Betfair Hurdle: Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate Could Double Up at Newbury

The upcoming Betfair Hurdle at Newbury could see the Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate with double representation, as both Hansard and Kamsinas are in line for this lucrative handicap race.

Hansard, trained by Gary Moore, has shown his fondness for the Berkshire track when he triumphed in the Gerry Feilden back in November. Despite carrying a heavy weight, he put up a commendable performance to finish fifth in the Betfair Exchange Trophy at Ascot.

Kamsinas, on the other hand, seemed like a promising novice under Fergal O’Brien after winning a Grade Two prize at Haydock. However, he fell short in the inaugural running of the Grade One Formby Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree on Boxing Day. As a result, he is now set to switch into handicap company for the Betfair Hurdle.

Fehily’s Confirmation:

Noel Fehily confirmed their plans stating, “The plan remains for both horses to run at Newbury if everything goes well leading up to it.”

“Hansard won convincingly in the Gerry Feilden on his second-to-last start and I believe that this track suits him well. Therefore, our aim is very much focused on targeting him towards victory in the Betfair Hurdle.”

“Kamsinas showcased his potential by winning a Grade Two race at Haydock; however, he couldn’t replicate that success in a Grade One event last time out. Nevertheless, I believe this race could suit him as well. He is still a novice and has room for improvement,” Fehily added.

Neil King, the trainer of Lookaway, is also considering another shot at handicap riches with his stable star. Lookaway achieved a hat-trick of wins in novice races by defeating Kamsinas in Grade Two company at Cheltenham towards the end of October.

The seven-year-old then displayed great potential against more experienced competitors with a second-place finish in the Greatwood Handicap Hurdle back at Prestbury Park, narrowly losing to Iberico Lord.

In his most recent performance, Lookaway secured another runner-up position behind Captain Teague in the Grade One Challow Hurdle at Newbury over the festive period. Now, Britain’s most valuable handicap hurdle presents itself as one of his upcoming options.

King’s Considerations:

“Following Lookaway’s impressive run in the Challow Hurdle, we have three possible options for him: either go to Cheltenham Trials Day or return to Newbury for the Betfair Hurdle or consider participating in the Sidney Banks Hurdle at Huntingdon,” said King.

“Initially, we thought Trials Day might come too soon after the Challow; however, Lookaway has recovered exceptionally well from that race. His form and condition are remarkable.”

“We will review entries and ground conditions before making our final decision on where to compete next. But certainly, keeping an eye on the Betfair Hurdle is something we strongly consider,” King concluded.

Betfair Hurdle Attraction:

The Betfair Hurdle, with a total prize fund of £155,000 up for grabs on February 10th, has unsurprisingly attracted a competitive field of entries.

Nicky Henderson dominates the entry list with six potential contenders. Among them are Iberico Lord, who finished ahead in the Betfair Exchange Trophy, as well as Luccia and Impose Toi who claimed second and third place respectively in that same race. In addition to these three runners, Under Control, First Street and Doddiethegreat also represent Henderson’s powerful team.

Paul Nicholls brings forward Elite Hurdle hero Rubaud and Long Walk Hurdle fifth-place finisher Blueking d’Oroux. Meanwhile, Willie Mullins presents three out of four possible Irish raiders: Alvaniy, French recruit Ocastle Des Mottes, and Onlyamatteroftime.

Olly Murphy’s Go Dante is one of the early co-favorites along with three other horses according to Betfair spokesman Barry Orr. The market reflects an exciting prospect for this race at 8-1 odds across the board.

“Luccia’s victory in last month’s Betfair Exchange Trophy shows her immense potential at Ascot; should she participate in this engagement again her odds would undoubtedly shorten considerably,” commented Orr.

Race Expectations:

Orr added further intrigue by stating that Onlyamatteroftime was another strong contender alongside Impose Toi and Altobelli.

In conclusion, The Betfair Hurdle promises an enthralling spectacle with its hefty prize money attracting top trainers from both sides of the Irish Sea. Noel Fehily Racing Syndicate could secure double representation through Hansard and Kamsinas while Neil King will be hoping Lookaway can continue his impressive form against tough competition. Excitement builds as the race day approaches, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of this highly competitive handicap hurdle.