Gunner Lindley failed to land a gamble on his first start for Stuart Coltherd but looks worth another chance at 8/1 to make amends in the 2.15 at Ayr today.
The gelding was a useful sort at his best on the flat and easily won an apprentice handicap at Leopardstown on his penultimate start when trained in Ireland by Denis Hogan.
He also shaped with plenty of promise in five runs in maiden hurdles for that handler, finishing fourth of 20 to Notable Graduate at Galway and occupying the same position behind Prince Chaparall in a 13-runner affair at Tramore.
The winner of the latter was officially rated 112 that day, and the third home Run For Firth has since come out and won at Galway to give the form a solid look in the context of this contest.
The selection did not look overburdened off an opening mark of 102 judged on that effort on his first start for Coltherd last time out, but after being backed in from 9/1 into 5/2 favourite he could finish only a well beaten 9th of 13 to Bogside.
However he was aclose up until weakening after hitting two from home, and I am sure that he is better than that and worth another chance to exploit what could be a handy mark as the support he received that day suggests connectiosn believe they have a well-treated horse on their hands.
The soft ground should certainly hold no fears for him and with Daragh Bourke taking 7lb off his back it would be no suprise to see him leave his latest effort well behind.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts win Gunner Lindley (8/1 Stan James – BOG)
