ATTORNEY GENERAL, something of a course specialist, took over on the run to the final flight and then quickly opening up clear water. His trainer had complained that the handicapper's decision to raise the horse 7lb for his win at the December Cheltenham meeting was "brutal" but those comments turned out to be balderdash. The top weight will surely go up more than 7lb for this win, and deservedly so, especially as connections are apparentlynow considering a crack at the Ladbrokes World Hurdle.
Stormez, surely the biggest monkey since King Kong, ran a typically bizarre race. As is his wont, he got himself badly detached for most of the race before picking up the bridle when the goinggot tough and eventually staying on for second. In this sort of form, he could still win another good race, especially if returned to fences.
Just Beth did nothing wrong off a career-high mark, while Lacdoudal was hardly disgraced either. Although better known as a chaser, he had won a hot heat at Chepstow in October, and looked quite attractively treated off just a 5lb higher mark. As ever, he gave his all, but his all was not enough. He loves Cheltenham and will come into his own in a 3m handicap chase, possibly the Racing Post Chase, run this season at Sandown, where he has already won this season.
Saltango ran well for a long way, as did Penny Pictures. Tramantano looked like dropping out past the stands first time only to then come back on the bridle and get into a challenging position. Then, however, he weakened up the straight, which suggested his stamina gave out, but it's also worth remembering that he does tend to be best fresh.
Il Duce also waved the white flag after appearing dangerous, very much running as if the trip was too far.
Phar From Frosty went well for a long way but Blue Business, back over hurdles, was not in a playful mood. [LM]
Tote
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