Pic: Getty
I’VE been waiting for WESTEND STORY and today he makes his hurdling debut at Warwick (12.50). The 2m 5f maiden hurdle is the most fascinating race of the day and it could be chock full of future winners. Fifth in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham, Westend Story has been singled out by Richard Johnson as a horse to follow and could take high rank among this season’s novices. However he faces a formidable rival in the shape of Willoughby Court, who is highly regarded by Ben Pauling and who will strip fitter for a run at Market Rasen where he was given a decidedly poor ride. However, you would expect Westend Story to win here if he is to develop into a Cheltenham or Aintree horse.

Brian Ellison is enjoying a fruitful time, banging in winners both on the flat and over the jumps. He has saddled 24 National Hunt winners and is now attracting a better quality of horse. Dual bumper winner Ravenhill Road looks an exciting prospect while Mahlerdramatic and Definitly Red will pay their way this season.

Today at Newcastle, Ellison saddles two more promising beasts in Ballycrystal and Forest Bihan. Ballycrystal looks a penalty kick and will be long odds-on but FOREST BIHAN could be a backable price in what looks a warm novice chase (12.40). This blog has already earmarked Forest Bihan as a horse to follow and he has to defy a 7lb penalty. Brian Hughes rode him to a comfortable victory on his chasing debut at Towcester but today is claimed to ride the likely favourite Waiting Patiently for Malcolm Jefferson. Forest Bihan was rated far superior over hurdles and could offer a bit of value. For the record, Aqua Dude is no forlorn hope at 9/1.

TYRELL (12.20) ran okay on his hurdling debut when fourth at Exeter behind a horse who has won again since. He was a hardy stayer on the flat and was suited to racing up with the pace. The better ground at Warwick will help him and he should go close if he brushes up his jumping.

Be lucky!