Menorah Odds for the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle 2011 now sees him sitting as favourite for the race, after ante post favourite Binocular was withdrawn after being tested positive for a banned substance. Eleven runners have made it to the final declaration stage now, and while the absence of Binocular will be a major blow for fans, and for trainer Nicky Henderson, there is still a competitive race on the cards. Menorah is actually looking in pretty good form, and the six year old could be ready to step into the headlines. Menorah’s preparations seem to be going pretty well, and while he was initially trading behind Binocular, Best Odds on Menorah have always seem him at pretty good value. There is a lot of confidence riding on Menorah at this year’s renewal, and trainer Phillip Hobbs is impressed by what he is seeing from Ireland’s hope. Menorah is a very good runner, with a great record at Cheltenham, winning three out of three appearances in 2010. Back in December, Menorah beat Supreme Novices Hurdle hopeful Cue Card by four and a half lengths in an impressive run in a class one meeting and jockey Richard Johnson has now had back to back wins at Cheltenham, even when Menorah was carrying much more weight, he beat out Bothy by a neck in November. The goings could just be ideal for him, with it being good to soft, and good in places, as that will see Menorah at his best.
Menorah Odds for the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle 2011 highlights how well he is expected to go. Best Odds on Menorah, around 3/1 at Totesport and across the board, are still good value though in ante post betting. With the withdrawal of Binocular, Menorah’s price could pull in a bit tighter as punter put their stake refunds to him instead. There is some strong challenges ahead for him though, with Peddlers Cross and Hurricane Fly expected to put up stiff competition. Hurricane Fly though hasn’t been outside of Ireland though, and may not travel as well at Cheltenham, especially when that extra strength is needed in order to get up the hill. Still, has had his success and form is good, so could make an impact. But after the disappointment of Binocular, Nicky Henderson’s hopes will rest on the shoulders of Oscar Whisky, who is also worth an outside look now. Finished fourth behind Menorah in last year’s running of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, but is a horse which has definitely shown improvement since then. That is the only defeat in a successful young career, winning six out of seven starts. Menorah is touted as being the perfect chaser, and he always looks good going around the track, very smooth and holds a good rhythm. There is also the turn of speed which he can kick in when heading for home.
Menorah, who won the Supreme Novices hurdle last year, has stepped up and ready for the big challenge of the Champion Hurdle. Now main threat Binocular has gone, Best Odds on Menorah has every chance of paying out on Day One of the 2011 Cheltenham Festival for punters. He looks well on target.
Boylesports are running great coverage on Day One of the Cheltenham Festival, including the feature races of the Supreme Novices Hurdle and the Champion Hurdle as well. It should be a cracking day, with strong favourites looking as if punters could beat the bookies on that first day. What Boylesports are offering, is lost bet refunds on all losing bets if you horse finishes second. So, in the Supreme Novices Hurdle, the Arkle Challenge, the Spinal Research Chase or the Champions Hurdle, if you back a horse which comes in second, then you will get a lost stake refund from the popular online bookmaker. There is a tough field, and should be a competitive running. This offer makes Boylesports a great place for your Cheltenham Festival betting, and there is a free £20 on offer for new customers opening an account with them.
