Highly Sprung, one of two Mark Johnston declarations for the �20,000 Highland Spring Water Nursery Handicap over six furlongs of 'good to soft' Hamilton, ticks enough boxes for a solid each-way punt but today looks difficult!
We've had plenty of rain countrywide for several days, Goodwood will be nigh on bottomless, if it's on, Epsom also forecast very soft and even the lone jumping fixture at Newton Abbot will be played out on demanding conditions; There is an old saying. 'when wet, don't bet!'
Don't forget betting isn't compulsory but if it's an addiction, or you can't watch a race with involvement, reduce your stakes dramatically and be patient, a spell of high pressure is due and by the weekend ground conditions could be in stark contrast.
Unfortunately some punters are addicted and that's why I'm always banging the drum about sticking to my daily patent which is all about three singles, (if odds of 2/1 or better are on offer), three doubles and a treble.
The DP adds spice to 'investing' and that's the way to approach backing horses; adopt a controlled, business-like attitude; bookmakers take it seriously and make millions collectively, why shouldn't we do the same. They have to 'play' in every race, we don't!'
Johnston was asked to alter his modus operandi this season and concentrate moreso on the juvenile scene, he's slotted into the role seamlessly and his two-year-olds have been a revelation at all major meetings with resounding successes in high-profile races; Highly Sprung is ordinary by comparison to several classic prospects at 'Johnno's' Middleham base but consistent and definitely the one to beat under Joe Fanning, the redoubtable jockey whose dedication and consistency are testimony to his splendid genuine career. a man who punters can trust, 100 per cent!
On the time-handicap thrice-raced stable-companion Ahdaf could be a danger but all races to date have been over five and so with three places available Highly Sprung is nominated to make the frame.Earlier once3-raced Colour Me Happy is expected to improve in-form trainer by Karl Burke and land the 2-y-o Maiden Stakes over a mile and Electra Voice is fancied to go close in the Fillies' Nursery over six furlongs at the Arundel circuit; a difficult day!
SELECTIONS
10.20 Colour Me Happy
11.15 Electra Voice
1.05 Highly Sprung