Megan Nicholls Racing Preview: Cheltenham November Meeting Day 1 Tips
FRIDAY RACING TIPS
Cheltenham 2.20 – Sun's 'Save Our Bets' Novices' Chase
I’m backing Leave Of Absence (11/4) to go back-to-back at Cheltenham.
I was on course when he won in October and, visually, he looked as if he’d improve for the run so the fact he still managed to win was pretty impressive.
They, of course, missed out a fair few fences there due to the low sun but he’s a very solid jumper on the whole so hopefully there are no issues this time!
His stamina over this 3m 1f trip is proven, unlike Wade Out (15/8 fav) and he looks the right way to look.
Megan’s Tip: Leave Of Absence WIN
Cheltenham 2.55 – Shloer Chase
Libberty Hunter (9/2) can serve it up to Jonbon (10/11 fav) in the Shloer.
Evan Williams’ charge has course form here having won his first two starts at Prestbury Park and was going well until falling in the BetMGM Champion Chase.
I’m not suggesting he’s a better horse than Jonbon but this track and this time of year might be the time when the favourite is most susceptible.
Jonbon has had a wind op which I thought was interesting and his performances at Cheltenham strongly suggest it’s a course where he just doesn’t seem to bring his best form.
I’m not sure why but he never jumps with the same fluency here and, at the short price he is, that’s a big enough doubt to take him on.
Megan’s Tip: Libberty Hunter WIN
Cheltenham 3.30 – Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle
I’ve put No Drama This End (10/3) up as one of my horses to follow this season, so I’m not going to desert him now!
His work at home has been very good and my dad, Paul, can’t stop talking about him – he really does rate him highly.
Everyone associated with the horse keeps singing his praises and we are all pretty hopeful he can take this onto bigger and better things.
The fact connections are pitching him at Grade 2 level on his first over hurdles speaks volumes. Hopefully he can show on the track what he’s shown at home.
Dad’s horses haven’t performed quite as hoped in some of the bigger races so far this term but we’re quietly confident this lad is pretty talented.
Megan’s Tip: No Drama This End WIN
Odds correct at time of publication but subject to fluctuation
