Sunday 1 March

Two runners yesterday in Doncaster, one too slow, and the other too fast. First up Maypole Lass in the decent listed mares novice hurdle. It was a sporting decision to run her in that grade, but the hope was, that with all the other mares bar one, seeming to have shown their best on a very slow surface, and ML needing a quicker surface - she could possibly bridge the gap between them. Unfortunately not, and in the long run she is just not up to that grade - she is just too slow for them. Richie McLernon rode her, and said she would be winning very soon, back in her own grade, which is where she will head next, in 3-4 weeks. Owner, Ben Turner who is currently off games with an ankle injury, and could therefore attend, was very sporting and philosophical after the run - and although not good enough on the day, he knows she will be winning her race soon! Next up was Benefit Cut, who was reappearing after an enforced layoff due to ill health. AP McCoy was on board. As can often be the way with BC after a break he can get very fresh and keen, and yesterday was no exception. He did way too much in the early stages - with AP reporting that he knew he was beaten after jumping the second as they were just going way too quick. Saying that BC ran very well considering, only giving best between the last 2 after which the Champ was not hard on him, and only being beaten just over 13 lengths. It was a big step up from his previous effort, and if given a clear run, it is a performance that BC and the team can build upon. He my drop down to 2 miles at some stage. The good news is that both horses seem fine this morning, and should be out again in 3-4 weeks. (Thanks to Martyn for the photos)