SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

1.30: GRADE ONE — 2 MILES AND ½ FURLONG

THE last nine winners of this race had all run at least four times over hurdles, which raises a doubt over the experience of favourite Getabird. That said, he boasts an Irish point-to-point win and jumped with great fluency at Punchestown to thump Mengli Khan last time out.

It goes without saying he is respected, but there is a chance FIRST FLOW may have been underestimated. He will love the prospect of atrocious ground having ploughed through deep conditions to win at Haydock and, as a robust, chasing type, today’s examination should hold no fears for him.

Of his rivals, Paloma Blue should relish the stronger gallop generated by a big field if his effort at Leopardstown behind the all-conquering Samcro is anything to go by. He was too exuberant for his own good that day but it was still a fine performance.

Summerville Boy is another thought to want better ground than he has tackled for much of the winter but it is worth recalling he beat Betfair Hurdle winner Kalashnikov in Grade One company at Sandown in January.