Vino chops down Trees on run-in

A strong headwind was no doubt a factor in some of the finishes at Market Rasen, but it could hardly be blamed for the defeat of Ten Trees in the 2m4f mares’ handicap hurdle, as she was in behind runners most of the way. Alan Swinbank’s six-year-old looked sure to prevail starting up the run-in when heading outsider Bonnet’s Vino, who had only just taken it up at the last. However, despite nearly £6,000 being matched on Betfair at the minimum 1.01 Bonnet’s Vino worried her out of it again in the last stride or two.

Hennessy Gold Cup outsider Oscar Rock, returning to action over hurdles at the same track off a mark 15lb lower than his peak chase mark, was solid in the markets all morning and travelled really well through the race until threatening to throw it away with a mistake at the last. That gave Duke Street another chance, and he touched 1.16, but Oscar Rock had more to give and was well on top at the finish.