Nicky Henderson’s Kyber Kim rocketed into contention for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle with a convincing success in the Thurloe Geos Introductory Hurdle at Newbury on Saturday. Stan James were most impressed and go 10/1 for the race at Prestbury Park in March, but 12/1 is still available with bet365 and Ladbrokes.
That doesn’t look a bad price considering his trainer’s record in the race and the manner of his success. A three-figure-rated flat recruit with Listed placings, Khyber Kim could be called the winner from a long way out as he cruised upsides the leaders before being unleashed between the last two to lose all bar the useful yard-stick Theatre Girl. His stable won this race last season with Duc De Regniere, who beat Osana, and this year’s renewal looked just as classy. Providing he can steer clear of injury - he split a pastern a day before his proposed novice-hurdling debut last season - he’ll go to Cheltenham as a leading player, although he can’t be recommended ante post considering his past injury problems.
There are no such worries over Calgary Bay, who disposed of the much-fancied pair Snap Tie and I’msingingtheblues in a 2m1f hurdle at Cheltenham last time out. I really liked the way he travelled for Tony McCoy that day and his high cruising speed will stand him in good stead at Cheltenham, where I can see him jumping the second last on the bridle. Significantly, his trainer Henrietta Knight, who is not known for hyping her horses, was full of praise afterwards, saying "I think this is a star of the future." And she should know - remember Best Mate!
With doubts over some at the head of the market - Cork All Star, last year's Festival Bumper winner, was displaced from favouritism after a lacklustre run over Christmas - I recommend that punters have a bit on now each way at 16/1 (Boylesports, William Hill).
Recommended Bet:
Calgary Bay 1pt each way @ 16/1 Boylesports, William Hill