GREY Dawning is one of the new kids on the block in the three mile division, and the Betfair Chase on Saturday was his first opportunity to stamp his mark on the three mile open division. Unfortunately for him, he had Royale Pagaille to face, a battle hardened mud lark, who loves it around Haydock, writes Page Fuller.

Grey Dawning jumped exuberantly through the race, only losing 3.54mph on average at his obstacles for the first 15 fences of the race. Royale Pagaille in contrast was a little more careful, losing 4.2mph on average and I think that style of jumping was far better suited to the conditions. It gave the latter more of a chance to fill his lungs and save some energy for the end of the race.

Turning into the home straight, you could see the petrol gauge in both start to falter, but unfortunately more so in Grey Dawning. By the last four fences, Grey Dawning’s slick jumping had paid its price and he lost 6.22mph on average over them, a considerable drop in comparison to the rest of the race. Coming into the last, he looked like he was just holding on, but a blunder caused him to lose 7.24mph, and that gave Royale Pagaille one last chance, which he grabbed with both hands.

Grey Dawning holds an entry in the King George at Christmas, and I think that flat sharp track will be far better suited to his running style. He may have failed at his first swing at this division, but it would be dangerous to rule out after a result like that in such extreme conditions.