Timeform Daily:The 2:20 Lemington Novices' Hurdle (Class 3) at Cheltenham

Race of the Day Preview / Timeform / 16 October 2008 / Leave a Comment

Timeform are intrgued by Friday's opener at Cheltenham...

Cheltenham's 2008/9 season commences on Friday with a seven-race card that's bound to throw up plenty of winners in the coming months. An intriguing-looking novices' hurdle opens proceedings.

Earth Planet: Much improved in closing stages of last season, following wins at Wincanton and Cheltenham with excellent fourth to Mous of Men at Sandown. Represents champion trainer who's thriving already and very much the one to beat.

Dragon Eye: Bumper winner at Warwick at turn of year and hasn't always impressed with attitude, hanging right when looking to hold a winning chance when second to Galient on his only completed start over hurdles. That was just his second outing in this sphere though and it's possibly too soon to be writing him off just yet.

Paddleyourowncanoe: Readily left previous form behind on first start since leaving Richard O'Gorman when springing a [26.0]shock on British debut at Southwell last month, winning hard held from Dabaratsca. Patiently ridden before coming through late on bridle then and will possibly always need riding that way with temperament under suspicion. No doubt he's capable of a lot more again and represents a trainer typically starting the campaign on a high.

Ceasen Desist: Built on easy Punchestown success tried in better company when third to Montero at Navan on reappearance, making most and battling on well when challenged at last, losing second only close to home. The drop back in trip should suit if similar tactics are adopted but he has fair bit to find.

Pairc Na Gcapall: Just modest form in trio of Irish bumpers last season and faces baptism of fire on hurdles debut for new stable.

Ace of Clubs: Mid-field at best in a couple of these events in 2006/7 and impossible to make a claim for on return after 622-day absence.