Millar’s Method: Strong stayer can land Sunday’s Peterborough Chase

This year’s edition of the Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon looks pretty strong with both of the last two winners - First Flow and Mister Fisher - in the line-up once again.

Given that he had raced almost exclusively on ground described as softer than good, I was surprised to see First Flow cope so well with a faster surface last year. And, while softer conditions would aid his cause, he certainly deserves his place at the head of the market.

This year's renewal is undoubtedly deeper than 12 months ago, however, and he now has to concede 3lb to a number of rivals. Meanwhile, Mister Fisher has become a hard horse to predict, and Allmankind is another who looks regressive.

Do Your Job was high on my list of horses to follow this year, but his season hasn’t started well. Hastily scheduled wind surgery in the 25 days between his two runs is far from a positive. 

My focus is firmly on two progressive young horses: Pic D’Orhy and Millers Bank. I’m a huge fan of the former, who is exceptionally exuberant and likes to go hard from the front. However, the presence of First Flow, who is sure to receive an aggressive ride from David Bass, tempers my enthusiasm. 

Millers Bank’s season didn’t get off to a good start as he departed at the first fence in the Old Roan Chase, but he showed no ill effects when only narrowly failing to concede 12lb to the 148-rated Beauport at Carlisle. That rival let the form down at Haydock, but a poor round of jumping means it shouldn’t be taken too literally.

With First Flow and Pic D’Orhy certain to set a searing gallop, this could well turn into a strong test of stamina. Millers Bank hit the line powerfully over this trip on a stiff track at Carlisle, and I’m sure his future lies over three miles. I expect Kielan Woods to utilise his stamina and get to the front inside the final furlong.   

Peterborough Chase Tip

Millers Bank (2.55 Huntingdon) @ 5.8