Pertemps Final Tips

Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero are eagerly waiting to see if their promising hurdler, White Rhino, can secure a spot in the final 24 contenders for thePertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdleon Thursday, as he currently ranks number 29 after the 6-day confirmation phase.

ThePertempsis undoubtedly one of the handicaps during the week where my shortlist for potential bets is typically minimal, and White Rhino would definitely be a strong contender. However, I plan to wait until declaration time, as confirmation of the field and additional place terms would make the wager all the more appealing.

Chantry House also captures my interest due to his strategic campaign that sees him competing from a handicap mark that arguably doesn’t fully capture his competence. It's worth remembering that just around two years ago, not too far back in time, Chantry House clinched the Cotswold Chase with a staggering chase rating of 160.

While he may not have the same vigor of his past, in two of his three hurdle attempts this season, he has displayed skills that suggest he could be a formidable contender in what appears to be an open, albeit potentially subpar, renewal of the race.

However, some speculation surrounds Nicky Henderson’s stable, be it unwarranted or otherwise, prompting me to observe how his runners perform earlier in the week before backing Chantry House in the race.

As of now, my clear pick goes to the most progressive and improving horse in the lineup – the delightful mare trained by Ted Walsh.Gaoth Chuil, who is available at8/1 each-waywithBet365for5 placesI'd be quite surprised if she isn't quickly picked up by the market, and, consequently, opting for the8/1currently presents a stronger potential payoff than waiting for the final field and extra places. She could foreseeably start as the 5/1 favorite.

Since stepping up in trip,Gaoth Chuilhas escalated remarkably, and pinpointing the limit of her progress is challenging. Her two races over 3 miles at Leopardstown this season culminated in a straightforward win in the Christmas qualifier for this race, and another commendable performance as runner-up at the Dublin Racing Festival.

Her recent run was particularly impressive, compensating lost ground from afar in a slow-paced scenario, without being fully exerted. This allowed her to earn a rating that ensured her inclusion in the final field, subtly masking some of the prowess she possesses from the outcome assessors.

I wouldn’t be taken aback if she evolves into a genuine Stayers’ Hurdle competitor in the next season. Thus, the8/1 each-waywithBet365for5 placesnow represents an unmissable betting opportunity if that hunch holds any validity.

Will Smith’s Pertemps Final Tips

Day Three of the Cheltenham Festival offers a singular Ante-Post selection from this column, and for those not already committed, 12/1 odds on Balco Coastal for the Turner’s Novices’ Chase at 1.30 is still a highly attractive each-way price. Considering his trajectory of enhancement, his form aligning positively with top contenders through yesterday’s Brown Advisory runner-up Gerri Colombe, and the possibility of the ground disadvantageously influencing Banbridge, I believe Balco Coastal could transition into a formidable participant.

Beyond the inaugural race, the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle at 2.10 seems poised to be a promising betting scenario, especially as many front-runners might have preferred more ideal ground conditions.

It doesn’t appear as competitive as it traditionally can be, taking into account the modified qualification prerequisites for this season. Coupled with SkyBet offering 8 places and generally 6 places at various other outlets, it is logical to engage heavily in this race.

My recommendation is to embark on three each-way bets here, with the possibility of adding Captain Morgs as a fourth, although I suspect the ground conditions might not favor that Nicky Henderson-trained contender.

First on the list is course and distance victor Hector Javilex, who demonstrated his aptitude for traversing soft grounds proficiently on New Year’s Day. After securing a position in 4th at the Huntingdon qualification 7 weeks ago, Hector Javilex has had ample time to rejuvenate for this event.

Currently valued at 14/1 each-way with SkyBet for those 8 places, and 16/1 elsewhere for 6 places, Hector Javilex is the primary focus.

First on the list is a horse from the Nicky Henderson camp, Mill Green. Despite being the oldest competitor, it's showing an impressive vigor, especially on soft tracks. Last year, its performance was a commendable third, and it boasts of two outstanding runs in past Martin Pipe races. With a recent third-place finish in preparation, and offered at 28/1 each-way with Paddy Power or Betfair Sportsbook for 6 places, it's geared to surprise observers.

Wrapping things up, we have Green Book, who secured fifth in last year’s Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle. The horse followed a similar trajectory this season, with victories at Sandown and a less successful stint at Haydock Park, only to shine again at the Cheltenham Festival.

Should he complete the familiar sequence this time, available at 33/1 each-way for 6 places, Coral , Green Book should beneficially reward backers.

It’s well known that time waits for no one, and this is especially true for the festival handicap markets. With not much room for change, market dynamics shift frequently. Afternoon confirmations for day one races marked the countdown, a reminder that the highlight of the year for National Hunt fans is almost here. Keep in mind, while reviewing entries this week, that the clock is ticking.

Taking all into consideration, it's prime time to delve into the Pertemps final set for Thursday. This distinctive 3m handicap hurdle can be elusive to decode. The system rewarding mid-tier qualifiers isn’t ideal from an integrity standpoint, yet from a betting angle, such contenders are worth backing. I've pinpointed a couple of promising runners.

Firstly, there’s Folcano from Gordon Elliot’s team, donning the colors of Tullybeg. While Tullybeg is also a contender, the focus here is on Folcano . Thanks to NRNB offers, taking a chance on this seemingly underhandicapped horse is tempting.

Folcano’s previous Cheltenham trip ended poorly, falling at the initial hurdle in Martin Pipe. Despite the day’s high expectations, this was underwhelming. However, recent performances, including sixth at a Punchestown qualifier and a notable fourth at Navan, indicate readiness. It's uncertain which race he'll enter, but his potential is evident.

I’d back him regardless of which direction he takes - at 12/1 with SkyBet, offering 5 places each way NRNB, it’s a bet worth considering.

In the spotlight too is the underrated Born Patriot from the savvy Peter Fahey stable. Sharing connections with the victorious County Hurdle runner, Belfast Banter, this horse is approaching under favorable conditions.

Experience on the course is key in large festival handicaps, and Born Patriot had an impressive second in the October qualifier despite setbacks. Initially held behind a moderate pace, an error at the finale cost him a chance. Yet, the course should better suit his talents now.

Last performance at Sandown didn’t hit his peak, possibly saving energy for this target. Having qualified early, he’s set to approach fresh and in form. His running style complemented by the expected race pace could make him a strong contender.

At 20/1 with William Hill, with 5 places each way NRNB, backing him is advisable.

Traditionally, this race is about smart strategies, qualifying without trials, and executing big gambles. Yet over time, the focus has migrated towards top-level staying hurdlers.

Run at1.55pm on the Thursdayon the New Course, thePertemps FinalRecent winners like Presenting Percy and Sire Du Berlais exemplify this shift, progressing to compete in graded races or aiming for major events.

Examining the current market, horses like Imperial Alcazar are strong contenders, whereas Champagne Platinum has potential, though questions about its class remain.

A standout candidate with requisite credentials is under Henry Daly’s care.Honest Vic, who is available to backeach-way at 25/1 with Betfred , offering 5 places for each-way bets plus NRNB incentives.