World Hurdle hero Big Buck’s usurps Inglis Drever in ratings
The British Horseracing Authority’s official handicapper has put the Paul Nicholls-trained hurdler up 4lb to 174, 2lb more than Howard Johnson’s retired star.
“As expected, the Ladbrokes World Hurdle was one of the best championship races at this year’s Festival,” explained handicapper Martin Greenwood.
“Rated 174, Big Buck’s has improved rapidly since his attentions have been turned to hurdles and there is every chance more improvement is on the cards. In my opinion, he will take all the beating in any long distance hurdle he competes in.”
“Runner-up Punchestowns has also improved rapidly this season, though he might have shown the limit of his ability. On 171, he is rated only 1lb inferior to Inglis Drever.
The staying novice hurdlers also impressed the assessor.
“Beforehand, it looked as if this season’s crop of staying novice hurdlers was a smart bunch – and the results of the Ballymore Baring Bingham and the Albert Bartlett Spa novice hurdles did little to diminish that view,” Greenwood added.
“Mikael D’Haguenet confirmed his pre-race rating of 155 in winning the former, beating one of the best British novices, Karabak.
“Ratings for the Albert Bartlett aren’t too far behind. Winner Weapon’s Amnesty is now rated 153 after beating joint-top-rated Pride Of Dulcote (now 152).”
The Midnight Club was raised from 137 to 150 after his valiant effort in the Albert Bartlett.
Dunguib impressed handicapper Stephen Hindle, his effortless victory in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper, earning a 143 assessment.
Hindle was also full of admiration for Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase winner Chapoturgeon and Imperial Commander, who landed the Ryanair Chase. Chapoturgeon’s performance earned him a rise of 18lb to 153.
Imperial Commander put a disappointing effort in the King George behind him with a career-best one, earning a rating of 164.
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