Unibet Champion Hurdle Trial Hurdle (Grade 2)

Off time: 14:40 | Winning time: 4m 12.65s

The New One²⁵

Age: 10| Weight: 11-10| J: Sam Twiston-Davies| T: N & W Twiston-Davies| OR: 163| CD

1/1

Magnificent servant to his sport and among his 19 wins has been this race for the past three years, twice on heavy. Has again been acquitting himself well in top company this term and looks to have a strong chance again despite penalty.

Form: 34-1422

Ch'tibello³⁵

Age: 7| Weight: 11-4| J: Harry Skelton| T: D Skelton| OR: 156| CD

15/8

Scored here over C&D (heavy) last season and also has a Grade 2 to his name. Meets The New One on same terms as when 1¾L behind him in Cheltenham Grade 2 last time. Still progressing and looks a major player.

Form: 35132-4

Clyne²⁸

Age: 8| Weight: 11-4| J: R Johnson| T: Evan Williams| OR: 149| BF| CD

7/2

Last seen when beaten 2L by Testify here in a novices' chase. Doesn't know how to run a bad race here, handles it heavy. 2lb worse off with The New One for a ¾L defeat by him at Ffos Las in October and it will be tough to turn that around.

Form: 123-232

Unison²⁴

Age: 8| Weight: 11-4| J: Matt Griffiths| T: J Scott| OR: 135| D

50/1

Handles heavy ground and races over his optimum trip, but while he has six hurdle wins to his name, his form is significantly weaker than what will be required to win this. Should be picking up fourth prize.

Form: 210-195

Forecasts

The New One (1/1), Ch'tibello (15/8), Clyne (7/2), Unison (50/1)

There will be no more popular winner at Haydock this season that THE NEW ONE if he can win this for a fourth time and despite conceding weight to all, Nigel Twiston-Davies's admirable 10-year-old still looks to be in good enough form to carry that off. On paper, a clear threat looks to be Ch'tibello, who is far less exposed and has conditions to suit and he should be able to push the selection all the way. Clyne loves it here and it wouldn't be a major shock if he won the race, but at the same time he looks in need of a bit more than he has shown us if he is to do so.