EMMA’S DARK HORSE
DARK MAHLER (1.55) can call the tune for Emma Lavelle on another trappy card at Ludlow.
The ex-pointer always looked a work in progress over timber and improved plenty for the switch to chasing when hacking up here on his debut in November.
That was over two miles but this lightly-raced type should be open to plenty of progress over an extra five furlongs and can follow up today.
Oliver Greenall’s ZALVADOS (12.50) looks a warm order in the opening maiden.
The five-year-old produced a career best over timber when just denied by Limited Reserve at Haydock last month and can go one better dropped in class.
FLASHJACK (2.25) can continue Henry Daly’s cracking form in the conditionals’ hurdle.
The eight-year-old cruised to victory in a similar event at Warwick 10 days ago and can go in again off an unchanged mark. Matt Sheppard’s TB BROKE HER (3.0) rates the best bet in a competitive handicap chase.
The mare has been upwardly mobile since joining her handler and remains well treated after an impressive Hereford success three-and-a-half weeks ago.
MISTY MAI (3.35) can make a successful return to hurdling in the mares’ event.
Dai Rees’ eight-year-old has been in decent form over fences this term but remains on an inviting mark back over timber.
■ Faugheen could bid for redemption in the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown.
No reason has emerged for the nine-year-old’s flop at the Foxrock venue 12 days ago.
But he is working well at trainer Willie Mullins’ yard and might be fit in time for next month’s Grade One.
The Closutton handler also said seven-year-old Yorkhill failed to settle over three miles when unplaced in the Leopardstown Christmas Chase and will be dropped in trip next time.
Meanwhile, Mullins confirmed Limini will miss the Cheltenham Festival and may not return until Punchestown in April.
■ Classy hurdler Mount Mews (30-110 Fav) made an impressive chasing debut at Doncaster yesterday.
Malcolm Jefferson’s gelding jumped well under Brian Hughes and strolled home seven lengths clear of Sam Red (11-4).
Meanwhile, the handler said Waiting Patiently will head straight to the Clarence House Chase at Ascot on January 20 if he swerves Kempton on Saturday.