Hurdles the plan this time for 'absolute star' Ptit Zig

STAR QUALITY

5g Martaline - Memorial
Ditcheat Thoroughbreds
132P-11
RPR 150c OR 147c
He’s been mustard in two starts over fences. The plan was always to get him out early and hope he might become a flagbearer for Ian Fogg’s new syndicate, Ditcheat Thoroughbreds, and he’s already performed the role nicely. Considering he proved well suited by a flat track over hurdles it was good to see him win at Cheltenham, although being a front-runner I don’t think he’s an Arkle horse, so our plan is the Henry VIII at Sandown next, followed possibly by Kempton over Christmas, then a break before coming back for Aintree in the spring. He reminds me very much of Twist Magic and, I know this is flying high, but my sights are set on the 2017 Tingle Creek Chase with him.

Marracudja: plan is Henry VIII, Kempton at Christmas and then Aintree in the springCredit: Alan Crowhurst

6g Motivator - Alessandra
JP McManus
11300-3
RPR 142h OR 140h
I was thrilled with his third at Ascot nine days ago when he showed a lot more zest than at the end of last season. I felt he just needed it and he’ll come on for the run. He’d been well beaten when we upped him in grade in the Betfair Hurdle and County Hurdle but I think the ground is quite important to him; he doesn’t want it too soft. He’s in the Greatwood this weekend, although there are no definite plans. He jumps fences well at home so that might come into consideration.