Oscar Could Spring A Surprise At Stratord

A frustrating run from yesterday's selection Wild Flower. She got boxed in rounding the home turn and ran on well once finding a clear path. The winner had flown though, and she just failed to reel him in. It was a place at least though and at the advised price of 20/1 it resulted in a bit of profit.

Today there is more all weather action in England, but the horse I am interested in goes over timber in the 3.10 at Stratford, a 2m6f maiden hurdle. The one I like is the Jeremy Scott '2nd string' I'm Oscar, who will be ridden by talented conditional jockey Matt Griffiths, who is excellent value for his 3lb claim. Scott also runs Master Benjamin, who will be ridden  by stable jockey Nick Schofield, but the jockey bookings haven't put me off.

I'm Oscar has had two runs so far, and by far the best one came on his debut in a 16.5f bumper on soft ground at Taunton. he ran a lovely race to finish 4th, outpaced but keeping on nicely. The fact  he was sent off at just 6/1 suggests he is well thought of. His next effort at Ffos Las wasn't nearly as promising, but there is hope that he can put in a better performance today.

He is related to a heap of winners, including the likes of Benefit Cut, I'moncloudnine, Imalegend and Ballyben. Almost all of that lot need a proper stamina test to be seen at their best, and the step up in trip looks sure to suit I'm Oscar. The fact that Griffiths rides could be seen as another positive, as he was on board for both his bumper runs so he knows the gelding well.

Now obviously an awful lot has to be taken on trust with this selection, and it is not one to be having the monthly mortgage payment on. He could be unfit and need the run badly, he might not have improved for the break etc. However, at odds of 40/1 I think it is worth chancing that Scott has him ready to go and is upping him in trip on his hurdle debut for a reason.

STEVOS' SELECTION: 3.10 STRATFORD: I'M OSCAR 40/1 E/W