Alsa Mix caught the eye over hurdles, so is a fascinating novice chase contender at Listed level at Bangor on Wednesday (13:15).
Trained by Alan King, the seven-year-old mare won an Irish point and her first three starts under Rules.
After scoring by five lengths in a Worcester bumper, the daughter of Al Namix followed-up over timber at Exeter. Connections pitched her into Grade 2 company on the back of that effort.
Alsa Mix relished the heavy going at Sandown, so today’s conditions are no problem. She raced close up and came with effort to lead two out, then ridden clear.
The way she kept on well to complete her hat-trick in the Winter Novices’ Hurdle by 3 1/2 lengths from Darlac was impressive.
She was far from disgraced at the highest level when sixth in the Challow at Newbury. Both the winner Champ and fourth home Brewin’upastorm have since made winning bows over fences.
That gives the form a solid look. While Alsa Mix found the undulating track of Cheltenham over 3m in the Albert Bartlett beyond her, this is easier.
Why Alsa Mix appeals for Listed novice chase success
If taking to fences now significantly eased in grade, she is 2/1 with BetVictor for a successful chase debut.
That makes her value at the odds on offer, but she’s also conceding experience to Irish raider Agusta Gold.
The Maggie Mullins trained six-year-old has won one of her three starts over fences. Agusta Gold hasn’t achieved the same level of form over hurdles as Alsa Mix, though.
While the Gold Well mare could not have been more impressive with a wide-margin success at Thurles.
She was left a distance clear out and may be flattered by the winning distance of 53 lengths.
Although Agusta Gold is respected on that run, it’s Alsa Mix who looks the value play if taking to the larger obstacles here.
Bet of the Day: 2/1 with BetVictor, Alsa Mix wins the Listed novice chase for mares at Bangor.
