Nicky Henderson: “He’s got plenty in his favour and I don’t expect him to be far away”

WEDNESDAY

4:45 Conditions Hurdle

Fils D’oudairies (Nico De Boinville) He’s run two very good races since joining us and it’s quite ironic that he’s going back to Ireland to try and win a big prize over there! But he’s always been a smart animal and despite a few pull ups and falls he seems to be getting his act together now and the ground should be lovely for him over there. It’s a very competitive race but he’s got plenty in his favour and I don’t expect him to be far away.

THURDSAY

6:00 Hcap Hurdle

The Bomber Liston (Aidan Coleman) He’s had a few niggly problems which has meant we’ve not been able to get him out as much as we’d like and he’s still learning all the time. The step up to three miles will be a big help and we’ll let him bowl along because he’s a lovely long striding horse so we might as well make use of that. He’s on his way home to Martinstown anyway but I’d like to think he’ll end up a pretty smart novice chaser next year.

City Chief (Nico De Boinville) He’s been very good all the way through and I was impressed with him up at Ayr last time when he stayed on well to the line and he seems to be getting better and better with each run. This is another step up but the track will suit and I’m looking forward to seeing how far up the ladder he can go. He’ll also make a lovely chaser.