1435 Sportingbet Handicap Hurdle Class 2

Off we go to Newbury for this 0-150 Handicap Hurdle over 2m3f, the top weight is 12lbs below the ceiling and there’s only 16lbs between the ten runners so its a tight affair on official ratings. Let’s have a look at the runners.

Topolski – Hasn’t won since going unbeaten in 3 in his novice season 2010/2011, conditions suit but on current form doesn’t look up to this.

Kingcora – One win and three places in five hurdle races in France, first start for Venetia Williams after 406 days off. Yard does well with French imports but hard to know what to expect, stable amongst the winners but Newbury handicap hurdle record is one win from six runners. If gambled on take heed.

Princely Player – Jumped sloppily on return in a decent listed novice event at Kempton but still managed to stay on into 2^nd, longer trip will suit today and there should be more to come from this promising sort.

Star Of Angels – Six pounds higher than last win and shown nothing in last three runs but this his easiest task for some time, can go well fresh and each way claims at best. Trainer has a 43% strike rate in handicap hurdles at Newbury.

Passato – Hasn’t contested a hurdle race for nearly three years and hasn’t looked at his best in last three chase starts (jumping badly right in all three), so this looks a sweetener to restore some confidence.

Hunting Tower – First start for Tim Vaughan and on his UK Hurdles form (11112) off 125 he possibly looks well in based on his 2^nd at Hexham off 131 in June but rise in class and slower ground against him.

Salubrious – Should improve on reappearance run in better race(though form of race not really working out 1 win, 0 places from 8 runners) off the same mark here and this nice horse should be bang on the premises.

Scots Gaelic – First start for Tim Vaughan and showed good form both on the flat and over hurdles in Ireland, decent 2^nd on handicap debut but drying ground may find him out.

Ardlui – Trainer thinks this is an improving type and after his recent Newmarket handicap victory it’s hard to argue with him, this race is his stated target and with conditions to suit a big run is expected.

At Fishers Cross – Didn’t win on his reappearance as his 4/7 price said he should and trainer obviously not confident he can defy a penalty in another novice, he could improve for the step up in trip but drying ground possibly against him as trainer has said he likes plenty of cut.

Verdict

Its hard to see past Ardlui considering his recent flat improvement and quotes from his trainer in the media. Princely Player and Salubrious look the dangers and Kingcora could become a live danger if market vibes develop. For those who like to play each-way at a bigger price then look no further than Star Of Angels.

Bet

2pt win Ardlui @ 11/4 Hills & Ladbrokes.