2.30 2m. 51yds. 9 Declared. Simpsons Malt Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 4 ) of £9,000.00 4-y-o plus
1st - €4,901.00 2nd - €2,258.00 3rd - €1,129.00 4th - €565.00
Formscan - ESPRIT DU POTIER showed promise in bumpers last season and his sixth-placed finish in a Grade 2 bumper at Aintree in April is the best piece of form on offer. Related to two hurdles winners in France, Lucinda Russell's gelding should be ready to go on his debut over timber and a bold showing can be expected. Irish raiders Dutch Schultz and Duleek Street are feared most, although Slugger is another notable hurdles debutant returning after wind surgery.