Chuzzlewit Gains Overdue Win

Actions speak louder than words and this is very true with horses. Chuzzlewit has long been held in very high regard but never quite delivered on those expectations. Whilst the 4yr old has been set some tough tasks in his career, there are very few miles on the clock and a winter campaign has finally seen the gelding back in the winner’s enclosure. Taking the 1m BetMGM: It’s Showtime Handicap at Newcastle, Chuzzlewit booked his place in the Lincoln.

Bought back at the Horses In Training sale, Chuzzlewit was gelded before tackling an all-weather campaign. Starting off promising, Chuzzlewit failed to build on his first run and subsequently became disappointing in his efforts. Always travelling well in his races, it was decided that a change of headgear may be in order, just to give that extra bit of help. With first time blinkers on, he would line up against 5 rivals, whilst Shane Gray was booked for the ride.

The small field could have led to a tactical affair but the pace was fair from the get go. Chuzzlewit jumped straight into his stride and settled just behind the leaders. The field were almost in single file behind the leader as they race down the centre of the track. Chuzzlewit was slightly keen through the first couple of furlongs but not ever doing too much.

There was no change until the business end of the race. As the pace eased through the middle section, the leader tried to kick form the front moving inside the final 3f. This move was easily covered by those in behind and Chuzzlewit was one who travelled very well alongside the fav. Shane began to wind his mount up and they moved up down the stands side. The leader was quickly swamped by his rivals and although a new leader took charge, they too looked like a gatekeeper for those giving chase.

Either side of the leader, Chuzzlewit and the favourite moved through smoothly to challenge. They took up the lead with 1f to run and the race quickly became a two horse event. As the pair settled down to fight it out the lead was with the fav. Chuzzlewit had come through powerfully but when asked his response was not immediate. It took some work from Shane but the deeper they got into the final furlong, the more momentum was gained. Hitting top gear, Chuzzlewit took the lead with 100 yards to run. He continued to gallop out and pulled away from the fav, securing a 1/2 length victory.

It was nice to see Chuzzlewit get his head back in front and he needs to a bit more this year with the talent he possesses. Owner Jimmy Chua only secured the 4yo in October and it looks to be a shrewd buy. Chuzzlewit is a strong traveller which suggests that the bigger fields will suit him even more. The Lincoln will be next and it will be interesting to see if the ground is suitable. Whatever happens, Chuzzlewit does look a handicapper to follow in the big Saturday races through the year.

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