BALLON ONABUDGET (IRE) got back to winning ways at Uttoxeter last month, securing his fourth win for The Little Faith Partnership in the 2m7f Handicap Hurdle. The first-time cheek pieces had the desired effect and he kept on well in the closing stages to take the lead over the last and pull clear under Johnny Burke. He could bid to follow up off a 3lb higher mark at Stratford on Monday.
WRITTENINTHESAND (IRE) opened his account over fences at Market Rasen on Saturday for his owners Richard Wilkin, Sue Orr, Harriet Boileau & Jamie Douglas. It was his first start following wind surgery and he travelled strongly throughout the race before Johnny delivered a perfectly timed challenge on the outside. He’s at the right end of the handicap and should continue to improve.
VALSEUR DU GRANVAL (FR) finished fifth on the same card and will now enjoy a well-deserved retirement. He’s been part of the furniture for years, having joined the yard joined the yard back in 2013. He won 7 chases during his career, originally in the ownership of Simon Clarke and more recently for Lauren’s syndicate of family and friends. Val provided them with some fantastic day’s out, so much so they have decided to replace him with new French recruit CHAPTAL (FR) who will make his debut for the yard in Oct/Nov.