New race for 2008.
Key trends:
Zero trends obviously but, given the poor record of five-year-olds in the Champion Hurdle (Katchit aside), World Hurdle, Pertemps Final and Coral Cup (bar one year), it could pay to look beyond that age bracket. All hurdle races at the Festival have an element of stamina and five-year-olds, without the allowance given to their chasing counterparts, tend to get found out. That would rule out both Gaspara and Theatre Girl this year but, after Katchit’s victory in the Champion Hurdle, it would be dangerous to rule them out completely.
The contenders:
The ex-Irish Chomba Womba (3/1 bet365) is unbeaten in three starts for Nicky Henderson this term, won’t mind the ground, and should find this trip ideal – a worthy favourite. Irish raider Sweet Kiln (7/2 Paddy Power), who is seeking to give the Bowe family (responsible for Limestone Lad and Solerina) a popular first winner at the Festival, has also improved this season and has lots of smart form against stronger opposition than she faces here. Labelthou (7/1 Blue Square), Refinement (8/1 Boylesports), Gaspara (7/1 Ladbrokes) and Theatre Girl (5/1 general) are among those who give this race a competitive look.
The verdict:
Sweet Kiln has plenty in her favour. She acts on any going, is effective at distances ranging from 2m3f up to 3m, and is versatile tactically having won from the front and when held up for a late run. Connections wouldn’t be bringing her over if they didn’t think she could win, and that will do for me.
Betting advice:
BACK – Sweet Kiln 2pt @ 7/2 Paddy Power
LAY (Betfair)– Labelthou – ground won’t be testing enough.