Waterford Whispers

Waterford Whispers put up a big performance in the Martin Pipe Hurdle. Prominent from early, he moved to the front at the fourth flight, and he travelled powerfully through his race. In the end, he was just beaten by Better Days Ahead, who responded gallantly to his rider's urgings and stayed on strongly up the hill, but Waterford Whispers only went down by a length and a half, after racing a little keenly and after being in front from early.

Henry de Bromhead's horse is a really likeable individual. This was just his fifth run over hurdles and, winner of his first two races this season, he has the potential for much more. From the family of dual Whitbread Gold Cup winner Topsham Bay, he would be very interesting if he went over fences next season and stepped up in trip. And the Martin Pipe Hurdle can be a really good pointer to the future, being won, as it has been in recent years, by Galopin Des Champs and Banbridge and Early Doors, and by Don Poli and Sir Des Champs in the past. Waterford Whispers could take a high rank among the staying novice chasers next season, all going well.

Cheltenham, 15^th March 2024

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