Rupert can land valuable Charlie Hall
By Stephen, BettingExpert.com | Edited
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Paul Webber's top class Time for Rupert can land Wetherby's featured Bet 365 Charlie Hall Chase at 3.20 this afternoon.
This £100000 prize typically signals the jump season to be getting into full flow and it has, as usual, attracted a fantastic combination of proven high class chasers against the up and coming novices en route to the top.
Time for Rupert made a smooth transition to chasing last season, winning his first two chases at Cheltenham before bursting a blood vessel when upped in grade at the festival. He was sent off a heavily supported 7-4f on that occasion such is the regard he is held in, and he can return after 227 days here with a victory. For one so inexperienced his jumping is a major asset and hurdlig form which included a second in the World hurdle points to the heights he can reach in this sphere.
Trainer Paul Webber reports him "fit and well" for his seasonal debut, and the stable has been in the winners in the past fortnight after a modest start. With stamina proven in a race sure to be run at and end to end gallop, he can outstay his rivals up the long straight.
Morning favourite Diamond Harry has a fantastic win rate and has been well supported in the ante-post exchanges in the last few days. However his fencing is not without the odd blemish and the yard has yet to hit any sort of form, with several running as though badly in need of the gallop. After an absence of almost a year he may just be best avoided this afternoon, but remains a fantastic prospect for the season ahead, with the Gold Cup itself a long term target.
Last years winner Nacarat is sure to give a bold show from the front and loves this course, but may just be vulnerable having to give weight away all round to some less exposed rivals. While the Paul Nicholls trained Poquelin is sure to be ready after 199 days off, but may not stay this 3m1f trip given his run-style and seems to be best at the undulating Cheltenham course rather than flat speed tests such as today.
Perhaps the main danger to our choice may come from the race fit Chicago Grey. He was poised to challenge having travelled up strongly when blundering badly and unseating on his return to the fray 14 days ago, and that will have put him spot on for this more demanding race.
In summary a terrific contest to savour with Time for Rupert worthy of a win investment at around 7-2 this morning. He should race prominently and gradually turn the screw from the home turn under the very promising young pilot Will Kennedy.
Stephen's Saturday Nap Alasi 2.15 Wetherby
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