Stanjames.com International Hurdle 2011

3.05 Cheltenham

StanJames.com International Hurdle (Grade 2) (Class 1)  (4YO plus)

Winner £74,035

Advice: 1 pt win Menorah (4/1 Ladbrokes)

Menorah: Proved rather disappointing since his win in this last year - although it should be remembered just how convincing that performance was  - when fifth in the Champion Hurdle and fourth at the Punchestown Festival; Reverts from chasing after unseating at Exeter and big chance of repeating win in this last year.

 

Overturn: Game front runner who made a real name for himself in graded company over hurdles last season, and in that form once again, impressive when winning limited handicap hurdle with plenty to spare from General Miller and deserved winner of Ascot Hurdle (left infront after main rival fell at last); Best win yet in Fighting Fifth Hurdle (when beating Binocular) and probably the form horse of the field.

Brampour: Didn’t quite live up to his potential last season when disappointing at both festivals (according to the reputation he had earned) but took advantage of good mark to win at Ascot and then follow up in Greatwood Hurdle; More needed here in deeper race but can’t be said that he’s reached the roof of his ability, so interesting.

Clerk’s Choice: Struggled to earn his mark of 162 (gained when winning conditions hurdle by 21 lengths) despite being fourth in this and then sixth in Champion Hurdle last year; Change of trainer interesting although others preferred here.

Grandouet: Made up into top juvenile hurdler last season, winning three times but most impressively when romping away with Punchestown Grade 1 (no more than he deserved after excellent efforts in the Triumph and at Aintree); Cantering when falling behind Celestial Halo at Wincanton on seasonal debut and had all but a benefit event at Haydock last time; Big chance here of proving he handles the hill (connections using this as a guide to Champion Hurdle prospects).

 

Sanctuaire: Romped home in Fred Winter at 2009 festival and while developing quirkiness since, he retains all ability, as shown when he cantered all over Overturn to win the Scottish Champion Hurdle; Trouble is getting him to show that ability and has to be a fear he’ll be outclassed today.

Pittoni: Very good novice  2 years ago (unbeaten inc Grade 1 at Leopardstown before coming back “clinically abnormal” when beaten in Grade 2, and then unplaced in Triumph); Deeply impressive when beating Donnas Palm by 12 lengths but put in his place by Thousand Stars at Punchestown last month; Needs to improve 10lbs at least for the aid of first-time cheekpieces.

Stormy Weather: Outclassed in Fighting Fifth, and same again here.

VERDICT: With the champion hurdle picture opening up for some, this is a truly fascinating race. Many seem to be against MENORAH given his retreat from chasing but that was an understandable move and he has a big chance on his best form despite a 4lbs penalty. The same can be said for Overturn, while Grandouet and Brampour are progressive 4 year olds who must be respected.