A small but competitive six–runner Class 4 handicap over 7f at Chelmsford where tactical speed and track position will be crucial. With no obvious tearaway front runner expected, the race should be run at a sensible tempo, placing the emphasis on horses who can sit handy and quicken off the bend.
Elements Of Fire makes the most appeal. The Archie Watson-trained four-year-old made a successful stable debut at Lingfield 25 days ago after ten months off the track. He travelled like a horse with more ability than his opening mark and, despite beating only two rivals, the manner of the victory suggested there is still improvement to come. He is lightly raced, already proven over the trip on the all-weather, and stall one gives Hollie Doyle the perfect opportunity to secure a prominent position around Chelmsford’s tight circuit. An opening handicap mark of 87 does not look beyond him.
The chief threat looks to be Inspired, who has shown ability in novice company and shaped better than the bare result on handicap debut at Newcastle. He raced too keenly that day but still finished a respectable third. Dropping to 7f could help him settle and the mark of 79 looks workable if he progresses as expected.
Captain Parma is another to consider after landing a course-and-distance handicap nine days ago. He has been admirably consistent this winter and clearly handles Chelmsford well. However, this is a slightly deeper contest and he may find one or two with stronger upside.
Grabajabba arrives here on the back of a Wolverhampton win in first-time visor but that came in a race that fell perfectly for him and a small rise in the weights demands more. Epictetus has been struggling for form for some time, while Society Man has offered little encouragement since his surprise Kempton success in October.
In a race lacking depth, the one with the most scope for improvement is Elements Of Fire, and with a favourable draw and a yard that excels with all-weather handicappers, he looks the most likely winner.
Selection: Elements Of Fire
**Main danger Inspired.