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Richard Birch's play of the day at Carlisle
Russian Virtue
Carlisle stages an interesting card, where Russian Virtue appeals strongly as the standout contender in the 2m1f handicap hurdle (2.48).
Winner of six of his 20 starts over hurdles - two of those victories being achieved over course and distance - Russian Virtue competes off a 4lb lower mark than when last successful in December 2023.
That’s before the 7lb claim of conditional rider Joshua Thompson is taken into consideration, so it’s not difficult to make the case for Russian Virtue being well handicapped.
There is no doubt the eight-year-old retains all his ability. On his last start over hurdles in June, my selection ran one of his best-ever races to chase home the exceptionally well-treated Crystal Mer at Uttoxeter in a well above-average Class 5 for the time of year.
The winner started 1-2 favourite, but was made to work harder than many clearly expected by 14-1 Russian Virtue, who went down by three lengths.
Crystal Mer bolted up on a return visit to Uttoxeter the following month off 14lb higher, while the third, Ambassador, scored at Cartmel in August.
The fourth, Scintillante, who progressed throughout the summer, went on to beat the 75-rated Sixty Plus in comfortable fashion two starts later.
It is worth noting that Sixty Plus won his next four starts for James Owen and is now officially rated 124.
Russian Virtue warmed up for this assignment with a solid fourth of 13 behind Woodleigh over 1m2f on the Flat at Redcar a fortnight ago, and should be spot-on to make the boldest of bids at a venue he clearly loves.
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