With the Cheltenham Festival drawing nearer, savvy racing enthusiasts are scouring the ante-post markets for value, and one horse standing out in the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase is Wendigo at an enticing 20/1.
Market Leaders Overshadow Hidden Value
The betting for the Brown Advisory is currently commanded by the powerful stables of Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott, with Final Demand and Romeo Coolio dominating the headlines. While both are formidable contenders, their short prices have squeezed the value from the market, prompting experts to look elsewhere for a worthwhile wager.
This search for value leads directly to Wendigo, a proven stayer with vital course experience at Prestbury Park. His profile makes the current each-way quotes appear exceptionally generous.
Wendigo's Credentials for Cheltenham
The gelding has built a solid foundation for a festival challenge. After a respectable novice hurdling career, he was narrowly beaten on his chase debut by a subsequent Listed winner, Wade Out. He then announced his arrival as a top-tier novice chaser with an impressive victory in a Grade Two contest at Newbury.
His next start in the Kauto Star at Kempton over three miles provided a key learning experience. On good ground around a tight track, he was unable to fully utilise his stamina arsenal but still stayed on strongly to finish within four lengths of the winner, Kitzbuhel.
Why Cheltenham Suits Him Perfectly
The test of three miles at Cheltenham is a completely different proposition. It is a relentless examination of stamina, particularly up the famous final hill. This is where Wendigo can come into his own. If the pace is strong and rivals begin to tire, his dour staying power could see him emerge as a major danger in the closing stages.
Furthermore, his versatility with regards to ground is a significant asset. With wins on both soft and heavy going, any rain in the lead-up to the Festival would not hinder his chances and may even enhance them.
The Verdict: A Prime Each-Way Opportunity
In summary, Wendigo presents a compelling case. He brings course form, proven stamina, ground versatility, and a touch of class evidenced by his Grade Two win. With the market focused elsewhere, the 20/1 each-way price represents outstanding value for a horse perfectly tailored for the demands of the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.
Pointers:
- Wendigo each-way @ 20/1 for the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase, Cheltenham Festival.
