Race Preview: 4:10 Perth Handicap Hurdle

This is a competitive Class 4 handicap hurdle run over two and a half miles on soft ground. A field of 10 runners is set to go to post, with a mix of improving younger horses and more exposed handicappers. The key will be handling the testing ground and seeing out the trip strongly up the Perth home straight.

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Analysis of the Main Contenders

• Kap Boy: This horse is the likely favourite and for good reason. Formerly with Paul Nicholls, he now makes his debut for the in-form Olly Murphy stable. He signed off his last season with a very solid second in a 2m 4f maiden hurdle on soft ground at Ffos Las. That form suggests he’s well-equipped for today’s conditions. Making his handicap debut off a mark of 109, he is open to significant improvement, and the booking of top jockey Sean Bowen is a major plus. He looks the one they all have to beat.
• She’s Notjoeking: Trained by the powerful partnership of Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, this mare caught the eye with an encouraging seasonal debut at Kelso last month. She’s now slipped to a handicap mark of 96, which looks very workable based on her form from last season. That recent run will have blown away the cobwebs, she handles soft ground well, and she could be a major player at a decent price.
• Feach Amach: A real success story in the spring, this mare won three times, including an impressive victory over this course and distance. The application of cheekpieces clearly brought about significant improvement. The main concern is that she returns from a 149-day break, so her fitness has to be taken on trust. If she’s fully tuned up, she’s a serious threat.
• Fostered Phil: This 11-year-old is a reliable handicapper who won over this course and distance last month on good ground before a creditable third at Kelso. He has the benefit of being race-fit, but his best form has consistently come on better ground. The forecast ‘Soft’ going is a significant concern and may blunt his finishing effort.

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Verdict

This looks like a great opportunity for KAP BOY to get off the mark in handicap company. He brings a profile of unexposed potential, his last run was strong, and he now represents a top stable with a leading jockey booked.

The main danger could be SHE’S NOTJOEKING, who looks dangerously well-handicapped and should strip fitter for her recent reappearance. For those looking for an each-way bet, she fits the bill perfectly. Feach Amach is respected but might just need this run after her break.

1. Kap Boy
2. She’s Notjoeking
3. Feach Amach