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Conman John is ready to achieve his second target Cheltenham A win of the season in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle this Saturday, aiming to build on an impressive autumn campaign.
The five-year-old, acquired for £170,000 following a win in the Irish point-to-point last year, has quickly established himself at the odds with two wins from two starts this season.
His attraction to Prestbury Park became evident in October when he ran well enough to claim victory over three miles, a distance he enjoyed. Connections are now confident of his progress, keen to test his abilities at grade two level.
Michael Scudamore, who co-trains Conman John with Lucinda Russell, expressed optimism before the race.
Scudamore said, “We have to contribute 3 pounds to the rest of the field, but based on form you would think he has a strong chance and obviously he likes that.”
He added, “He’s had a good break since his last race and is refreshed and looks in great form. We’re very excited to get back out there.”
Scudamore acknowledged the competition, saying: “He’s got some new challengers to contend with and some who look very promising types, but he’s got the form in the book and we’re going in there hopefully.”
Major rivals include Call Me Hugo, with Ollie Murphy and Sean Bowen well ahead in class and distance.
He followed that up with a maiden win under rules in a maiden race over two and a half miles at Ffosse Las in early November.
Murphy commented on his charge: “I would say the softer the ground the better he will be. It is a bit of an unknown sending him straight into grade two, but he is very straightforward and stays very well.”
Nicky Henderson’s Reckless Spending also made his debut over three miles, finishing third behind Crypticgym at Ascot.
Dan and Harry Skelton will be represented by Carlenrigg, who finished runner-up at Chepstow in their last outing.