Sivola can rev it up

HORSE RACING

ALL of this week’s eyecatchers were spotted by Chronicle racing correspondent KEITH McHUGH during the Paddy Power meeting at Cheltenham:

BALLYDUB (trained by Philip Hobbs): One of the big gambles of Sunday’s card, Ballydub ran into a horse of huge talent and potential in Puchestowns, but shaped with lots of promise and can surely be placed to go one better in the near future.

The winner looks destined for conditions races following this success and although the handicapper is likely to raise Ballydub a few pounds for this bold showing to be second in a competitive field, he is a progressive sort who should be able to cope with any rise up the handicap.

OVER SIXTY (Alan King): This mare won on her hurdles debut at Southwell, but stepped up on that effort considerably when second to Golan Way in a Grade 2 event on Friday.

She was unable to get to grips with the frontrunning winner, but showed a willing attitude under pressure to finish a place ahead of the highly-regarded American Trilogy.

Over Sixty’s combination of talent and courage will stand her in good stead and a step up to two and a half miles should prove to be no problem.

PRIDE OF DULCOTE (Paul Nicholls): This column’s nap selection was running away when tipping up at the second-last in Saturday’s three-mile handicap hurdle won by Fair Along.

Distracted by a rival’s mistake at that flight, Pride Of Dulcote had jumped beautifully until then so it was galling to see him tumble after his first mistake.

Clearly well handicapped and possessing bundles of talent, Pride Of Dulcote will surely make amends providing this spill has not dented his confidence.

REVE DE SIVOLA (Nick Williams): Improved dramatically on his moderate Chepstow debut by finishing third to the impressive Simarian in the big juvenile hurdle at Prestbury Park.

He looked in a hopeless position two hurdles from home, but finished with real gusto, suggesting a step up in trip will be right up his street.

Sure to improve as he gains experience over hurdles, Reve De Sivola is one to keep a close eye in the next few weeks.

THREE MIRRORS (Ferdy Murphy): Progressive at the end of last season, Three Mirrors looks the sort to pick up a decent prize this term granted suitable underfoot conditions.

Best on a sound surface, he found the going all against him in the Paddy Power Gold Cup won by Imperial Commander, but finished to some effect in fifth.

When the ground does dry up and possibly racing over further than two and a half miles, Three Mirrors can regain the winning thread.