Eider Day at Newcastle - Ellistrin Star runs in the novices' hurdle

Like the vast majority of the 8 runner field in the 2m 4½f novices' hurdle (1.43pm) at Newcastle on Saturday, Ellistrin Star's presence here is another run on her way to obtaining a handicap mark.
The clear favourite is the OR127 rated southern raider Endless Escape who has already won 3 hurdles (penalised 10lb here) and looks to still be improving. Well bought at £6.5k last summer from the Monbeg Corporation, the Getaway mare completed a hat-trick of 2 mile hurdle wins at Ffos Las last month, and looks capable of better still now upped in trip.
The only other horse within touching distance of that form is Leading Force (OR107) who also looks to be suited by the step up from 2 miles. A couple of runner-up efforts in December under rules but he has won an Irish Point, so this race may prove closer than the official ratings would suggest.

The advance going given by the Newcastle Executive is good to soft, and 8 run.

Craig Nichol takes the ride for Ron & Eileen Smith and good luck to all.

Ellistrin Star (Laura)