Somersby shines on chase debut
on 04/11/2009 20:29:55
Henrietta Knight's Somersby was the star turn at Warwick when making a pleasing introduction to fences in the Commscope And Anixter Business Partner Novices' Chase.
The five-year-old, third in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival last season, always looked an embryonic chaser in the making.
He appears to have a bright future in the game after having landed odds of 11-10.
Settled nicely by Paul Moloney, Somersby made his challenge between Kanad and Olympian Boy turning for home and was not extended to win by 14 lengths from the former.
Straw Bear was very disappointing back in fourth.
Somersby earned a quote of 12-1 for the Arkle from totesport, while Paddy Power were less impressed and go 16-1.
Knight said: "He did a great job but still has a bit more to learn, although it was very good considering it was his first time over fences.
"He may go to Sandown for the Henry VIII Novices' Chase and I don't think he really minds whether it is a flat track or if he goes up hills.
"I think he goes on any ground except extremes and I wouldn't risk him on firm or heavy.
"The Arkle is the plan."