'Stan Sheppard's confidence won the day' - Leighton Aspell's big-race verdict
The dual Grand National-winning rider analyses the Betfair Hurdle
The Betfair Hurdle is a race with a rich tradition, often featuring Champion Hurdle winners and providing the first real chance for the up-and-coming novices to compete in a top-class handicap.
Riding in a race with such history can faze some jockeys and the key for a rider without vast experience of competing at the highest level is confidence. With that inner belief, the split-second decisions that make the difference often seem to go for you.
So Stan Sheppard, who is full of confidence after a great season headlined by Welsh Grand National victory, was the perfect partner for Glory And Fortune, who needs holding up off a good pace.
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