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Trainer quotes for Sunday's big betting race, the Greatwood Handicap Hurdle

Harambe (dark cap) wins the 2019 Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham
Harambe (dark cap) wins the 2019 Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham under Tom BellamyCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

3.00 Cheltenham
Unibet Greatwood Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) | 2m½f | 4yo+ | ITV/RTV

Paul Nicholls believes he has a top chance of capturing Sunday's Unibet Greatwood Hurdle with Sir Psycho sharing a similar profile to the 11-time champion trainer's last two winners in the prestigious handicap.

Just four horses have triumphed as four-year-olds in this race since the turn of the century – two of those trained by Nicholls.

Nicholls said: "Sir Psycho is a real lively outsider. He ran very well the other day and that'll put him spot on. The more it rains, the better it'll suit him."

Alan King is another making a strong double-handed bid in the form of last year's winner Harambe and progressive Edwardstone. The Barbury Castle trainer is going for a third Greatwood victory in four years.

He said: "Harambe won this last year, although he'd had a run beforehand then. He's pleasing me at home. Edwardstone is an exciting prospect and he's beautifully relaxed at the moment, which is important as he can be a bit free in races."


What they say

Nigel Twiston-Davies, trainer of Ballyandy
The more rain the better. He's the best horse in the race and will hopefully prove it again. It was a good run at Ffos Las last time, especially considering what the winner [Sceau Royal] has done since.

Tony Martin, trainer of Tudor City
He handles the track, goes there in good form and the ground should be all right. Liam McKenna knows the horse well and his 7lb claim should be a help.

Olly Murphy, trainer of Hunters Call and Strong Glance
They've both got each-way chances. Hunters Call put in a brilliant run at Galway and a strongly run handicap suits him well. If it turns into a slog, that'd increase his chances. The drop in trip is a concern for Strong Glance but it’s a big pot which is worth a go.

Brian Ellison, trainer of Cormier
He's surprised me with what he's done since going hurdling and he'll love soft ground. He's a very good jumper, so I'm not too concerned about stepping out of novice company.

David Pipe, trainer of Thinking
He likes the soft ground but he's been off for a long time. He goes nicely at home but it's a big ask.

Dan Skelton, trainer of Proschema
We've had this in mind for a long time. Obviously, it's highly competitive but I'm happy with him.

Evan Williams, trainer of Ballinsker
This race will be a huge shock to his system but I've got plenty of faith in the horse. It's usually a hard-run race, so I think he'll stay on exceptionally well.

Nicky Henderson, trainer of Countister
I was a little disappointed with her last time and I hope it's not too wet. She seems in good shape.

Emmet Mullins, trainer of The Shunter
Hopefully he'll run well. I think he just got a bit bogged down on the testing ground over fences at Cork last time but he could still be unexposed over hurdles and fingers crossed he'll enjoy a strongly-run handicap around Cheltenham. It's a great addition to have Robbie [Power] riding him.


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James StevensWest Country correspondent

Published on 14 November 2020inPreviews

Last updated 09:44, 15 November 2020

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