A Wayward bet for Joncol in Hennessey would not be Misplaced
Ian Williams has his Wayward Prince on the edge of glory and a possible Hennessey victory this coming weekend at Newbury. Although Paul Nolan and Joncol might have something to stay if they travel
In what looks to be one of the more open Hennessey's in recent years, whilst the race may be missing the likes of last years winner Diamond Harry and Denman, we have a line up that could yet include Paul Nolan'ssss Joncol, The Paddy Power Gold Cup winner, Great Endeavour, Paul Nicolls Aiteen Thirtythree and much backed and only seen once over fences, Michel Le Bon. Wymott is a presence and Ian Williams' Wayward Prince who has winning graded experience, not to mention Tim Vaughan's Beshabar who is reported to be in tip top condition.
The race promises to be a classic and whilst Paul Nicolls at this stage has left in Neptune Collonges at the top of the weights, whilst his pair will benefit from that, so will the remainder of the field and Ian Williams Wayward price with his grade 1 hurdle winning form and a string of good performances in good races last year including a place in the RSA chase leads the chase in Valuecheckers book. We would have preferred to have back him a couple of days ago at 12/1, but still consider the 9/1 generally available now as worth interest.
Joncol has to be a serious consideration if there is more rain before the weekend. The more the better for Paul Nolans charge. He is yet to race in the UK, but if Nolan is sticking to plans to run him in the Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival it will certainly make sense to see how he handles the trip over. Regardless of his performance it will be a pleasure to see him in action in England, for myself he is a much awaited visitor and I for one am excite to see him run here. He has proven he is top class with his performances in Ireland. He raced to a near personal best on his seasonal reappearance at Thurles at the beginning of the month and can improve again this season.
At this stage Valuechecker is happy to cover a couple of runners in this wide open race. They are WAYWARD PRINCE (10/1 Ladbrokes) & JONCOL (14/1 General)