Hitman on target Hitman finally put his troubles behind him when winning the Victor Chandler Make Sport More Exciting Novices` Hurdle at Ascot today. The injury-plagued gelding has been held in high regard since his three-year-old days on the Flat with Henry Cecil, but has failed to take the opportunities offered to him and was sent off a 20-1 no-hoper for this contest. However under a fine ride from Barry Fenton, Hitman stayed on strongly to beat hot favourite First Love by five lengths with decent yardstick Image De Marque II well held in third. Trainer Mark Pitman said: 'His problems have been well-documented and I am delighted he has finally redeemed himself and beaten some good horses. 'Hopefully we can now get him ready for the Supreme Novices` Hurdle at the Festival. 'The horses have been a bit in and out with snotty noses but I worked 25 this morning and they all went well so hopefully we have turned the corner.'
