'We might try him in a more valuable race' - loftier targets await Lebowski

Saturday: Wetherby

Lebowski appreciated the return to calmer waters and left his trainer contemplating a return to more exacting company again with an impressive display in the 2m handicap hurdle.

The 9-2 chance, ridden by Luca Morgan, had the race in safekeeping from a long way out and defeated the odds-on favourite Kellahen by three lengths.

Trainer Michael Scudamore said: “He was highly-tried last year and unfortunately it didn't come off.

“We did think if he could recapture his old form he would have an excellent chance today. I’m delighted that it’s all worked out well and Luca gave him a good ride.

“He might be ahead of the handicapper now but that could all change on Tuesday. We’ll see what happens but we might try him off a low weight in a more valuable race.”

Gamble landed

Trac, backed into 4-1 from an overnight 20-1, landed a gamble with a comfortable success in the 2m3½f novice handicap chase in the hands of Conor O’Farrell for trainer Micky Hammond.

“He won over hurdles here last season and he ran well at Newcastle on his chasing debut," said Hammond. "He got a little tired that day and didn’t get home and dropping back in trip on this ground suited him.

“His jumping was great there and we thought if he jumped like that again he would be thereabouts - and he was! Everybody is happy.”

O'Farrell also steered Peribonka River to a winning debut in the bumper to complete a double.

Smith strikes

Sue Smith secured a welcome 19-1 double with the successes of Burrows Diamond in the 3m handicap chase and Aire Valley Lad in the 3m novice handicap chase, topped off by Romeo Brown's 50-1 win at Aintree.

Results, replays and analysis

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