Hollywoodbets’ Neil Morrice brings us his in-depth analysis of the third day of the Cheltenham Festival today.
Faugheen wins Champion Hurdle in 2015
He writes that it is not surprising that connections of 2015 Champion Hurdle winner FAUGHEEN opted for this contest in favour of the longer RSA yesterday and their move has been vindicated with only 11 taking on the veteran who is three from three since going over fences in the evening of his career.
More than once he’s looked in trouble only to pull the race out of the fire and the stands will erupt if Paul Townsend guides him to victory.
Today’s programme:
- 15h30 – Marsh Novices’ Chase (Gr1) (Registered As The Golden Miller) (Class 1) (5YO plus) 2m 4f
- 16h10 – Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (Gr3) (Class 1) (5YO plus) 3m
- 16h50 – Ryanair Chase (Gr1) (Registered As The Festival Trophy) (Class 1) (5YO plus) 2m 4½f
- 17h30 – Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (Gr1) (Class 1) (4YO plus) 3m
- 18h10 – Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase (Gr3) (Class 1) (5YO plus) 2m 4½f
- 18h50 – Daylesford Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Gr2) (Reg’dAs The Dawn Run) (Class 1) (4YO plus) 2m 1f
- 19h30 – Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Chall Cup Amateur Riders’ Handicap Chase (Class 2) (5YO plus) 3m 2f
Against this, Nicky Henderson could have played Champ but the trainer decided to field MISTER FISHER who at six is exactly half the age of Faugheen.
Furthermore, Mister Fisher has looked better in his recent races, having cosily taken down Al Dancer in a Grade 1 at Doncaster. He has to be taken seriously.
ITCHY FEET’s name has been barked over the course with increasing confidence to provide trainer Olly Murphy with a first Festival triumph.
He was very impressive in his Sandown trial and like Mister Fisher has sound claims of completing a fine hat-trick.
