Kalmini ready for leap in class

Kalmini, unbeaten in two starts for Sheena West, will face her toughest task to date in the Grade Two Wragge & Co Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham on Saturday.

The four-year-old filly was a useful sort on the level for Mick Channon but has looked very smart on her two starts for West, bolting up at Huntingdon and Taunton.

“I was delighted with her run last time – very pleased indeed. She was a bit tired after the race but she is in great form now,” said West.

“I’m not sure how good the others were to be honest, as the form has not been franked yet, but she could only beat what was put in front of her.

“Jamie Goldstein gets on really well with her – he rides her out at home - and he’ll be on board again.”

Kalmini is being aimed at the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the Festival – for which she is 20-1 chance – and is likely to clash with ante-post favourite Afsoun in this weekend’s race.

However, West is not too concerned by the opposition, and said: “I think she’s got every chance – you can’t worry about the opposition just because they’re from big stables.

“I honestly can’t wait until the weekend. I want to show everyone how good Kalmini is.

“We had It’s Wallace Jnr run in the Triumph a few years ago – he finished 17th behind Spectroscope in 2003 – but Kalmini is a different class altogether.”