TimeformBlog

[b]Hurricane Fly[/b] is an outstanding hurdler who has won on 12 of his 15 starts (including this race last term). Not at best when third to Rock On Ruby in Champion Hurdle last time, but still the one to beat here. [b]The Real Article[/b] is a very smart hurdler who won 3 times before turn of year, including Grade 2 WKD Hurdle at Down Royal. Below form on last 2 starts, though, and must improve to trouble the principals. [b]Thousand Stars[/b] is a high-class hurdler who won French Champion Hurdle in June prior to landing Morgiana Hurdle here in November. Back to best when second to Oscar Whisky at Aintree last time and respected. [b]Zaidpour[/b] was successful on his first 4 starts this term prior to finishing eighth to Rock On Ruby in Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham last time. ...

[b]Blackstairmountain[/b] is a Grade 1 novice winner over hurdles who achieved same feat over fences at Leopardstown in December. Below form both starts since and stamina could easily be stretched given the conditions. [b]First Lieutenant[/b] was a dual Grade 1 winner over hurdles and better than ever when second in RSA Chase at Cheltenham last time, clear of the rest. Good form claims but drops a full 1m in trip here which is a worry. [b]Lucky William[/b] is a triple winner over fences this term and took form to new level when scoring in 17f handicap at Fairyhouse last time. This doesn't look a particularly strong affair and he's respected. [b]Menorah[/b] was verging on high-class over hurdles and ran up to a similar level when taking Grade 1 novice over 2½m at Aintree last ...

[b]Apt Approach[/b] has taken his form up a notch this season, winning 3 times up to 3m, including Grade 2 at Thurles. Failed to fire over Grand National fences last time but out of depth here in any case. [b]Bostons Angel[/b] landed trio of Grade 1s as a novice, including narrow success in RSA Chase at Cheltenham, but not hit same heights this time around, also hinting at temperament in headgear of late. [b]Captain Chris[/b] was last season's Arkle winner and even better this time around, third in King George and fourth in Ryanair. Step back up in trip and return to right-handed track should suit, and he's respected. [b]Follow the Plan[/b] won corresponding race last term (left clear at last) and notched third Grade 1 success at Aintree last time tried in cheekpieces. A reproduction...