Philip Hobbs’ novice looks a top prospect after a convincing win at Prestbury Park.
Thyme Hill laid down a serious marker for the 2020 Cheltenham Festival with a smart victory in the November Meeting opener.
Staying on strongly up the hill, Philip Hobbs’ charge saw off a field including Fergal O’Brien’s Champagne Well with consummate ease to land the Grade 2 Ballymore Novices' Hurdle.
The five-year-old was promptly cut for two of the novice hurdles at the Festival. He’s been clipped in from 20/1 to 14/1 for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle and from 20/1 to as short as 8/1 for the Albert Bartlett.
Philip Hobbs indicated after the race that the ground may dictate which race Thyme Hill is sent towards, with good ground meaning a shot at the 3m Albert Bartlett could be favourable.
Now two from two over hurdles, the other victory comes in the Persian War at Chepstow, the Champion Bumper third looks a very exciting prospect this term.
Trainer Philip Hobbs added to his already sparkling record at the November Meeting, with Thyme Hill his 20th winner in 10 years.
