Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Windsor 2m4f Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide Hurdle (GBB Race) (5yo+) horse racing event.
Nemean Lion went off as an outsider in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle (Grade 1) but delivered a creditable performance, finishing just a neck away from second. He did not end last season well, failing to complete the Stayers’ Hurdle (Grade 1) at Cheltenham, but prior to that he had battled on gamely to land the National Spirit Hurdle (Grade 2). This looks a more comfortable assignment for him in terms of both opposition and trip.
The sole mare in the race, Take No Chances, followed a middling handicap run at Chepstow with two solid efforts at Grade 2 level. She finished second in the bet365 Hurdle and third in the Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury. That form gives her a respectable chance here.
Altobelli, like Potters Charm, had two outings at Ascot, finishing fifth in the Ascot Hurdle and sixth in the Long Walk Hurdle. He managed a couple of wins last season, though those came in handicaps.
After a strong campaign last term, capped by victory in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham, Doddiethegreat has campaigned exclusively in graded races this season. He was third in the bet365 Hurdle (Grade 2), fourth in the Long Distance Hurdle, and then fifth in the Howden Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot. The record is respectable, but a win here looks unlikely.
Potters Charm began the season with a fall in the bet365 Hurdle at Wetherby, but has since bounced back with a third place in the Ascot Hurdle (Grade 2) and a fourth in the Long Walk Hurdle (Grade 1) at the same venue. He appeals most in this line-up and is our choice to come out on top.
