Karabak (6/1 various) was runner-up to Big Buck’s that day and travelled well through the race and finished in front of a smart horse in Diamond Harry. It was a decent performance by Alan King’s gelding but I feel that he will struggle to reverse the form with Big Buck’s and will have to settle for minor honours.
Tidal Bay (9/1 Ladbrokes, Paddy Power) is an interesting contender as he returns to hurdles after a few seasons chasing.
Howard Johnson’s nine-year-old was extremely impressive last time when powering up the Cheltenham hill to win the Cleeve Hurdle. He finished in front of many rivals who he could reoppose in Thursday’s Blue Riband event including Time For Rupert (20/1 various) and Fair Along (66/1 Sporting Bet).
I fully expect Tidal Bay to come on for that success and could be an each way banker.
Sentry Duty (14/1 William Hill) beat a small but elite field last time out at Cheltenham in the Freedom Hurdle over 2m 4f. However, the step up to three miles could be the problem for Nicky Henderson’s contender and may struggle in the last few furlongs to hold onto the dour stayer of Big Buck’s.
One runner I like at a bigger price is the Eamonn O'Connell-trained Powerstation (33/1 various).
The ten-year-old finished third in this race last year behind Big Buck's and could mark good each way value. He has failed to produce that sort of form on a regular occasion but did deliver an outstanding performance to win the Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown. If he can show that sort of ability then he is definitely one to note for the each way places. |
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