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Modus, Movewiththetimes, Le Prezien and Brahms De Clermont are all expected to make their presence felt on the final day of the Open Meeting.
Modus has been strongly supported all week for the Greatwood Hurdle (2.30) and Nicholls’ assistant Harry Derham was bullish about his chance.
He said: “Modus was a touch unlucky turning into the straight at Ascot on his reappearance. He had come back in late, so we were very encouraged by the run, which he needed.
“He is a very talented horse and we haven’t seen the best of him over hurdles.”
Derham was equally enthusiastic about the chance of JP McManus’s Movewiththetimes in the Sky Bet Supreme Trial (12.45).
The youngster was impressive when he won at Fontwell last month but he may have to sprout wings to beat Moon Racer and Ballyandy.
But when asked to nominate one horse to watch out for today, Derham singled out dual bumper winner Brahms De Clermont.
He cruised home at Taunton in the spring and defied a penalty to win a hot contest at Cheltenham last month.
The conditions of today’s Listed bumper (3.40) means he will not carry any penalties.
Derham added: “We really like him. He is a nice horse.”
Another Nicholls runner, Le Prezien, looks to have the Arkle Trial Novices’ Chase (1.20) at his mercy now Nicky Henderson’s Altior misses the race.
He was an excellent second on his chasing debut at Uttoxeter to Charbel and should follow up here before going on to bigger things.
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This year’s race could see Sceau Royal take on 2013 Fighting Fifth winner My Tent Or Yours.
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