188Bet Maiden Hurdle

Hurdling debutant. Half-brother to a 2m hurdle winner and dam is a half-sister to 2m-2m3f jumps winner Desert Air. Didn't show a huge amount in either bumper run, but likely to do better now and one to check on in the market for clues.

Won races on the Flat in Italy but was a bit disappointing on his hurdling debut for this yard at Wincanton last month, struggling early on and never involved despite being sent off at just 9/2. Tongue strap may be a help and clearly not one to write-off, though has a bit to prove.

Ran well here over a bit shorter in January (soft) but disappointing when upped to more of a stamina test last time. Pedigree suggests that should have suited, so not sure how positive this drop back to intermediate distance will be. Jury out.

Beaten just ½L from this mark in a match at Wincanton last time. That was over 2m4f, but the way he raced, this stiff track and shorter trip may yet yield greater dividends. One for the short-list.

Unfancied and down the field in a couple of bumpers spaced out by 15 months. Would have been entitled to need both of those and although she has mainly a Flat pedigree, her dam did win over 2m1f and 2m6f over hurdles. Probably one to note in running today.