THURSDAY was reminiscent of the opening Test match of the English cricketing summer; normally badly rain-effected.

Knight Salute (151) and Pied Piper (151) appeared to have run to a high level in the juvenile hurdle but, as Epatante’s win in the Aintree Hurdle followed heavy showers, any direct comparison should be treated with a degree of caution as unfortunately there is no equivalent of the Duckworth Lewis calculator available.

Knight Salute posted a time-figure way in excess of Epatante (130+) and closed off 2.0secs faster form the third last so the performance of the juveniles can only be viewed in the positive. However, I would also say the Aintree Hurdle form looks way below graded level.

Clan Des Obeaux (155) clocked the best time over fences and will now head to Ireland to defend his Punchestown Gold Cup crown. Conflated (155) was closing him down at the line, but the 10-year-old had set his seal on the race by then with a closing sectional just 0.4secs slower than The Last Day (145) who won the two-mile handicap.

Millers Bank (151) was by far the best in the opening Manifesto Chase although his was the only performance of note in the race. Alex Hales’ gelding is much improved at his fences and could be back for the Old Roan Chase in the autumn.