in touch on inside, going well 3 out, ridden approaching 2 out, not quicken, one pace approaching last
tracked leaders, disputed lead 3 out, ridden to lead approaching 2 out, ridden out
held up towards rear, ridden 4th, pulled up before 2 out
always in rear, lost touch 4 out
led, headed 3rd, led again 4th, ridden unchallenged 3 out, soon headed, weakened
held up towards rear, headway to track leaders 4th, ridden 4 out, weakened 3 out
held up in rear, moderate progress from 4 out, not reach leaders
tracked leaders, ridden and lost place 4th, behind when pulled up before 2 out
mid-division, ridden and weakened before 4 out
tracked leader, led briefly 3rd, ridden 4 out, weakening when mistake 3 out
mid-division, ridden approaching 4 out, weakened 3 out, pulled up before 2 out
towards rear, ridden and brief effort 4 out to go mid-division, weakened 2 out
The vote here goes to Self Defense over Almaydan and Alaared. Last year's Champion Hurdle fourth, Self Defense, has looked to have lost his way a little of late, but there is no doubt that he has an outstanding chance chance if anywhere near his best. The previous winners Almaydan, Kadoun and Rambling Minster have all to be considered although, to be fair, their form is not out of the ordinary, with the best of them possibly proving to be Almaydan. German winner Kashimo could be interesting from the Gary Moore stable, while Alaared proved good enough to win a 12-furlong Newmarket maiden last August and, sure to have been well schooled, should go well. Overall, though, Self Defense gets the nod.
