soon tracking leaders, ridden after 6th, weakened 3 out
led to 2nd, led again 6th, ridden and headed 3 out, eased when no extra towards finish
took keen hold, always prominent, led 3 out, ridden clear flat, ran on
towards rear, ridden 5th, headway 6th, weakened 3 out
headway 6th, went 3rd approaching 3 out, soon ridden, weakened next
prominent, led 2nd to 6th, soon ridden, weakened approaching 3 out
ridden after 5th, weakened after next, soon tailed off (wore cheek pieces)
always behind, tailed off from 3 out
Ashton Vale is the TEAMtalk selection in this puzzling novice hurdle. A gradual improver, he had a bloodless victory last time out at Wincanton and is a confident choice despite having a double penalty on ground that will suit. Short Change showed he had ability last time out at Hereford but will need to improve to land this. The German challenger Adecco adds an interesting flavour to the mix and any market moves should be noted.