Paul Ferguson has two more selections for us on Tuesday from Sedgefield: Sophonie (13.00) and Chamirey (13.30).
The ground is likely to be demanding at Sedgefield on Tuesday and, having already won over fences on testing ground in France, that will suit Sophonie (1:00) in the opening mares’ novices’ hurdle.
The four-year-old shaped with promise on her British debut and, given that most of Ferdy Murphy’s runners come on for their first run of the campaign, a bold showing is expected.
Donald McCain has his string in fine shape at present and he saddles the former Alan King trained Chamirey (1:30) in the beginners’ chase half an hour later.
A winner over this sort of trip on soft ground at Uttoxeter last November, Sir Robert Ogden’s seven-year-old went on to score at Fontwell before finishing third in a competitive handicap at Haydock and he filled the same spot in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham.
He is likely to want further again in time, but the testing ground ought to make it a sufficient enough test of stamina.
Tuesday’s selections:
1:00 Sedgefield Sophonie
1:30 Sedgefield Chamirey
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Last year’s selections included:
Hurricane Fly: 3/1 winner of the G1 Rabobank Champion Hurdle
Copper Bleu: 12/1 winner of the Jewson at Cheltenham
Great Endeavour: 18/1 winner of the Festival Plate
Tranguil Sea: 11/2 winner of the Paddy Power Gold Cup
Sizing Europe: 6/1 winner of the Arkle
Weapon’s Amnesty: 10/1 winner of the RSA Chase