Thursday 16 November 2017

November Meeting: Finian's Oscar targeting emotional victory for late Alan Potts

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The Tizzards are hoping Finian's Oscar can prove an emotional winner, after owner Alan Potts tragically passed away mid-week.

Colin Tizzard has recieved permission from the Gold Cup winning owner's family that the horses can run on the three day Festival, and his star Finian's Oscar will take on four rivals in Friday's Steel Plate And Sections Novices' Chase (2:25).

The five-year-old established himself as an excellent hurdler last season winning the Tolworth and Mersey Novice Hurdle at Grade One level.

On his chasing debut he ran out an easy 11 length listed winner, and faces his first true test over fences against just three rivals at Cheltenham.

"He's come out of his race really well, and he's sharpened up a bit," said the trainer's son and assistant, Joe.

"He schooled really nicely with Bryan on Tuesday morning. We're hoping for a nice run."

Finian's Oscar missed out on a chance of taking Cheltenham Festival glory, however bookmakers currently have him as a 12-1 shot for the Arkle and a 9-1 favourite for the JLT.

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Movewiththetimes was denied Betfair Hurdle glory by former Champion Bumper hero Ballyandy

Nicky Henderson's chasing debutant William Henry takes his chance. The seven-year-old won two from four over hurdles last season, including a six length victory at this venue when last seen in April.

Befair Hurdle second Movewiththetimes represents Paul Nicholls, he finished a respectable fourth on his chasing debut here a month ago.

Coo Sta Sivola completes the four-runner field for Nick Williams.

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