Snapping Turtle runner up at Musselburgh

And a fine race he ran too.

With Snapping Turtle now rated 104 by the BHA Handicapper (and of course we think that's a few pounds too high, natch), he was up in grade in the Class 4 staying handicap hurdle at Musselburgh yesterday. The good to soft ground was just a bit softer than he likes, but in the absence of any obvious front runner, Callum jumped our gelding off in front.
Disputing the lead with Solway Sam, he didn't seem to meet any of his hurdles on a perfect stride, but fiddled his way over several and still travelled well. A few horses started to press the leaders 4 out, but Snapping Turtle dug in and kept apace turning into the straight. At this point, Pauline's Full Jack - a classy chaser who was dropped in class and thrown in here at the weights - was travelling supremely well. Snapping Turtle rallied again to chase the winner, but it was soon clear that he had to give second best.

So, a second place, but to be beaten 6l, receiving only 1lb from a Grade 3 winner who has won over £200,000 in his racing career, is no mean feat. Snapping Turtle may need a break soon, but it's hard to do when he's showing his career best form. Good ground is clearly the key, and we'll see what is cropping up at Musselburgh, Catterick and so on in the next few weeks.

 
Snapping Turtle - runner up at Musselburgh yesterday