Preview of our entries over the next week or so

Things look a bit brighter in terms of racing prospects, and the rise in temperatures today allowed us to harrow the Up-the-Middle gallop.
So with plenty of racing in the north, here's an insight into our thoughts

Kelso Sunday

• Yinfortheroad makes his hurdling debut in the opening novice event over an extended 2 miles. We feel he can do better than his bumper form, but either way he'll gain more experience here.
• Leith Walk runs again over the same course and distance (2 miles and bits) she faced on her seasonal re-appearance in October. She's normally consistent, but didn't run that well last time, so she's got a bit to find off her present handicap mark of 110.

Leith Walk

Musselburgh Monday

• Mia Matriarch has been entered at the East Lothian track as she's well suited by a sound surface. We figure 3 miles would be about right around this tight track, but she'll need around a dozen horses to come out at the overnight stage to get a run in the handicap hurdle.

Sedgefield Tuesday

• Texas Tilly has recovered well from her recent cold, but will not be suited by the likely heavy going and would be a doubtful runner here, A shame as this would have been a nice introduction
• Mini the Minx should be suited by the soft conditions conversely, and may well take her change in the handicap hurdle over 2½ miles. Not devoid of ability by any means, we'll find the key to this dour, staying mare soon...

Hexham Wednesday

•  You'd reckon that Charlie Bucket would have a lively chance in a 3m maiden hurdle at Hexham, but these can be hot events despite what southern-based racing journalist would have you believe.
• Star Racing's duo - Sam Patch & Hawaii Klass - are both entered in handicap chases at the Northumberland venue. Sam ran really well a couple of weeks ago, here, and is upped in trip to 3m 1f. Hawaii runs in a handicap chase for the first time, but he's an experienced handicap hurdler, so we'll see how he goes.

 It's still very much weather dependent, but the string are fit and healthy, and we're rarin' to go.

Mia Matriarch (led up by Kyle)