Kelso Saturday

Just the one runner at our local course Kelso tomorrow, where Gie It Laldy returns to the track to contest the bumper at 3.55pm.
After a promising first run last season in an Ayr bumper (the first two have won hurdle races subsequently) in January, the Multiplex gelding didn't follow that up at Kelso a couple of months later. However, he did pick up a slight knock during that race so we're inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt. Anyway, after a period of box rest and several weeks at grass, Gie It Laldy has returned to the yard and has again been showing promise on the gallops.

Only time will tell if he's forward enough to win a bumper but we do hope for an encouraging run here.

Fergal O'Brien sends up the nicely bred Irish Point winner Kamsinas, who beat Winchmore Hill by a neck at Loughrea in March. Winchmore Hill was subsequently sold for £150k to join McCain and Kamsinas himself made £65k at auction.
Rebecca's Sagebleu finished last of 8 in his sole outing last season for Tristan Davidson but has been an overnight mover in the betting market. Brian Hughes is in the saddle so you'd have to surmise that he's been working well at his new home. Wouldn't you......?
Lucinda's Bix Beiderbecke is another well rated youngster. He ran a bit freely on his debut at Perth in September when 4th but clearly has ability.
And talking of Ms Russell, Gillian Boanas' Balcomie Breeze is out of a half-sister to Brindisi Breeze (2012 Albert Bartlett winner). The dam has already bred a winner so this gelding is another likely sort to be in contention in the final 2 furlongs.
Kinneston Nick introduces a nice filly in Carrigeen Kali who is from a family full of bumper winners (well, a couple anyway) and is by the increasingly popular NH sire Soldier of Fortune. Sure to improve during the season whatever she achieves here.

So, as always, a fascinating race with many taking their initial steps on what would hope to be a National Hunt career, with Kamsinas looking the one the others have to beat on the day.

Regular rider Calllum Bewley takes the ride and good luck to Borders' owners Simon and Angela Gillie.

The grey Gie It Laldy, pictured here last season with Callum, sandwiched by the Houxty sisters