The team return with two selections over jumps at the Cheltenham Showcase Meeting on Friday…
If the early part of the jumps season is defined by fitness, Anna Bunina could be the best of the bunch in the Foundation Developments Handicap Hurdle (13:15) at Cheltenham on Friday.
Connections were strong on the mare going into the Cesarewitch, and she ran on admirably to finish seventh past the post, later promoted to sixth. With many market rivals here on seasonal reappearance and possibly coming on for the run, John McConnell's charge could be overpriced on the back of a year where she has danced every dance on the flat.
While the daughter of Poet's Voice is without a win in two years, that last run seemed to suggest a return to some semblance of form. It is important to bear in mind that this is a Grade-1 placed mare over obstacles running in handicap company.
If this is a question of which horse has had the best preparation for the day, Anna Bunina ought to be there or thereabouts.
EACH WAY – ANNA BUNINA – 10/1
Ceanndana is a horse on a sharp upward curve and could be the answer in the Glenfarclas Amateur Jockeys' Handicap Chase (15:35) on Friday at Cheltenham.
The Irish raider demonstrated his versatility when winning over two miles at Sligo earlier in the month, but previous form would suggest three miles will be more to his liking.
The Sligo outing appears to be perfect preparation for the race, with the gelding running off a mark of 121 which could prove to be lenient, given the comfort of previous victories over the trip.
The ground should prove no problem, with the official going report of good putting Ross O'Sullivan's inmate firmly in the mix, with three wins in the book in similar conditions.
Ceanndana looks to be getting better and better with every run, and I would be surprised if the handicapper had a proper grip on him yet.
EACH WAY – CEANNDANA – 6/1
