Nicky Henderson’s We Have A Dream is hoping to join the likes of Bristol De Mai and Defi Du Seuil, as he hopes to take the Grade One Finale Juvenile Hurdle (1.35pm).
Since switching from France to Lambourn, the four-year-old has struck twice over hurdles winning by ten lengths on debut and in a Grade Two last time out.
This top-level prize is often a key stepping stone for Cheltenham’s Triumph Hurdle. Phillip Hobbs’ star Defi Du Seuil struck in both contests last season, and We Have A Dream is fancied to follow in his footsteps this season.
"Nicky is very happy with the horse and he's ready to run,” said Anthony Bromley, racing manager for owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede.
“Because he's won a Grade Two, he doesn't carry any penalties in a Grade One, which is a positive.
"He's run in soft ground in France, but how he copes with deep, heavy ground is the unknown."
Gary Moore’s Sussex Ranger is currently two from two over hurdles this season, and his trainer is optimistic he can strike in the Grade One contest.
The four-year-old won by eight lengths at Fontwell, before cantering home in a handicap by eleven lengths last month at Kempton.
"It's a tough race and he'll need to up his game a little,” said Moore.
“I hope he copes with the ground, and I imagine he will be, but I can’t be sure.
“He's in great form and we are very hopeful that he will run well."
Famous Milly was an impressive listed winner at Aintree on her last outing, whilst Mercenaire was equally as impressive on his hurdling debut at Exeter. Staff College also takes his chance.
TIP: We Have A Dream sets a very high standard here and is a worthy odds-on favourite in this Grade One race. If everything goes his way he should win this race quite convincingly and it is hard to look past him. Mercenaire and Famous Milly are both smart prospects but have a bit to prove, whilst the latter could be worth an each-way bet.
