Really liked the performance by Sortudo, but I'm still adament he'll end up over further (despite also backing him pre-race for the Supreme).
I've re-watched the race a couple of times now, he looked OK over his hurdles, without being great. Obviously it was his first time in public over obstacles so it's fair to assume he can and probably will improve on this. It also didn't affect Kopek too much and he went on to win a Supreme.
He was also pulling away from Jalon D'Oudaries, a horse I also had down for a Bartlett, but also one that 100% would have needed that run having been off of the track for over 600 days.
I know it's impossible to make direct comparisons but Appreciate It won that race before winning the Supreme, however his hurdling that day, especially when quickening up, and also on deeper ground, was very good, compared with that of Sortudo.
I've not got Sortudo covered for a Turners, though he could go down this route, although I'm adament you need a turn of foot, and although he forged clear it wasn't through a turn of foot, IMO. I backed him early doors for the Bartlett, and this is still where I think he ends up.
One big positive for Sortudo for me at least was his ability to be in amongst horses, rather than having to lead. It gives them more options. His bumpers would have you believe he needed to be ridden prominently, either due to his own mental state or making use of his stamina, but that doesn't seem to be the case now.
Still plenty of Willie's horses to come out, but it will be interesting to see what they do with Sortudo next time out.