Fastnet Storm

Fastnet Storm was up against it in the one-mile handicap at Haydock on Thursday, a front-runner who had drawn stall 10 of 10. An outside draw is a significant disadvantage over a mile at Haydock, and Tom Tate's gelding had to do a lot of running to get to the front. There were quite a few other front-runners in the line up, and at no point was Micky Fenton really allowed drop anchor in front as Trans Sonic kept him up to his work.

Yet Fastnet Storm stuck admirably to his task when Ezdeyaad joined him a furlong out, and he only gave best to Jordaura for second place inside the last 100 yards. This was a fine effort. He isn't obviously progressive, this was his 18th race, but the Racing Post Rating that he recorded here was his highest ever, when he didn't get the run of the race. Signs are that he is improving again now, he should be better when he is drawn more favourably and if he is allowed an easier time of it up front. He is also better on easier ground than that which he encountered here, and he gets 10 furlongs well, so he has plenty of options. The handicapper has left him on his mark of 90, which is more than reasonable, and he will be of interest wherever he goes next.

20th May 2010

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