Navan Novice Hurdle 2010

1.15 Navan
Navan Novice Hurdle (Grade 1) (Class 1) (4YO plus)
Winner €48,750 - 7 run

Pick: Fully Funded (win)

Aughnacurraveel: Good form in bumpers and 2-3 hurdling so far, proving 4 lengths too good for Sizing Mexico (winner since) at Fairyhouse before not really firing in the Monksfield Hurdle here last month; Will need more to reverse form with winner from that day.

Fully Funded: Improved massively from hurdling debut when eased down to beat Couleur De La Loi by 5½ lengths in a Wexford maiden hurdle and did the same again when leading all the way for a comfortable win in the Monksfield Hurdle here last time, using easy lead to his advantage and digging deep to beat off what looked like decent field at the time; That effort gives him strong chance here.

He’s Our Man: Was still right in the mix when running his chance in the Monksfield Hurdle with a serious effort 2 out; Hard to know how he would have done but was 7/1 and lacklustre when only fourth in Maiden Hurdle last time.

Hidden Cyclone: Has been seriously impressive on all completed starts, making step up from maiden hurdle to Grade 3 company easily with commanding 6 length win in the ‘For AUCTION’ Novice Hurdle (over 2 miles); Step up in trip should suit and well fancied to make it 4 from 4, for all that this is a stronger affair than the one he won last time.

Imperial Shabra: Tough as old boots and made frame 4 times since winning twice in August, but barely stays this far and asking too much of him.

Oscars Well: Already better over hurdles than bumpers, having slammed the opposition by 9 lengths last time (well suited by the step up to this trip); Comes from good yard and well worth the step up in grade.

Sweet Shock: Has had 6 starts over hurdles but much better judged on his 2 hurdle wins this season, grinding out wins in novice hurdle and taking advantage of low weight in handicap; Could be ready to step forward again, but really needs a lot more.

VERDICT: The presence of the first, fourth and sixth from the Grade 2 Monksfield gives this race a solid form feel and Barometer for the future, aided by the presence of an unbeaten Grade 3 winner touted for better things. Hidden Cyclone looks all class based on his three wins so far, but FULLY FUNDED had a lot in the tank once challenged at Navan last time and may not necessarily need the lead to be seen at this best.