26th-Nov-2023

I am backing Jody Ted in the Pertemps qualifier.

Eoin Griffin’s horse has a hurdles mark of 114, 20lb lower than his chase mark.  I am not a fan of this scenario in general, there is a reason why there are different handicap ratings for the same horses in different disciplines, but Jody Ted hasn’t run over hurdles since he won a novices’ hurdle at Limerick in April 2021, and he has progressed since over fences.

He was impressive in winning a handicap chase at Limerick last month on soft ground on his seasonal return.  The handicapper raised him to his chase mark of 134 after that.  There is every chance that he can get close to that mark today over hurdles, and even close would be enough.  He could be an improved horse how in all disciplines, and 20lb is a lot of leeway.  Eoin Griffin’s horses are in really good form these days, and Mark McDonagh is very good value for his 3lb claim.

Gabbys Cross was also on my shortlist, but Jody Ted is the bet.

JODY TED WON (ADV 9/4, SP 2/1)