the son Beneficial look incredibly well-treated, and granted a clear round Capilla is going to be very hard to beat.
Selections
12.50: Lifeboat Mona
13.25: Varom (NAP)
14.00: Shy John
14.35: Presenting Arms
15.10: Capilla (NB)
15.45: Hard As A Rock
