Festival Preview Nights

A mate went up there today and got ours DG and they did it via name and postcode, from that they had the relevant info to print the tickets. I'd ring them to make sure.
I tell you what, the weather needs to warm up a few degrees for lift off in a fortnightt!
 
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The Irish Daily Star hosted a preview night in Kettles Hotel, Swords Co. Dublin on Monday 23rd Friday 2015.

Thanks to @IanGox10 tweeting for @irishstarsport we have been able to put together this Cheltenham Preview Report.

Panel

Davy Russell
Andy Mac
The Couch
Brian Flanaghan

Supreme


Our main man Brian Flanagan cant see past Douvan in the Supreme, Davy notes that L'Ami Serge is a second season novice (Andy Mc told him so)
Andy Mc: Douvan hacked all over very good horses already this year. Reckons the favourite has a stone in hand
Andy: fact that Willie reckons Douvan is the best he's sent speaks volumes. Couch thinks the English are rubbish this year. Douvan a cert
Couch is firmly in the Alvisio Ville each way camp. Fast run two miles will suit
Paddy Power rep trying to put punters off Douvan because of knee action. Shot down by @_Davy_Russel_ (what do bookies know about action?)

Neptune
We move onto the Neptune
Couch reckons they're a weak bunch in Neptune. Parlour Games no chance. Nichols Canyon wants this trip and more. Great chance

Triumph
Triumph Hurdle next. We watch clips of Peace And Co, Hargam, Dicosimo & Petite Parisienne with Kalkir
Andy Mc reckons the Spring Juvenile form isn't as good as Dicosimo defeat of Prussian Eagle. P&C not for him at the prices. Chaser in making
Couch taking on Peace And Co. Nervy horse - thinks Hargam a flat track horse and much prefers Top Notch. Impressed by him at Haydock
Brian Flanagan reckons Beltor will hose in. Serious performance at Kempton in Adonis. Dicosimo a huge horse and more a chaser

Novice Chasers
Arkle up first. We get to relive that Leopardstown performance

Arkle
UDS an absolute certainty. Only danger is maybe knuckling on the downhill. Josses Hill no chance. Jumps like a goat
Davy agrees on UDS. can't see anything touching him. Couch agrees. Horse is exceptional. Stone wall certainty. Everyone agrees rest are crap
Brian Flanagan is interested in Sgt Reckless each way but UDS bar a fall. Unusual prep but has gears

RSA
Davy actually can't have Don Poli. Rode him in a maiden and thought he'd never win a race. Coneygree for him. Theyre mad to go Gold Cup
Andy Mc: Agree 100% with Davy Russell. Coneygree is a magnificent jumper. Brian Flanagan fancies The Young Master to run a big race
Brian: Don Poli was v impressive at Christmas but concerned over split
Davy: I will run up Swords Main Street with my pants over my head if Willie gets his way over Michael O'Leary
Couch can only see one winner. Don Poli. Proper animal. Best form and will grind it out. He's told Coneygree will run in GC. Leg problems

JLT
Couch unsure on Vautour. Thinks Apache Stronghold cracking value. Goes back to the Don Poli form. Thinks he's another good one
Andy Mc: Apache was impressive in Flogas but thinks that Valseur Lido could possibly reverse. Vautour jumping good at Navan and Leop good
Davy: Couch has a point on Vautour, questions Valseur Lido stamina. No hiding place at Cheltenham. If Vautour jumps he wins
Brian: Vautour funny horse. If comes up good Gods Own could run well. Still a novice and has beaten Balder Succes already. Big price

Ryanair
Davy: Don Cossack and Johns Spirit. The Don is now the horse we always thought he'd be and Johns loves Cheltenham
Andy Mc: Cue Card can't be written off. Hidden Cyclone may go to this and last time was a good run. In good form. Leaning towards this
Brian really likes Balder Succes but can't rule out either of Jonjo's
Couch has had one of his biggest bets of the week in Ryanair. Can't have Balder Succes. All over Ma Filleule. Massive on her. Gettin 7lbs
He does make an excellent argument for the mare

Champion Chase
Andy most worried about Sprinter's burst after Clarence House. But if he runs to mark he wins. Simples
Champagne Fever could run well and Mr Mole too quirky. Sire looked good last time but three very quick runs in succession a worry
Davy big on Dodging Bullets. Do not back SS because of the bleed. He can win without u having a bet. Don't touch a bleeder. Dodging to beat
Couch agrees with Davy on Dodging Bullets. SS the best we've seen and SDG won a bad renewal last year. But DB is solid. Won the trials
Couch: they just don't come back to the same level. Him and Andy goin at it now. Andy thinks if SS bursts he loses and DB can't win
Brian: what was Paul Nicholls last winner over fences at festival? Kauto!!! Poor champion if Dodging wins. Champagne Fever for Brian



Bumper
Davy discussing Weld Bumper horses. Vigil is a good one. Form strong but Wait For Me from Philip Hobbs is best of English. Was with P Fenton
Davy: Pylonthepressure is by Darcy. No good. Bordini by Martaline. Much better.
Davy would ride Hurricane Fly if he had any other ride. Andy Mc would take Faugheen. Couch would be on a 'f***ing big orse!' Queue laughter
Davy: only one man in Ireland who can take on Willie and that's Gordon Elliott. Bumper become a bookies' benefit.
Question for Andy, Mallowney run at Festival? Davy worried he's getting jocked off. Confirms he stays at home. Davy also sweet on Archive



Champion Hurdle
Davy fancies The Fly over Faugheen. Worried about the favourite's jumping at Champion Hurdle pace. Soft = Fly!
Andy loved Faugheen since his bumper defeat of Josses Hill. Ruby hasn't a sentimental bone in his body and will ride Faugheen
Couch: no fairytale in this. Sorry Fly fans. Faugheen a stone wall certainty. No reason for Fly to win at this age.
Brian Flanagan: don't mind the fact that Arctic Fire was close. That can happen at Leop. If there's 8 runners Jezki is cracking ew value
Davy's CH tip is also Jezki. @paddypower have only seen money for Faugheen all winter.

World Hurdle
Couch would love to see Sandra Hughes win the World Hurdle but Saphir Du Rheu can't be out of the front three. 5/1 cracking value
Couch: Zarkandar a non-stayer, More Of That won't run, Annie Power too. Andy thinks 25/1 Reve De Sivola is excellent each way value
Davy will ride Jetson but finds it hard to get away from Lieutenant Colonel. Really improving this year. Gigg horses improve with age
Brian: Briar Hill might be a bit of a dark horse at about 20-1.

Gold Cup
Davy reliving last year's win. He comes alive at Chelt. RSA and then last year. We tried forcing tactics in Hennessy but will wait
Davy: Lord is a good horse I promise you. Was in front way too early in Lexus but will be much better in March. Sun on his back and held up
Davy: Silviniaco Conti is supposed to be improved but he'll need to be. RTR and Carlingford showing that Galway Plate form ain't bad
Davy: RTR always had ulcer problems but sorted now. Djakadam has too find huge improvement. May need to be very testing for him. Lot to find
Davy: Ruby sweet on Djakadam but needs to improve a lot. Bobs Worth loves Cheltenham but Nicky having poor season. But if they're firing...
Davy: wouldn't swap LW for anything in good ground but on soft ground I'd ride Many Clouds
Andy: Carlingford finishes his races do well that he has to come into it. Many Clouds amazing jumper but needs soft. Silviniaco one to beat
Andy: king George form is excellent. A year stronger
Couch: Many Clouds will be lapped on good ground. Djakadam form not working out. Maybe next year. Silvi has the best form on offer.
Couch: on fast ground Lord Windermere is a huge price. Carlingford too many mistakes. RTR won't stay
Brian: would be amazed if Carlingford is good enough. RTR won't stay. Thyestes form poor. Silvi would've won that by 20 off top weight
Brian: GC a massive stamina test as Sam Winner could potentially be a big price. But Silvi for me. Best form and will be ridden differently

Onto the naps an handicap selections

Charity bets

Brian: 50 Silviniaco GC and 25ew savello

Andy: 50 ew Tutenkamen in cross country

Couch: 100 win Ma Filleule Ryanair
Couch: Mick Jazz Fred Winter + Brother Brian Pertemps

Davy: Nap: 25 ew Johns Spirit + 25ew theophilus

Dave Coughlan: Lord Windermere 100
 
qzy said:
RSA
Davy actually can't have Don Poli. Rode him in a maiden and thought he'd never win a race. Coneygree for him. Theyre mad to go Gold Cup
Andy Mc: Agree 100% with Davy Russell. Coneygree is a magnificent jumper. Brian Flanagan fancies The Young Master to run a big race
Brian: Don Poli was v impressive at Christmas but concerned over split
Davy: I will run up Swords Main Street with my pants over my head if Willie gets his way over Michael O'Leary
Couch can only see one winner. Don Poli. Proper animal. Best form and will grind it out. He's told Coneygree will run in GC. Leg problems
Click to expand...


Not one mention of the winner. ******* clueless
 
Carlingford Lough is a massive improver says Jim [Culloty, from earlier preview report]. 'We probably all know why but we won't say why. They placed him well we'll say'
Click to expand...

Takes one to know one...
 
Preview night @Quinlansbar Blackpool, Cork

Guest : Davy Russell (DR), Noel Hayes The Tote (NH), Phillip Enright (PE), Jonathan Burke , Patrick Mulcahy Ladbrokes (PM)

Supreme Novices :

(DR) Douvan never tested in grade company, Sizing John biggest threat.

(PE) Paddy Power money back special is enough. If Tell Us More wasn't beaten lot would be lot would be a lot shorter.

(JB) Sizing is fresh and raring to go.

Arkle :

(DR) Before they pulled UDS out of the hurdle race last year Davy was telling everyone to back it for next year's Arkle!!

(NH) josses Hill EW

(PE) If it jumps the ambulance won't keep up to Un De Sceaux

(JB) Smashing EW - definitely goes there

Champion Hurdle :

(JB) Takes on Faugheen. The New One has the form this year.

(DR) Nothing to choose between The New One, Faugheen and Jezki but edges towards Jezki

(PE) Faugheen will never have had to jump at this pace re Our Conor last year
frown.png



Mares Hurdle :

host Emmet Kennedy heard from Rich Ricci that Annie Power WONT run here

(JB) If its soft Bitofapuzzle EW

(DR) Without Annie power its a tough race maybe Jennies Jewel EW

Neptune Hurdle :

(PE) liked Parlour Games

(JB) A big Outlander fan, but likes Beast Of Burden EW @ 25/1


RSA Chase :

(DR) If Conegree's trainer runs him in the Gold Cup, then he should have his licence taking away!!!!

Big debate as to whether Don Poli runs in this or the 4 miler.

(JB) Coneygree jumps and gallops.

(PE) Likes Kings Palace and The Young Master EW

Champion Chase

So the whole debate around this race was based on a trip to Crumlins Children hospital Dublin, where Davey said that Barry Geraghty told everyone and anyone there that Sprinter Sacre would NOT be beaten. Russell said it wouldn't be Geraghty's form to be spouting off like that…

I asked (JB) would my favourite horse, Sizing Europe, be showing up he said he wasn't sure.

Bumper :

Lots of negatives re Pylononthepressure on account of its Sire…

Johnnie Burke was pushed about his potential mount Super Sunday, an ex Balding flat horse, and he said he was bred to win a derby and could win!!!

The rest of the panel fell in behind Moon Racer


JLT Chase :

(DR) Nothing there of the calibre of Vautour

Everone else agreed it was a match between Vautour and Apache Stronghold.. Story is that Dermot Weld is vey happy with the weight Apache has.

Ryaniar Chase :
(DR) Don Cossack finally the horse he thought it would be. Johns Spirit for value.

(PE) Cue Card tailor made for it.

(NH) NAPPED Taquin De Seuil as a Jonjo plot job. Jonjo said today he may go in a handicap!! If thats the case and Jonjo's willing to let him lumber top weight then Johns Spirit is a MONSTER!!


World Hurdle :

(DR) Annie Power and Lt Colonel have similar ways to get her (i.e. can't jump a fence etc)

If you want to buy money this year according to Davy lay Zarkandar!!!!!!

(PE) Questioned Davy with regards to his mount Jetson that was only beaten 1/2l by Lt Colonel!!

(JB) Rock on Ruby class horse with course form!!

Triumph Hurdle :

(DR) Spend quality time with the misses when this race is on!!!

(NH) Irish horse a poor lot

(JB) fancies Golden Doyan EW


Albert Bartlett

(DR) like No More Heroes

We were then introduced to the owner of Value at Risk whose living the dream as a small owner with a live horse at Cheltenham. He said to back it for the RSA next year!! but that the horse is screaming for 3 miles. Has a racecourse gallop on Monday.

(PE) Said Adrian Heskin is very sweet on Montello Tower

Gold Cup :

The panel to a man tipped Lord Windermere and likewise bismarcked Holywell.
They also agreed that Silviniaco Conti would start vomiting when he saw the hill ahead of it!!!!


Handicap tips:

(DR) Taquin De Seuil

(NH) Edeymi in Pertemps

(PE) Clondaw Kaempfer Coral Cup

(JB) Pink Coat County Hurdle

Patrick Mulcahy from Ladborkes gave 2 in the Foxhunters Carrinstown Boy (16/1) & Seventh Sign (12/1) A Maguire horse.


Charity Bets

(JB) Super Sunday (bumper)

(PE) The job is Right (NH chase)

(NH) Roi De Franc (Martin Pipe)

(DR) No More Heroes (Neptune or Albert Bartlett)

Great night, plenty of autograph and picture opportunities afterwards.
 
Preview night @Quinlansbar Blackpool, Cork

Guest : Davy Russell (DR), Noel Hayes The Tote (NH), Phillip Enright (PE), Jonathan Burke , Patrick Mulcahy Ladbrokes (PM)

Supreme Novices :

(DR) Douvan never tested in grade company, Sizing John biggest threat.

(PE) Paddy Power money back special is enough. If Tell Us More wasn't beaten lot would be lot would be a lot shorter.

(JB) Sizing is fresh and raring to go.

Arkle :

(DR) Before they pulled UDS out of the hurdle race last year Davy was telling everyone to back it for next year's Arkle!!

(NH) josses Hill EW

(PE) If it jumps the ambulance won't keep up to Un De Sceaux

(JB) Smashing EW - definitely goes there

Champion Hurdle :

(JB) Takes on Faugheen. The New One has the form this year.

(DR) Nothing to choose between The New One, Faugheen and Jezki but edges towards Jezki

(PE) Faugheen will never have had to jump at this pace re Our Conor last year
frown.png



Mares Hurdle :

host Emmet Kennedy heard from Rich Ricci that Annie Power WONT run here

(JB) If its soft Bitofapuzzle EW

(DR) Without Annie power its a tough race maybe Jennies Jewel EW

Neptune Hurdle :

(PE) liked Parlour Games

(JB) A big Outlander fan, but likes Beast Of Burden EW @ 25/1


RSA Chase :

(DR) If Conegree's trainer runs him in the Gold Cup, then he should have his licence taking away!!!!

Big debate as to whether Don Poli runs in this or the 4 miler.

(JB) Coneygree jumps and gallops.

(PE) Likes Kings Palace and The Young Master EW

Champion Chase

So the whole debate around this race was based on a trip to Crumlins Children hospital Dublin, where Davey said that Barry Geraghty told everyone and anyone there that Sprinter Sacre would NOT be beaten. Russell said it wouldn't be Geraghty's form to be spouting off like that…

I asked (JB) would my favourite horse, Sizing Europe, be showing up he said he wasn't sure.

Bumper :

Lots of negatives re Pylononthepressure on account of its Sire…

Johnnie Burke was pushed about his potential mount Super Sunday, an ex Balding flat horse, and he said he was bred to win a derby and could win!!!

The rest of the panel fell in behind Moon Racer


JLT Chase :

(DR) Nothing there of the calibre of Vautour

Everone else agreed it was a match between Vautour and Apache Stronghold.. Story is that Dermot Weld is vey happy with the weight Apache has.

Ryaniar Chase :
(DR) Don Cossack finally the horse he thought it would be. Johns Spirit for value.

(PE) Cue Card tailor made for it.

(NH) NAPPED Taquin De Seuil as a Jonjo plot job. Jonjo said today he may go in a handicap!! If thats the case and Jonjo's willing to let him lumber top weight then Johns Spirit is a MONSTER!!


World Hurdle :

(DR) Annie Power and Lt Colonel have similar ways to get her (i.e. can't jump a fence etc)

If you want to buy money this year according to Davy lay Zarkandar!!!!!!

(PE) Questioned Davy with regards to his mount Jetson that was only beaten 1/2l by Lt Colonel!!

(JB) Rock on Ruby class horse with course form!!

Triumph Hurdle :

(DR) Spend quality time with the misses when this race is on!!!

(NH) Irish horse a poor lot

(JB) fancies Golden Doyan EW


Albert Bartlett

(DR) like No More Heroes

We were then introduced to the owner of Value at Risk whose living the dream as a small owner with a live horse at Cheltenham. He said to back it for the RSA next year!! but that the horse is screaming for 3 miles. Has a racecourse gallop on Monday.

(PE) Said Adrian Heskin is very sweet on Montello Tower

Gold Cup :

The panel to a man tipped Lord Windermere and likewise bismarcked Holywell.
They also agreed that Silviniaco Conti would start vomiting when he saw the hill ahead of it!!!!


Handicap tips:

(DR) Taquin De Seuil

(NH) Edeymi in Pertemps

(PE) Clondaw Kaempfer Coral Cup

(JB) Pink Coat County Hurdle

Patrick Mulcahy from Ladborkes gave 2 in the Foxhunters Carrinstown Boy (16/1) & Seventh Sign (12/1) A Maguire horse.


Charity Bets

(JB) Super Sunday (bumper)

(PE) The job is Right (NH chase)

(NH) Roi De Franc (Martin Pipe)

(DR) No More Heroes (Neptune or Albert Bartlett)

Great night, plenty of autograph and picture opportunities afterwards.
 
The fifth edition of the Bangor preview took place two hours after racing in front of an audience of 120 and the panel consisted of leading local trainer Donald McCain (DM), commentator and broadcaster, Stewart Machin (SM), Jumping Prospects author, John Morris (JM), Form and Speed Figures analyst Andy Holding (AH) and Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author Paul Jones (PJ). The M.C. was Darren Owen.






Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
DM: I don’t think the British are keeping up with Willie Mullins. Good luck to him, he has a system and it works. Douvan all the way. I think Jollyallan should be running in the Neptune.


SM: Of Willie Mullins’ four short-priced favourites on Day 1, Douvan is the one I would look to try and get beat. L’Ami Serge makes most appeal against him. I was really struck by Nicky Henderson’s demeanour after he won the Tolworth. L’Ami Serge is my pick at the prices.


AH: Douvan ticks the boxes on my speed figures for both his starts. He must be a hell of a horse to beat Sizing John by 12l on the bridle. He is a big unit but I think he can be even better of faster ground. L’Ami Serge has also been impressive visually and on the clock and I make it between the pair. Jollyallan has no chance of beating L’Ami Serge on the times they clocked on the same day at Newbury.


JM: Douvan could be exceptional but I don’t like backing shorties. Tell Us More looks a big each-way price at 25/1 as it could be this step back to 2m is what he needs right now. It might be a blessing disguise he was beaten over 2m4f last time. Jollyallan doesn’t jump fast enough.


PJ: We know Douvan will be well backed and it will be McCoy this and McCoy that in the build up so I see Jollyallan also being well backed as well so something has to give and it’s likely to be L’Ami Serge. Given Henderson has had nine top-four finishers in the last eight runnings and he looks the best of the Brits so you would like to think he will be thereabouts again so he is interesting each-way near off time as I think that is when he will be at his biggest price. If Tell Us More runs here, he is the only horse at a double figure price that would interest me.










Arkle Trophy
DM: Un De Sceaux will be exciting. It might not be pretty though as I don’t think he’s that good over a fence. He is not bomb proof and he has had freebies in Ireland. Vibrato Valtat has been classed as quirky so he knows how to mind himself and that’s no bad thing in the Arkle. The way the race is run should suit and he travels strongly. Josses Hill jumped well at Doncaster when the gun was put to his head so I see him enjoying the strong pace too.


SM: Un De Sceaux is not my kind of price at 4/7. Vibrato Valtat has impressed me more and more as the season progressed and it looked effortless for him at Warwick to go by a 150-rated rival in Top Gamble.


AH: Un De Sceaux was spectacular on the clock at Leopardstown. He should be favourite for the Champion Chase if he was running there. He jumped well last time but he can be a bit hit or miss and the pace he will be going he’ll have to meet everything on the right stride. Vibrato Valtat is the obvious main danger and has Cheltenham chase experience on his side.


JM: Un De Sceaux jumps a bit flat which is my worry. Sgt Reckless is my little dark one. He has only had one chase start but jumped very well and he has some class about him. Henrietta Knight would be overseeing his schooling.


PJ: I am waiting for firms to bet without the favourite and, taking the view the British are not up to a lot, I fancy an Irish 1-2 and looking at Clarcam in this market. He may not have a 5yo allowance but he is a dependable jumper and very professional. I can see Vibrato Valtat chasing Un De Sceaux from 3 out and Clarcam picking up the pieces. Hopefully that’s the way he will ridden as it didn’t work trying to go after Un De Sceaux last time and being ridden for a place and hope to get lucky might be their plan. He will be hard to kick out of the first three.










Champion Hurdle
DM: The New One should have done it a lot better at Haydock. I have been a big fan of Hurricane Fly but he can’t go on forever and Jezki beat him last year so the door is wide open for Faugheen.


SM: I think Faugheen will win. I was talking with Walsh at Royal Ascot last year and he was telling me he is some machine and jumps so fast. I thought he meant Vautour at first but he was talking about Faugheen. The New One has to put himself right at his hurdles which is a worry.


AH: I timed The New One from the moment he was hampered in last year’s Champion Hurdle and Faugheen from the same point, albeit 24 hours later, and Faugheen was quicker so I have to say he is a faster horse. The New One only won at Haydock as Bertimont raced in the swamp against the far rail. To say Faugheen has beaten nothing is wrong as Blue Heron looked a good winner of the Kingwell. Faugheen is the closest I’ve seen to Istrabraq in that he floats along and also has the power. Jezki each-way is the obvious alternative though I would prefer Geraghty to McCoy on him being 5-5 when he has ridden him.


JM: Faugheen is some tool and can keep on improving. He should win with no mistakes and Arctic Fire is the best each-way value.


PJ: I fancy Jezki to be more of a threat to Faugheen than The New One who is a better horse on the New Course and doesn’t make ground at his hurdles like a Champion Hurdler should. Jezki is much quicker over a flight and looks an obvious each-way bet at 6/1.










Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle
DM: No real view but I would have run Jollyallan here and not run Beast Of Burden as he should be in the Albert Bartlett.


SM: Not a race I have a strong opinion on but I’m not sure whether Parlour Games will cut it. Windsor Park would be my tentative selection.


AH: Outlander beat a good field but not in a good time last time out. I’ve not seen too many holes in Nichols Canyon and he won the best trial in a good time. He is a professional and tough off the bridle so I like his attitude. Parlour Games is the best of the British but Challow winners have a bad record. He was very impressive before that off a slow pace but showed he can also slog it at Newbury.


JM: This always goes to a fancied horse. I was really taken by Beast Of Burden when he won here (Bangor) and when I saw him in the summer. Rebecca Curtis likes him a lot.


PJ: Parlour Games won the Challow and all 14 winners to run here were beaten but most get beaten as they find the faster ground compared to Newbury at Christmas too much, but he is a Flat horse so I wouldn’t be put off by that stat if you like him. I just think the Irish are miles better. I fancy Windsor Park can reverse Deloitte form with Nichols Canyon over a longer trip and being put into the race, which he wasn’t at Leopardstown until it was all over.










RSA Chase
DM: I’d run Coneygree here rather than the Gold Cup. He makes it very uncomfortable for other novices but he won’t be able to do that to top class professionals. I don’t think Mullins will get his way with Gigginstown so expect Don Poli to run here. I’ve been mightily impressed with Kings Palace and think he will improve for better ground. I’ll go with him.


SM: If Coneygree and Kings Palace run it will be like an RSA of old as they just gallop. I think it would be madness to run Coneygree in the Gold Cup. The tempo of race is just different to novice races.


AH: Don Poli all the way if he runs on the speed figures and the strength of his form when he won the Topaz.


JM: Kings Palace’s jumping worries me at the pace they will go. I will go for Coneygree if pressed if he runs as this looks his ideal race.


PJ: Don Poli has plenty of stats to defy if he is to win; 6yo, not run since Christmas, less than three chase starts. But then again the other leading hopes also aren’t perfect on trends. I will back Valseur Lido wherever he turns up but, as we don’t know yet where he, Don Poli, Coneygree or The Young Master will run, I don’t want to commit to the race yet.










Queen Mother Champion Chase
DM: The way Gary Moore has campaigned Sire De Grugy has been fantastic. They are not scared of trying anything different. Sprinter Sacre was drunk after he won at Punchestown and running at all three spring Festivals looks to have taken its toll on him.


SM: Sire De Grugy won a proper race last time and handicap form is so much more informative than beating three rivals at long odds-on in a pattern race. I was impressed by the way he did it. I couldn’t back Sprinter Sacre though wouldn’t be surprised if he won. Dodging Bullets doesn’t catch my imagination. The Newbury race Mr Mole won fell apart though he would have probably won anyway.


AH: The race of the meeting. I am very strong on Hidden Cyclone who is a massive price at 14/1. He committed too early when second in the Ryanair last year and again at Leopardstown at Christmas and a fast run 2m will be perfect for him if restrained more. However, Sire De Grugy did impress me last time or otherwise I would be even more confident.


JM: I like Hidden Cyclone for a bit of each-way value.


PJ: I think it’s between Champagne Fever and Sire De Grugy though accept that Hidden Cyclone is in a very good place right now. I’m not bothered that Champagne Fever would probably have been beaten by Don Cossack when he fell as I think he will hack up in the Ryanair so that’s top class form. I can’t wait to get stuck into Sire De Grugy to beat Sprinter Sacre at odds against when firms offer match betting. I have doubts that Ascot form is that great anyway and sense Nicholls prefers Mr Mole of his pair.










JLT Novices’ Chase
Skimmed through it as first half went on longer than planned.


DM: Pass.


SM: Splash Of Ginge each-way value.


AH: Apache Stronghold – I’m keen to oppose Vautour.


JM: Vautour – he’s on my front page cover so have to!


PJ: I will back Valseur Lido wherever he runs. He travels and jumps like a real class act and can reverse with Apache Stronghold as he wasn’t fully tuned up in the Flogas.










Ryanair Chase


DM: I just called Gordon Elliott and asked for what he fancies at the meeting. He gave me two and neither were Don Cossack which means it’s a certainty!!!


SM: I wouldn’t be with Cue Card and Balder Succes has yet to do it at Cheltenham. Don Cossack is priced up right and is the most likely winner. Eduard has been at the satellite yard at Newmarket and would have won the Peterborough Chase but for a mistake. That form is some way removed from this but I can see him running well.


AH: Don Cossack at 4/1 is a good price. I see him starting much shorter. He has come of age this season having been frail off the bridle but he looks really strong in the latter stages now. The time of his win last time was tremendous being over 9 seconds faster than Vroum Vroum Mag who won a Grade 2 which is ridiculous. I am looking for reasons not to back Don Cossack but can’t find any.


JM: Don Cossack is my map of the meeting. He has got it all together now.


PJ: Don Cossack for a clean sweep as I can’t have Cue Card on this season’s performances. His form compared to that of his likely rivals this season is on a different level. Module is the each-way value at 40/1, he’s been crying out for this trip so ignore his two runs before the New Year and he has run well at the last two Cheltenham Festivals.










World Hurdle


DM: Rock On Ruby is probably best at 2m4f. I think Cole Harden has had his wind done since his last run.


SM: I don’t know if Rock On Ruby will stay so I can’t back him. I don’t know how good Saphir Du Rheu is but I do know the price differential between him and Un Temps Pour Tout on Cleeve form is too big.


AH: I could short list half a dozen and still not find the winner it’s that competitive so I’ve chanced a couple each-way at bigger prices in Jetson and Monksland. Jetson’s defeat of Quevega last year was no fluke and he has run well both starts this season which were runs to get him ready for the spring.


JM: Zarkandar is my fancy. He was fourth last year and Nicholls told me in the summer he will be a better horse for this season. Cole Harden could be the each-way value if returning to the form of his Wetherby win.


PJ: I like Zarkandar. He’s a different horse this season in the way he travels and jumps since his wind operation, he loves this New Course and deep down and I fancy Nicholls prefers him to the chasing-type, Saphir Du Rheu. Only beaten 8l last year in a better race off the back of a poor season last year, this is weaker and he is in far better form.










Triumph Hurdle


DM: I ran Starchitect against Peace And Co and he annihilated us. Then I ran him against Hargam and he was not as impressive but beat us well in a nice relaxed fashion so he might be the one better suited to the demands of the Festival.


SM: I was very impressed with Top Notch’s hurdling at Haydock. The stiffer track and extra furlong worries for me for Beltor who pulled at Kempton. He will be hard to beat at Aintree.


AH: Nothing impressed on the clock until Petite Parisienne won at Leopardstown in a race that has featured the last three Triumph winners. I’ve backed Hargam and I can see his form lines being franked in the Fred Winter. I like the fact he has twice run at Cheltenham and he put up a better time than The New One overall and on the sectionals there in December.


JM: I was impressed by Beltor at Ludlow and that form has been franked and was impressed again with him at Kempton. Dicosimo took off in the final furlong on his debut for Mullins and looks the best of the Irish.


PJ: Like everyone else I was very impressed by Peace And Co at Doncaster but the more I think about it, he is a short price for a buzzy horse, especially on Gold Cup Day where the atmosphere will be at its height during the week. Karezak is the type to place again but I am warming to Top Notch who just looks like the ultra professional for 4yos and the longer trip will be in his favour.










Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle


Again, this was skimmed through sharpish.


DM: Beast Of Burden should be running here, not the Neptune.


SM: Value At Risk has solid form and should relish the step up in trip.


AH: It’s been a while since we saw Black Hercules which is unlike Mullins.


JM: No real view


PJ: Value At Risk is bred to really improve for the step up in trip and 12/1 represents excellent each-way value.










Gold Cup


DM: I would love to see Many Clouds win and he has his chance. McCoy couldn’t wait to me at Kelso he was impressed with Holywell which is unlike him. He doesn’t say these things for nothing. I think he was very taken with him.


SM: I am still unconvinced Silviniaco Conti will come up the hill even if he is a better horse this season. My two against the field are Djakadam, who this might come a year too early but has so much potential, and The Giant Bolster each-way. There is no reason why he can’t place again.


AH: Holywell has the best profile. He is 2/2 at the Festival, comes alive in the spring and when fitted with blinkers and his Aintree form from last season is the best in the race. If McCoy had the choice I think he would ride him and not Carlingford Lough.


JM: Road To Riches and Holywell are my two against the field. Road To Riches is improving and consistent so just give him the edge. This has never quite been Silviniaco Conti’s course and that worries me.


PJ: Boston Bob is too big at 25/1 and worth an each-way bet. He’s a stayer who has never run over the Gold Cup trip so I am expecting him to improve for that and he is a spring horse to boot who will enjoy faster ground. Don’t forget he might have beaten Lord Windermere when he fell at the last when leading the RSA. Looking for a back up selection, if the ground is on the easy side then Many Clouds is a hard horse to pass as he really wants it and it if was good ground, then I would favour Holywell.










Naps:


DM: The Young Master (if runs in NH Chase)


SM: Faugheen (Champion Hurdle)


AH: Hidden Cyclone (Champion Chase)


JM: Don Cossack (Ryanair)


PJ: Ned Stark (Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase)
 
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{pasted from elsewhere}

Bangor on Dee Preview

Tweeting live is David Parry (who once ran a very good forum)

https://twitter.com/DavidParryRacin

Bangor on Dee #CheltenhamPreviewNight .tweets to follow.

Panel
Paul Jones,
D McCain,
John Morris,
stewart Makin ,
Andy Holding

supreme nov h;
PJ " not a favs race, Douvan too short, l'ami serge tolworth form holds up. E/w.
"SM likes l'ami serge
Don McCain "willies horses ahead of GB horses". Likes Douvan.
John Morris likes him too but likes Tell us More at a big price each way.
Doesn't like jolly Alan's jumping.
Andy Holding positive on Douvan. Top drawer . Cut above rest.
consensus is that Douvan and l'ami serge are well ahead of the rest.

Arkle Chase
McCain...will be exciting! Un de sceaux not great jumper & to do it from front is hard.Dodging bullets
don McCain likes vibrato du voltat.
Andy holding confirms UDS times are electric. Not a 4/6 bet tho.
Andy Holding likes vibrato du voltat, relishes a battle and race could be set up 4 him but UDS electric
john Morris likes Sergeant Reckless. Class,knight can prepare one,great jumping at uttoxeter, plot job?
Josses Hill jumping prob better at speed according to don McCain.
Machin thinks Josses a "guesser". UDS
S Machin worried about Henderson chase form. No strength in depth.
P Jones ...no horse made all in arkle
Arkle chase ....since anaglogs!
Paul Jones...UDS wins. Clarcam comes second.
Andy H thinks UDS would be fav for QM

champion Hurdle .
FAUGHEEN WINS...BUT WHAT DO EXPERTS THINK!
S Machin loves Faugheen. The new one too many corrections at haydock. Faugheen wins. Jezki close.
Don McCain; The New One Haydock run should have been better. Jezki can't beat the aged fly.Faugheen
Paul Jones. Jezki will beat the new one(outpaced). Faugheen too short.The fly too old. Jezki each way
Andy Holding. Hugely impressed by Faugheen. The new one gone backward in terms of jumping and clock.
Andy holding. Faugheen awesome. Closest thing to istabraq he's seen. Jezki each way.
John Morris; the new one not a champion hurdler.Faugheen will win.He's a machine. Arctic fire each way
champion hurdle discussion at bangor has lost its way as audience join in!. "Pint of lager please".
....consensus that as good as the fly has been, he can't win another champ hurdle


Neptune hdle.
Paul Jones keen on Windsor park at 11s to reverse form with nicholls canyon.Machin tentatively with WP
John Morris respects nicholls canyon. Done nothing wrong. Apart from fall!
likes beast of burden but don McCain thinks he needs 3 miles.
Andy H " Nichols canyon jumps .tough and classy.Worthy fav. Callow hurdle times/ form strong so parlour games warrants attention BUT...stats of challow hurdle winners are poor. 0/14.
Paul Jones not so perturbed by stat as parlour games is ex flat

RSA.
Where's does Don Poli run?Andy h thinks he's best staying nov chaser in ire...Topaz form really good. Cruised also likes Southfield theatre on his wincanton form but he was beaten nto. Good jumper. Needs fast gr.
Andy h..kings palace good jumper but can't fancy him after last year.
Don McCain...coneygree shd run in this
don mc mighty impressed with kings place. Pipe has trained him for one day. Better ground will suit him.
RSA john Morris...coneygree great chance, must run in this and not GC. Don poli has winning festival firm. Kings p..
...jumping a worry. Interesting race this. Coneygree for john Morris. Paul Jones don poli stats...
....not run since Xmas, too few runs etc. kings palace not impressed paul Jones. Anti British novices. Don poli.
Jones will back valseur lido in whichever race he turns up in.

champion chase.
Champagne fever. Job done. Pint please! Oh hang on, there's some proper pundits here
Machin...dodging bullets not a bet. SDG impressed in hcap last week. More so than sprinter has been.
Machin not a fan of Champ fever.
P Jones got it between SDG and fever. Sprinter disappointing.
McCain...big hole in sprinter. Finished after winning at three festivals. Big fan of SDG...horse and trainer
John Morris likes the chance of big priced Hidden Cyclone.
Andy Holding excited by hidden cyclone
Andy holding BIG on hidden cyclone in champ chase at 14s. Get on. If he wins get 5% to Andy and 5% to me. Cheers.
Interesting thoughts from Don McCain re restricted handicaps...rules good horses out from competing
break time.

Thursday and Friday to come. In more important news, the hotpot was good but there's no bloody raffle. Poor show

JLT nov chase.
P Jones doesn't like ptit zig off back off a fall. Apache stronghold based on flogas form.
Machin thinks splash of ginge overpriced.
John Morris Vautour all season long.
Andy h likes gitane du ber if runs
Andy Holding has Apache stronghold and valseur lido ahead, well ahead, of others. Probably Apache the one on grd
Andy h has Irish novice form way ahead. McCain no view.

Ryanair.
Machin thinks Don Cossack could/ should win. Why not? Fair price.
Paul Jones; johns spirit may even turn up in champ chase! Very much behind Don Cossack in this....along wit
Ryanair ....Module each way huge price.
Don McCain asked g Elliot for tips for chelt and he gave two...not Don Coss
John Morris and Andy h both love Don Cossack chances too.
The two tips from G Elliot were in bumper/pipe
GElliot likes jet stream jack in bumper and Mullins un atout in the martin pipe.

Back to Ryanair ...Andy holding very keen on ballynagour at a big price

World Hurdle.
Andy holding thinks Annie power will go mares route."Open"world hurdle ( poor in my view!). Monksland.
monks land a big price at 16s for Andy holding. Jetson another one at a big price.
John Morris fancies.zarkander. Also likes Cole Hardern ( who McCain thinks has had a wind op since autumn) .
McCain...rock on ruby a more natural stayer than speed king.
Machin thinks Saphir du rheu could improve
Machin has a value bet in un temps pour tout. J
ones likes zarkander...french champ hurdle form etc

triumph hurdle
paul Jones doesn't like peace and co cos of size...big horses in chelt fest hurdles not good
ones likes the "proper juvenile, super fast jumping" Top Notch. Professional and extra distance will suit.
Machin...peace & co has earplugs which suggests temp may not be great .Too short.Top Notch
McCain thinks peace and co a machine but temperament? Therefore hargam. Both beat dons horse which he rates
John Morris impressed by Beltor. Also likes Dicosimo...experienced, good jumper, quickens well.
Andy holding likes petite Parisienne on speed figures. Peace and co too short. Hargam good chance.
Andy holding,...hargam times great. Tough. Jumps well. Better ground a plus. Has run around track.

Albert Bartlett .
Andy h...black Hercules impressed but off a long time. Out and out stayer.Keep eye on fine article
Andy h suggests keeping an eye on Roi de francs wherever he runs
Paul Jones fancies value at risk as does Machin.Trip will suit 12s.
McCain beast of burden should run

Gold Cup.
I think Silviniaco Conti but what about these guys?
Machin; Silvi may not get up hill so take chance with djakadam. Year too soon? Maybe.The giant bolster e/w
Paul Jones...6yo stat against djakadam. Fell last year at chelt. Jones: Boston Bob...spring horse, step up unless ground fast it's many clouds .
McCain. Many Clouds impressive but says McCoy really likes Holywell.
John Morris likes Holywell if McCoy on
Morris; Road to riches big improver. Consistent. Good prep. Many Clouds chance hampered by sherwood form
track the worry for silvi.
Holding likes road to riches but not quite gold cup standard.
Holding likes cheltenham specialist Holywell. Has beaten Don Cossack and many clouds...he's a proper horse
Holding; Holywell win win if he's in touch 3 out.
Bobs Worth? Absolutely written off by the panel.

"the rest"-
Andy holding..nov hcap chase form suggests generous ransom. Per temps hurdle? mydor if he gets in
handicaps. Holding....mildmay of flete hollow penny. Pile on the pressure in bumper.
handicaps. Paul Jones. The x country a poor race this year. Sires Collonges. In the ultima hcap chase ned stark
handicaps etc. McCain starchitect only fancy at chelt.
handicaps. Morris: see the world in the bumper and salsify in hunter chase

naps time.
Holding best bet each way hidden cyclone 14s. Nap is Don Poli.
John Morris: nap Don Cossack. E/w salsify
naps. McCain , the young master in four miler and jet stream Jack in bumper.
Machin, naps Faugheen and Don cossack
best bets for paul Jones is ned stark in 3m hcap chase
that's yer lot!!!!
 
Great preview with plenty of incite. How refreshing to read one where no-one has an agenda, just opinion backed up by research.
 
Been up the course today to get tickets for the preview as spent a fruitless half an hour last night trying to locate the complimentary tickets for annual members on their website. Took the girls in their office about half an hour to do it using their software too, so if anyone is applying, allow plenty of time.
 
Warwick Report via https://twitter.com/andrisiggporson

Right then. Warwick preview paul jones, jamie moore and oliver sherwood
Final panel member is will smith cricketer from hampshire not the bad boy

Supreme nov.
Can anythong beat mullins?
Olly sherwood. Lami serge. Big vibes for horse. Jamie moore agrees. Stuffed viloet dancer and kilcully
Jm horse look good in ireland dont always transfer. Will wants to take douvan on at price. Won lesser races than vautour
Will shaneshill ew chance. Pj douvan against some trends- sp. Not backing at price. Lami serge ew and will be better value on day
Douvan and mccoy will be backed on the say. Lami serge bigger price. Jollyallan not jumped well enough. Avoid chasers in supreme

Arkle.
JM uds wins unless falls. Impressed with VV too but uds tough to beat
OS exavtly same. 2 horse race with Uds to come out on top. Ws agrees. Beating of gilgamboa and clarcam was special.
Ws uds may drift on day esp if douvan btn
PJ. Kingmaker good form for arkle. VV prob finish second. Wouldn't rush to take price about UDS. Will back without him and go for clarcam

Champ hurdle.
PJ 4 horse race. A fire to pick up peices maybe. Fly need soft. Jezlki more of danger than new one to faugheem
Jezki quick hurdler. New one better on new course and maybe further. Doesn't gain ground at hurdles
If dont like faugheen price then jezki is the play
OS. See the ground. If soft the fly is a big price. Jezki after better ground. If GS then faugheen prob not beaten.
JM. Helluva race. The fly good vibes in weighing room. May surprise people and going for him. Would ride faugheen though!
WS. All been said. Come from front four. Some doubts about all but each could win. Jezki ew is the bet. Can't see him out the frame
Arvtic fire at 50s for next year. If he places in this price will tumble.

Mares.
OS. Mischievous molly runs for him. Btn twice by glens melody. Hasn't trained her well. If soft she will be big price but would ....
Be disappointed if not in top four on soft
JM. Day one runners. Vino griegio. Tongue tie for first time other day. Massive price but very good ew price
Gores island no chance needs to start now. Traffic fluide interesting esp on soft. Both on nov chase
WS. Druids nephew in 3 miler. Incredibly well handicapped. Hcap bet of day 1. 4moler. Sego succes and very wood if run
PJ. Ned stark in 3miler. Druids nephew is danger. A king good record in this race. Rating around 143 is needed. Had spin round course
Sponsoes of race sponsor a kings yards. Likely to go off fav. Ultima boss excited about king winning it. Strong vibes tbh
Starsports confirm a kings horse been heavily backed by customer with good record with kings horses for what its worth
Where annie power going? WS amazed if not here. Go for best chance of win. OS thinks will go for stayers and let GM take this


Day 2.
Neptune. PJ. Windsor park ti reverse form with nichols canyon. Wasn't really put in race. Improve for step up in trip. Decent ground
Parlour games challow winner which is bad guide. But PG flat horse so may be better on good ground. Windosr park like that too
WS. Alvisio ville bombed out lto. Was money before it though but now drifted. Possibly value in 1st tome tongue tie
Windsor park looks real good ew bet. JM. Parlour games bundles of class. Also likes ordo ab chao.
OS. Same as Jamie. PG fan.


RSA.
OS. Coneygree- vibes seem to be gold cup. Huge fan of kings palace. This race target for him. KP to win maybe not if coneygree runs
JM. KP pipes beat championshop runner. Also likes the young master. Kp to win. TYM to be close with don poli
WS. Top 5 all very good. Don poli won at fest. Cgree run here may set up for don poli. Cgree and kings palace beat each other for him
PJ reckons couple go elsewhere. TYM likely as barry G available. Faster ground Cgree run here. Not convinced by KP.valseur lido class act
If VL runs here but prob wont. Very wood likely to run here and a player. Been told trying to keep very wood and wounded warrior apart
Having said all that don poli could be class above

QM chase.
Jm and sdg. Good form. Has ridden grey gold. Wasn't far behind ss and d bullets. Sdg every bit as good as last year.one to beat
OS. Ss is coming back.maybe doing chelt aintree and punches took it out if him. Mr mole give them a fright but sdg to win
PJ. Totally against SS. Horses don't come back. Henderson looked disappointed. D bullets rating js too high. Form is poor.
Was worried about sdg. Not now. Either him or c fever. Sdg rated best 2m chase. C fever form with don cossack very good. Dc will romp ryanai
Between sdg and c fever. Will get stuck into sdg to beat ss In match betting
Ws. Sdg jumping at Chepstow electric. Different horse. Proven more than ss this year. Simply ned a big price in mkt without principles

Other races. PJ sire collonge for x countty
Kept for this maybe. Best bet of shoulder races
WS. Coral cup. Likes edeymi and quick jack. I think everyone in the world is on edeymi
Bookie had very strong word for hostile fire in fred winter. Bookie himself like bouvril
Break time. If anyone is reading!

JLT.
WS. Vautour wanted him in arkle but uds came a long. Valseur lido if turns up here. This race made fir him. Will turn form with apache
Gitane du berlais too. Vautour prob win with VL running close.
OS vautour nap of meeying of others runnera. Home and hosed. Willie in 2 minds last year of supreme and neptune.
PJ. Valseur lido has class. Jumps and moves so well. Willie wants VL in rsa so don poli goes in 4m. Giggins woll win and will go here
Can't be backing lto fallers so avoid ptit zig. JM fancies ptit zig. Cannot believe he fell

Ryanair.
Os lay if meeting is cue card. Balder succes will win. Keen on horses winning at ascot and coming here. Ma filueile to place
JM ballynagour at big price and fresh. Doea like balder though. WS. Go with ma filleuile. Good spring form. Eduard interesting and . .
Other nicky richards runner too.
PJ. Don cossack by far best horse in race and will win. Ran away from boston bob and windermere. Cant have cue card.
Balder succes not even placed in races with 10 plus runners. Prob win melling chase after being stiffed here
Johns spirit may go here. Record on old course much better than new so better prospect in champ chase than this
Taquin de seuil likely to run here making johns spirit more likely for qm

World hurdle.
Feihly on zarkander. Annie power may run
WS. More keen on saphir out of principles. More to come apparenyly but had had a few races last day
Blue fashion and whisper are interesting. And monksland fancied before for this. Monksland ew prob the bet
JM. Un temps pour tout ew. Open race. Will strip fiter.
OS. Depends on if a power runs here. If so go for her. If not between Nicholls runners and prefer saphir
PJ. ROR bit too old and no chance on soft. Who will ride? Ruby? Prob won't stay. Annie power here first time out unlikely esp as ..
Planning on taking in aintree and punches too. Thinks zarkander will win. They know he will stay now. Fantastic form on new course.
More positives for blue fashion based on its two runs behind moee of yhat and faugheen by bookie
Bookie also says taht had a very strong word for blood cotol in whatever race he runs.

Ws says cup final for pertemps
OS. Regal encore gets in off 138. Got to respect jp off low weights
No mention at all of lieutenant colonel which I am not happy about

Day 4. Triumph.
WS peace and co looks good but short enough. Plenty could improve for spring weather.hargam ew looks really good bet.
Also interested in devilment off big price. PJ. Irish poor horses. P&CO looked a bit buzzy. Given atmosphere price is too short
Fancies top notch. Jumps fast and hardy and stays. Undervalued. 5 runs 5 wins.
OS agrees with PJ about hendersons horses. Was very impressed by beltour. Won going away. JM agrees about Beltour. Very quick over hurdles
Bidourry interesting off very soft. Would pick beltour and top notch ew. Someone is very unhappy as they wanted to buy beltour but vet
Failed him. Bookie says p&co lay of meeting. Beltour has strong form. Likes top notch and hargam
A bartlett. JM. very open but like blaklion. OS likes caracci apache. PJ likes value at risk. Should improve for extra distance as . .
Dam won midlands national. Best of british. Black hercules not run forever whixh puts hhim off. No more heroes poor lto. Martello tower is
Tough horse but value at risk for the win. WS also a VAR fan. Skelton is getting best out if all his horses. Really fancies this.

Gold cup.
OS very happy with many clouds. All gone to plan. Schooled to day. Wants winter ground. Take conti out and very open race
JM. Would be on many clouds if he could ride any. Impressive in hennesey and at Cheltenham.
WS. Conti a worthy favourite but does he like course really. Flat track horse. Avoidable at price. Many clouds has many positives.
Boston bob at big price in blinkers or pieces would be interesting. PJ windermere pepple think won poor renewal. Prefer others
Boston bob is a spring horse and he has been having nice spins without trying. Best 20 to 1 plus shot. Asked OS what chance many clouds
On good. OS says top four on softer. Still a chance on good. PJ agrees most likely winner on softer. If leading 2 out nothing go past but
On faster fancies the holywell. Esp in blinkers. Richie mclernon ride holywell to both festival wins too
Djakadam looks interesting. Likes second season chasers. Hennesy winners have 25% strike rate. Based on that many clouds should be 3 /1
Bookie heard djakadam ripe for running.


Other races now.. OS paint the clouds cant be beaten if jumps. WS says junior for same race
 
Waterford (from elsewhere...)

Waterford...

Panel

John Francome
Nick Luck
Tom Segal
Davy Russell
Bryan Cooper
Jim McGrath
Noel O'Brien
Jessica Harringthon


Supreme up first
Francome- Lami Serge for Francombe says way he went up Sandown hill and galloped and that's what he wants for a supreme horse
Cooper- Impressed by Lami Serge but thinks Douvan could be the Irish banker
Segal- hold off backing Douvan until the day he must be bigger on the day. Ground is key, likes Jollyallan thinks big player.
Jim McGrath- Lami Serge also. Doesn't think Douvan is within 7lb of LS at the moment.
Russell- if a 2nd season novice beats Douvan it's a truly shocking race. Tell Us More has no chance because of Sire. Can't win a grade 1.
Russell- Good word from bentellimar but can't see past Douvan.
Luck- Lami Serge he likes aswel but gives Qewy a good mention. Said Barry thought Cardinal Walter was a good thing before Qewy destroyed him
Jessie- Is a Douvan fan, says he beat a very good mare of hers in Rock of the Moor and thinks he's the one.
Hayley says not to back Douvan until Monday before race but can't say anymore or she gets fired. Enhancement looks on the way.
Noel o Brien the Irish handicapper thinks Douvan is a star in waiting
Segal says he's back Jollyallan better ground to suit.

Arkle up next.
Francome- Only hope of beaten UDS is if he's buzzy and something takes him on.
Cooper- felt Clarcam would of won last year at Cheltenham. He will ride to come 2nd but thinks UDS could be very buzzy at Cheltenham.
Says there is nothing he can do to beat him and that's the truth. He's riding to come 2nd and see what happens.
Segal- worries for Josses Hill, Francomble says he won't make it round. Puts it Smashing as forecast.
McGrath- timeform have UDS better than Sacre at the same stage in careers.
Francome can't wait for Special Tiara vs UDS.
McGrath- positive mentions for Vibrato and reckons he will pick up pieces if something happens.
Russell says UDS will win but wouldn't back him until ya see him at the start. Thinks Josses will come 2nd.
Russell says UDS is always on edge in the parade rings so be careful.
Harrington- Clarcam can follow home but Josses just doesn't jump well enough to be competitive.
Noel O Brien- UDS is a champion hurdler in a race of handicappers.
Jessie says don't mind Barry saying Josses will win he thinks they will all win, great attitude to have.

Champion Hurdle time
Harrington- Jezki is good form very happy with him. Hasn't had a great prep getting beat 3 times but thinks after the mistake didn't get hard race compared to the fly. Very worried about Faugheen. Ultra impressive. You can question what's he's beaten though.
Noel O Brien- Questions Faugheens form beating Purple Bay who was 6th in Galway off 153. Jezki is a spring horse. Age only thing against Fly
Noel does think Faugheen is the one to beat all the same.
Francome- thinks the new one was lame last time out so the fly is a great e/w bet in 4 runner race seeing as one will be lame.
If Francome had the choice he probably wouldn't get off the fly but just for what he's done for Ruby.
Russell- not a disadvantage Ruby riding Faugheen because Paul rides him everyday and knows him best.
Russell- soft the fly beats the lot. Mullins has had a free pass this year and says the press should ask why has he not ran proper tests.
Russell- no way is Faugheen an even money shot against two champions and an unlucky horse last season.
Cooper- not a man to ask about decisions seeing as he keeps getting it wrong lately. Would ride the fly probably and Faugheen poor price.
Cooper- agrees with Russell about the jockey situation won't be a disadvantage.
Segal- thought the new one should of won last year dead unlucky and thought he was the one if back to his best but very worried about LTO.
McGrath- Faugheen will win, has the best form this season but jumping might be an issue. Very fast horse. 6/4 biggest price he's ever been.
Luck- if you listened to all the bollix that came from the Mullins yard you will be skint. Jezki very fair price at 9/2.
Harrington- doesn't think Plinth can do the job as pacemaker but says should be a good pace in a champion.

Neptune time.
Cooper- I'll ride outlander. Trip will suit well. Jumps, travels but people are forgetting Shaneshill.
Segal- doesn't fancy NC should be in Supreme. Not a great race, wanted to back Windsor Park but Russell told him going Albert. PG for him.
McGrath- Parlour games beaten slow coaches but thinks he's a good horse. Worries if Outlander quick enough so Nicholls Canyon.
Russell- NC in wrong race. Windsor Park not certain for AB. Jokes he fancied Outlander until he heard Cooper was riding cuz he can't pick em
Russell- Windsor park jumping is getting better and he stays very well. Francomble reckons WP has a back problem the way he jumps.
Noel O Brien- Outlander 7lb behind NC and PG. Windsor Park achieved a lot finishing so close the last day.
Luck- Alan Kings horse could be overlooked. Think he beat Value At Risk easily and he's his e/w pick but not to convinced, open race.
Harrington- likes WP to finish so close jumping so bad means he could be a good horse if the jumping improves.

RSA time the one I'm looking forward too.
Cooper- says everyone keeps asking is Don Poli goes. Himself, Michael and Eddie want RSA but WIllie wants RSA. Decision likely to be 9th.
Cooper- wouldn't like to get in an argument with Michael so hopes he gets his way over O Leary.
Russell- Very surprised DP is as good as he is. Bradstock has to send CG RSA or license should be taken off.
Russell says he would walk to Cheltenham in his underpants for a chance to ride Coneygree
McGrath- Don Poli loves being hit. Says he should take a lot of beating in any novice race.
Segal- race of the festival. Coneygree fantastic never seen a horse jump like him in a long time.
Russell says no advantage running in Gold Cup he just cannot win the Gold Cup. Like a minor making step up to Senior.
Big discussion now on how Gold Cup can finish a novice that runs in it.
Noel O Brien- Coneygree is exceptional. Would still have a fair bit to find with Conti but will win RSA for him. Wants him in RSA
McGrath- kings palace is a good horse but races he's in haven't had strength of DP and Coneygree.
Harrington- if Coneygree ran in RSA she thinks he's a certainty. Says it can break novices the RSA. Many horses never won again after.
Francome- Kings Palace is the best jumper of the lot and won't desert him until he's beating, has a touch of class compared to rest.
Ladbrokes will be NRNB monday.
Cooper- Very Wood will go 4miler and Wounded Warrior will go RSA.
Bit surprised myself about Coopers comments. That surely means DP for RSA because he thinks WW may struggle.

Champion Chase
Noel O Brien goes for Fever as there are less doubts about him than the rest.
Harrington- can't enough half a mistake in this. Sacre got tired LTO in her opinion and says she gave grief for saying Sace better than MF.
Luck- Sacre comeback was good. Doesn't seem to finish off as well is the worry. Quite likes mr mole in this. Form this year fantastic.
Russell- DB soundest of them all but just can't see it or can't see SS winning. Said Barry can't see him being beat though.
Noel- Sacre is a stone below his best as they see it.
McGrath- wasn't impressed by Sacre at all and didn't like his finishing effort. Doesn't like DB and though SDG looked back to best.
Segal- Sacre reminds him of big bucks coming back. Couldn't back him at 33/1 . SDG looks back to best. DB isn't for him can't win.
Segal- can't believe Hidden Cyclone is going Ryanair.
Cooper- very impressed with SDG. He's the pick for him and worried about Sacre bleeding.
Cooper- Special Tiara could be one to follow SDG home. Francombe picks SDG loves the course
Francome asked Ryan Moore how SDG was and Ryan just said he will win.

JLT next.
Luck- Ptiz Zig has achieved the most of them over fences.
Luck has a bet for us all, Splash of Ginge e/w.
Russell- wouldn't be finished with the Tullow tank ran very well the last day, very good horse.
Cooper- The Tullow Tanks jumping hasn't improved in schooling and that's a big worry.
McGrath- questions what was wrong with Vautour and Luck says it was the Bull**** that was wrong with him
Mcgrath- if Vautour can get back to Navan run he will win, same for Davy Russell.
Segal- likes AS and VL thinks it's the best form and segal and cooper agree VL def reverse form.
Cooper confirms he rides Valseur Lido in JLT.


Ryanair up next.
Cooper- can't fault The Don. One thing he's doing compared to last year is finishing off his races. Gordon is delighted with him.
Francome- not sure Don would of beaten Fever LTO but he goes QM so doesn't matter so he thinks DC will win.
Segal- Cue Card has been horrible can't jump now. Likes John Spirit, but worried about the different course and that worries him and Davy.
Davy gives positive mention to Eduard but might not be good enough in a good race.
McGrath- John Spirit for him not so worried about the course thing. Balder Success better horse at 2m4f and that's his two against field
Russell- forever they thought Don was a great horse and not a 3miler. Delighted with how he handled thurles and deserves favouritism.
Luck- Ma Filleule he likes. Ran very well LTO and tries her heart out. Wonders if Boston Bob could run and thinks he may and price big.
Davy mocks Lucks picks Boston Bob and Mr Mole
Harrington- impressed with Don and reckons he wins. JS and MF to give him the most to do, open race.
Noel- likes the 16/1 about Hidden Cyclone thinks it's his best trip.

World hurdle next
Luck giving Russell stick about Cooper beating him on Lieutenant Colonel against Jetson.
Russell was told Annie Power could run in World Hurdle and Hayley of the sponsors says lots of money for her.
Russell- the two races in Ireland this season were good races and doesn't have a strong view on English horses.
McGrath suggests if you want a bet e/w Jetson is the one.
Segal- if Annie doesn't run he reckons Saphir is a certainty but even if she does should win anyway.
Cooper- LC was very weak going Neptune and they didn't want to run him so ignore that run.
Francome- likes Rock on Ruby prefers him to the two top English hopes.
Noel reckons Annie may go because Glens Melody can win Mares. Not a strong race so handicap form comes into it so Jetson has a chance.
Cooper- Dedigout needs heavy to be considered. Russell says there is no chance him running but Cooper says if there's rain he goes.

Triumph Hurdle next
Cooper- asked if he's going to win the triumph he replies no. Not sure Irish are any good. She might place but very surprised if she wins.
Noel- Peace and Co is 7lb ahead of anything else in the race.
Harrington- likes Beltor, very impressed with him LTO and may be an e/w play.
Luck- likes Barry O Connell horse that won first time up last week, 25/1 could be a big price. Uneducated guess. BC said ran like schooling.
Russell just hates the triumph end of.
McGrath- impressed with Peace and Co. Worked very well apparently in last piece of work and Barry likes him a lot.
Segal- against P&C can't win a triumph pulling. Thinks Top Notch is bombproof will finish in the 3 for sure.
Russell says do stuff with the Girlfriend while the triumph is on

Gold Cup time.
Francome- only two for him. Made to much use of Conti last season. Smad Place to big a price, stays and loves Cheltenham.
Cooper- RTR will improve for better ground. Likes the way he went away the last day. Fears Carlingford Lough the most he's the one to beat.
Segal- CL massively underrated and peaking at the right time. Just needs to get into that a good flow of jumping early and if he does wins.
McGrath- Holywell doesn't look like a chaser to him when he seen him at Kelso. Likes LW is good ground, run last day was very encouraging
Davy wouldn't swap LW for anything. He's as good if not better than Weapons Amnesty who he thought could of been the best chaser he ridden.
Luck- Soft many clouds and good ground Carlingford Lough for him.
Harrington- likes the two Galway plate winners as you know they will come up a hill. Thinks RTR wins, CL 2nd, LW 3rd, Irish 123 & a tricast
Noel thinks it's a year to soon for Foxrock.
Carlingford Lough, Conti, Lord Windemere, Road to Richies, only ones the panel can see doing well besides Luck


Other races
Stone Hard runs in the bumper. Cooper says they will let him run to keep willie happy about the whole Don Poli situation.
Handicaps- Segal really likes Druids Nephew, Hostile Fire for the Fred Winter.
McGrath likes Supasundae for the bumper who is now with Henry De Bromhead.
McGrath likes what a warrior for 3m handicap on first day and Dawalan & big easy for the pertemps.
Russell- Edeymi is thrown in and he's was stopped last time out for sure and trained by Tony Martin. Cooper is asked and just nods. Pertemps
Back Edeymi for the pertemps people.
Russell says back whatever Johnny Burke rides in the boys race, 2 stone better than everyone else.
Cooper- Rois Des Francs with Davy Mullins on board in the Martin Pipe is very similar to a Don Poli.
Jessie likes Macnicholson or however ya spell it in the Martin Pipe

Charity Bets-
Noel O Brien(Conti),
Harrington(hurricane ridge&Don Cossack)
Luck(Generous Ransom&MrMole)
Russell(NoMoreHeroes)
McGrath(NicholsCanyon&Supadundae)
Segal(HostileFire&TopNotch)
Cooper(VeryWood in the 4MILER!!!)
Francome(Hurricane Fly)

That's all folks thanks for listening
Tonight ended the debate on where Don Poli goes for me. He's going RSA along with Wounded Warrior and Very Wood going 4miler. Valseur JLT.
 
qzy said:
Hayley says not to back Douvan until Monday before race but can't say anymore or she gets fired. Enhancement looks on the way.
Click to expand...

Cheers qzy

This for me is one of the most interesting quotes from all the previews.

There is no prior mention of who Hayley is but I would imagine it is Hayley O'Connor, PR manager for Laddies in Ireland, and for the past two years they have offered enhanced odds for the favorite in all festival races on the Monday. If I'm correct then her quote suggests we could be getting a half decent price about Douvan.
 
Might be possible to back the first three in the betting and still be in profit at this rate.

£25 on Jollyallan with Will Hill
£50 on L'ami Serge with PP
Dare we get 4's with Ladbrokes for Douvan?

As long as something else doesn't win!
 
Hayley's at the preview at the racecourse on the Sunday evening, Ladbrokes always do special offers on that evening
 
I was in Ballygar myself last night, Johnny Wards hometown so a good panel...

Ballygar


Johnny Burke (JB), Paul Carberry (PC), Gavin Lynch (GL), Johnny Ward (JW), Kevin Blake (KB), Sean Boyce (SB), Graham Rossiter (GR) of Starsports


Supreme.
KB. Douvan is going to be very short for a horse that has been training quite light. Apparently they struggle to keep condition on him. Rick concerned that he has been on the go a long time. Fan of the horse but wont back him at 7/4. Having said all that, Willie sees no flaws in the horse.
JW - Willie says its "as nice a horse as we have ever sent to Cheltenham". A lovely big horse that settles very well. Hurricane Fly's lass says this is as nice a horse as the Fly. An Arkle winner next year
PC - The fav is very good, a big scopey horse, but wondering if this is a bit quick for him this year? Horses this size normally take a good year to grow up and settle into the job properly.
GL - Willies team are very bullish, but worries that he has not won left handed yet
JB - We tried to take on Douvan at Gowran - he is exceptional. Sizing John was much better at Leop (ran a bit dead at Gowran) though and has a sporting chance. Looking forward to the rematch.
SB -Points out that this is not a great race for favourites over the years.
GR - Hendersons like L'Ami Serge a lot, and expect improvement on better ground.


Arkle.
JB. Un De Sceaux is a freak. He has vever went so fast in a chase as he dis against him last time. Can't be beaten.
PC. UDS is a machine - took him on with Foildubh, but had to stop him to a trot to get some air. Made Clarcam look like a handicapper - only a fall will stop him.
KB. Willie is not worried about the ground at all - this is "bar a fall" stuff.
GL. This will be the most exciting 4 mins you will have in 2015 (speak for yourself...SB). Didn't run last year to give the Fly a chance. Most exciting jumper since Carvills Hill. You can keep your Frankels and the rest - this is racing. Everyone else riding theirs for 2nd.
JW. Smashing is a really good EW bet at about 33/1. Josses Hill is a horrible jumper
GR. Court Minstrel travels well and could finish 2nd or 3rd


Champion Hurdle.
KB. Faughen is a stupid price. You can pick holes in his form all day long. He has never been properly tested and is not a slick jumper. Jessie was delighted last year that AP was required elsewhere and Barry could ride Jezki. Jezki is rock solid EW, not at all worried about the prep. Plinth made an arse of the front running last time.
JW. I was offered a leg in Faugheen one night at the dogs (locally bred in Galway). All the family were duds, and this is the beauty of NH racing. will be 7/4 on the Tuesday.
PC. Faugheen is hard to oppose. Artic Fire has a squeek and may be 2nd. AP set it up for the Fly last twice on Jezki.
GL. Faugheen is 8/8 and was brilliant at Leop last year. Dan Skelton saddled him at Ascot and reckoned he was the fattest horse he ever saddled. Ruby was embarrassed by his size at Kempton. The New One only beat Diakali about a neck at Aintree, and he is kept away from the good horses at Willies in case they pick up "a dose of the slows". Faugheen wins 6L. Artic Fire the EW bet as both the ground and the track will suit.
Mares.
PC. Annie looks a fair machine, will be very hard to beat if she runs here.
JW. AP was wearing a hood in her work last time at Willies. She is not quite straightforward but is vastly superior to Quevaga! She is buzzy at home so wait until the day to make sure she is in one piece.
KB. Annie is an absolute good thing. She is easier to train that Quevega, she never actually got injured but was rested as the felt there was one coming on. Put in all your doubles, trebles etc.
GL. AP is working very well and will be 4/5 on the day. Se has a stone in hand on ratings. Glens Melody w/o is the bet at 7/4 off Skybet, except they won't take a fiver off ya!


Best Bets and other Day 1 stuff...
KB. Jezki EW
JW. Douvan is the best bet. Very Wood or Wounded Warrior in the 4miler, whichever goes there.
PC. Wounded Warrior in the RSA, Very Wood in the 4 miler. Actually both should run in the 4miler rather than take on Don Poli. UDS will win also.
GL. Faugheen. the Young Master in the 4miler if he runs. Only has Meades horses to beat and going left handed will suit
JB. Smashing EW
GR. Generous Ransom in the Novice Chase. Is ahead of the handicapper


Neptune.
JW. Nichols Canyon has a horrible leg action but loved what he did at Leops last time. Outlander may be better value though.
KB. NC looks like he is doing the breaststroke, the action is a big worry on good ground. However, he has won two G1s and settled much better last time. Willie says he won't front run at Chelt and should stay. Tell us More is working much better inn the last week also.
GL. Willie has won this 3 times in the last 7 years, yet NC has a low profile for some reason. This is probably because he is not a flash work horse, but he is honest and will stay. Only 3 count in this - Outlander, NC and Windsor Park (not off a yard last time). Reckons that NC would bite you if you tried to pass him.
SB. Prefers Outlander to NC
PC. Impressed with NC last time, but when he asked Ruby about him and compared him a bit to the Fly, Ruby said "he's no Hurricane Fly".
GR. Not a fan of NC on good ground. John Gosden kept him to soft ground for a reason.
JB. An Outlander fan. Windsor Park has not tried this year though. Mentioned Beast of Burden but PC said he choked when he rode him in a bumper so unless he got his wind done...


RSA.
SB. Coneygree looks like going to the Gold Cup
GL. Would love to back Don Poli for next years Gold Cup - fine big 3m chaser. Worried he has only ran over fences twice though. Should win and could be only 7/4 on the day. Kings Palace has been in more small fields than a farmer in Clare and is not a good enough jumper for Cheltenham. Should be a million.
GR. Big Don Poli fan, a great run as a 5yo last year.
PC. Kings Palace will really struggle to get past DP. Apache Stronghold didn't get home against DP.
JW. Ruby said after Gowran he should run in the 4miler. If he runs here though 7/2 is a massive price, he is flawless. A lump on job. (Note: JW is enjoying his Guinness by this stage.)
JB. The only competition here to DP is Coneygree if he rund, a joy to watch. Would love to ride him over a fence.


Champion Chase.
JB. Barry thinks SS is bombing it again. Just got tired last time and not knocked about.
PC. Not really impressed with SS last time. Middle part of the race good but not the start or end. Can't have a horse that burst for a CChase.
GL. SS has had more heart palpatations than JW on a saturday night in Coppers - not going to do it. Was all over Champagne Fever but gone off him in favour of Sire De Grugy. Still getting over last years Arkle. A bad Tingle Creek so not keen on Dodging Bullets.
KB. Didn't like SS last time - Barry was afraid to put him under any pressure. A big hole in him now. 3 races quickly might catch up on SDG. CF a solid EW bet.
Day 2 best bets...
GR. 7/2 Don Poli an incredible bet
JB. Coneygree if he runs
PC. Outlander in the Neptune
GL. Nichols Canyon. Zarin in the Fred Winter off 133. 3rd to Peace and Co. Hostile Fire in the same race - not overly tried yet
JW. Don Poli is the bet of the week
KB. Don Poli
SB. All Yours in the Fred Winter if he runs


JLT.
PC. Rides out Apache Stronghold every day. Hard to beat if at his best on the day. the hill will help him. Works with Road to Riches. All Noels horse are in good health and great form.
KB. Vautour is one of the hype horses of the week. Dosen't like the way he jumps. Big fan of AS.
JW. Vautour was flawless at Navan, but jumped terrible the next time. Willie is sure he can jump better. Has lost his "wow" for Vautour.
GL. Will only bet in running depending how Vautour and Apache Stronghold settle early on.
GR. They are not seeing any money for Vautour yet. Between AS and Valseur Lido
JB. Vautour only ok the last day. Also between AS and Valseur Lido


Ryanair.
GR. All of Johns Sprit's wins have been on the old course, and he is 0/3 on the new course
KB. Don Cossack is a funny horse, a big massive scopey horse and has finally started to finish his races well. Does nothing in front though so the pace of the race should help.
JW. Saw DC up the north, a tank of a horse. Very taken by him. 7/2 is skimpy enough though, could be 5s on the day.
GL. Likes Ballynagour EW. Easiest winner at Cheltenham last year, travels great. Needs a big break between races though. If Tom Scu can stay on board he is a decent ew bet.
SB. Points out that Ireland are 0/10 in this race. Massive fan of MA Filleule, who comes alive in the spring
GR. Getting 6lb makes MF a cert in his eyes
JB. DC has finally got his act together. Certain he would have beaten Champagne Fever last time. Balder Success a good EW bet though.


Stayers Hurdle.
SB. Remember this is being run on a different course now!
GL. Not having a bet, could pick 5 and get it wrong. Annie Power should run here and she would win it.
KB. Have a swing at a big price on Jetson at about 20/1 (cue slagging from JW about coming all the way to Ballygar and giving the working punters Jetson. Jetson is a rat of a horse!)
JW. Likes Monksland EW. jumped very well in the Galmoy, and the rest are much of a muchness.
PC. Monksland has been a nightmare to keep sound, has legs like glass. Worked well at Fairyhouse last week. Hates sticky ground. Has a real good chance. Let slip that Rich Coast worked well with Monksland and Road to Riches and he rode him in the work. Runs in the County.
JB. Rode work upsides Lieutenant Colonel about 10 days ago and he is in very good form.
SB. Saphir Du Rheu wins this. Zarkandar a doubtful stayer.


Day 3 Naps..
KB. Jetson EW
JW. Apache Stronghold
GL. Edeymi and Light Duties in the Pertemps
PC. Que Card in the Ryanair. Loves AS but won't tip him
JB. Lieutenant Colonel based on his work.
GR. MA Filleule, almost unfair that she gets 6lb.
GB. Saphir Du Rheu in the stayers.


Triumph.
GR. Peace and Co is rock solid. Very strong vibes from Nicky. They think its a machine. Hargam will travel as well as anything so maybe back to lay on Betfair.
GL. You can't win the Triumph on the bridle, and Willies horses are all stayers. Kalkir has not been right to date, and is interesting at the price. This is 2m1 up a steep hill. You need to stay.
KB. Not a fan of PandC, too freegoing to win a Triumph. Dicosimo a real big chasing type so this won't suit.
JW. PandC as the Irish lot aren't very good. He will be swinging coming into the straight and there is no faulting his attitude. Beltor is a good honest hurdler and will give you an EW run for your money.
PC. You need to stay 1m4 to 1m6 on the flat to win a Triumph - stayers win this race. No need for a bet here.
JB. Golden Doyen EW at a big price.


Albert Bartlett.
JW. Black Hercules was the hype horse in last years bumper but didn't do the business. No More Heroes is a nice bet for this race - the apple of Gordon Elliots eye.
GR. Value At Risk has a definite chance, the horses only entry and he gallops all day.
GL. BH will take a lot of beating, lots of talk about him in Willies.
JB. VAR is a great bet at 10s
KB. No More Heros - things went wrong at Leop and he scoped very badly afterwards (4/5). They think he is a Gold Cup horse.
PC. NMH schooled at punch recently and they told him his bottle had gone jumping wise. Windsor Park schooled the same session and he won it on Waxies Dargle!


Gold Cup.
GL. This was a poor race last year, and it seems winning a handicap gives you a good chance this year too. Silviniaco Conti is 0/3 at Chelt. Djakadam worth a small EW bet.
JB. There are no negatives about Road To Riches. Lord Windemere was gifted the Gold Cup last year.
PC. Last year was the slowest Gold Cup he has ever ridden in.
KB. Very wide open, and better than last year. Happy to take on SC - he was wobbling like JW after 4 Bacardi Breezers up the hill last year - won't get home. Djakadam may have the X Factor the rest don't have. Fat as a pig in the Hennesy, and won at Gowran when not fit either off top weight. Shocked if Ruby won't ride him. May fail through inexperience but price worth it.
PC. R2R won the Galway Palte well, and will be better going left handed. Should love the ground. No negatives against him. Had desperate ulcers for a long while but that is sorted now. Still improving.
SB. Very keen on R2R.


25e Charity Bets...
KB. Djakadam
JW. Don Poli
GL. Roi Des Francs in the Martin Pipe, only been with Willie a few months
PC. Rich Coast in the County (after some badgering earlier)
JB. Value At Risk in the AB
GR. Monksland in the Stayers
SB. Some Plan in the Supreme
Also Blue Hell and Sizing Granite on Sat
 
Warwick....

Moving from a lunchtime preview before racing to a dedicated evening helped to bring to a larger crowd made up mainly of racecourse members. The panel consisted of Jamie Moore (JM), Oliver Sherwood (OS), RacingUK pundit and county cricketer Will Smith (WS), Trevor Harris (TH) of the sponsors, Star Sports, and Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author, Paul Jones (PJ), whose views did not deviate in the 24 hours since we reported on his comments from Bangor so there is no need for a repetition. The M.C. was Roger Hart (RH) who is connected to Jonjo O’Neill’s stable where he runs their stable tours.
Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
JM: L’Ami Serge stuffed Violet Dancer and Kilcooley at Newbury and look at what they have done since. He smashed them up. To do that to battle-hardened handicappers will stand him in good stead.
OS: I always have evening dinner with Willie Mullins on Wednesday so he had better have a good first day! I do think that 7/4 is tight about Douvan though and L’Ami Serge offers better value. The vibes in the Lambourn valley are strong about him.
WS: I have to take on Douvan at the price as it’s a real cauldron in the first race and I would prefer a more battle-hardened horse. Shaneshill has Festival form when second in the Bumper last year and he is an each-way suggestion at around 16/1.
TH: Do you want to take 7/4 about a horse you’ve never seen come off the bridle? He is priced up on reputation. As a bookmaker we have to take him on.


Arkle Trophy
JM: The only way Un De Sceaux gets turned over is if he turns over. He is unbeatable with a clear round. Top Gamble is a good horse and Vibrato Valtat made him look very moderate last time and he is the one to finish second.
OS: Nothing much to add to what Jamie said, it’s a two horse race and Un De Sceaux should win and Vibrato Valtat should finish second.
WS: Hard to go against Un De Sceaux who is as fast a 2m chaser as I’ve seen. He is just electric.
TH: The feeling is that bookmakers have to lay horses when they are short but I’m not keen to lay Un De Sceaux. If you back Josses Hill, then best watch from behind the couch.


Champion Hurdle
JM: The talk in the weighing room is that Hurricane Fly is going better this season that last season and he could cause a surprise. I hope he wins but I would ride Faugheen if given the option.
OS: Best to wait for the ground until making a decision who to back as Hurricane Fly comes right into this if it is soft and 8/1 could be huge. The grass has not started growing on the course yet as it is too cold which is good for his chances as the longer the grass is the more moisture it soaks up.
WS: There are reasons to take on all the big four. Faugheen on form, The New One isn’t the slickest hurdler, Jezki can’t win purely on this season’s form but we know this is the day for him and Hurricane Fly on age and maybe ground. I can’t have Jezki out of the frame so he appeals each-way. A better bet is Arctic Fire at 66/1 for next season’s Champion Hurdle. He won’t be anything like that price if he hits the frame.
TH: I like Faugheen but I don’t like the price. I would rather play The New One and Jezki combined at 11/8 than 6/5 about the favourite. Hurricane Fly is for sentimental punters only.


Day 1 Shoulder Races
JM: Vino Griego goes for the 3m handicap chase. We worked him in a tongue tie for the first time and he went well and is off 139 having once been 156. He’ll be a massive price but he has a definite each-way chance. He’s in very good form.
OS: Mischievous Milly is my only other runner apart from Many Clouds and runs in the Mares Hurdle. I made a pig’s ear of it by running her at Ascot so soon after Sandown so ignore that run. She was twice second to Glens Melody last season who was second to Quevega in last year’s race so she has plenty of ability. If it is soft I will be disappointed if she is not in the first four.


Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle
JM: Ryan tells me that the Melrose at York is the toughest handicap on the Flat to win all season so for Parlour Games to win it that tells me he is up to this. Ordo Ab Chao looked decent at Cheltenham last time.
OS: It’s a little sad to see so many Flat horses at the top of the market for this NH race. Parlour Games would be my preference.
WS: Mullins holds the key with Nichols Canyon, Outlander and probably one or two more. It will be interesting if Alvisio Ville still runs here as there was loads of money for him for the Neptune before he was beaten in the Deloitte. Weld mentioned Windsor Park in the same breath at Forgotten Rules and I liked his Deloitte run and think he can reverse with Nichols Canyon.
TH: John Ferguson seems to have been training his horses more for Cheltenham this season and this could be his year with Parlour Games. Nichols Canyon should be in the Supreme and I have doubts he will stay. Outlander travels well but will he get home?


RSA Chase
JM: Kings Palace lights up when he sees a fence. It will be good to see him and Coneygree go at it from the start from the front. The Young Master won’t be far away.
OS: The vibes in the valley is that they are favouring the Gold Cup with Coneygree. Kings Palace has impressed me since day 1 and I can’t see past him.
WS: I’d be inclined to run The Young Master in the four-miler. The money for Don Poli suggests this is where he will run. If Coneygree and Kings Palace both run, that can set it up for Don Poli.
TH: Coneygree and Kings Palace could cut each others’ throats and set it up for a real stayer like The Young Master. This is a warrior’s race and who stays best wins.


Queen Mother Champion Chase
JM: Sire De Grugy has come out of Chepstow well. We felt that run was needed to give him confidence and he probably wouldn’t have run if he completed at Newbury. I’ve ridden Grey Gold ten times and honestly thought we would struggle to give him 20lb but he brushed him aside. He got a bit tired in the run in but it was soft ground. I honestly think he’s every bit as good as last year and the one to beat.
OS: I think you’ll see a different Sprinter Sacre to at Ascot. The drums are beating in Lambourn he is coming back, whether it’s in time for Cheltenham I don’t know. Running at Cheltenham, Aintree and Punchestown two seasons ago may have taken it out of him. Mr Mole has huge ability and I can see him travel very well for a long way but it has to be Sire De Grugy.
WS: Sire De Grugy was electric at Chepstow and demonstrated his high cruising speed again and I much prefer him to Sprinter Sacre who is my lay of the meeting. Simply Ned is interesting in betting without the favourite or front two in the market each-way. His season has been geared around this day back on bouncy, spring ground.
TH: I can’t have the Nicholls pair of Dodging Bullets and Mr Mole. I am far happier to lay Sprinter Sacre than Sire De Grugy who ran up to his handicap mark last time out and he should be favourite. I do like Champagne Fever more than all of them though.
RH: Don’t be surprised if Johns Spirit runs here rather than the Ryanair. I know they are strongly considering it so any 33/1 NR No Bet would be interesting.


JLT Novices’ Chase
JM: I’m a Ptit Zig fan despite his fall last time out.
OS: Vautour is the nap of the meeting, he was so impressive in the Supreme last year.
WS: It might be trying to fit a square peg in a round hole running Vautour in this race as he looked a natural for the Arkle to me. Valseur Lido does looks a JLT type though as he has pace and stays well and he was probably underprepared when beaten by Apache Stronghold last time.
TH: I am not convinced Vautour is the same horse as 12 months ago. Happy to take him on with Valseur Lido.


Ryanair Chase
JM: I hear that Ma Filleule will improve from her Ascot run. Ballnagour is a bleeder but he is great when fresh and fully tuned up as we saw here last year.
OS: My lay of the meeting is Cue Card. He looks past his sell-by date. Balder Succes has really moved forward since he was stepped up in trip and his confidence is sky high which is a big thing with me and he has the speed to travel. Eduard has had a light campaign and also travels well.
WS: Ma Filleule’s spring form last season is top class and she looks to be peaking at the right time. Eduard can run well.
TH: Don Cossack should win if the ground is not too fast. I can’t have Cue Card or Balder Succes on my mind.


World Hurdle
JM: Un Temps Pour Tout ran a good race on Trials Day. He would have been fit but he got a bit tired and I think that run will sharpen him up.
OS: It all depends if Annie Power turns up and I think she might. If she runs she can win it. If prefer Saphir Du Rheu of the Nicholls pair. I can’t have Rock On Ruby.
WS: I am more keen on Saphir Du Rheu than Zarkandar but Monksland each-way is my fancy. He was a leading hope two years ago until he was injured and 16/1 is a nice price.
TH: They were falling over themselves to back Un Temps Pour Tout before the Cleeve when Saphir Du Rheu beat him. Blue Fashion has an each-way chance at 16/1 on his seconds to More Of That and Faugheen.


Triumph Hurdle
JM: Top Notch is as quick over a hurdle as I’ve seen in a juvenile this season and he has a good each-way chance. I was also impressed with Beltor at Kempton.
OS: I was really impressed with Beltor. Maybe Aintree will suit him better but he didn’t half travel. He would half his price if trained by Nicholls or Henderson.
WS: Peace And Co looks like he could be anything but he is short enough for such a young horse in a race where horses will improve for spring ground. Hargam each-way is a better option and he has good course form as well. If Devilment ran here rather than the Fred Winter, he would be interesting at a price.
TH: Peace And Co is my lay of the meeting. He is definitely the most talented in the race but his demeanour worries me. He looks like he has been stung by a wasp. Beltor’s form looks strong.


Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle
JM: I’ve won on Blaklion and I like him as he tries very hard.
OS: I am a Caracci Apache fan who has improved in leaps and bounds. They thought he was absolutely useless after his first run.
WS: Value At Risk did well to lay up against speedier horses over 2m4f last time and was staying on and moving up to 3m will help him. He looks a big price at double figure odds.
TH: Dan Skelton doesn’t shout about his horses but he’s keen on Value At Risk. Thomas Brown showed the right attributes for this race when he won at Cheltenham but I’ll go with whatever is the Gigginstown number one.


Gold Cup:
JM: Many Clouds would be my choice. The Hennessy seems to be a good guide to the Gold Cup down the years. Holywell would have a better chance with McCoy on but Ritchie McLernon is 2-2 on him at the Festival.
OS: Paul Nicholls thinks he has found the key to Silviniaco Conti getting home but he still has to prove himself at Cheltenham. Touch wood I’ve not missed one single day with Many Clouds all season and it’s all gone to plan. He schooled for the first time this morning since he won at Cheltenham and will do so again next week. His confidence is sky high. I’d love to see them turn on the taps!
WS: If Silviniaco Conti was to see out his race better as his ulcers have been treated that is one thing, but I still think he is better on flat tracks. Boston Bob is a horse I have always thought could be a Gold Cup horse and he appears to have been trained with the race in mind judged by held-up efforts in Ireland this season. Blinkers would make him interesting.
TH: I have to take the favourite on. Would you back the in-form golfer in The Masters if he has a bad Augusta record? On His Own is a bigger price than when he almost won it last year and he is the value.


Naps:
JM: Sire De Grugy (Champion Chase)
OS: Vautour (JLT Novices’ Chase)
WS: The Druid’s Nephew (Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase)
TH: Don Cossack (Ryanair)
PJ: Ned Stark (Ultima Business Solutions Handicap Chase)
RH: Sam Winner (Gold Cup)
 
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