1.15 Haydock – Swinton Handicap Hurdle Selection: Made U Blush

The HRB TimeWise Master rating gives a clear starting point: Made U Blush ranks 1st, and that matters. In this 17-runner handicap hurdle sample, Rank 1 has the best strike-rate at 14.56%, with the strongest place return too, so she has to be treated seriously despite this being a deep Premier Handicap.

The likely race shape is crucial. Comment Shaper points to a very strong pace, with two front-runners and high collapse risk. That could compromise Bucephalus and possibly Tellherthename if he goes forward, although Timeform still respects the latter after his Skelton debut. The strong pace should suit horses who can travel and finish, and Made U Blush is flagged as a strong finisher with improving recent form.

She is only four, but that also means upside. Her Sandown second reads well: she showed plenty of speed, was backed in-running, and was only beaten narrowly by a strong stayer. Before that, she won well at Musselburgh and Doncaster, so her profile is progressive rather than exposed.

Dance And Glance is respected as HRB Rank 2 and a proven C&D winner, but he is 6 lb higher in a stronger race. Indemnity is solid, while Gibbs Island and Tellherthename are obvious dangers from the County Hurdle angle. Helnwein has last year’s second to recommend him, but the pace hint is a concern.

Self-critique: the biggest negative is that Made U Blush is stepping into open company and lacks the battle-hardened handicap profile of some rivals. However, the HRB top rank, low weight, pace set-up and improvement curve make her the most appealing winner pick.

Selection: Made U Blush
Confidence: Medium