Paul Kealy Analyzes 2m4f Handicap Hurdle: Nicky Henderson Pair at Risk in Competitive Field, Racing Post Reports
Spring Note is currently the top jockey booking and impressed with a 16-length win at Newbury over 2m½f. Her trainer noted that she appreciated the drop in trip and is now up 13lb and going half a mile further. However, she struggled at the 3m½f distance in her penultimate start and finished weakly at a similar trip at Cheltenham in April. Despite this, she is considered a strong contender.
East India Express lost his unbeaten record when encountering soft ground for the first time at Newbury last month. He appears to be fairly treated for his handicap debut and is expected to be a strong contender.
Havaila looks well-treated off just a 2lb higher mark based on his runs last season, while Robin’s Dream has never run in a handicap hurdle and is coming off a year-long break. Both horses are expected to improve in their upcoming races.
Speaking of their runners, trainers Nigel Twiston-Davies and Nicky Henderson express optimism and confidence in their horses’ performance. They aim to continue their successful runs and are hopeful about their new ratings and ability to handle different ground conditions.
Overall, the trainers are anticipating strong performances from their horses, with Spring Note being particularly impressive in her recent form.