Festival Previews

Euronymous said:
Jockeys talk such shite. How can Barry G keep a straight face when he says Al Ferof has no chance in the Ryanair after talking up Captain Conan.
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Euro, you fancy Al Ferof but give Captain Conan no chance.......

I actually fancy both of them.
But I've selected them for very similar reasons...

Good Ground, Course form, past festival performance, lack of opposition, somewhat under the radar & 100% confirmed and aimed at their respective races. No messing about, no afterthoughts!

But I genuinely think Conan has a great chance! I strongly disagree that he is "Trip-less" as previously described on here. THE ONLY REASON he moved up to 2m4f last season was Simonsig. Simple. Before that, he had beaten SDG fair and square over C&D at Cheltenham. He looked all over the winner in the JLT last year until just outstayed over the longer trip.

I urge everyone to watch those 2 races round Cheltenham again in full. Captain Conan travels and jumps beautifully.....

LTO he was beaten 7 Lengths to SDG. It was CC first run of season, Flat right handed track and it was discovered he had a slight problem straight after the race.

Reported to be absolutely primed and raring to go. Nicky has his spot on and knows EXACTLY what it takes to win a QMCC.

I'll admit upfront that I am at this stage biased towards Captain Conan because I have him backed at 48.0 !

But I really believe he Loves the Chelt track too and think he is NAILED ON each way!
 
Reported to be absolutely primed and raring to go. Nicky has his spot on and knows EXACTLY what it takes to win a QMCC.
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Nicky knows how to do a lot of things with festival preparations. ******* them up being his speciality.
 
Double Handful said:
Euro, you fancy Al Ferof but give Captain Conan no chance.......

I actually fancy both of them.
But I've selected them for very similar reasons...

Good Ground, Course form, past festival performance, lack of opposition, somewhat under the radar & 100% confirmed and aimed at their respective races. No messing about, no afterthoughts!
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Past Festival performance? I went on that criteria as well, and that points to either Sizing Europe or Baily Green in the QM.

If you're on Conan at fancy prices fair enough but he's a poor price now.
 
Euronymous said:
Past Festival performance? I went on that criteria as well, and that points to either Sizing Europe or Baily Green in the QM.

If you're on Conan at fancy prices fair enough but he's a poor price now.
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Well in regards to past festival performance, I more so meant in relation to the horses I was selecting as opposed to the one's I wasn't. And If I had to pick I probably just take BG over SE on that line...

Conan has only run at Cheltenham twice. Once beating SDG over C&D and the other at the festival in the 2m4f JLT. So his festival form is only one race.

But again, I urge you all to watch him in that race closely again.... I really do. He traveled and jumped superbly and looked the odds on winner all over coming to the last fence.... The trip was just too long. I consider this a strong festival performance and really shows conan has a liking to the undulating track.

Stiff 2m at Cheltenham is perfect for Captain Conan....
 
SKYBET CHELTENHAM PREVIEW EVENING at ELLAND ROAD, LEEDS UNITED F.C.

Sportinglife.com’s David Ord acted as M.C. for the evening presiding over Jason Maguire (JM), leading Irish racing journalist, Donn McClean (DM), the face of Sky Sports Horseracing, Alex Hammond (AH), One Jump Ahead author Mark Howard (MH) and RacingUK broadcaster, Niall Hannity (NH).

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

JM: We will try and nick a bit of place money with Un Ace. If it comes to a fight, I would fancy Vautour to outbattle Irving.
DM: The Irish team is strong. Ruby got his own way on Vautour in the Deloitte and there is no one better than him in that situation but The Tullow Tank couldn’t get close. Willie also has Wicklow Brave but in contrast to Vautour he needs to jump slicker but he can quicken impressively. It will be hard for Ruby to get off a Deloitte winner.
AH: Vautour for me, especially as it looks like Ruby will ride. I would worry if it is soft that would blunt Irving’s speed.
MH: I think Vautour should be favourite and not Irving. He is a Grade 1 winner who beat a dual Grade 1 winner. I think Walsh is being diplomatic in saying it was a close choice between Vautour and Wicklow Brave. Vautour has the ideal profile for this race but the ground looks like it will dry out which is a slight concern.
NH: I fancy Vautour will be backed into favourite. Irving is very guessy at his hurdles and I am totally against him. Wilde Blue Yonder has fallen the last twice but is each-way value at 25/1. So I am selecting to a two-timer faller after saying Vautour is a bad jumper!
MS: We are money back (up to £25) if the favourite wins on the first race of each day. The money for Vaniteux lately suggests Geraghty is likely to ride him instead of Josses Hill.


Arkle Trophy

JM: I’d love to ride Champagne Fever. Okay he got beat last time but I think he can bounce back. I don’t think Rock On Ruby jumps well enough.
DM: He is a super horse but I am worried about Champagne Fever’s preparation. I thought he schooled well on Sunday but it is not ideal his last run was a defeat and back in December. We know he handles the track and Festival conditions. Trifolium jumped great when he won last time and finished a fresh horse. I think he is rock solid.
AH: I fancy Rock On Ruby who clearly loves Cheltenham and comes right in the spring. His trainer has an amazing strike rate this season.
MH: I am a big fan of Champagne Fever. He had excuses of Christmas as got into a speed duel with Defy Logic and a number of the stable’s horses weren’t running as hoped. I am not sure Trifolium as is as good as he looked last time as his two main rivals had excuses.
NH: I have massive respect for Trifolium but have backed Rock On Ruby a few weeks ago who is a real spring horse. Grandouet has looked a hound over fences.
MS: I can’t have Dodging Bullets, I think he’s soft. Trifolium for me.

Champion Hurdle

JM: Definitely Hurricane Fly. He basically finished Peddlers Cross when he beat me three years ago who has not been the same since. I don’t think My Tent Or Yours will get up the hill as he’s too free.
DM: Hurricane Fly sets the standard. I spoke to Dessie Hughes yesterday and he says Our Conor is flying and he has had a similar preparation to Hardy Eustace. Barry Connell bought him to win the Champion Hurdle and he has purely been trained for it. Jezki has schooled in a hood and is the only value left in the race.
AH: I’m such a big fan of Hurricane Fly. He’s the complete professional, not always flashy but keeps doing it and I don’t think he is on the decline at the age of ten. I respect Our Conor and love The New One but while The Fly is still around, he’s the one.
MH: I’ve changed my mind so many times. I have it between My Tent Or Yours and Our Conor. Danny Mullins is a good rider but it will favour McCoy and Walsh if it gets tactical. The drying ground will play to My Tent Or Yours’ strengths.
NH: Captain Cee Bee has been supplemented so they will go a gallop. Hurricane Fly probably needs a career best to win and I am not sure what his Irish Champion Hurdle win was worth with a 13-year-old that close up. If Jezki settles in his hood, then he’s a runner. I prefer The New One of the British but Our Conor at a push.
MS: I think this is a 3/1 the field race and bookies will try and get Hurricane Fly so I would wait if you fancy him.

Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle

JM: Diamond King waits for Aintree.
DM: Faugheen has done it between 2m and 3m and from good to heavy but his jumping can be a bit sticky. Rathvinden has been well backed lately. Geraghty thinks Rathvinden would have beaten Red Sherlock last time if he did not fall at Warwick. He might be the value.
AH: I like Rathvinden who gave 3lb to Red Sherlock when beaten 2½ lengths last time and he’s a much bigger price.
MH: I have it between the big two of Faugheen and Red Sherlock and Mullins will have a good idea where he stands as Rathvinden ran Red Sherlock close. My marginal preference is for Faugheen.
NH: I am against Faugheen at the price, he might be over-bet and he jumped like a goat over easy fix hurdles. Red Sherlock and Rathvinden both had hard races on heavy ground last time. Lieutenant Colonel appeals as pick of the prices.
MS: Rathvinden has been the one for money in recent days.

RSA Chase

JM: Corrin Wood is one of the best jumpers I have come across. He’s a dour stayer, very honest and will relish a battle.
DM: Ballycasey had the pace to beat specialist two-milers well on his chase debut. It’s not such a bad thing he fell in his school. That happens all the time at home. I like Morning Assembly and love the way he battled to beat Don Cossack on his second chase start. There was no great pace when the battle hardened Carlingford Lough was too streetwise for him next time. A bit of cut would help his chance.
AH: Morning Assembly is a smashing horse, a real old-fashioned chaser who jumps well. It is not necessarily a bad thing that Ballycasey fell in his school. So did Rule Supreme before he won this race.
MH: I quite like Don Cossack who I think will improve for stepping up to 3m for the first time. I am not convinced by Smad Place and he keeps coming up short in Grade 1s. I have respect for Morning Assembly but Ballycasey is fragile and Carlingford Lough looks exposed.
NH: This is wide open and Ballycasey is tight enough. Morning Assembly is the best of the Irish. I think there is more to come from Many Clouds who got caught up in speed duel up front in the Reynoldstown.

Queen Mother Champion Chase

JM: My only worry with Sire De Grugy is whether he will get racing too soon with the likes of Sizing Europe and Captain Conan. I like Hinterland off a hold-up ride.
DM: Ruby and Willie say Arvika Ligeonneire can go left-handed but Cheltenham is far more on the turn that Leopardstown. Geraghty was very bullish about Captain Conan last night and said he worked extremely well. Baily Green comes into this on decent ground and his trainer is a demon at preparing a horse for the Festival.
AH: Arvika Ligeonneire seems straighter now and his class can tell despite his shocker in last year’s Arkle.
MH: Captain Conan has already beaten Sire De Grugy once but whether he is a Queen Mother winner I am not sure. I don’t think Cheltenham plays to Sire De Grugy’s strengths. Sizing Europe is 12 and Arvika Ligeonneire is much better the other way so I am left with Captain Conan by process of elimination.
NH: This is not a vintage Champion Chase to be nice to it. I think Sire De Grugy will be a bigger price on the day, Captain Conan is also too short and Kid Cassidy is mad. I will put two up each-way. He may be 12 but if Sizing Europe is within a stone of his best he can place again and Hinterland is an interesting second season novice.
MS: The firms will want to get Sire De Grugy and I can see him as big as 11/4 on the morning.

JLT Novices’ Chase

JM: No real view.
DM: Felix Yonger will be better on better ground. Djakadam got 11lb when he last time but just 1lb here. It looked like he might miss the race but he schooled so well on Sunday it appears to have forced a rethink. Felix Yonger is a worthy favourite.
AH: I like Vukovar. He is only five so there is more to come and best to catch French horses when they are young.
MH: I’d be against Oscar Whisky on his Festival profile. Taquin Du Seuil likes it really soft so the ground is going against him. I’d have it between Wonderful Charm who is the best jumper in the field and Felix Yonger with the ground coming in his favour.
NH: Wonderful Charm should reverse form with Oscar Whisky on 8lb better terms. Vukovar jumps well but 8/1 is a bit tight. I was very keen on Taquin Du Seuil until the ground started to dry up as he loves it deep. I’m quite keen on Sizing Gold.

Ryanair Chase

JM: Dynaste is a cert if he reproduces his Haydock run.
DM: Benefficient beat Dynaste last year and should be favourite but he is still under-rated. First Lieutenant was second to Cue Card last year but there is no Cue Card this time.
AH: Dynaste had a muscle problem in the King George and that’s a worry. This is Al Ferof’s trip.
MH: Probably Benefficient. He is proven at Cheltenham over around this trip and also proved he could win over 2m1f to show how good he is. Dynaste has not had the ideal preparation and First Lieutenant is a bigger danger. I was disappointed with him when second last year but it was Cue Card who beat him.
NH: You would be mad to back Al Ferof at 4/1 off the back of his last run. If Dynaste replicates his Betfair Chase second, then he wins.

World Hurdle

JM: I would love to be on Annie Power. The step up to 3m will be no problem for her. I was second behind More Of That earlier in the season and he impressed me.
DM: We have no idea how good Annie Power is. She is unbeaten in ten races and Mullins doesn’t flinch if you mention her in the same breath as Dawn Run and I think he is trying to restrain his enthusiasm for her. Rule The World is too big at 10/1 as his second in the Neptune was a very good run given it wasn’t run a true gallop which didn’t suit him. He was very good at Naas albeit at a much lower level.
AH: I think Annie Power will probably win but I don’t think we will see the best of her until over fences.
MH: People expected too much of Big Buck’s in the Cleeve and better ground will play to his strengths. However, it is still a big ask to give Annie Power 7lb and she’s the one to beat. The fact At Fishers Cross couldn’t beat Knockara Beau tells me he is vulnerable.
NH: Annie Power is bred for this trip so I have little doubt she will stay and it will be hard for any horse to give her 7lb. Rule The World is the danger.
MS: All the money has been for Annie Power. Firms will want to get Big Buck’s and I imagine you will get 3/1 at some point.


Triumph Hurdle

JM: Rutherglen was impressive at Wetherby and Bangor and won at Musselburgh although the track was too sharp. He will definitely get the trip. Le Rocher is the one to beat though.
DM: Guitar Pete keeps on improving. Geraghty was not bullish about Royal Irish Hussar last night who beat him in November. Tiger Roll was second to Guitar Pete last time on just his second hurdles start and he missed the last flight. He is a lively outsider.
AH: I like Guitar Pete who keeps stepping up and he won the same Grade 1 race as Our Conor last year.
MH: I think Calipto is a very good long term project but wonder if he is battle hardened enough against Flat horses. Le Rocher sets the standard but drying ground is a worry. I prefer the Flat horses. Broughton worked really well the other day and has lots of speed but his stamina is a slight worry.
NH: It is not like Gigginstown to buy a 3yo from Nigel Hawke after winning at Market Rasen so Tiger Roll is interesting. Rutherglen can also run well.
MS: Broughton is my banker of the week.


Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle

JM: Kings Palace for me. He sets a great gallop and stays well.
DM: Briar Hill is a very popular choice at the Irish preview evenings. He has only been beating small fields doing enough but will take a lot of beating on a course we know he likes.
AH: Kings Palace oozed class last time. Proper horse.
MH: I prefer Briar Hill of the big two and think he will improve for stepping up to 3m. He has a bit more pace than Kings Palace and can stalk him and pounce in the home straight.
NH: I don’t see a shock and see this between the big two. Captain Cutter won a poor Challow.
MS: We’ll have it right off if we can get the front two beat.


Gold Cup

JM: Harry Topper is a mudlark so I don’t want to see it dry out. If the ground is decent I think Silviniaco Conti will beat Bobs Worth for speed.
DM: Last Instalment is still too big a price. Connections have a concern of faster ground as he has glass legs and tendon problems but the best he looked as a novice was on good ground when beating First Lieutenant by 6 lengths and First Lieutenant loves good ground. He has only had six runs over fences so there is more to come.
AH: I like Silviniaco Conti. It’s so hard to win back-to-back Gold Cups.
MH: The market looks right. I would worry about a dry week for Last Instalment. Bobs Worth goes well fresh and quickened to win the Lexus. Toss of the coin between the big two but I just favour Bobs Worth.
NH: Bobs Worth has an exceptional record and not just at Cheltenham. It has to be unlikely Last Instalment will run if they say he only runs if it is soft ground looking at the forecast. If Captain Chris is placed I’ll eat my feet. His jumping to the right is more marked than when he won the Arkle. Cloudy Too is my idea of the best big outsider at 66/1 who could nick a place.
MS: Triolo D’Alene has been the best backed horse in the last week.
 
Totally disagree with Jason Maguire's comments regarding the Gold Cup. Why would SC beat Bobs Worth for pace on better ground? Utter rubbish..obviously didn't see BW turn of foot in the Lexus from the last...this horse will be fine on good ground come GC day.
 
reet hard said:
It'd be hard to take seriously any preview that numbered Alex Hammond amongst its 'experts'. :lol:
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Agreed. They get some Bobby Dazzlers on these panels.

Always one of my fave threads of the year, this one. Many thanks to all who go to the trouble to accummulate the drivel spouted, and share it with the rest of us. :cool:
 
DannyB said:
Totally disagree with Jason Maguire's comments regarding the Gold Cup. Why would SC beat Bobs Worth for pace on better ground? Utter rubbish..obviously didn't see BW turn of foot in the Lexus from the last...this horse will be fine on good ground come GC day.
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Considering BW has won the RSA and the spud race on good ground I'd say that was a given
 
Birmingham Preview Evening at The Old Oscott Working Mens Club on Thursday 6th March

Panel

ST – Sam Turner – Daily Mail and William Hill Radio Tipster
LH – Lydia Hislop – Racing UK Presenter/Pundit
SM – Steve Mellish – Racing UK/RFO Pundit
JM – John Morris – Host and Author of Jumping Prospects

Supreme

ST – this race looks one for one at a bigger price and there are a host of possibilities outside the market principals. I did like Josses Hill but am concerned about reports that he has gone off the boil in his recent pieces of work. With that in mind, I’ll just side with Irving for his toe although it isn’t a bet race for me.

SM – Irving and Vautour are both short enough in the betting, Vautour is unlikely to get a soft lead as he did in Ireland and I’m not sure what Irving’s latest run told us about him. I am concerned about the vibes around Josses Hill but I feel if he runs to form, he won’t be out of the first three.

LH – Vaniteux surprised connections with a piece of work recently and is now in the running for this race. Andrew Tinkler suggested Barry Geraghty would probably ride him and on that basis I will put him up, although I agree that the Josses Hill and Royal Boy form looks strong.

JB – Wicklow Brave’s jumping is not up to scratch and I fancy Vautour very strongly, having been very impressed with him in Ireland

Arkle

LH – If you back Champagne Fever it is based on his previous festival form as both he and Rock On Ruby are inexperienced over fences. Dodging Bullets has the best form behind Module at Newbury and is an appealing price. But Trifolium was impressive last time and I’ll take him just over Dodging Bullets as I thought he would make a chaser when behind Cinders and Ashes in the Supreme.

SM – My strongest view of the week is Champagne Fever. He won one of the best Supremes in recent years and jumps exceptionally. An alternative might be Grandouet who is the potential class horse with a great cruising speed.

ST – It is worth bearing in mind that prominent racers have won twelve of the last sixteen renewals of this race. Not sure whether Champagne Fever will be there to be shot at by the speed horses. I like Trifolium who has been campaigned well by trainer Charles Byrnes, now that they know the way to ride him, he jumps well and has that festival experience.

Champion Hurdle

JM – This looks one of the best Champion Hurdles in a long time and I think Hurricane Fly will buzz in.

SM – Hurricane Fly’s best form is on slow ground in Ireland and my gut feeling is for Our Conor, who has been trained for this race all season, although the jockey would be a slight negative.

ST – I like My Tent Or Yours as I see him coming last off the bridle. I’m not sure last season’s Champion Hurdle form is up to much and with Hurricane Fly being a year older it looks a big ask. I can see the case for The New One but My Tent Or Yours’ Supreme form is strong and he did two canters today despite his setback.

LH – In terms of Hurricane Fly, Willie Mullins has decided not to run Un De Sceaux and Annie Power against him, whilst he is a very good horse, he is ten and I’m against him at the prices. I think The New One will win as this will prove to be a simpler race in terms of tactics.

JM – Donald McCain says Peddlers Cross has never recovered from being beaten by Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle. I think Hurricane Fly is in better form this year than before and will win.


OLBG Mares

LH – Quevega wasn’t pleasing Willie Mullins for a few days and we have no idea whether age has taken its toll. I like Swing Bowler who ran well to be fifth in the Betfair Hurdle and a year on she is stronger and should get the trip no problem.

SM – I don’t like having a bet in these sorts of races but I hope that Quevega wins.

ST – Last Saturday, Quevega reported to have worked as well as she has in three years. Connections are very happy with Cockney Sparrow after Doncaster, she should stay having won over 1m6f on the flat and AP has been booked to ride her.


Neptune

JM – this looks a match between Faugheen and Red Sherlock

ST – Faugheen worked dreadfully on Saturday having been well all year and they even changed his feed 10 days ago in a bid to get him back to normal. There has been money for Rathvinden who could run, Royal Boy is interesting but Red Sherlock is 2 for 2 at Cheltenham and I will go for him each way.

SM – Royal Boy is a second season novice with good form with Josses Hill in the Tolworth. Faugheen is short enough and I see Royal Boy as the each-way alternative.

LH – I also like the Royal Boy/Josses Hill formline and think it is very good. Red Sherlock also has plenty going in his favour against Faugheen

JM – Faugheen has not put a foot wrong on the racecourse yet and if he turns up, he is my nap of the meeting.


RSA

JM – Donald McCain is very keen on Corrin Wood in this race

LH – I love Corrin Wood but he never struck me as good enough to win the RSA. I can’t have Ballycasey, Smad Place won well last time although Sam Winner will be better at these weights and Shutthefrontdoor has had a wind op. I can’t see a standout and like Le Bec and Sam Winner at the prices.

SM – The most likely winner looks to be Smad Place although Sam Winner shouldn’t be 14s if he is 7s and I think he (Sam Winner) will run very well.

ST – Sam Winner is overpriced, I’m not convinced by Ballycasey and can see the case for Morning Assembly but will go for Sam Winner for his form at Cheltenham earlier in the season.

JM – O’Faolains Boy was pulled up when his trainer’s horses just weren’t right but ran well at Ascot to win. He will act on any ground and his trainer has always seen him as an RSA horse.



Queen Mother Champion Chase

ST – Sire De Grugy is a worthy favourite although it is a race with an angle. Arvika Legionairre doesn’t enjoy going left-handed and Captain Conan just hasn’t delivered but has been working well. I will side with Hinterland at around 14 or 16/1.

SM – I would like Gary Moore to win the race as he does really well with moderate horses. Sire De Grugy sets the standard but it is not a race to have a bet in.

LH – Sire De Grugy is not at his best at Cheltenham and I would be concerned about the drying ground. Kid Cassidy and Special Tiara both have e/w chances but Henry De Bromhead re-routing Sizing Europe would be a concern for the latter.

JM – I like Hinterland e/w, having jumped well at Sandown on his latest start


Fred Winter

SM – I’m pleased to see Dawalan has headgear fitted and on better ground he should run well.

JM – three of the last four winners were rated 127, Arthur Moore-trained Sea Beat won on latest start to get in and is interesting.

Champion Bumper

ST – Killultagh Vic won at Naas last time and put up a tremendous speed figure

JM – Golantilla was third last year and probably wasn’t fit last time out.

Cheltenham Gold Cup

LH – I backed Bobs Worth after his flop in the Betfair. If I was betting now I would back Silviniaco Conti. The second best form on offer comes from Captain Chris and although he is better right-handed he is in the form of his life. At the prices Bobs Worth is no value.

SM – It is difficult to know where Silviniaco Conti would have finished when falling last year but is preferred to Bobs Worth. I think Teaforthree will run well as thorough stayers have done in the past and he looks a little bit of value.

ST – I think Bobs Worth will win as he wants decent ground, I was surprised he won the Lexus Chase last time out and can’t look beyond him. 33/1 is a big price for Teaforthree who has won at Cheltenham, Captain Chris is an e/w bet and 40/1 looks a tall price about Long Run.

JM – I’m a big Bobs Worth fan. The Lexus run was a great performance after his Betfair Chase disappointment.


Ryanair

ST – I have backed Al Ferof given his excellent Cheltenham record and think he will win.

JH (John Hales – owner of Al Ferof) – the whole idea this season was to go for the Gold Cup. He didn’t act on the ground in the King George and last time. He is a brilliant 2m4f horse and I would be very disappointed if he didn’t win.

LH – Benefficient looks hard to knock out of the frame if he runs. I can’t have Dynaste after flopping last time despite having had a wind operation since.

SM – this is not a race that I like. But I think Al Ferof has a very good chance and is the classiest horse in the race.

JM – The market is often a good guide here with five of the last six winners having been first or second favourite.


JLT Novices’

LH – Oscar Whiskey doesn’t jump and given his poor Festival form he is a terrible price. Djakadam is a Gold Cup winner in the making, travels and jumps and I think if he runs he wins. Wonderful Charm also has a strong chance.

SM – Wonderful Charm looks a solid horse in this race and can’t see why he won’t run well. I would be concerned by Oscar Whiskey’s jumping for him and Wonderful Charm looks likely to give you a good run for your money.

ST – Felix Yonger was second to Simonsig in the Neptune and beat Trifolium earlier in the season. I also like Djakadam, he is a huge horse and beat a subsequent winner last time. Sizing Gold is also interesting, he was beaten by Foxrock last time but moved like the best horse.

JM – I have been really impressed with Djakadam

World Hurdle

SM – this looks a fantastic race. I like Annie Power at the weights but you are taken for granted that she stays. I think she will win although she was quite edgy in the paddock at Doncaster last time.

LH – At the weights Annie Power is the best horse in the race but the occasion could get to her. This is likely to be a strong stamina test due to the strong Paul Nicholls contingent trying to find chinks in Annie Power’s stamina. AP went for proven stamina when picking At Fishers Cross and cheekpieces seemed to help last time. I like More Of That as he is less exposed and AP was concerned about the choice he made when sitting on him the other morning.

ST – Not necessarily a two-horse race. Rule The World’s trainer is adept at getting horses right on the day at the Festival. Difficult to see Big Buck’s being good enough to concede weight to Annie Power considering how close Voler Le Vedette got to him two years ago.

JM – More Of That has had a setback at some stage but is right now. At Fishers Cross will be better on good ground and would have got there in another stride in the Cleeve Hurdle.


Triumph

ST – Rutherglen was going to run in the Fred Winter but was put up 7lb for standing in his box so goes to the Triumph. That may suit him as there are only two hurdles in last seven furlongs as he stays well having won over two miles on the flat. You could do worse each-way.

SM – Le Rocher looks the best horse in the race and 6/1 looks appealing. His win on Cheltenham Trials Day looks solid and the Triumph is often won by horses who stay further. He has a great chance if he goes on the ground. Activial jumps very well but only 50-50 to take his chance in the race.

LH – I backed Plinth who will be better on a sounder surface and a lack of jumping will help him in the latter part of the race. I see no reason why Le Rocher won’t go on better ground, I don’t like Broughton and Royal Irish Hussar would need good ground to show his best. Gitane Du Berlais would be a big player if she handles the ground with her mares allowance.

ST – I think Calipto is the real deal. Paul Nicholls thinks he is one for the future but he has plenty of toe as well.

JM – Calipto for me. Acitivial will have a good chance at Aintree.


Albert Bartlett

ST – I’m a big King’s Palace fan, he jumps really well and has impressed with his three wins and his professional manner. We have not seen him for ninety days but I understand that this was always the plan for him. He also has the cruising speed to take Briar Hill and Captain Cutter out of their comfort zone.

LH – King’s Palace was my first ante-post bet of the season. I would be concerned that Tom Scudamore can go off too quickly in races and could do so if taken on for the lead. Deputy Dan might also run well.

SM – Ruby Walsh loves Briar Hill and was very complimentary about him on Racing UK. I like Captain Cutter, the step up to 3m should suit and he is bred to get the trip.

JM – Captain Cutter looks the good e/w value in the race and finished his race off really well at Newbury in the Challow




Grand Annual

LH – If Tony Martin runs Ted Veale he would have an outstanding chance

ST – Michael Scudamore is very positive about the chances of Next Sensation

JM – Anay Turge has won at Cheltenham and would be interesting if he gets in, Ericht would also be interesting.

Handicaps

The panellists were then asked to nominate any horses that they fancied in the handicaps at the meeting:

ST – Tap Night in the Byrne Group Plate – he is very well and has blossomed following a lighter work schedule at home. There is plenty of positivity about this horse’s chances at the Festival.

LH – Indian Castle in the Kim Muir. Derek O’Connor has been booked to ride, faster ground should not be a problem for him and he looks a bit better than his current handicap mark.
I also like Sure Reef in the County Hurdle if he runs.

SM – Tap Night runs in the Byrne Group Plate off a lower mark than he started the season with and he looks likely to be backed in on the day.

I also like Lac Fontana in the County Hurdle, he looked to have really come of age on Cheltenham Trials Day and I was very impressed.

Bet Of The Meeting

LH – Djakadam in the JLT

SM – Champagne Fever in the Arkle

ST – Red Sherlock in the Neptune

JM – Faugheen or Djakadam


Lay of the Meeting

LH – Big Bucks or Oscar Whiskey for a place

SM – Ballycasey for a place

ST – Sire De Grugy


Charity Bets

LH – King’s Palace in the Albert Bartlett

SM – Sam Winner e/w in the RSA

ST – My Tent Or Yours in the Champion Hurdle

JM – Faugheen wherever he runs.
 
Sandown Park Preview after racing this evening


Nick Luck kicks panel off.

For understandable reasons AP McCoy isn't here,
Paul Nicholls (PN)
Nicky Henderson (NH)
Kate miller (KM) &
AndyStewart (AS) are


Supreme

AS also likes Irving also "the best bet on Tuesday"

"I keep hearing Wicklow Brave is pleasing them very much in Ireland," says Paul Nicholls. He queries Vautour's pace for the Supreme

KM opposing Irving. Only 3/17 have started shorter than 3s and won plus flat horses horrible record. Mullins to have winner, Vautour?

NH Josses Hill right back in the picture. Fed up with finishing behind Irving, but with his 'F Team'!! Trying to give PN a troubled night!!

"I do like Vaniteux," Henderson says when pressed over which horse he favours in the Supreme

Vaniteux has improved a huge deal lately. Thinks Mullins could be too good but likes both of his pair. Just favours Vaniteux when pushed!


Arkle.

AS likes Dodging Bullets.
NH says Grandouet bounced back last 3 weeks. "very classy" and has learnt hard way. Each way chance on good
Dodging Bullets wants good ground & good pace says PN. Grandouet doesn't jump well enough. NH looks curious!!
KM opposes fav with Dodging B
NH, if he had to bet, would be on Valdez.

Champion Hurdle
PN likes The New One in the Champ Hurdle. Ptit Zig will run well but perhaps not top 4
AS likes My Tent Or Yours. "overpriced"
NH "Tent" a speed horse. Been tipping and napping Our Conor all week though
KM "stats against fly" and can't see my tent beat. McCoy told her it's the bet of the week

RSA
Sam winner, black thunder and just a par all go RSA. Black Thunder wants soft, Just A Par good, Sam Winner a "great chance"
Jacob on Sam winner, scofield black thunder, Fehily just a par. Only wants Sam Winner to run but owners demands says PN.
KM goes Smad Place.
Henderson agrees Smad Place. Ballycasey fall wouldn't worry him though.
AS strong view, Smad Place wins.
PN says Sam Winner can turn form


Champion Chase

PN sire de grugy "tough season" but class horse. hinterland 2 from 2 since wind op, Henry viii win faster than tingle creek.
"Arvika Liggionniere will end up in the car park, he jumps right-handed," says Paul Nicholls, who says his Hinterland is "in the mix"
AS sticks up Sizing Europe,
KM goes Conan with ew Hinterland


Ryanair

PN Al Ferof blatantly doesn't stay Gold Cup trip. Wants good ground on Thursday. Benefficient the horse to beat.
NH hunt ball doesn't run.
P Nicholls and N Henderson admire chance of Benefficient in the Ryanair
AS says how is Dynaste favourite. Al Ferof the class horse.
NH agrees.
KM goes Benefficient


World Hurdle.

AS fancies....Big Bucks.
"I've already been told by Rich Ricci that he's going to win the race," says Andy Stewart of the World Hurdle
PN says he needed the run on awful ground. He has bloomed, will love drying ground
Paul Nicholls "very much looking forward to the challenge of the race" with Big Buck's, who he says is looking great
Salubrious about to get his ground and is a huge price. Will stay every yard.
NH "mares allowance crucial factor"
NH says dont write of either McManus pair. Hopes Big Bucks can win, wishes him the best of luck.
KM says at the prices, Big Bucks.
KM says McCoy very sweet on At Fishers Cross.

Triumph

PN says Calipto. Paul Nicholls says Calipto impressed him working over 5f with Ptit Zig today. "He's not short of speed"
"I don't think they're a great bunch of four-year-olds," says Nicky Henderson. The Triumph is "hugely, hugely open
Kentucky Hyden if bad. Not sure either will win but it's hugely open renewal. Best horse Activial. Breaking news, he won't run says PN
Paul Nicholls spoke to owner of Activial this morning and was told horse would miss Triumph for Aintree
(For record, Activial is trained by Nicholls ex-assistant Harry Fry + owned by Jared Sullivan)
AS fancies Broughton.
NH Royal Irish Hussar runs if ground is quick.

Gold Cup

NH likes Bobs Worth in Gold Cup. In better form at home than last year. Does fear Conti but Bobs Worth just so game. Bring it on he says
"Nobody knows what would have happened last year," says Nicky Henderson of Silviniaco Conti's Gold Cup fall "We'd be very happy," says Nicky Henderson when pressed re Bobs Worth's condition. The last week has gone well, he adds
"He's a stronger horse than he was last year because he's matured," Paul Nicholls says of Silviniaco Conti Rocky Creek doesn't go but hopes national
AS says Conti better right handed. Says Bobs Worth.
NL and KM go Last Instalment if he runs, both say he'll go on good!
NH: Triolo was meant to be having prep for national here but has been working better & better & his ground is coming. Demands no watering!
Nicky Henderson says it would be "a tragedy" if Cheltenham were to water the course this week. "It cannot possibly" be good to firm by Fri
NJH: "Why should the good ground horses be penalised just because they want to slow it down? It's wrong."
Watering would be wrong before jockeys can feedback. If its good safe ground then leave it be. PN agrees but safety paramount. Both agree
Paul Nicholls dons Nicky Henderson mask: "I'm amazed nobody's asked me who rides Triolo D'Alene"
"All people who can do 11-12 in the room, please stand up. You're in line for the ride," says Nicky Henderson re Triolo D'Alene ride
Henderson says he has no idea who would ride Triolo D'Alene in the Gold Cup but expects to use one of his own jockeys. Barry Geraghty for GN

Charity Bets
KM gives panel £500 free bets:

AS goes 125ew Salubrious and 250 packs de polder

Paul Nicholls picks Wonderful Charm in the JLT as his charity bet. "I was gonna win that," squawks Henderson Asks PN if Katgarry wins the Fred Winter. PN says good horse but so was today's winner. NH not putting up Dawalan either now! PN says Dormello Mo, Katgary, Keltus are his Fred Winter possibles. And he has another, which he did not get to name

NH has crowd in raptures, goes Mullins to be Champion Trainer! Bet revised, match bet team PN and NH to out score Mullins.

NL charity bet Shutthefrontdoor in the 4miler.
KM says that is her NAP and with that the panel closes.
 
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