Horses To Follow » Theatrical Star

Theatrical Star

Theatrical Star did well to finish second in the Veterans’ Series Final at Sandown last Saturday, given that he was ridden patiently in a race in which it was probably a significant advantage to be ridden handily.

Sandown’s chase track generally favours prominent racers, and five of the first six home in the veterans’ race raced handily. Theatrical Star was the only one who didn’t.

Settled nicely in midfield through the early stages of the race, he made nice ground down the back straight final time. He moved nicely to the third last, the Pond Fence, and he looked the most likely winner as he challenged Pete The Feat around the home turn, but the leader found plenty in front and Colin Tizzard’s horse just couldn’t get past him. Even so, he kept on well all the way to the line to retain second place, four lengths clear of the third horse Loose Chips.

Theatrical Star does not have many secrets from anybody, as befits a veteran, he is 11 and this was his 42nd race, but he is obviously in top form, he can be marked up at least a little on the bare form of this run. He was raised 5lb for this, but his new mark of 132 is still 8lb lower than his peak. Also, interestingly, he is now rated 10lb lower over hurdles than he is over fences, and he ran well when third to Mr Mix over hurdles at Wincanton on St Stephen’s Day, so he will also be of interest if he returns to hurdles soon.

7th January 2017