Race of the Day / Timeform / 24 February 2011 /

Can Minella Class book his Cheltenham place with a third win over hurdles?

Minella Class has made a perfect start over hurdles, winning a 2m Newbury maiden and the Grade 1 Tolworth at Sandown (heavy ground). The step up in trip should suit here and he could go right to the very top.

Aikman is a three-time point winner who opened his account over hurdles at Musselburgh (2½m, soft) earlier this month. He had earlier shown better form in defeat and should have more to offer, but faces big ask here.

Captain Kirkton has made a bright start over hurdles, powering away in soft-ground novices at Lingfield (2½m) and Fontwell. He has more to offer and could give Minella Class a real fright here.

Pride In Battle brings some strong form to the table having won 19f Newbury novice hurdles the last twice (form worked out well both occasions). The increased emphasis on stamina here will suit and he could have more to offer.

Extremely So was less impressive when winning for the second time over hurdles at Leicester (2½m) last month, jumping left and idling once left clear two out. She looks up against it here.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Minella Class
2. Captain Kirkton
3. Pride In Battle

Timeform View: A warm novice hurdle with all five runners holding Cheltenham entries. The promising pair of Captain Kirkton and Pride In Battle are both respected in their hat-trick bids, but look set to be thwarted by Minella Class, himself seeking a third win in a row and very much a smart prospect.

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