3m6f (Old) Princess Royal National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices’ Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (Class 2) (5yo+ 0-145)
The National Hunt Chase has been changed to a handicap and I think that is a fantastic move as it looks a much more competitive race than in recent years.
In December, HAITI COULEURS got the better of TRANSMISSION on good ground here on the New Course and I fancy both of them to be suited by the demands of this marathon chase with both having prep runs over hurdles to preserve their mark for this contest.
Rebecca Curtis, who trains Haiti Couleurs is no stranger to winners in this race and he looks an exciting chase prospect for the yard. His novice form was solid, but he seems to have really stepped up a gear or two since jumping a fence as he looks an assured jumper with plenty of stamina. His win here over Transmission in December reads pretty well with the fourth Moon D’Orange producing a subsequent success and there is a lot to like about how he travels and jumps in his races.
Transmission is in receipt of a 4lbs swing with Haiti Couleurs and admittedly has looked a less slick jumper, however he seems to have bags of stamina and is the ideal type for a race like the National Hint Chase, where it can certainly pay to be held up. Neil Mulholland is also a dab hand with his chasers and I like the fact that he has taken aim at this race for some time only running Transmission at Cheltenham this season and always holding him up
Both appear to be better handicapped than the Irish horses here and I fancy this to be taken by the home team.
1pt win Haiti Couleurs @5/1, 1pt Transmission @5/1, 17:20 Tuesday, Cheltenham
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