Cheltenham (12h55)
Pick : Local Hero
Odds : 3.25
Stake : 4/10
Book : Bet365
Result : +9
Timeform view : Indian Daudaie has to be of interest on debut for Paul Nicholls, but he probably wont find giving weight to Local Hero and Third Intention easy. Slight preference is for the former, who has barely come off the bridle so far over hurdles.
Sportinglife Preview : Steve Gollings thinks a lot of Local Hero and AP McCoy has ridden him to victory in his two starts so far at Wetherby and Doncaster. This is the acid test as far as Triumph Hurdle aspirations are concerned but he looks sure to be in the firing-line if handling this more undulating track. However, we narrowly prefer THIRD INTENTION who forged clear of Titan De Sarti and Empire Levant on his debut over timber at Newbury. That was only his fifth racecourse appearance and there is surely more to come. French import Indian Daudaie and shock Wetherby winner Maoi Chinn Tire may struggle under the extra, while Akula and Mark Twain probably have a bit to prove in this grade.
Racin Post : LOCAL HERO (nap) has looked highly promising winning easily in both of his starts over hurdles and with his debut form at Wetherby boosted significantly in midweek, rates the clear pick in what isn't the strongest of races for a Grade 2. Indian Daudaie may be next best, ahead of Mark Twain.[Mel Cullinan
