Thursday 16 November 2017

November Meeting: Henderson confident with 'talented' On The Blind Side ahead of Grade Two target

Embed from Getty Images
Champion trainer Nicky Henderson believes On The Blind Side is a horse with a 'big future' as he targets a first graded victory in the closing Ballymore Novices' Hurdle (3:35).

The contest where Coneygree emerged as a smart hurdler when winning this Grade Two prize just five years ago, hasn't been won by a Seven Barrows horse since the inaugural running in 1996.

On The Blind Side built on his hugely encouraging point-to-point win when a winner at Aintree by just under a length.

"He made a very pleasing start at Aintree last month when he would have needed it and there should be more improvement to come," Henderson told his Unibet blog. 

"I think he is up to this grade and his victory at Liverpool really impressed me over a trip which was on the short side around there and he’ll definitely appreciate the small step up around this stiffer track. 

"They didn’t go very quick at all at Aintree so it developed into a sprint which wouldn’t have suited therefore, the manner of his victory gives me confidence that he’s as talented as we all hope he is. 

"It’s more competitive here and we’ll find out much more at Cheltenham but he’s improved again since his debut and he’s a horse with a big future."

Embed from Getty Images
Vision Des Flos cost the late Alan Potts £275,000 following his stylish bumper win

Vision Des Flos runs in the colours of the late Alan Potts. The four-year-old was moved to Colin Tizzard's yard following his debut win in Punchestown's competitive Land Rover Bumper.

Following his pleasing stable and hurdling debut third, connections are optimistic of an improved effort.

Momella has established herself as one of the leading British novice hurdlers for Dan Skelton, in her two impressive victories at Newton Abbot and Fakenham.

Gloucestershire's Fergal O'Brien saddles Aye Aye Charlie and Poetic Rhythm. 

No comments:

Post a Comment