Scudamore thinking big with Lebowski after impressive novice success

Sunday: Ffos Las

Trainer Michael Scudamore was left "dreaming of bigger targets" for Lebowski after his six-year-old was visually impressive when landing the 2m novice hurdle.

The well-backed 5-2 favourite overcame a 235-day absence to saunter to an easy six-length success under jockey Richard Patrick.

The winner was having his first run for Scudamore, who said: "He did very well last year for Adrian Wintle, but he was a little bit on the weak side. Over the summer he's really filled into his frame.

"He's done everything right at home and we were hopeful coming into today that he'd put up a good performance. Of course what they do at home doesn't count, it matters what they do on track."

He added: "His jumping was very slick and accurate, Richard gave him loads of confidence. We'll go for another novice hurdle and get more experience into him. If that all goes to plan we can start dreaming of bigger targets."

Owner Mark Dunphy was capping off a fine week after the smart Do Your Job had also struck for him at Warwick on Friday, also saddled by Scudamore, who added: "We're very thankful to Mark for sending us these types of horses. Things are going well and long may they continue."

Barber continues good run

Trainer Jack Barber continued his excellent recent run when 22-1 shot Lydford Lad overcame greenness to repel Airtothethrone by half a length.

Barber is operating at an impressive 60 per cent strike-rate over the last fortnight with three winners from five runners.

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