Yesterday
Poetic Choice (the selection) ran pretty well in the 6.30 at Dundalk to finish 6th of 14 runners yesterday at odds of 25/1. Only beaten a few lengths. Neyland was well backed and won at 7/2.
Today's Race
A Class 2 handicap hurdle at Ascot just short of 2m4f.
Today's Contenders
Gladiateur Allen is clear favourite overnight. The 5yo French bred won a little stylishly here on 23 January. Slight drop in trip. Could find this a bit too competitive early in his career.
Arrivederci (2nd), Kateson (3rd) and Dans Le Vent (4th) trailed Craigneiche over course and distance in a Grade 3 handicap hurdle last time. Arrivederci isn't likely to be troubled by a 2lbs rise and merits respect for the drop in grade.
L'Ami Serge is interesting on his first seasonal run here. It's possibly a run prior to Cheltenham. His official rating has been dropped 5lbs and he hasn't run in a contest outside of the top grade since 2016. Makes appeal as an each-way play.
Pileon and Stolen Silver were both smart novice hurdlers who have disappointed tried over fences this season. Philip Hobbs may have had this race as a target for Pileon who went very close to scoring at the Festival last year.
Malaya won the Imperial Cup off a mark of 136 in 2019, was fourth in this race in 2019 and second last year. Harry Cobden takes the ride. Malaya is still just seven years old. He runs off a mark of 136 here and, in what doesn't look that strong a renewal, can be tried for the win at double-figure odds.
Today's Tip
(To Win) MALAYA (11/1 Betfair, Paddy Power, Bet365)
Recent Results
19 Feb: 6.30 Dundalk (AW) Poetic Choice 6th/14 @ 25/1
18 Feb: 4.15 Sandown Jepeck REF/10 @ 18/1
17 Feb: 3.35 Hereford Oakley Hall 6th/12 @ 12/1
16 Feb: 6.40 Newcastle (AW) Chosen World 5th/10 @ 6/1
15 Feb: 3.55 Warwick Smarty Wild 5th/12 @ 7/2
14 Feb: 4.20 Punchestown Dounikos (E/W) 5th/18 @ 40/1
13 Feb: 8.15 Wolverhampton (AW) Greengage 2nd/7 @ 7/2
Account (Level Stakes Profit)
Feb 2021 LSP: +14.8
All 2021 LSP: +14.8
