Been through the card at Stratford and tempted into having a couple of bets to try and further enhance the kitty for Cheltenham!
Manhattan Boy isn't a likeable horse by any means having shaped as if amiss more than once, but there was more encouragement at Exeter last time and the way I figure it if he shows his form he'll win. On balance I'm prepared to take evens or better about him doing that.
The handicap hurdle which follows is much more interesting but nothing like as straightforward. Mickmacmagoole is worth his chance to prove that he remains progressive, but given that he looked to have a problem just 7 days ago I'll swerve him. Truckers Delight has more ability than he's shown so far, of that I'm sure, but there was a sign that his attitude isn't all that it might be at Sandown last time and I think his price pretty much reflects his chance. For me Warsaw Pact and, to a lesser extent, Daraybad represent the value.
The two and a half mile handicap chase is a pretty turgid affair, but I'm chucking a few quid at Amir El Jabal and Wenger, both of who have doubts against them in terms of temperament but are still too big a price, both around 14/1 or so.
Manhattan Boy 3pts win
Warsaw Pact 2pts e/w
Daraybad 1pt e/w
Amir El Jabal 1pt win
Wenger 1pt win
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"Pound for pound the greatest sportsman Britain has ever produced." John Francome on A. P. McCoy.
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