Call Star Sports On 08000 521 321 Novices' Hurdle

Off time: 16:26 | Winning time: 5m 31.6s

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Selected odds by:

Dr Des³²

Age: 7| Weight: 11-13| J: James Davies| T: Henry Oliver| OR: 140| CD

4/5

Runner-up in an Ascot Grade 2 before making short work of lesser rivals over C&D. In too deep last time and reportedly hung right on the left-handed track. Will be more at home around here in this company and stable in form.

Form: 212217

Piton Pete¹⁸

Age: 7| Weight: 11-13| J: Harrison Beswick⁽⁷⁾| T: O Sherwood| OR: 132| C

1/1

Uncomplicated sort who has improved this winter. Jumps well and happy to dictate the pace and although he has a few pounds to find on form, he has the tools to ensure Dr Des will not have matters all his own way.

Form: 3-23311

Fare Thee Well³⁸

Age: 8| Weight: 11-1| J: T E Whelan| T: Mrs S J Humphrey

50/1

Cost €215,000 as a foal and €200,000 as a yearling. Mixture of Flat/jumps in pedigree. Had two runs in Irish point-to-points in 2014, being 7L runner-up in the second. Pulled-up on hurdling debut and that effort indicates he faces a huge challenge.

Form: 42/P

Forecasts

Dr Des (4/5), Piton Pete (1/1), Fare Thee Well (50/1)

DR DES was never travelling well at Fontwell last time against seasoned Graded level performers. Having hung right connections have wasted no time in bringing him back to a right-handed circuit. His form against useful novices at Ascot this winter makes him the one to beat, although Piton Pete will ensure he has a battle on his hands. Oliver Sherwood's charge jumps well and is clearly happy to dictate the pace. He will expose any potential flaws in Dr Des for what looks a close match.