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Cheltenham Day 2

Hurricane Fly’s battle with the game Peddlers Cross was a great way to start the festival yesterday. An excellent finish was served up by the two doing battle up the Cheltenham hill. It was the speedier rival who just got the better in the end in a cracking renewal of the Champion Hurdle. Unfortunately my festival didn’t get off to the best of starts having broken down on the M69 on route to Prestbury Park. Fortunately I did make it to a TV to catch the opening Supreme Novices Hurdle which saw Walsh and Nicholls register another festival winner in Al Ferof. Day one was a day to remember for Ruby who recorded a treble with the impressive Quevega bringing up his third win of the day. On to today the Champion Chase is the race of the day with Master Minded looking to win the race for the third time. A competitive renewal sees the old guard of Master Minded, Big Zeb and Golden Silver taking on the second season chasers of Somersby, Captain Cee Bee and Sizing Europe. I favour Master Minded at the prices in a competitive race. Reported to be in A1 condition after a breathing opposition he is still the best horse in the race despite only beating Somersby a short head at Ascot. Drying ground is a concern as his two recent defeats have come on good going but with a proven record at Cheltenham and with Ruby back on board he has plenty going for him. Of the other races I have had a speculative interest on Habbie Simpson in the Albert Bartlett. Behind Rock on Ruby over course and distance last time today’s championship pace is likely to bring out the best of Habbie Simpson’s stamina. Held in high regard by Alan King there are worst 33/1 shots about. In the RSA Chase I have had a very small play on Magnanimity at 20/1. Second in a Grade 1 last time, this afternoon’s step up in trip should suit this sound jumping 7yo. His owner and jockey won this race last year and will hopefully go close again today.

Selections (1-5*)

C 2:05 – Habbie Simpson *E/W at 33/1+

C 2:40 – Magnanimity *E/W at 20/1+

C 3:20 – Master Minded *E/W at 7/2+

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