DON`T MISS TIMEFORM`S BEST BET Publication of Timeform`s Chasers & Hurdlers annual does not usually receive the fanfare reserved for its Flat equivalent `Racehorses`. Described as the Silver Jubilee edition, the 25th book of the series is widely regarded as the junior partner to its older stablemate. However, this 1,072-page tome delivers just as much as Racehorses, acting as a review of the 1999/2000 season, a preview of the campaign to come and offering forthright views on the main issues to arise during the term. It will come as no surprise that Istabraq wins their accolade of Champion Jumper for a third successive season and Timeform assess both his and Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Looks Like Trouble`s chances of repeating their Festival victories. Readers will also enjoy hunting out potential stars of the future, although they may not have far to look far for one novice chaser who is 'everything one looks for in a Grand National winner'. There is also a section for point-to-pointers for those after real dark horses, along with a `promising horses` section. Overall, there is more than enough in the annual to keep National Hunt lovers occupied for months to come. Chasers & Hurdlers of 1999/2000 is published by Portway Press at £64.
