2.00 1m. 7f. 50yds. 18 Declared. JenningsBet Christchurch Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race) (Class 3 ) of £14,000.00 4-y-o plus
1st - €7,624.00 2nd - €3,513.00 3rd - €1,756.00 4th - €879.00
Formscan - SPARTAN ARMY wasn't disgraced when fifth in a Grade 2 juvenile contest at Chepstow in December and could return to winning ways down in class, with the emphasis on speed expected to suit. Matata found only one too good when last seen at Haydock and merits respect in a similar-looking heat. Celtic Art is rated 6lb inferior to the Nigel Twiston-Davies inmate, but he could put his C&D success to good use and shouldn't be underestimated.