Cheltenham Festival Previews

Too true Reet. I was a bit goggle eyed at that one. When coming out withe these statements, we are being led to assume that the race has been run to suit ONE horse out of whatever it was...every single other horse was inconvenienced and had no chance. Thats bollocks
 
reet hard said:
Supreme: Whole panel keen on Jezki to win. Reckon AP had run of the race the last day on MTOY, also worth noting that the Betfair was ran slower than the first two miles of the three miler later that day. Was a crawl and all agree MTOY is lay.

They've clearly pulled their timing from thin air, and it's wrong on so many levels, it's laughable.
Even disregarding that, it mightn't have been the fastest run hurdle ever, but there were just 3 horses on the bridle turning in (finished 1,2,3,) and the field was spread out all over Berkshire jumping the 2nd last, so any notion it wasn't a proper test (given the ground) has as much credence as their clocking.
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amazed they say it was a crawl..actual timings show it wasn't..they went too fast in the 3 miler..hence the winner and 2nd came from the rear as the leaders cried enough
 
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Diamond Geezer said:
Less than enamoured with the line-up for the official preview at the Cheltenham racecourse.

Rishi Persad

Alice Plunkett

David Williams of Ladbrokes

Patrick Mullins

Nicky Henderson

?
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There are a few changes, even bloody worse now


Alan Lee chairs our panel, which features Rishi Persad from Channel 4, former trainer Charlie Morlock, who is now assistant to Nicky Henderson, jockeys Patrick Mullins for the Irish view and Sam Twiston-Davies for a British perspective, and OLBG columnist Dean Goddard with the view from the social networks. Betting views are provided by David Williams of Ladbrokes.
 
warwick racecourse friday



The Panel had a Henderson-feel to it with stable jockey Andrew Tinkler (AT) and his former assistant (and now trainer in his own right) Tom Symonds (TS) alongside broadcaster and commentator Stewart Machin (SM) and Presenting was P.R. racing man Roger Hart (RH) who works very closely with a number of racecourses and jumps trainers (notably Jonjo O’Neill) and interjected here and there with snippets.




WILLIAM HILL SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT:My Tent Or Yours won in the manner we expected him to at Newbury. AP was at pains to teach him how to jump behind a wall of horses in the build up to that race. I think they are doing right by the horse to run him in the Supreme rather than the Champion Hurdle as it was a handicap last time. River Maigue makes some each-way appeal as Cheltenham will suit him a lot better than when beaten by Far West at Ascot in a sprint.

TS:I actually broke in My Tent Or Yours with Corky but that is as far as my involvement went with him. All I would say even though he looks very high class is that the yard have had lots of very high class horses beaten in the Supreme in recent years like Spinter Sacre, Binocular and Darlan so 6/4 is short enough. I could not fail to be impressed by the way Melodic Rendezvous stormed up the Exeter hill regardless of Puffin Billy’s problem and he would be my pick at the prices.

SM:On ratings My Tent Or Yours is going to be hard to beat but over the years many supposedly good things have been beaten in the Supreme including the odds-on Dunguib not long ago. I’d personally shop around for better value and Melodic Rendezvous appeals. I know we can’t take his defeat of Puffin Billy at face value but he still impresses, he is not short of speed and is a Grade 1 winner.

RACING POST ARKLE TROPHY

AT:There is much argument in the yard who is the better horse, Sprinter Sacre or Simonsig, but I think Simonsig is better. But can you back at odds-on in the Arkle? They would never work together though or blink and you would miss it. I rode in the race Overturn won at Musselburgh and he’s so quick. Captain Conan will run in the Jewson.

TS:It’s going to be a bloody good race between Simonsig and Overturn. It’s just the way Nicky talks Simonsig that tells me he is something very special as he does that about very few. He has more scope than Sprinter Sacre to tackle longer distances but whether he has the same natural jumping acumen, I don’t know. Overturn is the modern-day Sea Pigeon but Simonsig could be something exceptional.

SM:I think Simonsig will win. He stays further will is an attribute found in most winners and I’d back him now at 5/6 as I can’t see him getting beaten and is likely to shorten. He travels so easily through his races that I don’t think even Overturn will get him off the bridle and Geraghty is not stupid so won’t take him on or sit him too far or give him too much rope either.

STAN JAMES CHAMPION HURDLE

AT:Binocular is the forgotten horse of the race. Let me tell you he is in super nick and like his old self. It was probably a weak Champion Hurdle he won but it could be a speed race this year and he looks a picture and a day. AP only has to jump four flights in quick succession on him to know if he is back and I was schooling in behind Binocular the other day and Binocular was going so fast he put my horse on the floor. Grandouet is fine despite missing the Kingwell.

TS:Paul Nicholls says Zarkandar was never right last year and he has had a wind operation since last Festival so I expect him to run much better. It’s a difficult race this year and hard to gauge the likes of Binocular and Cinders And Ashes plus Countrywide Flame has not had his end-to-end gallop this season. Zarkandar for me.

SM:6/1 about Rock On Ruby who has such a good course record is too big. I was interviewing Ladbrokes’ Mike Dillon and he said should anyone be frightened of Hurricane Fly on his 1¼ lengths’ defeat of Peddlers Cross when he won the Champion Hurdle? Then again, I see Ladbrokes are shortest about him so I don’t know what to make of that.

NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT:“This is a machine” were my words to Sam Twiston-Davies after we pulled up after The New One won at Warwick when I rode the second. He was gone without Sam letting out an inch of rein and I couldn’t believe it. Sam kicked himself next time at Cheltenham when At Fishers Cross outstayed him but he will be ridden more patiently here.

TS: Pont Alexandre has limited experience for a race like this and has been getting easy leads in small fields in heavy ground so far in Ireland. I like Taquin Du Seuil who is trained by a master at getting them ready for the big day.

SM:The New One just got outstayed by the stouter stayer last time but I was really impressed with him atWarwickso I make him my main fancy ahead of Taquin Du Seuil. Pont Alexandre’s price has plenty to do will Mullins’ comments that he could be the best novice he has trained outside of Hurricane Fly.

RH:Taquin Du Seuil has been working brilliantly for a good while and AP will ride. Jonjo is convinced that he will be even better on better ground.

RSA CHASE

AT:Hadrian’s Approach is a bit babyish but he is getting better and will stay up the hill so is good each-way value. I do think Dynaste will be too good however and he can defy the race stats. Boston Bob would be a worthy favourite for the NH Chase if he ran there instead which looks the race for him.

TS:The strongest stayer tends to win and I have some doubts whether Dynaste is as much about stamina as some others. I love the way Hadrian’s Approach does things and he is one of Nicky’s that has gone under the radar a bit.

SM:I think Boston Bob is the value. I was impressed with his win last time over too short a trip and he jumps well and stays very well. Dynaste is too short for a non-grinder, I don’t like flashy types for the RSA.

SPORTINGBET.COM QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE

AT:If you are attending do take the trouble to see Sprinter Sacre in the paddock, he is the real deal and I just can’t see him getting beaten especially as this is a weak 2m chasing division this season. Finian’s Rainbow is a confidence horse and has not been running well enough. I have only had only school on Sprinter Sacre and he was very good. Nico De Boinville has been the making of him.

TS:Sprinter Sacre has everything and I can’t see anything getting near. Cue Card can be second if he runs here even if his mother was a slow as a hearse.

SM:If Cue Card’s connections don’t take Sprinter Sacre on here then Somersby can finish second as this is the only race he will run in if he runs at the Festival according to connections and he will be ridden to attain the best possible placing.

RYANAIR CHASE

AT:Riverside Theatre got the ride of the season to win it last year and has been treated for ulcers since pulling up in the King George. My gut feeling is that Champion Court is dangerous if he gets into a rhythm on a course he likes. Cue Card will find this race much harder to dominate if he runs here.

TS:Champion Court keeps getting beat when he meets a good one so Sizing Europe appeals from a class point of view if they run here instead of the Queen Mother and they might as he looks like he might need this trip now.

SM:No strong view until we know what is running but it is worth noting that all of Cue Card’s wins have been in single-field fields.

RH:Albertas Run will run here first time out.
 
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LADBROKES WORLD HURDLE

AT:Oscar Whisky will need a very canny ride to win over 3m, even on better ground than in the Cleeve. Richard Johnson is sure to kick on even further out on better ground on Reve De Sivola to offset that.

TS:Reve De Sivola has been unbelievable since returning to hurdles winning the Long Walk and Cleeve and the jockey is made for him. Oscar Whisky stays 3m but he is not as good as over shorter trips. I don’t think Monksland’s form is good enough and feel that Peddlers Cross has never got over his Champion Hurdle run. It’s got to be Reve De Sivola as his form is all there.

SM:It will come down to how the race is run on the day. Oscar Whisky is about the same price this year with no Big Buck’s as he was last year so if you think he stays then he is probably worth a bet in a weaker race. Smad Place at 20/1 would not surprise me but I am unconvinced that Peddlers Cross is a stout enough stayer.

RH:No decision has yet to be taken on whether Get Me Out Of Here runs but it is under consideration. He has been second at the last three Festivals.

JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE

AT: Rolling Star is a lovely horse but he may lack a fraction of experience. He won at Cheltenham like we thought he would but it wouldn’t surprise me if things happen a bit quick for him. The speed and accuracy ofFar West’s jumping atAscotwas impressive and he proved there he can sprint having shown he stays very well earlier in the season. Rolling Star will be a better horse than Far West next season but I am not sure about this.

TS:I loved the way Far West did it atAscotbut Our Conor looked mighty good to me at Leopardstown that he appears to be the one to beat.

SM: I would rather see the Adonis Hurdle before committing but, so far, Far West would be at the top of my list.

ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT: Utopie Des Bordes has superb form in France and is a horse for now as she be will having foals in a couple of season’s time. The ground was heavy when she was winning at Auteuil but she rides like a good-ground horse. She may only be a pony but she has a big heart and a good cruising speed.

TS:No real view.

SM:African Gold makes each-way appeal at 16/1 being a strong stayer who the Twiston-Davies yard excel with and they really like him at home. He brings pretty strong handicap form to this novice race.

BETFRED CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP

AT:Bobs Worth looks like a Plumpton Monday horse until you school him or take him to the racecourse which is where he goes on Saturday. He races handily on a loose rein and no horse will come up the hill better or has a better course record as he is unbeaten in four runs at Cheltenham. Silviniaco Conti got a great ride to beat Long Run at Haydock and gets into a good rhythm but he will need to in this much bigger field. Nico says Long Run took two weeks longer to recover from the King George than in previous years.

TS:I believe cheekpieces will be on Long Run for the first time in a race. The Gold Cup can send young horses the wrong way and he was only 6 when he won it. Bobs Worth has loads in his favour and even had the pace to beat the Champion Hurdle winner in a novice hurdle two seasons ago. However, I fancied Sir Des Champs at the start of the season and still do. I’m not convinced Silviniaco Conti is a Gold Cup winner.

SM:Silviniaco Conti’s jumping impresses me. Everything has gone to plan this season and I make him the bet of the meeting. If you fancy Long Run then The Giant Bolster is too big to be three times his price though I’m not sure he’s good enough to win it.
 
Selected notes from the Waterford preview-
Davy Russell-thinks Arvika L jumps like a camel.He wants First Lieutenant to go for Ryanair.Keep an eye on Toner dou Dairies.The Liz Doyle horse fancied for bumper not for sale at any price.
Henry DB-napped Sizing Europe for whatever race he runs in-likes Sizing Gold a lot.
Someone said that David Casey had a charity bet on Back in Focus for the 4 miler so presumably that's where he runs.
Jessica Harrington -not keen on Oscars W travelling over and didn't mention her champion hurdle horse.
Jimmy Nesbitt(the real one) wants Sizing Europe to run in champion chase and First Lieutenant in Gold Cup.
Hayley o Connor tried to dismiss the size of the bets Powers would take but was shot down.
Noel o Brien says Long Run isn't the same horse and has declined 10lbs.
 
Cheltenham previews start with a bang



THERE was certainly an enthusiastic, if not youthful, attendance at the first of this year’s Cheltenham preview nights in the Goat Grill on Wednesday night. And those who made the trip weren’t disappointed with what they got in return.

Held in aid of the Injured Jockey’s Fund and run by the UCD Racing Society, Patrick Mullins spearheaded a sought-after panel, which also consisted of Grand National winning jockey Daryl Jacob, At The Races showman Kevin O’Ryan, Nicky Henderson, albeit by telephone, and Paddy Power Bookmakers.

MC duties were carried out by StarBets.ie’s own Gary O’Brien, who, as always, kept the show on the road with a constant flow all night. And he certainly didn’t let the panel members off lightly with regular insightful questions. Mullins and Jacob were put on the spot more than once.

Proceedings kicked off with Hurricane Fly dominating the Champion Hurdle chat and it finished with Patrick Mullins convincing everybody, including himself, that the nine-year-old will regain his crown. “There’s been so much bull said about Hurricane Fly. He wasn’t himself last year. Dad was never happy with him and you could see that he was never at his best. He’s back to himself this year and he’ll win. He’s the best there’s been since Istabraq.” enthused Mullins junior on the Closutton stable star.

Hurricane Fly will bid to become the first horse in 38 years to regain the Champion Hurdle crown. It was hard for any of Mullins’ fellow panel members to disagree with that!

My Tent Or Yours, described by Nicky Henderson as ’99 per cent sure to run in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle’, was friendless by all the present panel members. Jezki received a much more favourable mention while Mullins described Paddy Power’s quote of 16/1 about Champagne Fever as ‘an insult’. Henderson also described Chatterbox as an unlikely runner in any of the Cheltenham novice races on the basis that they’re ‘coming a year too soon.’

Simonsig got the all round vote in the Arkle Trophy, with even Mullins casting doubts over the jumping of Arvika Ligeonniere. Kevin O’Ryan did give Overturn a chance of beating the talented grey however. Few suggested that Pont Alexandre wouldn’t win the Neptune Investments Novices’ Hurdle, who is the ‘best horse in the race’ according to Ireland’s leading amateur jockey. The panel were split however on whether Dynaste would make up for Grands Crus’ disappointment in the RSA Chase. Mullins was none the wiser as to whether Boston Bob or Back In Focus would represent the Wylie’s colours in that race.

It was agreed all round that this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup was ‘the best renewal in some time’ with Bobs Worth, Sir Des Champs and First Lieutenant all getting very favourable mentions. Mullins did stress the fact that Sir Des Champs’ season has been geared around this race. Kevin O’Ryan was in full agreement.

Other horses to get positive mentions on the night were Our Conor, including from Nicky Henderson, who declined in putting up Rolling Star as his Charity Bet after seeing Dessie Hughes’ juvenile win three days earlier at Leopardstown. Daryl Jacob nominated both Sam Winner (Pertemps) and Wonderful Charm (Coral Cup) as his two to keep an eye on in the handicaps while Rocky Creek, his likely ride in the RSA Chase, also had the Wexford native glowing.

When it came to the Champion Bumper talk however, Patrick was the only man to listen to here. “At the moment, we’re planning to run Union Dues, Clondaw Court and Sizing Tennessee. I won’t know which one I’ll be riding until closer to the race but it’s a case of deciding between a two mile hurdler in Union Dues or a three mile chaser in Clondaw Court.” explained Patrick.

Just minutes later, Mullins gave a much bigger indication of his likely Cheltenham mount when selecting the latter as his charity bet. So the perfect way to sign off and that was enough to send everybody home happy. Isn’t that the general consensus after the bumper?

PADDY POWER CHARITY BETS
Daryl Jacob – Sam Winner (Pertemps, 6-1 with Paddy Power)
Patrick Mullins – Clondaw Court (Champion Bumper, 9-1 with Paddy Power)
Gary O’Brien – Salsify (Christie’s Foxhunters, 4-1 with Paddy Power)
Charlie Chawke – Champagne Fever (Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, 16-1 with Paddy Power)
Kevin O’Ryan – Sir Des Champs (Cheltenham Gold Cup, 7-2 with Paddy Power)
 
Strange 'decision' regarding Chatterbox.

Just watched Willie Mullins on ATR and you would have got the strong impression that Champagne Fever could well be heading for the Albert Bartlett. Clearly that would give him a realistic chance of winning rather than ending up as a ridiculous social runner for the owner.
 
Cheltenham Festival Preview Evening courtesy of Exeter Racecourse.
Thursday 21st February
Channel 4′s Tanya Stevenson acted as compere for a star-studded panel, which included three of the top trainers in Britain – Paul Nicholls, Philip Hobbs and David Pipe. They were joined by Paul Binfield (Paddy Power), Andrew King (Racing Post Journalist) and Nick Schofield (Grade 1 winning Jockey). A top-class panel, who between them have won everything there is to win in National Hunt Racing, provided a fascinating insight into this year’s festival and the main protagonists.
PN – Paul Nicholls
DP – David Pipe
PH – Phillip Hobbs
AK – Andrew King
PB – Paul Binfield
NS – Nick Schofield
TS – Tanya Stevenson
Supreme Novices
PN: Dodging Bullets has done nothing wrong; he ran a very good race behind Countrywide Flame last year and has to be in with a chance. He needs an end to end gallop and this race will suit him. My Tent Or Yours looks invincible on his last performance.
DP: None of mine should be troubling the judge, Flying Cross may be an outsider but it would be a very big ask.
PH: Cheltenian has come out of this week’s race well, and he is very decent. We will decide this week whether to go to Cheltenham or skip the Festival and have a prep race ahead of Aintree.
AK: It’s very difficult to move away from My Tent Or Yours – he should win.
PB: My Tent Or Yours is a long way clear of Jezki and we should see this at the festival.
NS: The general feeling is that we will head for the Supreme with Melodic Rendezvous. Champagne Fever will make it a tough stamina test and we are hoping that My Tent Or Yours won’t stay up the hill.
Arkle
AK: Simonsig is the most likely winner. Overturn will set the pace and in so doing set the race up for Simonsig, who looks a cut above the rest.
PN: Fago was going to win last time out but his jumping let him down; he is a typical French jumper. He runs on Friday and he’d have to win for us to go to Cheltenham. He has enough speed and although Simonsig and Overturn do look very impressive they have enjoyed success with a soft lead in small fields – they won’t get that at Cheltenham and I don’t think they are as nailed on as people are suggesting.
PH: I’d rather go with Overturn, he is the best hurdler of the two of them.
DP: His Excellency won’t run in this, he will go for the Grand Annual. I personally like Overturn for the race.
AK: Looking at outsiders with a chance, it is difficult, maybe Fago if he wins tomorrow but it’s realistically between the two market leaders.
PB: Arvika Ligeonniere could be the one to beat, he looks very exciting over 2 miles and at 10/1 I would rather have him than Simonsig and Overturn at shorter prices.
Champion Hurdle
PN: Zarkandar won the triumph and had problems here last year, he was coughing, but he is a different horse this year. He is workmanlike and never flashy, but I can’t see a lot between the top four, mine, Hurricane Fly, Grandouet and Rock On Ruby.
AK: Rock On Ruby will win; it was certainly no fluke last year. He won the race on merit and will reverse the form with Zarkandar and Grandouet from earlier this season.
PN: Cinders And Ashes on this year’s form is not good enough.
PB: Hurricane Fly has not been beating much in Ireland and I would be happy to lay him and go with Rock On Ruby.
DP: I think Hurricane Fly will regain his crown. There is not a lot dividing the top four.
PN: Ruby will ride the Fly. He won the race on him before and won’t get off him, who would if he won it on him before. Khyber Kim ran a great race last weekend but won’t be too much of a danger. I can’t see where the pace will come from – maybe Countrywide Flame or Rock On Ruby as he is a bit of a stayer. It’s certainly something we will need to think about.
Neptune
DP: Broadway Buffalo is a decent horse but his jumping isn’t the best. He runs at Warwick on Friday and he needs to run well there. Gevrey Chambertin is going to go for the Albert Bartlett.
Ak: Pont Alexandra looks very good, but the ground is changing. Taquin Du Seuil could be the one for me; his only defeat came to My Tent Or Yours.
PB: Pont Alexandre is the first Irish banker of the meeting. I think he is an absolute monster and his action suggests that good ground would be perfect for him.
RSA Chase
DP: Dynaste’s owner is here tonight to find out where his horse is running! We have been joking about the ground but we are keeping our options open. He has the ability to win both (RSA & Jewson), if it’s good we will go for the RSA if it’s soft the Jewson will be on the cards. Our Father is very good on his day, but this tends to be first time out. Goulanes isn’t flashy but has a great attitude, we may go for this or the 4 mile race, if he went in this he would need every yard.
AK: David will win with Dynaste if he runs.
PN: Rocky Creek will probably go to Aintree as Cheltenham won’t really suit him. Unioniste will run in this unless the ground comes up very soft.
PB: I want to lay Dynaste, as stamina is an issue. Super Duty looks interesting on good ground and at 20/1 he looks each way value.
Champion Chase
PH: Wishfull Thinking will most likely run in this and it would be quite nice to finish second to Sprinter Sacre.
PN: Sprinter Sacre is nailed on for this – unbeatable. Sanctuaire will run in this and should finish second.
AK: Sprinter Sacre was my lay of the meeting 12 months ago, but he has got to be a sure fire winner.
PB: Sizing Europe is most likely to run in the Ryanair mainly because Sprinter is an aeroplane.
Rest of Wednesday
PN: Wonderful Charm is going for the Coral Cup. He looks a really nice horse but I’m a bit in the dark as we have been unable to run him due to the ground.
Jewson Novices
PH: Tony Star isn’t really good enough for this.
AK: Captain Conan is favourite, but by no means is he home and hosed. Nobody knows where Dynaste will be running.
PB: The Henderson yard is very bullish about Captain Conan and 9/2 looks good value. I personally like Aupcharlie over in Ireland who was beaten last time out by Tofino Bay who would have relished the ground.
Ryanair
PH: Its Menorah’s fourth festival and the plan will be to run him in this.
DP: Zaynar will be going for the Byrne Group Plate. Grands Crus has a racecourse gallop soon and we aren’t sure where he is going yet.
PH: It was going to be very close between Captain Chris and Cue Card on Saturday so he must be in with a great chance in this.
PB: Cue Card will go for this and will be pretty tough to beat, but I really like First Lieutenant based on his form this year.
NS: Hunt Ball won’t run in this and will be heading for a handicap.
PN: Ghizao will run in this, he shouldn’t be good enough here, but he ran a good race at the weekend.
World Hurdle
PN: I’ve always wanted to run Celestial Halo over a trip, he ran really well behind Zarkandar on Saturday after a long layoff and at 66/1 he looks a huge price for this race.
AK: Oscar Whisky is the class act in the race and there have to be question marks over Reve De Sivola if the ground dries up.
DP: Reve De Sivola is very ground dependent; if it’s soft he is in with a great shout.
PH: Monksland looks the best of the Irish string.
PB: The Bog Warrior looked very good when beating Zaidpour; he is the one to look forward to.
AK: I wouldn’t rule out Peddlers Cross.
NS: The Bog Warrior is the one for me; his Irish form looks really good.
PN: If the ground is good, Oscar Whisky will be very tough to beat.
Rest of Thursday
PN: Sam Winner looks very nice in the Pertemps. He ran really well in the qualifier and beat Peddlers Cross in the Bumper for Jumpers at Kempton the other week.
JCB Triumph Hurdle
PN: Far West goes for this and showed a great turn of foot at Ascot last week. It turned into a bit of a sprint, but he has done everything right so far.
DP: I have no runners here. I was very impressed with Our Conor at Leopardstown and he looks the one to beat.
AK: My feelings are that the Triumph is a very poor race this year. Again, it all depends on the ground, as most of this form is on soft conditions, meaning there could be a big upset if the ground comes up good.
PB: Far West shortened in the market today. I do agree with David Pipe – Our Conor looked quite smart.
PN: Lac Fontana runs this Saturday and if he wins that, he will run here and could be a dark horse.
Albert Bartlett
PN: I have nothing good enough to run here.
PH: Whisper County runs here. He only has had one run with us and is actually for sale! He stays well and looks a nice chaser for next season.
DP: I will have five or six in this. Although I would be surprised if one of them wins this, I have to find six jockeys first!
AK: Fishers Cross has an outstanding chance here. He goes on both grounds, but I think he will be better on a sounder surface.
TS: African Gold looks a nice type and is a battler. Also take note that Rebecca Curtis and Tony McCoy have a remarkable strike rate this season, so keep an eye on that partnership.
Gold Cup
PH: Captain Chris is in good form since his Ascot run and goes for the Gold Cup. I feel he will be suited by good ground and has won here before.
PN: Silviniaco Conti had a good season as a novice last year. He is nothing flashy but he jumps and stays. I think the race will be between the three novices; ourselves, Sir Des Champs and Bobs Worth. It’s a good looking Gold Cup.
DP: No runners here. I am going with Bobs Worth; he is the best of this lot I think. I would like The Giant Bolster at a big price, I have heard reports that they have been having problems with the gallops at home, but that is all sorted now.
AK: I think it is a year for the novices really. Bobs Worth seems to have a touch of class, but 5/2 is not a price to be backing him.
PB: I think it will fall the way of Sir Des Champs. Captain Chris looks a nice each way bet at 20/1.
NS: Long Run is only an eight-year-old and can come back and win it.
TS: I have always had a soft spot for Colm Murphy’s Quito De La Roque. If he does go for this I will be having him each way at 66/1.
Charity Bets (£200 each).
PN: £100 each way on Dodging Bullets.
PH: £200 win on Overturn.
AK: £200 win on Colour Squadron.
DP: £200 win on Cue Card in the Ryanair.
NS: £200 win on Cantlow in the JLT.
TS: £200 win on Our Mick on the Tuesday.
 
AT: There is much argument in the yard who is the better horse, Sprinter Sacre or Simonsig, but I think Simonsig is better.

Big statement that......
 
Went along to the preview in Ashbourne tonight. Good bit of craic. Jim Dreaper, Robbie Hennessy, Andrew Lynch, Bryan Cooper, Andy McNamara, Bryan Flanagan, Mike Vance and Tony O'Hehir on the panel.

A few notes I made:

Supreme: McNamara reckoned Rock Critic ran to at least 145 in Galway and warranted EW consideration. Most were fairly keen on Jezki.

Arkle: McNamara said Arvika Ligeonniere is a sketchy jumper and won't get round. Cooper said Benneficient runs in the race and Simonsig wins it.

Champion Hurdle: All fairly keen on Hurricane Fly really.

Queen Mother: Lynch said Sizing Europe decision will rest on the ground. If it is soft he will run in the Queen Mother.

Neptune: McNamara said David Casey is by far the best judge in Mullins yard and reckons Pont Alexandre is a machine. All were fairly keen on the Mullins horse. Mike Vance said O'Neill had said to him Taquin Du Seuil is the forgotten horse (whatever that means).

Bumper: Hennessey said he had word for Nicholls' Fascino Rustico. Had a wind op since last run and working well. Lynch said Barry Murphy told him that La Vent D'Antan is the best horse they have had. McNamara was keen on Moyle Park but O'Hehir said Mullins was keen to keep him for the Land Rover. Cooper said Blackmail was interesting EW; they were riding him for pace up until his last run when he is a galloper.

Stayers Hurdle: seemed to be a doubt about Reve De Sivola's participation? McNamara reckoned Monksland was too sloppy a jumper for this.

Triumph: Cooper said Our Connor ticks all the right boxes and is going well. McNamara said Ruby Walsh thinks Far West will win this.

Towards the end they were asked to give a horse to win before Cheltenham and their Festival Nap.

Cooper:
Wise Oscar
Si C'Eait Vrait (Pertemps)

Lynch:
Grey Monk (Sunday)
Aupcharlie

Hennessy:
Mossley (Sunday)
Sir Des Champs

Jim Dreaper:
Sizing Solution (Wednesday or Thursday)
Salsify

McNamara:
Wise Oscar
Dogora (Fred Winter)

Donoghue:
Sizing Solution
Monksland
 
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Diamond Geezer said:
Cheltenham Festival Preview Evening courtesy of Exeter Racecourse.
Thursday 21st February
Channel 4′s Tanya Stevenson acted as compere for a star-studded panel, which included three of the top trainers in Britain – Paul Nicholls, Philip Hobbs and David Pipe. They were joined by Paul Binfield (Paddy Power), Andrew King (Racing Post Journalist) and Nick Schofield (Grade 1 winning Jockey). A top-class panel, who between them have won everything there is to win in National Hunt Racing, provided a fascinating insight into this year’s festival and the main protagonists.
PN – Paul Nicholls
DP – David Pipe
PH – Phillip Hobbs
AK – Andrew King
PB – Paul Binfield
NS – Nick Schofield
TS – Tanya Stevenson
Supreme Novices
PN: Dodging Bullets has done nothing wrong; he ran a very good race behind Countrywide Flame last year and has to be in with a chance. He needs an end to end gallop and this race will suit him. My Tent Or Yours looks invincible on his last performance.
DP: None of mine should be troubling the judge, Flying Cross may be an outsider but it would be a very big ask.
PH: Cheltenian has come out of this week’s race well, and he is very decent. We will decide this week whether to go to Cheltenham or skip the Festival and have a prep race ahead of Aintree.
AK: It’s very difficult to move away from My Tent Or Yours – he should win.
PB: My Tent Or Yours is a long way clear of Jezki and we should see this at the festival.
NS: The general feeling is that we will head for the Supreme with Melodic Rendezvous. Champagne Fever will make it a tough stamina test and we are hoping that My Tent Or Yours won’t stay up the hill.
Arkle
AK: Simonsig is the most likely winner. Overturn will set the pace and in so doing set the race up for Simonsig, who looks a cut above the rest.
PN: Fago was going to win last time out but his jumping let him down; he is a typical French jumper. He runs on Friday and he’d have to win for us to go to Cheltenham. He has enough speed and although Simonsig and Overturn do look very impressive they have enjoyed success with a soft lead in small fields – they won’t get that at Cheltenham and I don’t think they are as nailed on as people are suggesting.
PH: I’d rather go with Overturn, he is the best hurdler of the two of them.
DP: His Excellency won’t run in this, he will go for the Grand Annual. I personally like Overturn for the race.
AK: Looking at outsiders with a chance, it is difficult, maybe Fago if he wins tomorrow but it’s realistically between the two market leaders.
PB: Arvika Ligeonniere could be the one to beat, he looks very exciting over 2 miles and at 10/1 I would rather have him than Simonsig and Overturn at shorter prices.
Champion Hurdle
PN: Zarkandar won the triumph and had problems here last year, he was coughing, but he is a different horse this year. He is workmanlike and never flashy, but I can’t see a lot between the top four, mine, Hurricane Fly, Grandouet and Rock On Ruby.
AK: Rock On Ruby will win; it was certainly no fluke last year. He won the race on merit and will reverse the form with Zarkandar and Grandouet from earlier this season.
PN: Cinders And Ashes on this year’s form is not good enough.
PB: Hurricane Fly has not been beating much in Ireland and I would be happy to lay him and go with Rock On Ruby.
DP: I think Hurricane Fly will regain his crown. There is not a lot dividing the top four.
PN: Ruby will ride the Fly. He won the race on him before and won’t get off him, who would if he won it on him before. Khyber Kim ran a great race last weekend but won’t be too much of a danger. I can’t see where the pace will come from – maybe Countrywide Flame or Rock On Ruby as he is a bit of a stayer. It’s certainly something we will need to think about.
Neptune
DP: Broadway Buffalo is a decent horse but his jumping isn’t the best. He runs at Warwick on Friday and he needs to run well there. Gevrey Chambertin is going to go for the Albert Bartlett.
Ak: Pont Alexandra looks very good, but the ground is changing. Taquin Du Seuil could be the one for me; his only defeat came to My Tent Or Yours.
PB: Pont Alexandre is the first Irish banker of the meeting. I think he is an absolute monster and his action suggests that good ground would be perfect for him.
RSA Chase
DP: Dynaste’s owner is here tonight to find out where his horse is running! We have been joking about the ground but we are keeping our options open. He has the ability to win both (RSA & Jewson), if it’s good we will go for the RSA if it’s soft the Jewson will be on the cards. Our Father is very good on his day, but this tends to be first time out. Goulanes isn’t flashy but has a great attitude, we may go for this or the 4 mile race, if he went in this he would need every yard.
AK: David will win with Dynaste if he runs.
PN: Rocky Creek will probably go to Aintree as Cheltenham won’t really suit him. Unioniste will run in this unless the ground comes up very soft.
PB: I want to lay Dynaste, as stamina is an issue. Super Duty looks interesting on good ground and at 20/1 he looks each way value.
Champion Chase
PH: Wishfull Thinking will most likely run in this and it would be quite nice to finish second to Sprinter Sacre.
PN: Sprinter Sacre is nailed on for this – unbeatable. Sanctuaire will run in this and should finish second.
AK: Sprinter Sacre was my lay of the meeting 12 months ago, but he has got to be a sure fire winner.
PB: Sizing Europe is most likely to run in the Ryanair mainly because Sprinter is an aeroplane.
Rest of Wednesday
PN: Wonderful Charm is going for the Coral Cup. He looks a really nice horse but I’m a bit in the dark as we have been unable to run him due to the ground.
Jewson Novices
PH: Tony Star isn’t really good enough for this.
AK: Captain Conan is favourite, but by no means is he home and hosed. Nobody knows where Dynaste will be running.
PB: The Henderson yard is very bullish about Captain Conan and 9/2 looks good value. I personally like Aupcharlie over in Ireland who was beaten last time out by Tofino Bay who would have relished the ground.
Ryanair
PH: Its Menorah’s fourth festival and the plan will be to run him in this.
DP: Zaynar will be going for the Byrne Group Plate. Grands Crus has a racecourse gallop soon and we aren’t sure where he is going yet.
PH: It was going to be very close between Captain Chris and Cue Card on Saturday so he must be in with a great chance in this.
PB: Cue Card will go for this and will be pretty tough to beat, but I really like First Lieutenant based on his form this year.
NS: Hunt Ball won’t run in this and will be heading for a handicap.
PN: Ghizao will run in this, he shouldn’t be good enough here, but he ran a good race at the weekend.
World Hurdle
PN: I’ve always wanted to run Celestial Halo over a trip, he ran really well behind Zarkandar on Saturday after a long layoff and at 66/1 he looks a huge price for this race.
AK: Oscar Whisky is the class act in the race and there have to be question marks over Reve De Sivola if the ground dries up.
DP: Reve De Sivola is very ground dependent; if it’s soft he is in with a great shout.
PH: Monksland looks the best of the Irish string.
PB: The Bog Warrior looked very good when beating Zaidpour; he is the one to look forward to.
AK: I wouldn’t rule out Peddlers Cross.
NS: The Bog Warrior is the one for me; his Irish form looks really good.
PN: If the ground is good, Oscar Whisky will be very tough to beat.
Rest of Thursday
PN: Sam Winner looks very nice in the Pertemps. He ran really well in the qualifier and beat Peddlers Cross in the Bumper for Jumpers at Kempton the other week.
JCB Triumph Hurdle
PN: Far West goes for this and showed a great turn of foot at Ascot last week. It turned into a bit of a sprint, but he has done everything right so far.
DP: I have no runners here. I was very impressed with Our Conor at Leopardstown and he looks the one to beat.
AK: My feelings are that the Triumph is a very poor race this year. Again, it all depends on the ground, as most of this form is on soft conditions, meaning there could be a big upset if the ground comes up good.
PB: Far West shortened in the market today. I do agree with David Pipe – Our Conor looked quite smart.
PN: Lac Fontana runs this Saturday and if he wins that, he will run here and could be a dark horse.
Albert Bartlett
PN: I have nothing good enough to run here.
PH: Whisper County runs here. He only has had one run with us and is actually for sale! He stays well and looks a nice chaser for next season.
DP: I will have five or six in this. Although I would be surprised if one of them wins this, I have to find six jockeys first!
AK: Fishers Cross has an outstanding chance here. He goes on both grounds, but I think he will be better on a sounder surface.
TS: African Gold looks a nice type and is a battler. Also take note that Rebecca Curtis and Tony McCoy have a remarkable strike rate this season, so keep an eye on that partnership.
Gold Cup
PH: Captain Chris is in good form since his Ascot run and goes for the Gold Cup. I feel he will be suited by good ground and has won here before.
PN: Silviniaco Conti had a good season as a novice last year. He is nothing flashy but he jumps and stays. I think the race will be between the three novices; ourselves, Sir Des Champs and Bobs Worth. It’s a good looking Gold Cup.
DP: No runners here. I am going with Bobs Worth; he is the best of this lot I think. I would like The Giant Bolster at a big price, I have heard reports that they have been having problems with the gallops at home, but that is all sorted now.
AK: I think it is a year for the novices really. Bobs Worth seems to have a touch of class, but 5/2 is not a price to be backing him.
PB: I think it will fall the way of Sir Des Champs. Captain Chris looks a nice each way bet at 20/1.
NS: Long Run is only an eight-year-old and can come back and win it.
TS: I have always had a soft spot for Colm Murphy’s Quito De La Roque. If he does go for this I will be having him each way at 66/1.
Charity Bets (£200 each).
PN: £100 each way on Dodging Bullets.
PH: £200 win on Overturn.
AK: £200 win on Colour Squadron.
DP: £200 win on Cue Card in the Ryanair.
NS: £200 win on Cantlow in the JLT.
TS: £200 win on Our Mick on the Tuesday.
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If Cheltenham won't suit Rocky Creek why bother with the entry and more importantly why keep talking the horse up for a Gold Cup?

If Gevrey Chambertin is running in the Albert Bartlett why is he as short as 8/1 for the Coral Cup?
 
treetangle said:
If Cheltenham won't suit Rocky Creek why bother with the entry and more importantly why keep talking the horse up for a Gold Cup?
Click to expand...

Nicholls means that such a hard and demanding race as the RSA at this point in his career won't suit, not the course. He's said a few times that he's still a baby and one for next year.
 
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CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW EVENING at BANGOR-ON-DEE RACEOURSE

Thursday, February 28th

leading trainer Donald McCain (DM), Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author Paul Jones (PJ), Jumping Prospects author John Morris (JM) and broadcaster and commentator Stewart Machin. Darren Owen acted as the genial host. As we covered Stewart’s comments fromWarwicklast week and the same races were analysed and he did not deviate from his views, there is no real point to simply repeat his thoughts.

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

DM:I’m a big fan of Melodic Rendezvous and would love to see Jeremy Scott have a Festival winner as he is a hell of a trainer. My Tent Or Yours only won a handicap last time and McCoy can make one look better than they are. I sometimes question what a strong-travelling Henderson horse will find off the bridle. He has so many high class horses with a high cruising speed but I just wonder if they battle? Am I being unfair? Melodic Rendezvous is not ground dependant and will do for me.

PJ: My Tent Or Yours is already rated 10lbs above the figure Cinders And Ashes recorded when winning the Supreme last year and I can see him winning easily. However, history tells us the Supreme hasn’t been a great race for supposed good things and I would rather look at Dodging Bullets each-way, who is only 5lbs behind the favourite and has impressed at the course twice this season for a yard with two recent wins in the race.

JM: My Tent Or Yours is too short. I didn’t think they went a great pace early on at Newbury so he was well positioned and I felt many of them gave up in the straight. I felt that Jezki was the real deal before My Tent Or Yours overtook him as favourite and see no reason to desert him now he is a bigger price as a result. I think a lot of Melodic Rendezvous bit will stick with Jezki who blew away a good field a Christmas.

Racing Post Arkle Trophy

DM:We decided before the start of the season that Overturn had to school exceptionally to go chasing and if he made one error at home he would go back to hurdling. He was very good on his chase debut at Sandown but running him over 2m4f atDoncastermeant we couldn’t see him at his best. It was only until Musselburgh that Jason could really put the gun to his head and we expected Tetlami to go with us for longer but he was out of his comfort zone at the pace Overturn was going early on. Overturn and Simonsig are like chalk and cheese. Simonsig does everything on the bridle and as far as I could see he has only had two schools in his races this season as Hinterland was not put in the Kempton race. He might be a superstar but he will never have been in a race like this before and it will be interesting to see what he finds when he has to come off the bridle, which he will do here.

PJ:As much as I love Overturn I think he is a horse vulnerable when taking on the very best and Simonsig could be exceptional. Much will depend on when Maguire decides to throw in a huge leap and kick immediately after it and take advantage of freewheeling downhill like in last year’s Champion Hurdle but I don’t think Simonsig will have any problems sitting within five lengths of Overturn and I’m not sure that will be enough. I can’t have Arvika Ligeonneire on my mind at all.

JM:Simonsig is 8/11 and Overturn is 11/4 so there can only be one bet. Overturn is a complete natural over a fence whereas I am not sure yet whether Simonsig is and we know he is more battle-hardened than the favourite and we don’t yet know what Simonsig finds when asked. As a punter, at those prices it can be only be Overturn.

Stan James Champion Hurdle

DM:Cinders And Ashes has not had the opportunity to show what he can do since he won the Supreme as the ground has been all against him. He worked very nicely here yesterday. I wouldn’t be as confident as I was when Peddlers Cross and Overturn finished second in the race but I do feel he represents good each-way value as you can put a line through Newcastle as the main aim was to get a run into him on virtually unraceable ground and the ground was then very testing at Kempton. We pinched a Grade 2 on heavy ground as a novice but Jason told me afterwards not to run him on it again. I was against Hurricane Fly the year he won and even more against him when I saw him in the paddock but I am now his biggest convert and I don’t think any of the British runners will beat him. I think both he and Peddlers Cross had an off year last season off the back of their battle in this race two years ago.

PJ:I was a big Grandouet fan until he missed the Kingwell but I like everything to go smoothly ahead of a championship race so one run in 15 months has to be considered far from ideal and I’d rather the yard were talking him up rather than Binocular. Hurricane Fly is just a little short for me and I’m worried whether Zarkandar will be as effective on the Old Course as he is the New Course where he won the Triumph and International by outstaying his rivals. I don’t think you can kick Rock On Ruby out of the three on his overall form, Cheltenham profile and being much better in bigger fields so 6/1 makes each-way appeal but I am thinking of making him my main bet of the race to place only at odds-against as I can’t see three horses finishing ahead of him.

JM:I’ve been so impressed with Hurricane Fly who looks back to his very best. I saw Cinders And Ashes gallop yesterday and that was the best he has looked when I have seen him this season. I have time for Zarkandar who is unbeaten this season and I think will improve again but Hurricane Fly is going to take all the beating.

Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle

DM:I’ve got to be honest I’ve not seen Pont Alexandre. I’ve been impressed with Taquin Du Seuil though who is improving with every run though he does have quite a high knee action. Whether he needs it deep, I don’t know.

PJ:No strong view except that I will be surprised if one of the front three in the market doesn’t win. Hard not to be impressed with Pont Alexandre but his two wins for Willie Mullins have been dominating tiny fields in heavy ground so this will be a different experience. Jonjo O’Neill is adamant that despite his high knee action that Taquin Du Seuil will improve for better ground but all 13 Challow runners to run here have been beaten. Oddly enough I was more impressed with The New One’s defeat at Cheltenham when outstayed by At Fishers Cross than his easyWarwickwin and he would have won at Cheltenham with a better timed ride. His turn of foot could be the telling factor if used at the right time.

JM:The Irish won’t hear of defeat for Pont Alexandre and he will be well backed and start favourite for a race in which favourites traditionally have a good record. Taquin Du Seuil is an improving sort and Jonjo’s best chance of the meeting but he will have to be very good indeed to beat Pont Alexandre.

RSA Chase

DM:We booked Derek O’Connor three weeks ago for Super Duty for the Kim Muir but there is a chance he could still run here if the field was to weaken like if Dynaste goes for the Jewson. Take out Dynaste who is the obvious one and after him it’s a very open race. If Super Duty was to run here, he is the type that usually runs well in the race and he deserves his place.

PJ: Dynaste would be bucking a couple of serious trends if successful, the main one being the last 49 winners ran in the same calendar year. He could outclass them but we’ve seen so many obvious form horses get turned over in the RSA so, as a punter, I have to look elsewhere. I have gradually been leaning towards Boston Bob despite just two runs over fences who I didn’t think was right in the Albert Bartlett last year and did well to win over an inadequate 2m5f last time for a stable that know how to win this race. Unioniste may only be five but he has been running in the same races the stable’s other two RSA winners contested and I respect his chance too.

JM: Dynaste won the Feltham easily but the record of winners in that race is not brilliant. Back In Focus would be interesting if he ran here. Boston Bob hasn’t looked a natural to me so it might be worth taking a chance of Chartreux each-way if he runs as he is the type to run into the frame.

Sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase

DM:Sprinter Sacre is some tool. I was devastated when he beat Peddlers Cross at Kempton last season but don’t feel so bad about it now. I’d love to see a horse get him off the bridle one day.

PJ:As they let Sprinter Sacre kick on when he jumps to the front I just wonder if he will already be clear heading downhill with connections’ sights firmly intent in recording a monster official figure hoping to surpass Master Minded. If Cue Card runs here, then I would fancy him to be second but even further behind than he was when second in last year’s Arkle.

JM:I have no intention of taking on Sprinter Sacre so this is a race to watch, admire and then applaud him all the way back to the winner’s enclosure. If I was given a free bet I’d back Cue Card each-way.

Ryanair Chase

DM:No real view to be honest. I was the under-bidder forChampion Courtso I have always liked him and followed him closely. He is a solid, tough, professional horse but I am not sure he is quite good enough to win.

PJ:We’re still in limbo as we are not sure yet which race the front three in the betting head for. The one thing I do know is that I don’t fancy any of those that are confirmed for the race at present like Champion Court, Menorah, Riverside Theatre and Albertas Run. If First Lieutenant runs here, which he should do as he doesn’t fully the stay the Gold Cup trip at top level, then he is my idea of the most likely winner as I think the race is made for him under a positive ride. If he heads for the Gold Cup and Sizing Europe runs here then I would fancy the former Champion Chaser. My gut feeling is Cue Card is marginally more likely to run in the Queen Mother.

JM:It’s very hard until we know where the main players are going to run. I can see Roi Du Mee running a big race as feel he is an under-rated horse and the owner sponsors the race.

Ladbrokes World Hurdle

DM: Peddlers Cross is grand form and he is as good a work horse now as he ever has been. At Musselburgh he travelled great and jumped brilliantly but idled in front but that is what he does. I was looking over him afterwards to see what might be wrong but Jason told me to stop worrying and that he gave him the feel he wanted. I am as much in the dark as anyone about three miles but the Cleeve isn’t great form so this is a winnable race for a horse with real class like Peddlers. I would say there are only two class horses in the race, the other being Oscar Whisky. The Champion Hurdle was never on the agenda. The ground will make a big difference to how this race will be run but it’s a very open contest.

PJ:I think Richard Johnson will wind it up from earlier than in the Cleeve on Reve De Sivola, especially if it is run on better ground, in a bid to expose the stamina chinks in the armour of Oscar Whisky and Peddlers Cross and I fancy him to outstay them. He is the strongest stayer in the race and just keeps on going. Get Me Out Of Here has stamina to prove but he is potential improver for a first try at 3m and has been second at the last three Festivals so lovesCheltenhamin the spring so he could be the fly in the ointment. I don’t think the Irish form is good enough.

JM:I have heard that Reve De Sivola is having training problems. It would be great if Peddlers Cross came back to his best. Bog Warrior is better over hurdles than fences so I respect him and especially if it comes up soft. Wonderful Charm wouldn’t be out of this if they ran here rather than the Coral Cup.

JCB Triumph Hurdle

DM:The ground matters more for this race at the Festival than any other. I’m aFar Westfan. Paul Nicholls was worried about his lack of tactical speed but he quickened well atAscotlast time. Hidden Justice’s form is working out well and I think he is the each-way value. I know Amanda Perrett’s yard always though he would make a super hurdler.

PJ:Our Conor should be clear favourite. I thought he was devastating when winning a Grade1 inIrelandlast time that supplied last year’s Triumph 1-2 and that even came off missing his Christmas engagement through coughing so you would think that there is more to come. I am not sure Rolling Star is the ‘now’ horse you look for in the Triumph being more of one for the future.

JM:There is only one winner – Our Conor. He destroyed a good field at Leopardstown with his jockey playing with them coming out of the back straight and, when asked, he just when whoosh! Back him.

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

DM:Utopies Des Bordes beat She Ranks Me at Sandown last time and I’m not sure that form is good enough. I like three horses very much; Gevrey Chambertin, Coneygree and African Gold. They may not be brilliant horses but they are real solid who are tough and genuine which is what you need for a race like this. Coneygree was a bit disappointing last time but you should see a better horse moving back up to 3m.

PJ:Utopies Des Bordes is already rated high enough to go close and receives a handy 7lbs mares’ allowance so I respect her chance as I do the tough Our Vinnie and I would prefer to take that pair at double figures over the favourites on value grounds. I hear from a colleague who interviewed Mullins two days ago that Champagne Fever could switch from the Supreme to this race and join Ballycasey in the same ownership. Though if it’s very soft, the Supreme would probably go favourite again.

JM:Gevrey Chambertin’s jumping is a big plus and he will run a big race if Pipe chooses this route. Ballycasey looks the pick of the Irish. I like the way Utopie Des Bordes won at Sandown and she is dangerous getting the allowances.

Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup

DM:Bobs Worth is as tough as nails and Silviniaco Conti has impressed in all three wins this season but I’m a Sir Des Champs fan. We’ve been waiting a while for a crop of young horses to arrive on the scene and three have arrived all at once.

PJ:I’m of the opinion The Giant Bolster will run another big race returning to the New Course at Cheltenham where he has looked so good twice before and I don’t think he was anyway near fit enough on both starts behind Silviniaco Conti this season and you can forget the King George blip. He still rates good each-way value. Gun to the head and it would be Sir Des Champs who is being brought along steadily and will appreciate a longer trip, better ground and a return toCheltenhamwhere he has twice stormed up the hill. If he is within a length at the final fence, I think he’ll win. I don’t like just one run this season for Bobs Worth and it still niggles me they wanted to bypass Cheltenhaml ast season with Silviniaco Conti who looks so good on flat tracks.

JM:Bobs Worth will have been off the track for 104 days but remains a worthy favourite who is made for Cheltenhamw here he is unbeaten in four runs. I don’t think Sir Des Champs was ridden to best advantage on his first two defeats this season but his jumping was better under different tactics last time. I have a slight doubt in my mind whether Silviniaco Conti will enjoy Cheltenham having avoided the place with him.

Shoulder Races

Donald McCain then ran through some of his other likely runners.

DM:Son of Flicka is only 2lbs higher than when he won the Coral Cup last year but we don’t know yet which race he goes for as is the case for the four horses we plan to run in the handicap hurdles as the ground will be a factor. Bourne and Hollow Tree will also run somewhere. Our Mick is an obvious one for the JLT having been third in the race last year as a novice. He would have be raised if finishing second at Cheltenham so maybe it was a blessing in disguise Jason fell off. I’ve successfully persuaded the owner not to run him again since to protect his mark. Kruzhlinin goes for the Pulteney and I think he is a big price and good each-way value.Cloudy Lane always needs two runs and the plan is to go to the Foxhunters but if we are slightly unhappy with him we will wait for Aintree. Hellorboston goes for the Weatherbys Champion Bumper but I don’t think he’s good enough. Diamond King is also in the race and he was more impressive than I expected when he won on debut. We like him but Cheltenham is not the be-all and end-all.

Naps

DM: Overturn (Arkle)

PJ: Our Conor (Triumph)

JM: Our Conor (Triumph)

SM: Cottage Oak (Foxhunters)
 
Thanks Geezer, Donald McCain's views are interesting when he's talking about horses in other stables. Especially this:


Diamond Geezer said:
I sometimes question what a strong-travelling Henderson horse will find off the bridle. He has so many high class horses with a high cruising speed but I just wonder if they battle? Am I being unfair?
Click to expand...

Can horses be trained to battle? I would have assumed it is down to the horse whether it is prepared to battle or not.
 
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