Flat trainers championship looks to be a straight duel

With the first Classic of the season now less than a week away, the big guns will be readying their charges as they aim to secure some early prize money and stake their claim for the Trainer’s Championship.

Last season’s victor, John Gosden is priced up at 10/1 to regain his title, a price that many will feel is too big. But with consistent top class performers Nathaniel and Izzi Top now retired, and Ghurair and Nichols Canyon, previously thought of as Classic hopes, disappointing on season reappearances, it will be tough for the Clarehaven trainer to succeed once again.

Ultimately the title looks to be at the mercy of Aidan O’Brien or Richard Hannon, with the latter looking well priced to claim a fifth title at 5/4 with Ladbrokes.

2000 Guineas second favourite, Toronado could not have been more impressive when displaying a frightening turn of foot to land the Craven Stakes at Newmarket. Hannon also has French Guineas hope Olympic Glory at his disposal. It is hard to see past the pair securing a number of valuable victories over a mile, and possibly further this year.

With Sky Lantern, Maureen and Havana Gold already having Group race victories to their names, Hannon looks to have a number of proven performers at his disposal

As every new season approaches, weighing up the chances of the Ballydoyle Classic entries becomes more and more tricky. With 2012 Racing Post Trophy victor Kingsbarns missing the 2000 Guineas and his Derby participation in doubt, others have shortened in the ante post markets.

Well fancied for both Guineas races, Mars and Moth are hard prospect to weigh up with just maiden victories to their name. While Cristoforo Colombo and Lines of Battle look very exposed and will take some improvement to trouble the market principals.

Unless that happens and Aidan O’Brien claims either of the big races at the weekend, Richard Hannon certainly looks the bet to take at this early stage.

All odds and markets correct as of the date of publishing