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Cheltenham Festival 2011 |
cheltenham festival / 2011 news /
Grandouet Can Triumph for Henderson
22/02/11
Nicky Henderson appears to hold a very strong hand in the four-year old hurdlers department this season, and it will come as a surprise if the winner of the Triumph Hurdle is not housed at Seven Barrows.
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On racecourse form though, Grandouet would appear to be Henderson's number one contender for the race by some way. The ex-French youngster was beaten on his first two starts for Henderson, when he refused to settle in his races. However, he has really relaxed in his most recent races, dropping the bridle straight away and he has looked a hurdler out of the top drawer in winning races at Kempton and Ascot and this impressive form has brought him to the attention of many racing fans.
The strong traveller has a classy turn of foot to call upon as well and the fierce gallop of a Triumph Hurdle may well see the Al Namix gelding improve again. He will no doubt prove a highly attractive proposition for anyone casting their eye over the Cheltenham racing betting.
A Media Luz is another progressive Henderson inmate who will go to the festival with claims after a smooth win at Huntingdon. While Unaccompanied, who won a Grade 1 four-year old hurdle at Leopardstown recently, is the main contender from Ireland. Her trainer Dermot Weld is always feared when sending runners to Cheltenham.
Meanwhile, anyone looking to bet on 2011 Grand National action would do well to take a look at the official weights, which were released this week.
Don't Push It, last year's winner, was made join top weight and will have to do something special if he is to land the big prize for the second time in a row.
