My old adage is that you only have a chance at the festival in March if you have some course form so dont dismiss anything from yesterdays card. Some of those horses would have been "taking a look" before the big races in March. I was really pleased we got on Big Bucks ante post EW at 14's before yesterdays cleeve hurdle which it won well, although the 8lb pull from Punchestowns was the key & BB will need to improve again come the big race. Most hacks are now saying Kasbah Bliss only has to turn up to win the World Hurdle however as we havent seen it out for so long, i would reserve judgement.
Joe Lively outstayed the "stayer" Halcon Generlardais but i was suprised to see Choc Thornton trying to keep Halcon up with the pace & maybe that cost it in the long run. I would still take Tidal bay out of the race as it ran well to finish 3rd & could now be aimed at the RyanAir chase over the shorter distance? It will also prefer slightly better going which it should get next time.
Diamond Harry won but had to be shaken up a bit, the 1st 2 were a long way in front & maybe are both fairy decent & should keep an eye on both (Bensalem).
I was impressed again at the performance of Walkon who now has a great chance at the Triumph hurdle. The 1st 2 home in the handicap hurdle race Presenting Copper & Awesome George could again be back for the festival & should be noted as they clearly have a liking for this track.
