A small but interesting five-runner bumper rounds off the Plumpton card and, as is often the case in races of this type, previous experience could prove decisive. With no obvious confirmed front runner, the race is unlikely to be run at a strong gallop early, which could turn it into a tactical contest where track position and a turn of foot become important.
Plumpton is a sharp, left-handed track and bumpers here often favour runners who can travel comfortably close to the pace before quickening turning for home. With only five runners, the early positioning of the principals could shape the entire race.
Two runners with previous form set the standard on ratings. Secret Des Lune appeals as the most solid option. She finished second on debut and recorded the best TimeWise rating in the field. That run suggested ability and natural improvement would be expected from a horse having only its second start. Sam Twiston-Davies takes the ride and the mare looks likely to sit handy in what could be a steadily run race.
Double The Dance is the obvious threat. The Gary Moore-trained gelding also finished runner-up on debut and showed enough ability to suggest he can be competitive again here. Moore’s runners are often well prepared for Plumpton and this horse should strip fitter for that initial outing. If he travels as well as he did first time out, he has every chance of being involved in the finish.
The unknown quantity in the race is Getmyfriend, a newcomer from the Dan Skelton yard. Skelton is more than capable of producing a bumper winner with a debutant and the horse’s pedigree suggests stamina should not be an issue. However, lack of racecourse experience in a tactical small-field race can sometimes leave newcomers at a disadvantage.
Another debutant, Luna Marquesa, represents Joe Tizzard and is a French-bred mare by Kapgarde. The pedigree suggests staying potential and she may develop into a useful jumper in time, though this race may simply be a starting point for her education.
That leaves Soldier Poet, who has experience but has yet to produce a performance that matches the level shown by the leading pair. Improvement is possible, but based on what has been seen so far he needs to find more to trouble the principals.
Overall, this looks a race likely to revolve around the two runners with proven bumper form. In a small field where tactics could play a big role, the horse with experience and the best existing rating often holds the advantage.
Verdict: Secret Des Lune sets the standard on form and may prove difficult to beat if progressing from her debut. Double The Dance rates the main danger, while Getmyfriend is the most interesting of the newcomers if the market speaks in her favour.