Just catching up with the festive action and thought id put together my thoughts on eyecatchers etc.
Vilbrato Valtat - God's Own went a proper pace and he travelled smoothly as he normally does but he jumps so fluently at any pace and absolutely pinged the last and won comfortably enough. Still 12/1 for the Arkle but managed to get 25/1 after his defeat to Dunraven Storm. I really hope Noel Fehily keeps the ride again as he is now 2/2 on the horse.
Carlingford Lough - Was travelling and jumping well in the Lexus today before he probably blew up 2 out but still finished a very respectable 5th on his seasonal debut. is 33/1 for the big 1 in March and aslong as he jumps better than he did in the RSA will stand a big chance.
Monksland - Looked sure to play a big part in the World Hurdle 2 years ago but has been off since with injury. Stayed on best of the others(was last turning for home) and will be a lot better off for this run. Looks to have kept his ability.
Saphir Du Rheu - Hard to give confidence about considering he has now unseated and fallen in 2/3 races so far, could be absolutely anything but will need to sort the mistakes out.
Faugheen - Won well but iv still not taken to him, his jumping isnt good enough in my opinion for a Champion hurdler. Put a couple of decent yard sticks in there place though and will be more suited to Cheltenham. Still between TNO & Jezki for me, dont be surprised to see the Fly lower Jezkis colours once again over the winter though.
Dynaste & Champagne Fever - Dynaste was staying on well again near the end and i hope they go for the big pot this year, i dont think there is much between the top 3milers as the Lexus showed. CF ran a good race, although many will say he didnt stay. He has never won in December in 4 attempts and is known as a spring horse, will come back better in March and again hope connections dont go for the easier option in the Ryanair.
