An eye-catching performance by Nicky Henderson’s horse solidifies his position in the Champion Hurdle market.
Buveur D’Air crushed Samcro in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle and bookies were quick to slash his price for Champion Hurdle glory next March, with some going as short as odds-on.
Samcro went off as favourite but the great Irish hope was reeled in by Barry Geraghty and pulled well clear to win by eight lengths and send a warning to his Cheltenham rivals.
Available at 7/2 pre-race, that price has long gone, with a best price of just 5/4 available now, and as short as 4/5. Samcro has lengthened from 9/2 best price to a huge 12/1.
Summerville Boy also had a disappointing race and could not really get going, finishing fourth in the end. He has gone from 16/1 to 20/1 best price.
Gordon Elliott heaped praise on Nicky Henderson’s horse after the race, saying ‘It will take a fair horse to beat him’.
It seems that punters agree with Elliott's assessment, as 72% of all bets in the Champion Hurdle market have gone on the seven-year-old since his victory this afternoon.
Oddschecker Spokesman George Elek: “Buveur D’Air cantered home and 11 wins in a row is a formidable record. Nicky Henderson was understandably delighted with his efforts and the last aside, it was a flawless performance from the 5/4 Champion Hurdle favourite.”
