Cheltenham Clues – World Hurdle – Ratings and Preview

Cheltenham Clues

World Hurdle

With Solwhit missing the race, Big Bucks needing to prove he is somewhere close to his best, and Quevega likely to head for the Mares Hurdle, yet another Grade One has an open look.

Annie Power is the subject of much speculation. Unbeaten and impressive in horrific conditions last time out, her 7lb mares’ allowance may play an integral part in the outcome of her chosen race. Whilst she stays two and a half-miles, her breeding does not scream out and out stayer. Therefore, at this stage the Champion Hurdle would appear the ideal race, though the Mares’ only race is over two and a half-miles. It should not be forgotten she is in different ownership to “The Fly,” Quevega, and Un De Sceaux.

Reve De Sivola has a good record over hurdles at Cheltenham. At his best fresh, his chance would be enhanced if the ground was genuinely soft. Celestial Halo finished second to Solwhit last year. He is another that goes well fresh. Unplaced twice in eight visits to Cheltenham; both came in the Champion Hurdle. Zarkandar is another for whom stamina is questionable at three-miles.

More Of That is a fast improving horse. He does just enough in his races. A recent comfortable win over Salubrious looks better in the light of that fellow game, if unlucky, run at Ascot. His breeding suggests three-miles is well within range.

At Fishers Cross looked a natural for this race at the start of the season. Things have not gone as planned and it remains to be seen, if acupuncture and extensive physio have helped to return him to his very best.

Monksland is reported on the way back; along with the likes of Saphir Du Rheu, Salubrious and Boston Bob, they may have more to offer at this trip. All hold decent form at Prestbury Park.

Intriguing entries include Rubi Ball, Fingal Bay, Medinas, Smad Place, and Zaidpour.