Jukebox King continued his progression on his second handicap start at the Somerset track on Wednesday 1st April.
Jukebox King started as the 11/4 joint favourite, taking on seven rivals with Tom Bellamy in the saddle. He settled well in midfield and travelled smoothly throughout. Once again, his hurdling was exemplary, gaining ground through slick and accurate jumping. Turning for home, he briefly looked to be getting outpaced and in danger of losing position. However, he responded well when asked, staying on strongly to pass several rivals up the straight.He ultimately finished second, beaten five and a half lengths by a well-handicapped rival. It was his best finishing effort to date and he looks a very promising prospect for staying novice chases, following what is likely to be one more run over hurdles.
After the race, jockey Tom Bellamy gave us his verdict on the performance:
“Now, I am the first to admit when I’m wrong, last time I got off and said keep him to two and a half miles, but he definitely wants three miles. I felt beaten turning in and thought we’d finish third or fourth, but then two out I thought we’d go and win. The winner had a gear more than us, he’s still got some filling out to do and whatever happens this year, he will be better next season. I think there is a race to be won with him over hurdles before we go chasing.”
Joint Trainer Kim Bailey reported the following day :
“Jukebox King is absolutely fine this morning. I was very, very happy with him. He gave the impression that he stays very well and finished out his race so it was a very positive day. He jumps for fun, he is going to make a lovely chaser and I can’t tell you how excited I am for next season. We will see how he comes out of the race and hopefully give him one more run this season.”
This was a very pleasing effort from Jukebox King and one that suggests he can win plenty of races. His owners enjoyed a great day at Wincanton and have an exciting prospect to look forward to in the years ahead.
Shares are still available in Jukebox King for just £70 per share HERE.
