28th Nov 2013 | Horse Racing
Newcastle Tips: Duke of Navan
Won 3 of his 4 starts over hurdles and not beaten far in a Grade 2 contest despite racing more experienced rivals.
The 2.05 Newcastle is a strong renewal of the Fighting Fifth Hurdle with Champion Hurdle hopefuls, Melodic Rendezvous and My Tent Or Yours dominating the market.
The top two in the betting are quality horses but in terms of value, Duke of Navan is the standout selection.
It is easy to crab his form; two wins at Kelso in heavy ground doesn’t scream Grade 1 performer but remember he is only 5-years-old and potentially the biggest improver.
Apart from facile victories at Kelso he also finished 3.5 lengths behind Dodging Bullets in a Grade 2 novices’ event at Cheltenham. Considering that was only his second start over obstacles, it was an excellent performance against more experienced rivals.
With 8 runners going to post Duke of Navan looks a cracking each-way bet at 16/1 with ¼ odds for at top-3 finish.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 15:36 28th Nov, 2013 but subject to change
