Two finals are up for decision at Belle Vue on Tuesday, the Cock O'The North for the stayers and the Scurry
Those who followed the advice prior to the semi-finals can't fail to be sitting pretty, with Hurleys Hero, recommended at [3.8 at Betfair] now trading at only [1.62] for the Cock O'The North, while main Scurry pick Officer Donagh is now [4.5] after being put up at [11.0].
Hurleys Hero, as the current odds suggest, is likely to take the world of beating, and should give rookie trainer Jimmy Wright the perfect start to his career. Wright, of course, lacks nothing in terms of experience, having previously assisted Graham Hutt and more recently Andrew Bell and his runner will bid to make things simple by shooting out in front and trying to make all.
On the clock it looks a relatively straight forward task and in all likelihood Hurleys Hero should make it five out of five over six bends, but for those already on a spot of trading has to be recommended. If there is to be surprise, Gabba Gabba Hey might be the one to provide it. Andy Clarke's strong staying sort has won three of his last five, and while he has a fair bit to find on the clock, he will certainly be the one finishing best of all. Vatican Fyne, last year's runner-up, has only just returned to the track after a three month absence, but it's hard to see him being quick enough to lead the favourite, which will dramatically hinder his chance.
On paper the Scurry is far more open, but I'm still happy to stick with Officer Donagh, and for those yet to indulge I'd suggest you take the [4.5]. Chris Allsopp's charge has won eight of his last 11 outings and is also chasing a five-timer. He should enjoy plenty of racing room from trap six, with kennelmate Centaur Allstar and Matts Mentor likely to be looking for the inside. Allsopp's other runner is certainly interesting having won a heat of the Derby before dropping in trip, and is likely to go off favourite after breaking the clock in the semi-finals. However, he does face a tricky draw and I'm comfortable leaving him alone.
Elsewhere, David Pruhs can strike in the Ladies Race (8:00) with Plan, who is two from two at 'The Zoo' and holds Southern Sunset on Derby night form at Wimbledon. She has won seven from 12 this year and should go in again.
The Stayers race at 8:35 is tougher, but I'd be interested in Laverick Limmo if he's a fair price. Pat Rosney's runner has only just returned to the card after a long time away but had some fair form last year, including over eight bends, and would be a threat with a clear run, which he has not had so far.
Barnfield Brooke failed to repeat his recent win at Wimbledon in the Dorando, but has been very consistent since stepping up to marathons and can claim the 8:50. Ballyea Honcho, behind the selection at Plough Lane, and in the Peterborough Marathon final is one to lay given a return of just one in his last 16 outings.
Ardkill Tunoco is very fast on his day, as he showed in the first round of the Scottish Derby, and can upset former Derby finalist Kryptonite in the 9:25.