DARBY DAY FOR IN-FORM OLLY
(%*' BREAKING WAVES (nb)
definitely sets the standard in a maiden hurdle full of unexposed talent. Richard Phillips’ four-year-old is far from the finished article but he made a good impression when winning a big-field bumper in the spring. He then took a big step forward when an excellent third to Strong Glance in a hot Cheltenham bumper. Igor is a fascinating newcomer from the Nicky Henderson yard, which is beginning to hit top gear, while
Geordie B, who made all to win a heavy ground bumper at Hereford, looks another likely type. )%',
THOMAS DARBY (nap) made a huge impression when winning at Cheltenham last month and looks a horse with a real future. Trained by the upwardly mobile Olly Murphy, the unbeaten five-year-old won a bumper at Huntingdon in the spring. And despite showing definite inexperience, he powered up the Cheltenham hill once the penny had dropped. Richard Johnson is in the saddle and he can see off a strong field. They are headed by Commanche Red, who is highly regarded, and Nick Gifford’s Didtheyleaveuoutto, who won on his hurdling debut at Fakenham. *%,' Gary Moore has his team in tip-top form and has a decent strike rate at Ascot. His
DISTINGO (trb) ticks all the boxes and looks one of the more unexposed types in a decent handicap. He was runner-up on his seasonal bow and has gone up 2lb but he looks to have plenty of improvement in him. Chatez was a useful Flat horse a couple of years ago but has not quite transferred his ability to hurdles. If he does, he could be on a lenient handicap mark. Jolly’s Cracked
It was a very good novice in 2014/15 but has been absent for two years. He has slipped a few pounds down the ratings and a watching brief is advised.