The unexposed and exciting Beat That is of serious interest at 9/1 in the Sefton Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree today (4.15).
Nicky Henderson’s gelding created a big impression on his hurdling debut at Ascot when cruising clear beat Champagne West by 10 lengths.
The runner-up is a really useful sort has gone on to win three times since and ran a huge race to finish fourth of 18 to Very Wood in the Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival.
That gives the form a rock solid look, and Beat That was unlucky not to follow-up whne last seen in action at Sandown back in December when finishing second to Killala Quay.
The son of Milan cruised into contention two from home and looked all over the winner until making a bad mistake at the last which stopped him in his tracks.
He was then unable to quicken having had the stuffing knocked out of him, but to his credit he kept on to be beaten just 2 1/2 lengths .
There is little doubt in my mind that he would have won had he jumped the last well, and it was an effort which suggested that he was an exciting prospect who needed keeping on the right side.
I fully expect him to gain his revenge on Killala Quay this afternoon, and the step up to 3m 1f looks sure to suit.
It also looks significant that Barry Geraghty has chosen him over stable companion Tistory who was himself a very impressive 6 length winner last time out at Doncaster.
Another plus is that Beat That comes into the contest a fresh horse, and with the prospect of further improvement to come he looks cracking value to get back to winning ways.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 3pts win Beat That (9/1 Betfred – BOG)
