Petit Mouchoir runs in the Irish Champion Hurdle tomorrow (Saturday). In 2017 he finished third to Buveur D’Air in the Champion Hurdle. He went chasing last season, but things did not work out. He returned to hurdling last time in a hot contest and was weak in the market. He was held up at the back and never looked likely to get involved.
But he has always raced prominently and can be headstrong. After his last outing there was speculation that the ride he was given was intended to help teach him to settle (settled horses conserve energy better). The market supported such a view and maybe tomorrow is lesson two. But whatever happens tomorrow, he is superb value at 33s NRNB (Non Runner No Bet – available with numerous firms including Ladbrokes on the High Street). His trainer, Henry De Bromhead is smart and down to earth and it would be out of character for him to run this horse in the Champion if he did not believe he had a solid chance.
If Petit Mouchoir disappoints between now and March, I’d be fairly confident he will not run, so your stake will be returned. If he does run, his price would be around 12/1 in my book. An each way bet at 33s is advised. Be sure to take it with a bookie going NRNB.
Good luck
Joe
Steeplechasing 