North Hill Harvey dazzles in Arkle trial
Sunday 19 November 2017 16:19, UK
North Hill Harvey continued his love affair with Cheltenham after making it two from two over fences in the Racing Post Arkle Trophy Trial Novices' Chase.
After winning the Greatwood Hurdle on the card 12 months ago, the Dan Skelton-trained six-year-old followed up his debut chase victory at the track last month to claim the Grade Two prize.
Having sat in behind long-time leader Ozzie The Oscar for much of the two-mile prize, the 6-4 shot readily opened up a clear advantage rounding the home turn before meeting the last two fences on a good stride and bounding away to score by 18 lengths from River Wylde.
Skelton said: "He jumped very well and I don't think I'd say the ground is key, but the softer ground against the top-class performers the better his chances.
"Sandown (Henry VIII) is not off the agenda, but if it comes too soon we will probably run Born Survivor. If I didn't think it comes too soon we could prioritise Harvey.
"I'm not sure about Kempton (Wayward Lad) for him. I will work backwards from the Arkle."
