LOCHNAGRAIN, excelling over hurdles after a disappointing switch to fences, can complete a four timer in the Gold Card Handicap Hurdle (Qualifier) at Cheltenham today.
The Mary Reveley trained eight year old managed to win twice in novice chasing company last season but his progress always seemed likely to be held in check by some imprecise jumping.
This was never more in evidence than at Wetherby in October when the gelding made embarrassing blunders at the first and third fences, soon becoming detached from his four rivals.
The son of Strong Gale has certainly benefited from the return to hurdling, winning his subsequent three starts. He began the sequence over an extended two miles and five at Market Rasen, making most of the running.
His next victory, over three miles and half a furlong at Ayr, was achieved in contrasting style as Lochnagrain led on the post to deny Huso by a short head.
Normal service was resumed over an extended two miles and six at Kelso at the beginning of the month, however, as Lochnagrain coasted to an eight length beating of Peter Monteith's Trap Dancer.
This discipline clearly suits him well and, back over three miles, Lochnagrain can make it four wins from his last four outings.
Bob Buckler's Beatson makes a quick return after winning a handicap chase at Plumpton on Tuesday. The seven year old drew clear from the third last to beat Mr Matt by nine lengths and can defy a 6lb penalty in the Chubby Fire Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Chase.
