19th Jul 2011 | Horse Racing
Musselburgh Tip: Strike Up The Band
Has been showing good form in a much higher class than this. Dropped into a claimer to get a win.
There are generally two types of horse that find themselves in claiming races. Those that have lost their way or good horses that need a drop in grade to win.
Strike Up The Band is firmly in the latter camp in the 4.30 at Musselburgh. Official rated 87, he has a mark 10lbs higher than the next best horse in the race. Just touched off by a short head on his seasonal reappearance, he still retains plenty of ability.
Without a win since 2008, trainer Dandy Nicholls has dropped him in class to gain an overdue win. Any type of victory can boost a horse’s confidence, and Strike Up The Band could do with just that.
Nicholls is a master of this tactic, often dropping useful horses into claiming company. In the last five seasons the trainer has a 30% strike rate with his older horses in claiming races, generating a £40 profit to £1 stakes.
The drop in class is a positive move, Strike Up The Band should win easily as I rate him an odds-on shot for the race.
*Best Odds Guaranteed – William Hill
Back Strike Up The Band with William Hill as they are best price and offer Best Odds Guaranteed. If the starting price (SP) is bigger than the current price, you get paid at the bigger SP.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 10:00 19th Jul, 2011 but subject to change
