Festival Trials today at Prestbury Park, signal the start of the Cheltenham countdown in earnest (merely six weeks and a bit to go!). Big Bucks is the star attraction but despite Grand Crus' absence, the Argento Chase looks to be the most informative. Will Captain Chris stay and put his name in the frame for the Gold Cup? He is up against it in a solid field with Diamond Harry, back after his usual break, appearing the most likely winner. Leading Triumph Hurdle candidates, Baby Mix and Grumeti clash in the opener and with March in mind, Broadbackbob is also worth monitoring in the Novice Hurdle.
The big betting race of the day is at Doncaster, the Sky Bet Chase. In a typically competitive Handicap Chase, Nick Williams' unexposed, Shalimar Fromento stands out amongst the dodgepots and could go close in an open race.
The Boylesports Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown may have a new title but is as ever, extremely hard to assess. Nevertheless, it is always worth watching as it regularly produces a good winner with subsequent decent formlines. Fred Winter winner, What a Charm looks to have a solid each way shout. She has the necessary class, a reasonable weight and a canny pilot on board. Perhaps the most interesting race of the afternoon is the clash between two aspiring top notchers, Sir Des Champs and Hidden Cyclone. Both of these have the potential to go far in the jumping game and in a possible tactical contest should bring each other on.
enjoy...
No comments:
Post a Comment