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Uttoxeter novices’ chase win for Fry-trained runner.

Ask Me Early  cruised to a comfortable victory in the three-mile 1834 Novices' Handicap Chase at Uttoxeter – after trainer Harry Fry vetoed a previously mooted run in the Midlands National itself.

The grey won on his debut over fences at Chepstow and followed up with a second victory at the same track in January, but a subsequent run at Sandown resulted in disappointment as he was pulled up when never really travelling.

That performance was clearly forgotten at Uttoxeter as the seven-year-old ran with his previous zest and jumped fluently under Sean Bowen to record a two-and-a-quarter-length triumph at 9-2.

"He'd been so progressive in his first two starts over fences, (but) from the word go at Sandown he was never travelling or jumping with the same enthusiasm," said Fry.

"We got him home, and he was very sore through his back, and we diagnosed kissing spines – which we've treated.

"He roared right back to form today – he's a real out-and-out galloper and jumps for fun.

"Truth be told, I was training him for the Midlands National today, but when we flopped at Sandown I thought I couldn't aim that high.

"This is a lovely race for him, and it's great to see him bounce back to form. He'll be a lovely second-season chaser to look forward to next season."

Saint Dalina followed up a course-and-distance victory in December with another Uttoxeter success when taking the Marstons Brewery Handicap Hurdle for Charlie Longsdon and Tom Buckley.

Travelling fluently throughout, the mare was only challenged by Tim Vaughan's Tight Call after clearing the final obstacle, but was able to hold on as the post approached to prevail by a neck.

"I've ridden her a few times and I really like her attitude," said Buckley.

"She's an out-and-out galloper, and I can't wait until she goes over fences – she'll be even better then.

"To be fair to her, coming here today, the ground's a bit quick for her – but she's kept her head down, the cheekpieces have worked and she's done it nicely."

Longsdon added: "She's tough, (and) she's been a massive improver this season.

"I sort of aimed at this race thinking it was a lady riders' race. Obviously it got changed, but she's gone and done it nicely.

"It was hard work, but she's done a good job."