James De Vassy

James De Vassy ran a massive race to finish fourth in the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham on Sunday. Sent to the front from flagfall, he was still in front and holding every chance jumping the last, but he just faded up the run-in as his early exertions took their toll. Four-year-olds usually struggle in the Greatwood, Detroit City is the only sophomore to have won it in the last 10 years, and it is difficult to make all and win it, so James De Vassy did remarkable well to go so close in the ground under 10st 13lb. He looked good in winning a good handicap hurdle at Chepstow on his seasonal debut in October, and this was another step forward. He has run just five times in his life, he is progressing impressively, a 6lb hike should be well within his compass, and he should be worth following wherever he goes next.

15th November 2009