IT would be unwise to underestimate Idaho Sun, who lowered the colours of the exciting Mydaddypaddy in the Grade 1 Formby Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree, writes Page Fuller.

Mydaddypaddy went off a very warm favourite but, unfortunately, with the low sun removing nearly half of the hurdles, his Achilles heel was found and Idaho Sun threw down his gauntlet in the novice hurdle division.

Mydaddypaddy’s biggest asset is his jumping, as he once again highlighted, only losing -1.29mph on average. With the hurdles removed up the home straight, it meant that despite Idaho Sun losing -2.14 mph in comparison, the emphasis was on raw talent and staying ability up the home straight.

He dictated the fractions from the front, and made sure that they were even and unforgiving.

Only one of his furlongs in the race was clocked slower than 15 seconds, and his final nine furlongs were all faster than 14 seconds.

This sustained gallop was too much for Mydaddypaddy, and ultimately Idaho Sun outstayed him in the final furlong, as he was the only horse able to complete the final furlong in less than 14 seconds.

Yes, Mydaddypaddy will improve for more hurdles, but Idaho Sun has proved that when the competition is stronger, he will have the toughness to gallop powerfully to the line. Particularly important when considering the stiffness of the Cheltenham hill.