Spearing looking to the heavens
John Spearing is praying for rain ahead of Simon’s bid for back-to-back victories in the Racing Post Chase at Kempton tomorrow.
The going was soft when the gelding, owned and bred by former trainer Mercy Rimell, swept to a 10-length success over Cornish Sett in the three-mile feature 12 months ago.
However, conditions do not look like being as testing as he attempts to emulate Docklands Express who took this valuable handicap two years running in 1991 and 1992.
“It would be more to his advantage if it came up really wet, though he can go on this ground all right,” said Spearing.
“Last year it stopped the others and he was the only one who could keep going. If it was like that I would fancy him a lot.
“They were all exhausted from three out last year and it just left him there.”
Spearing also believes that this year’s renewal will be more difficult to win.
“I think it’s probably a bit tougher than last year and he’s 8lb higher in the ratings.
“He won it off 143 he’s on 151 now, but he’s in good form and all being well it’s the Grand National after that,” he added.
