Ravenhill starts off on the right road to future stardom

Ballycrystal
Second, 2m3f beginners’ chase, Sedgefield, Wednesday, October 25
Ballycrystal pulled well clear of the third when a brave second to hot favourite Kalondra. Brian Ellison’s well-regarded six-year-old tracked the leaders but had to be driven to chase the classy winner between the last two. However, there was a lot to admire about the way he kept on despite always being held.

Below his best on his previous two starts over hurdles when breaking blood vessels, Ballycrystal can build on this very promising chasing debut.

Bertog
Third, 7f nursery, Newmarket, Wednesday, October 25
Bertog held three entries last week but connections boldly opted for this competitive event. I asked the colt’s trainer John Mackie to assess his chances on the morning of the race and he said: “This is a step up in class but Bertog is a good horse.”