Stephen Welch's NAP of the Day (17th November)
1 minute Back from a spin on the Flat and returning to hurdles at a trip that looks just about ideal, Jetara appeals as the one in this line-up who might still have a little more to give.
2:10 Navan
JETARA - 10/3
JETARA had excuses when only fifth in this race 12 months ago and can make much more of an impact this time around. She shaped as though something was amiss that day (reported signs of being in season) and still went on to post a career-best later in the campaign when landing a strong 3m Grade 2 mares’ event at Doncaster, confirming herself a genuine top-level staying hurdler. Back from a spin on the Flat and returning to hurdles at a trip that looks just about ideal, she appeals as the one in this line-up who might still have a little more to give.
The Yellow Clay is the obvious benchmark after a superb novice season, capped by Grade 1 success at Naas and a cracking second in the Turners at Cheltenham, but he does have to concede weight all round on his first start back after a heavy fall at Punchestown. Stablemate Maxxum is a tough, battle-hardened stayer who will be finishing off strongly, while Colonel Mustard and Mozzies Sister arrive fit and in form from lesser assignments, the latter still unexposed at this sort of level and getting her mares’ allowance.
Verdict: The Yellow Clay sets a high bar, but with proven Grade 2-winning stamina, a more convincing profile at this stage of the season and a handy weight pull, JETARA is fancied to get much closer than last year and can upset the favourite in a small but classy Lismullen.
