3m (New) Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Registered As The Bristol Novices’ Hurdle) (Grade 2)
I’m not sure the shape of this market for this novice race should have the betting so strongly in favour of Blazing Khal at current odds of 5/6. Granted he has looked a potentially classy stayer, but it’s early days in this division and he didn’t look the slickest over his hurdles. He has to carry a 5lbs penalty for his recent victory over 2m 5f’s here as well which could bring both Current Mood and Gelino Belle closer to him in an attempt to reverse the form.
Both may yet do better, but I’d rather take Blazing Khal on with a horse he didn’t face last time and while I was tempted by the 22/1 odds about on newcomer Ballygrifincottage, it would be a complete shot-in-the-dark.
One that at least has somes starts under rules and where we can get some form of read on is BARONY LEGENDS, who couldn’t have been more impressive, romping home by 27ls in a Lingfield Maiden Hurdle five-weeks ago on his first outing of the season.
This son of Yeats jumped and travelled powerfully in that contest and although it’s easy enough to tear up the form there, he looked like he could also be a smart stayer for the future.
At 8/1, that may prove a generous price come 14:30 given how unexposed he is and I’m prepared to take a punt that he is at this level.
1pt win Barony Legends @8/1, 14:25 Cheltenham, Saturday
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