Tidal so gutsy for Flemensfirth in Wetherby G2

The fabulous Tidal Bay (11g Flemensfirth-June’s Bride, by Le Moss) looked as good as ever when making a triumphant seasonal comeback in the G2 John Smith’s Hurdle at Wetherby on Saturday. The Flemensfirth 11-year-old, who was bred by John Dorgan, has now won more than £640,000 in prize money and this was his sixth Graded victory. Owner Graham Wylie was understandably delighted to welcome in the winner, who has proved adept at switching between fences and hurdles. “Paul (Nicholls) is looking at either the Betfair Chase or the Hennessy for him now,” Wylie told sportinglife.com. “We could even look at something like the Welsh National and he will be entered for the Grand National. He wants the ground much softer now and Paul says he acts like a six-year-old at home. Ruby (Walsh) gave him a great ride, you can't steer him, you've got to let him do his own thing. It's taken 11 years for us to work out what to do with him.” Walsh added: “He's had his problems but Paul said if he was close enough turning in, he could creep into it and win. He’s a real old character and Paul (Nicholls) fancied him. He tries his best and outstayed them all in the end.”