Lake Bids for Quick Follow-Up Quaddick Lake, who looked an exciting prospect when taking a Belharbour point-to-point for John Costello under Jack Doyle in February 2007, is a very interesting runner in the Burts Chips Handicap Hurdle at Exeter today. This son of Blueprint was described as a nice horse that wouldn't be rushed as he needs time, by Costello, after that success. He began his career from Pond House the following October and fell at the last when upsides high-class hurdler, Snap Tie. However his fortunes took a nosedive after that. David Pipe said of the six-year-old in a Racing Post stable tour back in November: "Quaddick Lake is a nervous, highly strung individual, so we're trying to get him relaxed and enjoying himself again. We know he has ability, so I have to persevere with him." This engagement, over two miles three furlongs, for horses rated 0 to 125, now comes seven days after Quaddick Lake's return to form. Timmy Murphy takes the mount now a week on from 5Ib claimer Ollie Dayman's success on the David Johnson-owned gelding. He was very easy to back then in a three mile half furlong event at Taunton and after a ready two and a half length win, he now actually runs off a 3Ib lower mark - scheduled drop in the ratings has since come into effect and escaped a penalty. Quaddick Lake puts one in mind of Bannow Strand, who ran for the same connections - he eventually found the winning groove after coming from the 'points' with a tall reputation. Quaddick Lake's quick jumping was very much in evidence last Wednesday and dropping back to two miles three furlongs now he appears to hold outstanding claims. (EM)
