2m1f (2m179y) (New) SSS Super Alloys Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 2) (4yo+)
Chances can be made for most of these and there’s little to challenge the favourite’s chance after two wins at Cheltenham and the horse he beat last time bolting up on Boxing Day. He’s sure to run well but I’m not sure he’s got much improvement left in him, whereas HYDROPLANE might have won in spite of the ground at Sandown last time and is proven on a sound surface. He’s been ignored in the market for this despite that win and has only gone up 3lb for it, so back on good ground he can continue his rise. He actually ran pretty well on his only try at Cheltenham when a four-year-old taking on older horses, so his progression makes sense. I also can’t resist a small bet on GEROMINO bouncing back to form after his wind op. His form with Tommy’s Oscar suggests he’s very well handicapped and it was clearly his breathing that cost him last time out when going out like a light. 18/1 is just too big for a horse of his ability and I suspect he would be up with the favourites had his last run not happened.
1pt win Hydroplane @10/1, 12:15 Cheltenham, Saturday
0.5pts win Geromino @18/1, 12:15 Cheltenham, Saturday