Cheltenham free racing tip: Improving hurdler can hit ground running for in-form yard

16:45 Cheltenham: Abu Dhabi Digital Markets Handicap Hurdle (2 miles 87 yards)

The early market is all over the Ben Pauling-trained Fiercely Proud, who won his first two hurdling efforts at the back end of 2023 before placing twice at Graded level, and could well justify his support under a 10-pound claimer.

However, the favourite’s short price only serves to enhance the each-way value of all of his 11 rivals, of whom four-time winner Norman Fletcher jumps out as a very capable challenger.

This useful gelded son of No Risk At All looked a very smart prospect in his maiden novice races, putting together impressive figures of 2112 this time last year, before failing to convert that promise on his two subsequent handicap starts.

In fairness, the first of those saw him thrown into the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury, a highly competitive Class 1 affair which was always likely to be too much of an ask at that fledgling stage of his career.

Trainer Nigel Twiston Davies has saddled six winners and four each-way places from his last 17 completed attempts over the last fortnight, so his five-year-old can be expected to turn up in top nick fresh from his extended summer break. 

It’s also worth noting that claiming jockey James Turner is being booked more regularly by this in-form yard, and his handy 6lb allowance can only enhance Norman Fletcher’s chances of having a big say on his seasonal reappearance.

Suggested Bet: Norman Fletcher each-way in the 16:45 at Cheltenham

• Tip and preview provided by David Xristo on Tipstrr