2m1f William Hill Formby Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (3yo+)
This is a belter of a race with Grade 2 winner Potters Charm putting his unbeaten record under rules to the test against several exciting prospects. It wouldn’t surprise me if any of these seven novice hurdlers win and therefore I think it’s worth taking on Potters Charm who is now down in trip and operating at a flatter track than his Cheltenham successes.
The two I ultimately came down on was MIAMI MAGIC and ROADLESSTRAVELLED for Stuart Edmunds and Jonjo O’Neill respectively. Both have had taking successes against weaker opposition on fast ground over this trip and they both can progress here in Grade 1 company.
Miami Magic has looked very fast in his first few starts and his trainer has already said that he thinks he might be the best horse he has ever trained. He travels very strongly in his races and has looked a smooth operator so far over hurdles.
As for Roadlesstravelled, he is the most taking looking horse that looks like he will be a classy chaser in due course. All three of his wins over hurdles have seen him put in dominating front-running, gutsy performances including his win at Haydock last time on soft ground against the re-opposing Country Mile. Country Mile demonstrated that he was a decent animal when winning at Cheltenham last time and he may fancy his chances of reversing the form with Roadlesstravelled, however I think the Jonjo recruit has got a lot going for him here back on a better surface and he looks to have a bright future.
1pt win Roadlesstravelled @9/2, 13:05 Aintree, Thursday
1pt win Miami Magic @13/2, 13:05 Aintree, Thursday