Maryland Hunt Cup 2016

[Flatterer]

Entries for the race are available at the following site:

http://www.nationalsteeplechase.com/...-Overnight.pdf

For the first time in Steeplechase Timber history, the Maryland Hunt Cup will carry a $100,000 purse. To navigate the 22 post and rail fences, experience and practice are key for a good performance. Winner’s common traits since 2008 - At least 1 start in the race......9 to 11 years old....finished in top 3 at My Lady's Manor or Grand National the same year before running this race.

Raven's Choice is the top choice and was the oddball last year winning in his first attempt at age 8. But he was placed 1st after Imperial Way lost a 26 pound lead weight blanket after the 19th of 22 fences. Raven's Choice beat And the Eagle Flys at Grand National by 3 lengths. Eagle set the pace and Raven passed him with 3 fences to go. Mark Beecher is the most successful jockey in this race.

If Raven doesn't show up Guts For Garters will win. Guts ran four 3 mile point to point races in 28 days. His last race was at Fair Hill when he lost a match race to Hockey Pop. He gets a pass for not competing at My Lady's or Grand National. Petty is 2nd most successful jockey in the race and Sanna Neilson is one of the best timber trainers and knows this horse.

Imperial Way is a career 0 for 19 maiden and as demonstrated last year, even when he wins he loses.

Senior Senator, 6YO first timer in the race will open a big lead and crash and burn. I see no chance of him winning this race after negotiating the 4 ft 10in 16th fence and then the 4 ft 6in 19th fence.

Almarmoq is a pure jumper with no speed and will finish the race.

Good Luck to all runners and have a great day if you are attending the Maryland Hunt Cup.

[Flatterer]

Senior Senator went to the front early and opened up 25 lengths after 2 miles and held on to win by a 1/2 length.

Guts For Garters passed Senior Senator by a 1/2 length at the next to last fence but Senior Senator still had enough in the tank to fight back and hold Guts for Garters to second.

Raven's choice was in pursuit when he fell at the 16th fence.

There were 5 finishers in the field of 13. Results at the following link:

http://www.nationalsteeplechase.com/...up-Results.pdf

Early speed wins at 4 miles.