Son Of Milan Goes One Better In Novice Hurdle

The Nicky Henderson-trained Valsheda (6g Milan - Candy Creek, by Definite Article) got off the mark at the second time of asking in Tuesday’s Novices’ Hurdle at Exeter.

Mr and Mrs Kelvin-Hughes’ homebred bay finished second on debut in January, and with the third horse winning since, was sent off joint-favourite for the two mile and seven furlong contest. Tracking the leader closely, he was ridden on the turn for home and improved to lead at the third last. Ridden from the following flight, he stayed on well to win by four lengths under Nico de Boinville.

Valsheda becomes the second winner out of Listed scorer Candy Creek, herself a half-sister to Grade 2 winning hurdler Mwaleshi (Oscar).