Spring Cup An Option For Riva

Rio Riva could bid for compensation after his narrow William Hill Lincoln defeat at Newbury later this month.

The five-year-old was beaten just a length by Very Wise in the handicap feature at Newcastle on Saturday, despite racing from a disadvantageous low draw.

Connections are now considering a crack at the Bloor Homes Spring Cup on April 21 with Rio Riva, although there are some other races under consideration.

'He's in good form and we were obviously delighted with him,' said Steve Brown, assistant to trainer Julie Camacho.

'All options are open to him now. We might look towards the Spring Cup at Newbury and there are also a couple of options at York and Newmarket for him.'

With Rio Riva the only horse in the first six to race from a single-figure draw, Brown is certain the draw proved to be a crucial factor.

'I think it was the draw that beat him. We raced diagonally for about 50 yards while the other two (Very Wise and Mutawaffer) were straight out and racing from high draws,' he added.

'Tom (Eaves, rider) also thought if he had got a run when he wanted, he wouldn't have been too far away. We are very proud of him though.'

Plans for winner Very Wise remain undecided according to trainer William Haggas.

The John Greetham-owned five-year-old maintained his progressive profile with victory at Newcastle but his Newmarket handler will take his time before mapping out a new target.

'He's absolutely fine this morning,' reported Haggas.

'I don't know what I'm going to do with him yet. The owner has gone away for a few days so we will give it some thought when he comes back.'

(C) PA Sport