GET THE HOUSE ON HENDERSON'S HORSE

14:20- Southwell

Nothin To Ask is the representative from Fergal O’Brien’s barn and is ridden by Liam Harrison, who takes 7 lbs off. Before transferring to Fergal’s stable, he was trained by Peter Flood and contested 3-mile point-to-point races. He has some interesting form, finishing behind Fiston Des Issards, who is now owned by Noel and Valerie Moran, and Boothill, who has won both his subsequent races for Harry Fry. He ran well in his last two appearances, but they came on soft/heavy ground and there is a possibility that he may just find this race, on good ground, too fast.

Harry Skelton is in the midst of a titanic battle with Brian Hughes for the Champion Jockey title and he takes the ride on Greatest Star for this race. He placed on debut at Warwick and was pleasing enough but the form hasn’t held up and the same could be said for his last run at Stratford. His relations seem to run better over longer distances and I would presume he may follow suit. He’s open to improvement but I would have him as my third choice of these mentioned.

Hob House comes from France and is owned by JP McManus. The Nicky Henderson trained gelding is by Walk In The Park, who is the sire of top-class chasers like Douvan and Min, and is enjoying a stellar season as a sire. Moreover, Hob House’s dam is a half sister to Champion Hurdle winner Epatante. All of this suggests that he will be suited by the 2 miles and if he is fresh, he could make this a walk in the park.

HOB HOUSE (WIN)

written by Kieran McHugh