3m (2m7f213y) (New) Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (5yo+)
CUTHBERT DIBBLE has a hugely eye-catching profile including some class form at Sandown last year in a Grade 3 Novice hurdle where he finished fifth to Crambo who runs in the Stayers Hurdle. Cuthbert Dibble put in a huge staying performance to start the season at Chepstow before putting in another dour display at Haydock on Heavy ground to beat Lord Snootie. He has done all of his racing on soft ground which is a must for him, but he looks a strong stayer and could still have at least 7-10lbs in hand on the handicapper coming in to this off a mark of 139.
The other one who has been running well this season and could be in-line for further significant progress is SPRINGWELL BAY for Jonjo O’Neill. He won well on his first start of the season to win over 2m 5f on soft ground, before putting in a good effort behind Butch back here over three miles on heavy ground. Springwell didn’t look to have stayed the trip that well on that occasion, but I think he put those stamina doubts to question when staying on best in a qualifier at Musselbrough on soft ground over three miles. He has some strong back-class form having run in a Grade 1 Novice hurdle won by Irish Point last season and there is every chance Jonjo will have him in peak condition for a crack at this.
The pick of the Irish runners are Gaoth Cuil for Ted Walsh, Farouk Dalene and Claetous Poolaw for Gordon Elliot. Whilst clearly Le Milos has to be a danger for the in-form Skelton team.
1pt win Cuthbert Dibble @9/1, 14:10 Cheltenham, Thursday
1pt win Springwell Bay 16/1, 14:10 Cheltenham, Thursday