West Approach

West Approach ran a big race to finish third in the 3m 1f handicap chase. Keen in behind early on, Richard Johnson allowed him stride on into the lead after the third fence. He settled a little better once in front, but he was still probably doing a little more than his rider would have wanted. Even so, he jumped well, he lasted in front until after they had jumped the second last fence, and he kept on well enough after he had been passed by Relentless Dreamer and Cogry to retain third place.

It was a fine run from Colin Tizzard’s horse. He can be marked up at least a little on the bare form of the run, and he should do better now if he can settle a little better. He was a high-class staying hurdler two seasons ago. He was running a big race in the Long Walk Hurdle that season as a novice when he unseated at the final flight, and he finished third behind Unowhatimeanharry and Cole Harden in the Cleeve Hurdle a month later, still as a novice. He won just twice from seven attempts last season as a novice chaser, but he kept good company, he ran in the Kauto Star Chase and the Scilly Isles Chase and the JLT Chase, as well as the Scottish Grand National, and this could be his season. The handicapper has dropped him by 1lb to a mark of 142 after Saturday’s run, which is 15lb lower than his rating over hurdles. He stays three miles, but he can also be effective over two and a half and, on this evidence, a drop back down in trip could suit. He holds an entry in the BetVictor Gold Cup, and he will be of interest wherever he goes next.

Cheltenham, 27^th October 2018