The Triumph Hurdle this season looks a less open renewal with the English having a rare short priced favourite and the Irish having some very good looking runners. We've gone through the stats and trends to try highlight the winner.
Sir Gino sets a strong standard at the top of the market for Nicky Henderson's yard as he looks to be a rare English winner of the juvenile contest.
Here are the key stats and trends to look out for.
This is a race for young horses and with the big crowds and festival atmosphere experience is key. 10 of the last 12 winners of this had at least 2 previous runs that season and 11 of them had won a race.
Be wary of those coming in with a lack of experience or not having a win under their belt.
Arriving at the festival in good form is of course what everyone hopes.
7 of the last 12 winners won their previous race before lining up at the Cheltenham Festival.
Be ready to put lines through those not coming into the festival with an all important 1 next to their name.
With this race being open to only 4 year olds its hard to know how much these horses can improve run to run and the market hasn't always been the best guide in this.
Only 5 of the last 12 winners were favourite in this.
Don't get too caught up in market vibes, the favourite can disappoint.
Proven class can be a big help here and a guide for punters. 7 of the last 12 winners of
this race had won a graded race prior to this.
Don't take it on blind faith that your fancy is good enough for the Grade one contest without having some graded form in the books. Those who are untested at Graded level might not be good enough.
It's worth noting that 9 of the last 12 winners of the Triumph were rated 140 or higher.
This gives an immediate benchmark to start working with, those below the highlighted bracket simply might not have the quality to get involved.
Sir Gino is rated a massive 145.
This isn't a sexy price for a lot of people but he is the most likely winner of this. He
comes here with an unbeaten profile and is 2 from 2 since joining Nicky Henderson.
His win at Cheltenham last time in a Grade 2 was excellent and this horse will only
keep improving.
Hard to see him getting beat in this.
