VALGRAND found only one too good at Cheltenham on his debut under Rules and is the choice of Harry Skelton ahead of unraced stable companions Juventus De Brion and Jacksbar. He may enjoy a fitness advantage over likely market rival Unsinkable Molly B but Jonjo O’Neill’s mare should not be underestimated having gone close at Wetherby in the spring. Junker D‘Allier was only beaten a nose at Ayr last month but Les‘s Destiny Star is bred for further.
Junker D'allier (FR) 5-4fav (11-2) Midfield, headway and chased leaders over 2f out, ridden and made challenge 1f out, led narrowly inside final furlong, kept on but headed post, 2nd of 15, shd behind The Hardest Geezer (11-2) at Ayr 2m (4) gs in Nov.
Juventus De Brion (FR) Creachadoir gelding out of Reunion A Brion.
Les's Destiny Star (IRE) Blue Bresil gelding out of Spendajennie.
Valgrand (FR) 10-1 (11-1) Waited with in last pair, good headway out wide tracking leaders over 2f out, ridden and went 2nd over 1f out, stayed on same pace final furlong, well held, 2nd of 15, 2 1/4l behind The Kemble Brewery (11-5) at Cheltenham 2m (2) gs in Oct.
Jacksbar Jack Hobbs filly out of The Last Bar.
Unsinkable Molly B 4-1 (11-0) Prominent, joined leader over 6f out, led 5f out, pushed along 3f out, headed inside final furlong, stayed on, 2nd of 13, 1/2l behind Miss Goldfire (10-4) at Wetherby 2m (5) sft in Mar.
