Tom Symonds Trains In Herefordshire Novices' Hurdle

Off time: 14:10 | Winning time: 7m 7.7s

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Selected odds by:

Mr Muldoon^p³¹

Age: 6| Weight: 11-10| J: Cillin Leonard⁽⁷⁾| T: Dr R D P Newland| OR: 127| BF

2/1

Point-to-point winner (2-6) who had started well over hurdles but lost his unbeaten record when third at Aintree (3m) last time. Wasn't beaten far that day and was in open company so strong claims back in this sphere.

Form: 112-113

Big Shark³⁵

Age: 5| Weight: 11-4| J: R Johnson| T: P Hobbs & J White

6/4

Second on only start in point-to-points and stayed on nicely to take 2m7f Worcester novice on rules debut. Didn't always jump well which is a concern but commands respect.

Form: 2-1

Len Brennan²⁰

Age: 6| Weight: 11-4| J: Alan Johns| T: Tim Vaughan| OR: 120

2/1

Generally has raced over fences but seems to be in good form this season back in novice company. Belatedly broke his duck with easy success in weak contest at Sedgefield (2m7f) but considered.

Form: 2P7-231

Forecasts

Big Shark (6/4), Mr Muldoon (2/1), Len Brennan (2/1)

A race in which all the rivals can stake a claim, preference is for the top weight MR MULDOON, who looked impressive in his first two starts and arguably enhanced his reputation in a tough-looking handicap last time. The 7lb claimer on board is invaluable and he looks set to defy the penalty. Big Shark showed gameness and tenacity on his debut start last time and there is every chance he can improve once again, while Len Brennan got a confidence boosting success last time but that was a poor race in context.