The more I look at this race, the more it seems wide open (apart from Buveur D'air). I like Verdana Blue at 50/1 e/w; she ran a nice race on unsuitable ground in the Betfair and will be fully tuned for this and, in receipt of the mares allowance, has a real chance of surprising a few people. When you look at the horses ahead of her in the betting it is not too difficult to rule out a bunch of them; here goes:
Faugheen - beaten by Supasundae in the latter's warm up race for the Stayers. Look like a shadow of his former self on the evidence of his last two runs
My Tent Or Yours - the form of his win over Melon (when getting all of the allowances)is not looking so good after the latter's run at Leopardstown
Yorkhill - ran without any sparkle whatsoever at Leopardstown and, at present, impossible to fancy; even if he does turn up here
Melon - very disappointing at Leopardstown and now has a lot to prove even at the more realistic 16/1 odds
Wicklow Brave - well beaten in this race last year after returning from Australia. His flat form last year was some way below his best and another trek to Australia will be difficult to overcome
Apple's Jade - if she turns up must have a great chance. But, based on all the comments, she will not be coming here. (Probably should though)
Min - going for the Queen Mother surely
Chtibello - Won the Scottish Hurdle two years off 135 but then beaten of 141 by Gwafa (rec 4lbs) - that's not good enough
The New One - doesn't run
Mick Jazz - basically a handicapper who did well to win at Christmas. Pulled up on only run at Cheltenham when joint favourite
Call Me Lord - everybody says he need to go right-handed but his wins in France were both left-handed so wouldn't be so quick to discount him. He's basically a good handicapper but there would be worse e/w bets even though he may well need softer ground than he is likely to get
Defi Du Seuil - looks a shadow of his 4 year-old self. Cannot fancy.
There you go - can't fail to be placed!!
