THREE TO FOLLOW FOR 2018

SHARJAH

THE finish of the Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle will be remembered for the falls of this horse and Real Steel at the last flight.

Although his fall (right) meant that Sharjah lost his unbeaten record in Ireland, he did produced a striking display prior to his departure.

He travelled through the race with some ease and there was enough in his effort to indicate that he will challenge strongly for the Supreme Novices Hurdle.

SQUOUATEUR

GORDON Elliott’s charge (below) was a well supported favourite for Wednesday’s Paddy Power Chase but he had to settle for third behind Anibale Fly.

However, he did especially well to finish as close as he did as he came from well back and didn’t enjoy the smoothest of runs when it mattered most.

With better luck in running he can surely land a top handicap chase soon.

BALKO DES FLOS

THE Gold Cup was blown wide open on Thursday when the likes of Sizing John, Yorkhill and Djakadam all disappointed.

Road To Respect was a deserving winner on the day and must now be considered a leading contender for the Cheltenham showpiece.

The runner-up Balko Des Flos must also enter calculations after this career best display and decent ground in March will only help his cause.