Today we head to Ascot with two runners, Casual Observer and Monviel.
First up is Casual Observer in the Novices’ Hurdle at 1.15pm which looks a warm race. He ran really nicely at on debut over hurdles at Wincanton last time out, I was really pleased with how he jumped that day. He was just a little bit keen early on in the race. He’ll have to step forward a good bit today but he’s an immature horse who’s only going to improve with time. If he switches off and jumps nicely then hopefully he can run a nice race, he’s a lovely prospect going forward.
Next is Monviel in the Handicap Hurdle at 2.25pm, who switches back to hurdling after struggling with a fibrillating heart last time out over fences. He’s fresh, fit and as well as I can get him off a long lay off. I’m very very happy with his preparation for this race. It’s obviously going to be a tough, competitive race but the best of his hurdling form gives him a real good chance and hopefully he can be very competitive.