made all, quickened pace 3 out, soon 5 lengths clear, eased flat, unchallenged (fence before swinley bottom not jumped 15 fences jumped)
tracked winner, pushed along soon after 3 out, eased flat when no chance with winner
It is very disappointing that only two have been declared to contest what is a decent prize. Mont Des Avaloirs never really threatened behind Champ at Newbury but should find a race soon. However, he’s facing another potentially smart Henderson-trained novice in this in the shape of ANGELS BREATH. A top-class hurdler, the grey sauntered clear of a subsequent winner here on his chasing bow and won on this card 12 months ago - this longer trip will be in his favour.
Angels Breath (IRE) 5-4fav (11-1) Tracked leader, led 2 out, ridden out, comfortable, won at Ascot 2m 3f (3) sft in Nov beating First Flow (11-1) by 8l, 4 ran.
Mont Des Avaloirs (FR) 20-1 (11-1) Behind, went modest 4th towards finish, never a factor, 4th of 6, 7 1/2l behind Champ (11-1) at Newbury 2m 4f (1) gs in Nov.
