Yesterday at Cheltenham we saw two more examples of trainers getting horses to peak winning condition after long lay-offs. This is something that was a rarity in the past, but with the equipment and expertise available to yards it is now a factor any backer has to bring into their assessment.
More Of That returned after just on a year away and A Hare Breath close on two years. The latter having been backed to joint favourite before drifting out to a 6/1 S.P. as the race approached.
The race I am concentrating on this afternoon is the final one shown on Channel 4 from their six race coverage from Wetherby and Cheltenham.
Cheltenham 3.35 Martin & Co Jewellers Intermediate Handicap Hurdle (CLASS 3)
Champagne Express is of interest on handicap and seasonal debut. After two Irish points outings during 2014 he had two runs at the back end of last season.
Form of his novice win at Chepstow is solid and he ran to a similar level when third at Newbury. He looked ‘green’ on his final run; being from the Henderson yard we can expect that he has been well prepared for today’s test. Further progression is expected and the softening ground should not be a problem.
The three Irish based challengers have to be respected and there are lightly raced rivals also capable of improvement.
However I would be disappointed if Champagne Express doesn’t figure.
Looks a 5/1 the field race.