2.40 Ascot
Coral Hurdle (Registered As The Ascot Hurdle) (Grade 2)
(Class 1) (4YO plus)
Winner £50,643 - 4 run
Advice: 1 pt win Zarkandar (2/1 general)
Zarkandar: Top class hurdler who took advantage of
considerable stamina reserves to land Aintree Hurdle and make amends for
disappointment in Champion Hurdle in second straight year, being caught for
speed behind Hurricane Fly after three straight wins; When staying up (fell in
2012 Aintree Hurdle with all to play for), hasn’t been beaten outside of
festival and while he must give 11lbs to a serious talent in Annie Power,
represents toughest test yet. 
Bygones of Brid: Looks to be making up the numbers here on
all previous form. 
Magnifique Etoile: Very useful second season hurdler who
returned after absence in fine style with 13 length win at Stratford; This
obviously in different league and must prove he’s upto this level but could
still be going the right way. 
Annie Power: One of the most promising and exciting horses
in racing following a stunning season that saw her go unbeaten in 7 races,
thrashing opposition on each occasion; Smallest winning margin but most
impressive performance when winning Grade 2 at Naas in style (Defy Logic and
Don Cossack behind) and 2m4f Mares’ race at Punchestown a walkover for her;
Fascinating to see he pitched in here and gets 11lbs from Zarkandar (4lbs for
his winning a Grade 1 race, rest for allowance); Big test for her today.
VERDICT: Annie Power is obviously a tremendously exciting
talent but bookmakers may have overrated to her getting weight from ZARKANDAR,
and she’s going to have to be as good as she looks to overturn the Aintree
Hurdle winner here. At the prices, the Aintree Hurdle winner is the easy bet.
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