Tompkins upbeat about Babodana

Mark Tompkins has reports Babodana to be in great shape ahead of his attempt to win a second William Hill Lincoln on Saturday.

The six-year-old has not managed to get his head in front since landing the 2004 renewal of the race but he has been campaigned solely at Listed or Group level and according to Tompkins his burden of 9st 7lb will not be a problem.

“I couldn’t have Babodana in better shape,” Tompkins told his official website www.marktompkins.co.uk.

“He’ll be carrying plenty of weight, but he won off 9st 10lb before – the joint highest weight ever to win – so, with a bit of luck, he’d have a sound chance!”

The draw will be made on Thursday but Tompkins does not believe it will have as much influence this year with the race being run at Redcar.

“I don’t think the draw has as much effect at Redcar as it does at Doncaster. The first few furlongs are a bit of a cavalry charge, so you need to be up with the pace and have a bit of luck on your side too.”

There had been a slight worry about Babodana’s jockey, Saleem Golam, who had been suffering with the flu but apparently it is now all systems go for the jockey who finished last season as the joint champion apprentice.

“Sal rode work yesterday morning and is back to normal after the flu,” said Tompkins.

“He’ll be riding all four runners for me on Saturday. He improved throughout last season and gained lots of confidence.

“Like any sportsman, winners give you confidence. Our aim is for him to be champion apprentice again, ride out his 3lb claim and that’s when it really starts – when he’s a fully-fledged jockey.”