JCB Triumph Hurdle
I feel that Alaivan sets the standard here. Rated 110 on the flat he has won 2 of his 3 starts over hurdles, the last win by 17 lengths at Fairyhouse. All his form has been on soft or heavy ground which would be something of a concern. He looks the class horse in the race though and is the one they all have to beat. At a bigger price it might be worth a small each way interest in Westlin’ Winds.
Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle
5 Year olds have a good record in this race and the Paul Nicholls runner Tito Bustillo has to be respected. The Irish also do well in this and Noble Prince looks one for the short list. I am also keen of the Nicky Henderson pair of Bellvano and Eradicate.
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle
The Irish have a very strong hand in this with Quel Esprit, Enterprise Park, The Hurl, Shinrock Paddy and Fionnegas all in with chances. Of the home team Restless Harry has been very consistent and should be well suited by both the track and the extra distance. Ruby Walsh has chosen to ride Quel Esprit which is a pointer in itself and he would be one I would be very interested in along with Restless Harry. The Hurl looks over priced at 25/1 and has an each way chance.
Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase
So much has been written this season about Kauto Star, that there isn’t really any need on me to eulogise about him here. It is impossible to oppose him and he is my not very original selection. Cooldine and Tricky Trickster look the each way value. Imperial Commander is 5 from 9 at Cheltenham but I just have my doubts about his stamina over this distance.
Christie’s Foxhunter Steeple Chase
Baby Run and Roulez Cool look the safest best in this.
Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle
I am sure that David Pipe would love to win this one and he relies on the talented by somewhat erratic Ashkazar. He is seriously well handicapped on his best from, Hadden Frost takes off a further 3 lbs and is well worth his claim and the horse handles the ground. The Nicky Henderson pair of Lord Generous and Peveril come into the equation as does Irish challenger On Borrowed Wings. Pause and Clause was 3rd in the Coral Cup last season and is worth considering. The other one I must mention is Clova Island who won last time out and comes from a stable in red hot form. Ashkazar will do for me.
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Steeple Chase
French Opera, Consigliere, Green Belt Elite, You’re the Top, Beggar’s Cap and Tataniano all make some appeal. You’re the Top will handle the ground as will Beggar’s Cap while Green Belt Elite is an excellent jumper and is an improving sort. Those 3 would be my short list.
Today’s pictures all feature former Gold Cup winners. In the order in which they appear they are Kicking King, (courtesy of the artist Sarah Aspinall), Kauto Star, Denman and Best Mate (all courtesy of the artist Lisa Miller).
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