Cheltenham Previews

[blowfish]

Hello Win2Win,
did not know how to pm you,so I just started this thread.
There has been several Cheltenham previews around the country,I have the transcripts for 6 of them and wondered if it was alright to post these later tonight,its very interesting reading,getting to know what the Trainers and Jockeys also racing journalists fancy for next week.

[Win2Win]

Who owns the copyright to them?

[blowfish]

No one mate,they have no signature or copyright on them.
They are like minutes,they were written by joe public who went to them.

[Win2Win]

Ok :thumbs

[blowfish]

Sorry Win2win,
Can you tell me how many letters each post can hold,otherwise I might have to split the each post

[mathare]

Sorry Win2win,
Can you tell me how many letters each post can hold,otherwise I might have to split the each postI think it's 3000 or 3500 characters per post

[blowfish]

Panel: John Carr (JC),Bob Cooper (BC), Gordon Elliott (GE), Norman Williamson (NW), Ferdy Murphy (FM), Andrew Lynch (AL), Dryden Geary (DG, Tote Ireland), James Griffin (JG, Compere)

Supreme Novices:

NW: Very impressed by Sentry Duty so far, a very good performance last time. Captain Cee Bee is well fancied and will love the ground.

GE: Paul Carberry is very sweet on Muirhead. Was a Cork All Star fan but has gone off him as his jumping is not up to it.

BC: Rippling Ring and Sentry Duty are big players in this (Rippling Ring his only AP bet so far). Rippling Ring has gone a bit "wolly" in his coat which is a bit of a worry.

FM: Rippling Ring and Sentry Duty won the 2 best trials in the UK. All the Irish horses have kept beating themselves on terrible ground and may have left its mark. Favours the UK horses at this stage.

JC: Captain Cee Bee has done nothing wrong and is entitled to be favourite. Cork All Star does not jump well. Thinks there will be an English winner this year, and Deep Purple might be an EW bet.

JG: Soplocles EW is the call, great record at Cheltenham and will love the conditions.

Arkle:

AL: Impressed with Thyne Again but they will go too quick for him in the Arkle. Tidal Bay if he turns up is the call.

DG: Mick Fitz is adamant that Mahogany Blaze is good enough. Clopf an EW shout for the Irish horses.

NW: Tidal Bay should run in the 3 miler, Noland too short a price for what he has done, and O’Grady fancies Clopf so he would be a decent EW bet. Leslingtaylor has a big shout as he is a tough campaigner that jumps well.

FM: Not the best Arkle, but was impressed with thyne Again and he would be there right at the end.

Champion Hurdle:

JC: Sublimity has had a clear round since Christmas, no trouble, and is working at Leopardstown on Sunday after racing. He is very happy with him and he has an outstanding" chance of winning again. Osana and Sizing Europe will go a "good lick" with Sublimity and Harchibald in behind. "they still have to beat us as I said last year"!

BC: Can’t fail to be impressed with Sizing Europe so far and really looking forward to Harchibald. Thinks that Sublimity would be a popular winner.

AL: DeValeria is crying out for a good gallop, and will beat all of those that finished in front of him last time out. The horse needed the race last time and has improved a lot for it. Sublimity is the one to beat.

DG: There has been an over reaction to Sizing Europes win last time. Confident that Ebaziyan will be placed.

NW: Sublimity was an outstanding winner last year and reminds him of Alderbrook a lot. Thinks that Afsoun has an EW chance again and Harchibald is the biggest danger.

GE: Sublimity the horse they all have to beat.

FM: Sublimity won like a proper Champion Hurdler last year and thinks he will again.

Ballymore Properties:

DG: They will go too quick for Forpaddyteplasterer. Trafford Lad would have a chance and Nicky Henderson fancies Aigle D’or quite a bit.

GE: Agrees that they will go too quick for Forpaddydeplasterer. Whatyouthink is a big price EW.

NW: Breedsbreeze is a good tough animal, and Carruthers would be very good value EW if he ran here.

AL: Forpaddytheplasterer should win this – thinks he is a proper horse

JG: Trafford Lad won his bumper on fast ground and stays well and is the value.

BC: Group Captain has an "astounding" chance, was really good on the flat. This is his race.

FM: Group Captain is the best in the UK and is Alan Kings best bet at Cheltenham this year!

JC: Forpaddytheplasterer would need to improve to win it. Group Captain is the one that reminds him of Sublimity and is the class horse in the race by far.

Queen Mother:

FM: Need a horse with a high cruising speed for this. Master Minded was not "an ordinary horse" (as was suggested to him) and had a high reputation in France. He was very impressive at Newbury – not many of Alan King’s horses run as if they need a blow. Voy Por looked knackered after that race while Master Minded looked as if he could go around again. Alan King was rattled after the race (suggested that he rather threw the toys out of the pram!)

NW: Twist Magis is a very good animal, surprised Ruby is on Master Minder really. Twist Magic is more experienced. Not a fan of Voy Por, and Fair Along would be of interest EW.

BC: Fail Along has some decent form in the book and would give you a good run for your cash EW.

Bumper:

DG: Colm Murphy is very sweet on Zarrito, a proper animal and the winner of this.

AL: Meade would be a big fan of Corskeagh Royale if there was cut in the ground.

NW: Zarrito has won 3 bumpers, including one on fast ground, which is a big effort. Reckons that David Casey thought Cousin Vinny was Mullin’s best horse at home.

GE: Apt Approach was the most impressive P2P horse he has seen in a while. Worried that he sweats up a bit before his races.

FM: The English don’t win the bumper but Big Eared Fran would have a very good chance.

JC: Zarrito has answered every call so far and wouldn’t back against him. Reckoned he’d be back home by then anyway!

BC: Big Eared Fran and Gold Award the best of the English

JG: Lilywhitedancer has become a forgotten horse and will be bang there

Royal & SunAlliance:

DG: Skys the Limit won’t travel over, and expects Tidal Bay to run in this. Silverburn EW is the call

AL: Silverburn the horse to beat, has that bit of class about him

NW: Silverburn is a Sh1t. Tidal Bay the one if Johnsons are ok on the day

GE: Tidal Bay the class horse in the race and AirForceOne will be in the mix

BC: Albertas Run won the best trial this year in the UK. Oscar Park jumps well and has a chance

FM: Albertas Run made Joe Lively look poor recently, and will improve as John Jo’s tend to for Cheltenham

JC: Oscan Park was a decent hurdler and is a decent shout

Ryanair:

FM: Cheltenham brings out the best in L’Antartique. Ran on well LTO and he is looking forward to the race. Our Vic the danger

AL: Our Vic doesn’t jump well enough at the business end, sides with Tamarinbleu

NW: Mossbank a much better horse fresh, but rumors of the Gold Cup recently. A huge chance if he runs here.

GE: Can’t have Mossbank – probably go for Our Vic of Tamarinblue

BC: A big fan of Mossbank but an even bigger fan of The Listener and hopes he runs

JC: Mossbank has a big chance but L’Antartique the one. Ferdy’s best bet of the week!

Stayers Hurdle:

JC: A big cloud over Howard Johnsons yard a worry – wondering why he is talking about retiring the horse before the race! Expects Hardy Eustace to run in the champion.

FM: Doumen keen on Kasbah Bliss and thinks he would have a good chance

BC: Blazing Bailey will be right there. Material World also a big price EW.

JG: The Market Man is a huge price and must be the EW bet

GE: Howard Johnson won’t run Ingles Drever if he is not right. Lough Derg has the biggest heart in racing and would love to see him do it.

NW: Wonders if Howard Johnson was looking for a bigger price! Kasbah Bliss EW the bet

AL: If Ingles Drever turns up he wins.

Triumph:

GE: Ashkazar well fancied. Harper Valley has a big EW chance if he gets there (fell over the schooling hurdle at the start LTO and banged himself). He is well back on track now though.

NW: Impressed with Binoculat last time but his hurdling needs to improve – can turn over the favourite though.

AL: Silverhand won well ist time out and has an EW chance

DG: Fav is very short currently, Harper Valley a better bet EW. Woninthedark has won a G1 and has to enter the reckoning

FM: Serabad EW worth a chance, will handle the rough and tumble well. Franchoek looks good though.

BC: Ashkazar has an EW chance

Albert Bartlett 3m hurdle:

General consensus that the Irish have no chance in this

NW: A big Exclusive Dream fan, a real good horse

FM: A tough race to call but likes Exclusive Dream, thinks he will stay well

BC: Alan King fond of Nenuphar Collognes and he could be the value. Has at least won over 3m

JG: It would be great to see Carruthers win for the connections

Gold Cup:

JC: An easy call – Kauto Star. Denman needs some cut to be at his best. Kicking King won’t be within ½ a fence of these two.

FM: Denman does not have Kauto Stars pace. Kauto Star is the best we have seen in a very long time.

BC: A wonderful advert for racing this race. Can’t knock Kauto Star A Nicholls 123 a real possibility

GE: Kauto Star without doubt

NW: Denman passed Ollie Maghern as if he was stood still at Newbury and has more to come. Kauto Star has the class though and will shade it.

AL: Kauto Star should be odds-on in this. Knowhere will be 3rd

DG: Kauto Star is the class act. A Nicholls 123 the bet

NAPS:

JC: Other that Sublimity, Agus a Vic in the Foxhunters and Robin Du Bois wherever he ends up

FM: Group Captain Lay: Voy Por

BC: Ringaroses Lay: Ingles Drever

JG: Sophocles EW Lay: Ingles Drever

GE: Robin Du Bois Lay: Agus a Vic (jumps too slowly)

NW: Ingles Drever Lay: Sizing Europe

AL: Kauto Star Lay: Noland

DG: Sublimity Lay: Noland

[blowfish]

Panel: Tony Mullins (TM), Noel O’Brien (NOB), Bob Cooper (BC), Robert Power (RP), Ken Whelan (KW), Paddy Flood (PF), Tracey Piggott (TP), Ivan Yates (Celtic Bookmakers, IY)

Supreme Novices:
NOB: Noel Meade would have liked to get another run into Muirhead. Captain Cee Bee very impressive but has beaten nothing. Captain Cee Bee can go on and improve but Muirhead has the better form.
PF: Captain Cee Bee is a better horse than Muirhead, but the value is with Fiveforthree who won his maiden very well. Fancies Sophocles to finish in front of Cork All Star. as he would have beaten him last year with a clear run.
BC: British horses have a poor record here. Has Rippling Ring backed AP but impressed by Sentry Duty - has a big chance. Numide is worth backing if its very soft.
IY: Very opposed to the Irish Horses. Both of Hendersons horses have been impressive so far. Snap Tie is also well fancied.

Arkle:
TM: Noland is the banker of the meeting and has nothing to beat. Clopf just not good enough.
RP: Not the greatest Arkle we have seen. Noland is the class horse in the race and can’t pick anything to beat him. Tiday Bay can’t jump and would hate to ride him in the Arkle.
NOB: Never seen so many Arkle horses that can’t jump. Noland is “Head & Shoulders” above the rest and Leslingtaylor an EW shout.
IY: Noland will be well backed and will be looking to take him on – this could be a great race for bookmakers this year.

Champion Hurdle:
NOB: A bit worried about Sublimity’s prep so far. Sizing Europes run in the AIG was the highest rated 2m hurdle this year, he has won at Cheltenham and has improved “Hand over Fist”. The race of the meeting.
TP: Edward Doyle (Show Jumper trainer) thinks that Sizing Europe will never win a Champion as he “doesn’t jump right”!
NOB: Hardy Eustace is going for the Stayers as this is such a hot contest. Harchibald could be the forgotten horse – people are very hard on him. He has responded well to pressure this year and it the best lepper in the race.
KW: Can’t have Sizing Europe, the AIG not the form it was cracked up to be. Sublimity was very good last year and Philip Carberry is very shrewd. Harchibald gets 2m but not 2m 50yds at Cheltenham.
BC: ATR were at Carrs last week and John Carr thinks all has gone to plan so far. Liked Osansa in the Boylesports as he stayed on so well that day.
IY: Hearing bad things about Sublimity, not the same hype as last year. His Bank Manager loves Harchibald, and likened him to Hans Blix in Iraq – finds nothing! Sizing Europe and Osana are improvers. This is the only chance the Irish have of winning a feature race.
TM: Can’t understand the statement from Edward Doyle – thinks his only problem is over jumping. He looks the best horse in the race. Harchibald is a “Hill detector” and will nearly do everything again. Catch Me may be an EW bet.
RP: Osana has the better form, and Sizing Europe is not a real hurdler. Likes Afsoun EW
PF: Catch Me is a poor jumper and should be running over further. Katchit is “a rocket” and would be his bet.

Ballymore Properties:
BC: Group Captain the NAP of the meeting – really impressive at Exeter. Would look no further.
NOB: The Irish keep beating each other and Trafford Lad probably the best of them. The 3m hurdle has weakened this race a lot, and they are now 2 weak races. Probably would size with Breedsbreeze.
RP: 2m5 will suit Group Captain and Venalmar (connections very sweet on this one)
TM: Henderson very confident in Aigle D’or – the Irish are all on top of one another. Whatuthink’s form is as good as any of the Irish (would have a serious chance in the 3m race)
PF: Venalmar has improved immensely since his last run and will certainly be there abouts – the best of the Irish.
IY: The market for all of Mouse Morris’s quiet enough at the moment. Reckons that Charlie Chalk had 10,000 @ 15/2 with him the other day on Forpaddytheplasterer – but thinks he needs it soft. Reckons he could go off at 7/2 though as he is really well fancied. Group Captain will be done for toe. Aigle D’or was very good in France and is really well fancied. He is better than the rest of these….
KW: Aigle D’or didn’t have to jump anything in France! Forpaddytheplasterer too big to win a race like this at Cheltenham, and has hung both ways at various times this season – has never ran straight yet. Will be much better over fences. Likes Elusive Dream EW and maybe Whatuthink.

Queen Mother:
NOB: Nickname is not running. One of the weakest renewals in a while. VPU was staying on well last time, and he was very impressed by Twist Magic but VPU top rated. The Irish have nothing.
BC: Would go for Twist Magic of the Nicholls two. Fail Along is a decent EW bet, jumped well last time.
RP: Ruby picking Master Minded would swing it for him – a very good horse. One of the bankers of the meeting.
TM: Can’t have Fair Along, too small to win a Championship race – lovely and honest but not good enough. Master Minded could be anything, excellent at Newbury.
RP: 5yo’s have a poor record but we haven’t seen a 5yo like this one – would love to be on him in the race.
IY: Looking to get Twist Magic here

Bumper:
TM: Willie has 4 entries and will run 4. They can all beat Apt Approach at home but AA is the best of them. Seems to be a trainers dream as he keeps it for the racetrack. Thinks that Zarrito will win though. Not a good looking horse but a very good one.
IY: Good word for Big Eared Fran, and Cockleshell Road is a sneaky one, quietly fancied.
PF: Zarrito looks an aeroplane racing but looks more like a greyhound than a racehorse in the paddock. Rode O’Grady’s at home and he’s not much good – wants it very soft.
RP: Have to be impressed by Zarrito so far, could end up being great value at 5/1 EW. Homer Woods of Jessies is a decent horse (has worked him a few times) and is value at 33/1
BC: Big Eared Fran and Gold Award the best of the British
KW: Likes Cousin Vinny, looks to be a nice horse
NOB: Zarrito reminds him a bit of Cork All Star. David Pipe not that keen on Big Eared Fran when he was speaking to him. Nina was impressed by Corskeagh Royale.

Royal & Sun Alliance:
TM: Pomme Tiepy has had a long hard season, and while its hard to be confident in John Joe’s Albertas Run could be the best of these. Too many horses with little chances so head to the bar…
PF: So many of these are in & out of form. Albertas Run only won last time because of the ride Ruby gave it. Air Force One not good enough.
KW: Really like Joe Lively – they will all have their work cut out to catch him. Chocolate Thornton very sweet on Starzaan.
BC: Albertas Run last time was the best trial in the UK. Not impressed by Silverburn at all.
IY: Can’t have Albertas Run. C&D form at Cheltenham important so Joe Lively would have a chance

Ryanair:
NOB: Mossbank the top rated of the Irish. This race is not really the 1st choice for most of the horses, and connections of Mossbank are tempted by the Gold Cup. Our Vic can win it if they do.
BC: Ferdy Murphy might win this with L’antartique, good Cheltenham form
KW: Mossbank may go for the Gold Cup. Our Vic is like a Ryanair flight – you think you have a great price until you get to the finish. Between l’Antartique and Tamarinblue
PF: This race suite The Listener down to the ground, a smashing jumper.
TM: Thinks Hourigan will send Mossbank to the Gold Cup. L’antartique not good enough (used to train him). Our Vic on the process of elimination
RP: Tamarinblue one of the bankers of the meeting
IY: In favour of L’antartique, crying out for this race and is a cracking EW bet.

Stayers:
NOB: Ingles Drever is by far the best horse in the race – complete class. Hardy Eustace makes it interesting but ID will win. They won’t run him if he’s not right.
BC: ID much too short considering Howard Johnson’s form. Blazing Bailey is the obvious alternative.
KW: Howard Johnsons horses are ‘shagged’. Shutting down your stable the week before Cheltenham is not good! Hardy Eustace won’t stay so Kasbah Bliss the choice.
PF: Hardy Eustace will have no problem staying the trip, and Wichita Lineman is a bit like him – maybe a bit lazy. Not surprised to see blinkers on Wichita next week. Kazal was very good at Navan, looks a better hurdler since he went chasing.
TM: If Howards are right ID wins. Kazal maybe EW, but backing or laying Ingles Drever is the play really.
RP: ID will win even if he bursts! Kazal EW if there is any cut in the ground.
IY: Has layed a big bet on Kazal EW @ 25/1 so happy to see him beaten

Triumph:
NOB: Franchoek deserves to be a short priced favourite, his form is very good. Celestial Halo is a big danger though. Beau Michael is the best of the Irish, but Franchoek the NAP of the meeting.
BC: Seradab a decent EW bet, Bowen fancies him a bit.
KW: The British juveniles are better than ours. Beau Michael has no chance and he has won 2 Gr2’s in Ireland. Willies horse C’est Ca has done nothing wrong and may be the best of the Irish
PF: An English winner in this. Franchoek will win and Won In The Dark will place
TM: Franchoek looks the job. C’est Ca may be an EW bet.
RP; Celestial Halo fancied by Ruby, If Sentry Duty runs well get on
IY: Franchoek a big loser for him but he is out to get him.

Gold Cup:
NOB: Kauto Star is one of the best horses he has seen in many years, and his jumping has improved. Mossbank might run into a place. Denman would need to make it a real test of stamina.
BC: Loves Denman but Kauto’s jumping is now a joy to watch. Nowhere might be an EW bet.
KW: Kauto is not making the mistakes he made last year. Denman will give him a good lead to the last, and the closest he will get is in the lorry to the track.
PF: Last years Gold Cup didn’t suit Kauto as they went too slow.Stamina won’t be an issue.Kicking King has no chance, Knowhere to be 3rd.
TM: Kauto Star the best since Arkle. Denman a great horse but is not in the same league.
IY: Seen some good EW bets on Halcon Genelardais in the past week or so
RP: Hopes nothing falls and brings one of them down. Going to go with the heart and go for Denman.

NAPS and LAYS
NOB: Franchoek (with a good mention for River Liane), no LAY put up
BC: Group Captain Lay: Ingles Drever
KW: Prince Erik EW Lay: Cork All Star ..When asked what horse he’d like to ride..”I am riding it”
PF: Leg Spinner (a stonewall certainty) Lay: Forpaddytheplasterer .. When asked what horse he’d like to ride…Leg Spinner
TM: Noland Lay: Mossbank & Forpaddytheplasterer
RP: Captain Cee Bee Lay: All the other Irish Novices, both Hurdlers & Chasers.. When asked what horse he’d like to ride ..Cork All Star
IY: Ingles Drever a certainty, good word for Ringaroses in the Coral

[blowfish]

A heavyweight panel of trainers comprised of Paul Nicholls (PN), David Pipe (DP), Philip Hobbs’ assistant Johnson White (JW) and the Racing Post’s West Country correspondent Andrew King (AK) with Alice Plunkett acting as the M.C.

A different format from the scores of preview evenings I’ve attended down the years (a brief discussion of the Grade 1 races before the break and a Q & A session in part 2) and also the shortest preview night I’ve ever attended as they rattled through each race in triple-quick time which, being a panel of trainers in the main is not surprising as they basically just talked about their own horses (mention of just one Irish horse all night) which is why some of the quotes are quite short.


SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

They actually missed out this race until the Q & A session from the audience got a response. Alice was half an hour late and rather flustered!

PN We run Rippling Ring and he did a very smart piece of work with Celestial Halo yesterday and Ruby Walsh will ride him. He won very nicely at Doncaster on his only start over hurdles and had the class to be third in the South African Derby on the Flat. He has got to overcome inexperience but we think plenty of him.

DP (no mention of anything as wasn’t asked a direct question and he wasn’t exactly champing at the bit to reveal all so watch out for his entries!!!!!!!!)

JW We don’t have any strong fancies for the Festival this year but we run Snap Tie and he is one of many at the meeting we think can go well at big odds.




ARKLE TROPHY

PN Noland had a few problems after his chase debut win and was sick for a fortnight. We needed to get another run into him for experience which we did at Sandown where he jumped brilliantly and he will improve enormously for that run. I think it’s an open Arkle but Ruby said he wasn’t impressed with Tidal Bay ’s jumping when he rode him at Doncaster and I’m convinced he needs further. Ring The Boss is a horse I would look at of the bigger priced horses.

DP We don’t have anything for the race and Noland will take all the beating.

JW We couldn’t have been more delighted with Ring The Boss’ chase debut when second in the Kingmaker. He did an amazing piece of work yesterday with our fastest three-year-old and has a great each-way chance.

AK It’s not the greatest of races. Noland has all the right credentials and looks a solid 3/1 favourite.



CHAMPION HURDLE

PN We have nothing this year. If Sublimity was fit and well I would go for him but the rumours are that this is not the case. Therefore I think it’s between Sizing Europe and Osana. If I trained Harchibald I would put a pair of blinkers on him.

DP We decided to miss the Kingwell with Osana as we felt it was just a little too close to the Festival. He received weight and we got a head start in the boylesports but Katchit came to us at the last flight and we went right away from him again. We were very impressed by Sizing Europe at Leopardstown but they didn’t go that quick and we know we can jump fast and fluent at Champion Hurdle pace. We handle the track and we know we go very well at two-mile speed. (the impression given was that he felt that may not be the case for Sizing Europe and they would look to try and exploit it).

JW I think Katchit can go very well off a very strong pace and can come late and go very close.

AK This seems to hinge around the Greatwood Hurdle form. Sublimity won well on decent ground last year but I think it will be softer this year as they are already watering and will continue to do so if it doesn’t rain. If it is not soft then Sublimity comes right back into it but I don’t think Katchit is good enough. Sizing Europe would be my pick but 2/1 is very short.




WILLIAM HILL TROPHY

PN We will run Ofarel D’Airy and Le Volfoni and if Mister Pointment misses Doncaster this weekend due to fast ground, it is likely he will also run and he’ll go well wherever he runs.

DP An Accordion is very talented. He is still a big baby and lightly raced so has lots of potential. The blinkers helped him concentrate with his jumping when he won at Doncaster last time out and we purposely missed the Racing Post Chase for this. Over the Creek probably wouldn’t be quick enough and if he goes anywhere it will probably be the 4m National Hunt Chase. Abragante disappointed on his last two starts but he is showing signs of coming back to his old self at home.

JW Monkerhostin would be the best hope of our entries. He is also in the Gold Cup but we will probably give Paul Nicholls a chance and run him here instead! We are also likely to run Boychuk who is a real satyer than would prefer decent ground.





CROSS COUNTRY HANDICAP CHASE

PN We plan to run Royal Auclair who may run again before the Festival and Le Duc but this will go to the Irish, most likely a J P McManus-owned horse.





FRED WINTER JUVENILE NOVICES’ HANDICAP HURDLE

PN We may run Pierre Lunaire here as he wouldn’t be good enough for the Triumph Hurdle.

DP We have six horses in mind for the Imperial Cup-Festival race bonus (not necessarily the Fred Winter although Gaspara completed the double for the stable in this race last year – when pressed which he was unsurprisingly rather shy!)




BALLYMORE PROPERTIES NOVICES’ HURDLE

PN Breedsbreeze is our number one hope and Ruby is very sweet on him (he was short and sweet!)

DP We have no runners for this race.

JW We’ll probably run County Zen who was third in the totesport Trophy last time out and Pigeon Island has franked that form. He’s a tough horse that worked well yesterday and looks very good each-way value at a big price.

AK Group Captain’s win at this course last time out was very impressive over a trip probably short of his best when beating a Henderson horse that the yard think a lot of so I think he has a massive chance.



ROYAL & SUNALLIANCE CHASE

PN We run Silverburn and Ornais. The handicapper has given Ornais 156 for his last win and has Silverburn on 142 but we know Silverburn is in a different class to Ornais. He looks as well as we’ve ever had him and has a great chance, in fact, I think he is one of our best chances of the whole meeting.

DP Speaking to Denis O’Regan last week I think there is a good chance they might step Tidal Bay up in trip and run him here but Howard Johnson’s horses are not going well right now.

JW I’m not sure we’ll have anything this year as Gold Medallist is more likely to go for the Jewson and Pancake will only run if we get soft ground.

AK I really like Albertas Run who looks just the ideal sort for this race as he had a touch of class over hurdles, stays very well and his last run was very impressive.




QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE

PN Don’t read anything into jockey bookings as it will be up to me and I would say it is very likely Ruby will ride Master Minded and Sam will ride Twist Magic as they are the horses they have won on this season at Newbury and Sandown so it makes sense it stays that way. I worked both of them together yesterday over 5f and they both went brilliantly. Master Minded has really impressed me with his improvement but I admit his jumping is a concern. As for Twist Magic, forget his Ascot run on that ground plus that is more of a stayers track than Cheltenham, and he’ll love Cheltenham. Fair play to Tamarinbleu for winning at Ascot on soft ground but I think it will be a different ball game on decent ground.

DP We haven’t decided whether Tamarinbleu runs here or the Ryanair and won’t until much nearer the day when we know the likely conditions plus what is turning up for each race as you can get late non-runners. I know Paul thinks Ascot was too soft for Twist Magic but I also think it was softer than Tamarinbleu appreciates. He’s still filling out so is still improving and has been a revelation since blinkers were fitted.

JW We run Fair Along for whom nothing went right when he was Arkle favourite last year. He wants all of two miles but gets no further and we think he has an each-way chance at a decent price.

AK I think Voy Por Ustedes has an impossible task and now wants 2m4f if not even 3m. On decent ground I would go for Twist Magic and on softish ground it would have to be Master Minded.




NATIONAL HUNT CHASE

DP (In the Q & A session I asked if Over the Creek goes here for a handicap or the SunAlliance) If Over The Creek goes anywhere it will be here. (he then looked me dead in the eye and said) And he would have a very, very, good chance.





WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER

PN The Irish will win it!

DP We’re not sure Big Eared Fran goes here yet (there have been rumours he has had problems).

JW Keki Buku would probably be our best chance of a winner at this year’s Festival. He has not run since easily winning at Uttoxeter in October beating Henrietta Knight’s good novice Calgary Bay.




WORLD HURDLE

PN We have nothing in the race but Howard Johnson’s string are not right at the moment which would be a concern for Inglis Drever. I saw My Way De Solzen in the paddock on Sunday at Fontwell and thought he looked big and well so wouldn’t be at all surprised if he ran a big race.

DP Lough Derg is an absolute superstar and even after a very hard race winning on Sunday he was kicking and bucking and as a fresh as a daisy the next day. The World Hurdle is a different story and although he should run a sound race, he has it to do. I was impressed with Kasbah Bliss at Haydock and A P being back on Wichita Lineman will help his chances.

JW We have nothing – it has to be Inglis Drever

AK I am not sure anything can beat Inglis Drever apart from himself, I’m sure he’s a monkey. I’m sure Wichita Lineman has purely been trained for his race and I hear rumours they may put headgear on him for the first time. I couldn’t rule out Lough Derg as he is game as the day is long. Wichita Lineman each-way for me.




RYANAIR CHASE

Again, this race was missed out until the Q & A session was there were limited quotes

PN I don’t think it actually looks that competitive which is why David should run Tamarinbleu here and not the Champion Chase! We run Turko who drops back in trip from 3m from when second in the Irish Hennessy and we think that will suit him.

DP Our Vic has a favourite’s chance but I do think 2m5f is a bit sharp for him around Cheltenham. Ideally 3m is his trip around here.

AK Our Vic is the one to beat




RACING POST PLATE

PN Gwanako would be our main hope. He had a nice run round the other day on his first look at British fences. (the impression was left there was plenty of improvement to come)




TRIUMPH HURDLE

PN Celestial Halo would be our main hope but Franchoek will be very hard to pass. We probably left him a bit underdone when beaten by Sentry Duty who is also probably very decent himself and he worked nicely with Rippling Ring yesterday. Five Dream would prefer it soft. I think Askkazar wants further.

DP Ashkazar was very impressive for us at Wincanton on his hurdling debut but the ground was too soft at Chepstow next time and he did it nicely at Sandown afterwards. He will be a lovely horse for the future and he is very well built for a 4yo with a real engine. Wherever he goes he will run well (suggesting the Supreme with an age allowance or the Fred Winter could yet be an option).

JW We have two possibles but Hibiki will have to win well at Ludlow to take his chance and it is more likely than not that The Grey Berry will bypass Cheltenham.

AK Franchoeck keeps improving, has got the form in the book, does not stop in front and has Cheltenham form so has everything you look for in a Triumph Hurdle horse.



GOLD CUP

PN Both Kauto Star and Denman are outstanding horses. Kauto Star has not missed any work since his scare after Ascot and will be very, very hard to beat but Denman worked well this morning and has done nothing wrong. Neptune Collonges put up his career best effort at Wincanton last time and Star De Mohaison could also run if Exotic Dancer doesn’t show up as his owner would be keen to have a runner.

DP I’d be a Kauto Star man. He’s won a Tingle Creek and Gold Cup and I would only switch to Denman if it came up bottomless.

JW Kauto Star.

AK On paper it is a match but Kauto Star is just unbelievable as he gallops, stays and has speed. I would prefer Kauto Star to Denman if it is not soft ground. I think Neptune Collonges is a flat track horse so the each-way value lies with Halcon Genelardais at 40/1 especially if it is softish ground.



FOXHUNTERS’

PN We will run two, Thisthatandtother and Lou Dun Moulin Mas. Thisthatandtother was beaten at odds of 1/8 last time out but he returned home with loads of problems and was lame. The big doubt is whether he will stay as he has never won beyond 2m5f and it is touch and go whether he will run.



GRAND ANNUAL

PN Andreas will almost certainly try and win this race for a second year running rather than take up his Champion Chase entry.



DAVID NICHOLSON MARES ONLY HURDLE

DP We run Gaspara who won at the Festival last year and all is going well with her preparation.

[blowfish]

The panel consisted of:

Ruby Walsh (RW)
Timmy Murphy (TW)
Connor O’Dwyer (CD)
Mick Fitzgerald (MF)
Brendan Powell (BP)
Pat Keane (PK)
Paul Cashman (PC)
MC- Des Scargill (DS)

Before each race the room was shown a DVD of the leading contenders and then the panel followed on with their comments.

SUPREME NOVICES:

DS: Quite a number of leading fancies here with Captain Cee Bee the market leader…

CD: He’s a good horse but it’s a very open race, unlike previous years. Captain Cee Bee is my main fancy as Cork All Star’s jumping is not good enough

RW: Sentry Duty was very impressive at Doncaster but Deep Purple would be my main e/w fancy as I was impressed with him behind Breedsbreeze at Sandown in the Tolworth.

TM: I agree it’s an open year but Pigeon Island has really caught my eye and he’s impressed me. I’m not totally convinced by Deep Purple’s jumping and he’s had a long season.

BP: Deep Purple has done nothing wrong and it was the ground that beat him at Sandown. He’s a tough horse and looks to be improving. He’ll love the quick ground at Cheltenham. I was there today and they’ve watered again with the Cross Country course currently good to firm!

PK: I don’t fancy Captain Cee Bee at all, he won an easy race last time out. The one I’d be most interested in is Sentry Duty so it would be interesting to see what Mick makes of him…?

DS: So Mick, Sentry Duty or Khyber Kym?

MF: I’m undecided over which one to ride yet and both were schooled this morning. Khyber felt good at Newbury when winning and on that run I’d fancy him to win the race but he perhaps needs a bit of cut which looks unlikely. Sentry was equally as impressive at Donny when beating Celestial Halo and I’d fancy C’ Halo to go close in the Triumph Hurdle based upon that. Sentry Duty has taken time to get over being gelded and it’s taken him a good six months to find himself but he feels good now.

PC: We went 25/1 on Fiveforthree but were knocked over so he’s interesting but I’m not sure that bumper horses have a good record in this contest.


ARKLE:

DS: What about Noland then Ruby…?

RW: For me his Sandown win was more impressive than his debut success. Leslingtaylor is a flat track horse while Clopf and Scotsirish look the best of the Irish. In truth though I can’t see Noland getting beat. This race will suit more than the Supreme Novices he won as it has 12 fences compared to 8 hurdles and his jumping will find the others out.

TM: I’m struggling to find something to beat Noland. I agree with Ruby about Leslingtaylor but he looks the value.

BP: The race will suit Noland and Kruguyrova is the e/w value.

MF: Traffic problems are the only thing that will beat Noland because he doesn’t pick up very quick. However if he’s on the heels of the leaders turning for home then he wins. I don’t think he’s value though! Tidal Bay ’s jumping is a problem as for me he’s the best horse in the race.

CD: Clopf is the best Irish horse but there’s nothing to beat Noland.

PK: Noland the choice in a weak race.

PC: It’s been a confused market with Afsoun the early favourite and Noland entering the scene late, there’s been plenty of support behind the latter though.


CHAMPION HURDLE:

TM: I was surprised with Sizing Europe at Leopardstown and he’s apparently improved by around 20lbs based upon that run but his jumping worries me.

BP: Very impressed with Punjabi in the Totesport Trophy and he can run into a place. Sizing Europe is the one to beat and I’m not sure Osana is good enough.

MF: Punjabi will get better but he has too much to find. Afsoun, if he can relax, has a cracking e/w chance. I don’t think Sizing Europe jumps well enough.

RW: I didn’t think Sizing Europe was a Champion Hurdle winner when I rode him but by the looks of it it’s between him and Osana. Harchibald is the e/w bet.

CD: It’s a worry that Sublimity has only been out once this season but I couldn’t have him on my mind anyway. Osana will set it up for Sizing Europe.

PK: Sizing is no price now and he must drift on the day as he’s no 2/1 shot.

PC: I’ll be laying both Harchibald and Sizing Europe.


BALLYMORE PROPERTIES HURDLE:

MF: Aigle D’Or has a leading chance but sadly AP (McCoy) will get the ride! He’s a very decent horse and the one to beat as he’s been trained for the last 6 months especially for this.

CD: This looks a good race. Forpadydeplasterer has done nothing wrong but Whatuthink is the choice. He has a massive e/w chance.

TM: Aigle D’Or won well at Lingfield off a good gallop and then improved to win at Cheltenham, he looks to have all the attributes.

RW: In my view this is weaker than the Supreme Novices and if Deep Purple runs well there then Breedsbreeze wins this. Or at least goes very close!

BP: I’m a big fan of Group Captain and I think the better the race, the better the horse. County Zen is interesting e/w if taking his chance.

PK: I haven’t got a strong view but I agree with Connor on Whatuthink.

PC: Group Captain is my idea of the winner.

For the latest prices click here

SUNALLIANCE CHASE:

DS: Albertas Run Ruby…?

RW: The English horses keep beating each other and for me that makes the form unreliable. Pomme Tiepy is the e/w value.

MF: I wasn’t impressed by Silverburn when he last won. Joe Lively will enjoy himself back at Cheltenham and Albertas Run has form at the track. It’s wide open for me.

TM: I like Air Force One. I thought Ruby won the race on Albertas Run at Ascot by giving him a cracking ride so I wouldn’t be too bothered by Air Force One’s defeat there.

CD: I’m disappointed by a weak Irish challenge. Pomme Tiepy has got plenty in her favour while of the British runners I’d be most interested in Silverburn.



CHAMPION CHASE:

RW: Regardless of what ‘Choc’ and Alan King say I can’t see Voy Por reversing form with either Master Minded or Twist Magic. Fair Along is the value.

TM: ……I don’t know!

PC: Voy Por is friendless at the moment.

BP: Voy Por is the one to beat on the day, although Master Minded looks good! Twist Magic needs to improve.

MF: Voy Por needs to be lit up returning to Cheltenham and Twist Magic could find the race run to suit. Master Minded guesses too much at his fences for me.

CD: Voy Por knows what it takes and he’s my choice. He’ll be value as well.

PK: Ruby must ride Master Minded, I’d be amazed if he didn’t as it’s a match between him and Voy Por.


CHAMPION BUMPER:

MF: Gold Award will definitely run. He’s a flat bred horse, big, tall, athletic and light on his feet. He could be the best of the British and goes there with a chance.

PK: Zaarito is a justifiable favourite but he’s no price. It’s impossible to solve!

TM: Gold Award looks one of the better ones and Apt Approach was impressive in his win.

BP: Gold Award was impressive at Ascot. Kingston Lane maybe for Carl Llewellyn. Cousin Vinny maybe for Willie Mullins.

RW: Don’t back what I ride! Zaarito has looked good so far. Cousin Vinny is a good work horse and while Gold Award has looked good I can see him getting out stayed in the final furlong. I have no idea what I’m riding yet.

PC: Zaarito has been backed from 33s down to his current 3/1. Lillywhite Dancer is a big loser in my book while Cousin Vinny is the value at 12/1. Apparently!

WORLD HURDLE:

DS: Will / can Inglis Drever do it again?

MF: Stable form is the worry. If he’s missed the virus then he’s a 1/2 shot. Blazing Bailey was a good winner last time out and can be the one to profit if the favourite doesn’t perform.

PK: I’ve got to side step Inglis with the stable under a cloud. Kasbah Bliss? No. Hardy Eustace? No. Blazing Bailey? Yes.

CD: If Inglis is right then he’s a certainty. My Way De Solzen is not the horse he was. Hardy Eustace has a big e/w chance in an open year behind the favourite, although the trip is a concern. I think the blinkers may be left off.

RW: I’d leave the blinkers on! Wichita Lineman needs a mention here but if Inglis is 100% then he’s a good thing.

TM: I like My Way De Solzen but Inglis Drever has managed to miss the bad form in the stable before and he’s the one.

BP: Inglis is the one and Kasbah has improved recently. My Way De Solzen ran well enough at Fontwell last time out and I wouldn’t be surprise to see a pair of blinkers on him for this. I think he’d be a very close second behind the current favourite.

PC: I hope Inglis wins as the horse deserves it. It’s a one horse market.


TRIUMPH HURDLE:

DS: Franchoek leads the market at a short looking 2/1…

TM: I think he’s been crying out for this sort of race, strong gallop and the hustle and bustle of it all. Ashkazar was impressive first time out but disappointed us at Chepstow. He bounced back at Sandown like the horse we think he is.

MF: There’s been no decision yet over Binocular. I was disappointed with him at Kempton recently as he’s better than that. He has a big chance and he’s definitely good enough.

CD: Won in the Dark is solid and tough and jumps well and has an obvious chance. Ashkazar is interesting if lining up and I reckon the race will be run to suit Franchoek so he’ll take the beating, although he’s too short.

PK: Franchoek is bombproof! Simple as that!

RW: I was disappointed with Celestial Halo at Doncaster, a bit like Binocluar at Kempton like Mick says. Franchoek has the right attitude to win and this is an English win as the Irish keep beating each other.


GOLD CUP:

RW: I expect Kauto Star to prove he’s the horse I think he is. Halcon Genelardis produced an amazing performance in the Welsh National and he has a big e/w chance off the back of that, this is not a two horse race.

DS: Are you happy with Kauto after his recent ‘scare’?

RW: Kauto is 100%. No problem.

PK: I’m surprised Denman is so close to Kauto in the betting. Kauto won the King George in a canter, a real explosive performance. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Ruby win this easily.

CD: Halcon Genelardis is interesting against the big two. I’m a Kauto fan between him and Denman and I agree with Pat that I can’t really understand why they’re so close in the betting. Kauto is a star.

BP: For the Irish, Kicking King has too much to do after his layoff. Kauto is the finished article. Denman is smashing, a real Grand National horse. I can see Paul Nicholls training the first three home here as Neptune Collonges is the e/w value.

TM: Kauto is tough to beat has he has speed and stamina and has seemingly no chinks in his armour. Denman is improving but needs to and barring mishaps, Kauto wins.

MF: I thought Ruby would have been overjoyed when Sam Thomas came out and said he’d make the running on Denman as the faster they go the better it will be for Kauto. He’s a fluent jumper at pace and they will set this up for the Champ.

PC: During the last week the pro-punters have been out in force getting the e/w value. Knowhere, Neptune Collonges and Halcon Genelardis have been the ones responsible. For what it’s worth I hope Kauto wins.



NAP of the Meeting / Charity Bets

PK: River Liane (Fred Winter) NAP & Franchoek (Triumph)
RW: Tony McCoy top jockey NAP & Pomme Tiepy (RSA)
TM: Franchoek (Triumph) NAP & The Package
DS: What race does The Package run in Timmy?
TM: I don’t know yet!
BP: Noland (Arkle) NAP & Junior (Coral Cup)
PC: Kauto Star (Gold Cup) NAP & Group Captain (Ballymore)
CD: Leg Spinner (Coral Cup) NAP & Whatuthink e/w (Ballymore)
DS: Khyber Kym e/w (Supreme Novices) & River Liane (Fred Winter)

[blowfish]

The panel comprised of Tony Dobbin (TD), jockey’s agent Richard Hale (RH) who looks after many of the top northern jockeys, Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author Paul Jones (PJ), and John Budden (JB) a leading northern-based journalist and broadcaster. Gordon Brown (GB) acted as master of ceremonies. And it was bloody cold outside and the racecourse were very good in putting me up for the night in the stable lad’s hostel which has a rather peculiar aroma of horse which I am glad to say has transferred onto my fresh clothes for today so, anyone attending the preview night I am attending in Oxfordshire tonight, my apologies in advance!!


SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

TD The word is that Rippling Ring is bouncing so I would go along with him. I don’t think last year’s Champion Bumper was that good so would be against Cork All Star and Fiveforthree but Deep Purple is overpriced on his Tolworth run on ground that did not suit him.

RH I can’t see how Khyber Kim is an 8/1 shot on his last run at all. Muirhead has the right type of profile for the race and the yard are back in form so he would be my choice.

PJ I don’t think the Irish horses are that great to be honest and all their leading players are ex-bumper horses and if the ground isn’t too slow through watering I expect the pacier ex-Flat horses from Britain to have too much speed. The lighter raced your fancy the better and Rippling Ring would be my main fancy but I wouldn’t rule Blue Bajan making the frame at a big price. The strong word is that Khyber Kim is very much the Henderson number one over Sentry Duty.

JB Khyber Kim cost me a lot of money on the Flat and I think he may well want flat tracks especially given his fragile nature. I have time for Rippling Ring but Murihead appeals most and he obeys the statistics for this race so he would be my pick.


ARKLE TROPHY

TD I couldn’t have Tidal Bay whichever race he goes for given his jumping and especially the Arkle given the speed they will go. Noland looks more like a three-miler to me and think something will have more toe and I couldn’t have Mahogany Blaze as he has run 500 times already this season so we could have an upset. Leslingtaylor is good each-way value at 14/1 and may even win.

RH I spoke with Denis O’Regan who schooled Tidal Bay yesterday with a noseband and he said his jumping was electric so don’t be surprised if he wore a noseband on Tuesday which will help lower his head carriage so he can concentrate on his fences better. I think he may have won at last year’s Festival if his jockey pulled his whip through earlier and he is a good bet at 8/1. I wouldn’t be worried about the form of the yard as they had four horses run well today and think Denis will get on better with him than Ruby.

PJ Gun to the head and it would be Noland but I don’t think he’s especially great value though I accept it is a poor year. I thought Clopf jumped very well until he overjumped the last fence last time and that form has been franked and I like his chances if the ground isn’t too soggy. Classy hurdlers have a good record in this which is also in his favour. If it is softish, I still have a healthy respect for Moon Over Miami who burst last time but is 2-2 on the track and on both occasions had cut and a fast pace which looks a likely scenario here. Of the leading fancies I can’t have Mahogany Blaze.

JB Tidal Bay runs the track well and stays much further than 2m which is always a big plus for the Arkle so would be my pick if this is the aim. If not, then Noland is the one to beat and Leslingtaylor the each-way value.

GB I interviewed John Quinn this morning and he is very bullish about Leslingtatylor’s chances. He says the faster they go the more he will love it and you never get moderately run Arkles.


CHAMPION HURDLE

TD Sublimity ran terribly on his only start this season and why have they not run him since? Clearly he has had problems. Osana is a good handicapper and wouldn’t win as long as I have a hole in my ****! I couldn’t have Harchibald but think Straw Bear offers some each-way value. Sizing Europe is a certainty and will win it next year as well.

RH Sizing Europe is potentially another Istabraq and only an accident can stop him being beaten or if Osana gets another soft lead.

PJ Sizing Europe is my banker of the meeting and I say that holding a voucher at a huge price for Osana. I can’t see past the pair so will be having a big bet on the favourite who is the form horse of the race with the potential to get better still and meets all the strong trends right on the nose. Ebaziyan would be one for each-way purposes if the race time for the opener tells us it is not far off Good ground.

JB It has to be Sizing Europe who is also my Festival banker but if the ground is quicker than we expect after the watering Blythe Knight could be a touch of value and he did beat Osana in the spring last year and this his time of the year. Ebaziyan would be my other longshot to look at for each-way purposes.


TUESDAY SHOULDER RACES

PJ I backed An Accordion at first show for the William Hill Trophy as I genuinely believe he could be Gold Cup class next season and races off 142 here so think he is still very well in if I am right in that assertion. He has so much potential being so lightly-raced if he can put in a solid round of jumping which is the concern. Wonderkid and Garde Champetre stand out for me in the cross country and I’ve backed both at double their current odds and am confident of collecting through one or the other and I expect Prince Erik to be well supported in the Fred Winter.

JB I was big on New Alco for the William Hill Chase last season but he disappointed so will be looking to get my money back on him again.


BALLYMORE PROPERTIES NOVICES’ HURDLE

TD Aigle D’Or looked to make hard work of it last time at Cheltenham so I prefer Breedsbreeze who will relish stepping up in trip and I think he will also appreciate the better ground than at Sandown.

RH No strong view.

PJ I feel Aigle D’Or lacks the experience and I prefer jumps-bred horses for this race so much prefer Forpadydeplasterer who won what is traditionally the best novice guide when taking the Deloitte. Group Captain is the danger but Venalmar should not be dismissed for each-way purposes at a decent price. Trafford Lad is running in the wrong race as surely he’s a three miler.

JB Nicky Henderson appears to have his best ever crop of novice hurdlers and Aigle D’Or is one of the very best of those and the form of his last win was franked when the second won the Sidney Banks at Huntingdon. However, my choice is Group Captain providing the ground isn’t too fast. He won the same race at Exeter that My Way De Solzen and Noland both won.


ROYAL & SUNALLIANCE CHASE

TD Albertas Run has not been impressive enough to warrant being favourite. Starzaan could run well, I liked him when I rode him at Wincanton. I think Silverburn is the one to beat as he jumps well and Cheltenham will suit him much better than Sandown did last time when he still won well despite lugging and jumping slightly to his left.

RH I’m quite keen on Air Force One who Charlie Mann thinks is the best horse he’s ever had. If Albertas Run is favourite, it must be an average event.

PJ Like the Arkle, this also looks a poor renewal. I am in a bit of a quandary here as I backed Albertas Run before he won the Reynoldstown and winners of that race have a shocking record. For once I hope that stats are wrong! It wouldn’t surprise me if Air Force One turned around the form but I don’t like six-year-olds for this race.

JB Tidal Bay if he runs but, if not, then Silverburn to win and I think Air Force One can reverse Reynoldstown placings with Albertas Run.


QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE

TD Twist Magic was just too disappointing last time and I don’t think Tamarinbleu is quite good enough. Master Minded travels really well so he’s the one for me but Richard Johnson told me straight after the Ascot Chase that he thinks Fair Along will run a big race in the Champion Chase given the pace he showed for two miles that day.

RH The top three in the betting have all been favourite at some stage this season. If Tamarinbleu runs here as well as Fair Along, they are going to go one hell of a gallop which will suit Voy Por Ustedes who also comes alive at Cheltenham.

PJ I really hope they take the bull by the horns and run Tamarinbleu here over the Ryanair Chase. Unlike Twist Magic we know he will get up the hill, unlike Master Minded we know he has no question marks surrounding his jumping and, unlike Voy Por Ustedes, we know he is in the form of his life. I just wonder whether Master Minded’s jumping may go to pot at a ferocious pace on an undulating track.

JB I am against Twist Magic. Cheltenham in the spring is when Voy Por Ustedes really comes to life so am in his camp but believe Fair Along represents each-way value dropping back to two miles.


WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER

TD Willie Mullins might win it every other year but I think the Coolmore cast-off Big Eared Fran who McCoy made a lot of money selling on should be not be forgotten. By the way, how the Flat jockeys can get a licence just to ride in this one race is a disgrace in my opinion.

RH This is one of the roughest races in the Racing Calendar and if you want to ruin a good horse then run it here. No opinion.

PJ This is usually won by an Irish-trained, five-year-old that won that last time out in the first dozen in the betting which brings in Apt Approach and Corskeagh Royale. I prefer the latter at the prices.

JB Big Eared Fran at a real push.


WEDNESDAY SHOULDER RACES

RH Ringaroses is my banker of the meeting for the Coral Cup. He ran a hugely encouraging second on his only start this season and Henrietta Knight told me she expects him to improve plenty for that run. The form of the race has already been franked by the winner.

PJ Ornais should whoop them in the NH Chase if the handicapper is right rating him 156 but that’s a nonsense rating and he could go for the SunAlliance anyway. I hope so as I’ve backed Over the Creek who has solid staying handicap chase form at track and looks an ideal type for his race but I couldn’t resist Old Benny each-way either as he looks an out-and-out stayer in the making. No strong view on the Coral Cup except Naiad Du Misselot would be interesting if enough horses come out to get him in the race.


RYANAIR CHASE

TD L’Antartique loves it here and if they need a jockey to replace Graham Lee then I’m free! The Listener can’t win as 2m5f will be too sharp for him on usual Festival ground. No strong view on the likely winner.

RH Graham Lee (for whom he is his agent) won’t be back for the Festival, maybe Easter Saturday but that could also be a push which means L’Antartique won’t have his usual jockey. On his best form Our Vic is the one but he is too in and out for me. If Tamarinbleu and The Listener run it will be a fast pace and that will suit L’Antartique who wants a very strong gallop as he loves passing horses. Forgte his Game Spirit run as that was only a prep over an inadequate trip and he didn’t stay 3m in Ireland.

PJ Our Vic has been beaten three times in this race so I can’t touch him, I can’t believe The Listener will have his ground and I am not convinced Mossbank puts it all in so I am most interested in L’Antartique and Turko. The latter looks the best value for a yard that have won two of the three runnings to date and there is nothing wrong with his Irish Hennessy second over 3m and he is probably better over a shorter trip. I think this a rapidly improving and under-rated horse.

JB The fact Graham Lee will not ride L’Antartique worries me significantly as he is brilliant on him and he looks like a horse that needs knowing well. Mossbank has been primed for this and the trip will be perfect so he is the one to beat.



WORLD HURDLE

TD I really hope Inglis Drever wins as he is one of my favourite horses but his flat spot did seem longer than ever last time but he still came out on top. I can’t get away from him.

RH If Inglis Drever turns up in top form they won’t get near him. He is a good 8lbs clear of these and comes up the hill like a two-miler. Looking for an each-way alternative then I would look at Hardy Eustace who I think has been running over the wrong trip all his life which may sound odd given he has won two Champion Hurdles but I am convinced he is better over further.

PJ The only horses I can see with the potential to put up a figure commensurate with that of Inglis Drever is Kasbah Bliss who is only six, the highest rated hurdler in France and still improving and was very impressive in the Rendlesham when I dare say Doumen had left him short like he always did with Baracouda in his final prep-race. The Market Man interests me most of those at double figure prices.

JB I was against Inglis Drever in the Cleeve Hurdle as I suspected Howard Johnson would leave him short of his best with the Festival his main aim so for him to win so well makes him very hard here and the current 6/4 is a very decent price. The Market Man is of each-way interest and reports from Lambourn have been very encouraging.


THURSDAY SHOULDER RACES

TD Gunner Jack will represent the stable in the Pertemps Final after his second in the Haydock qualifier last month but he has had a lot of problems which he is so lightly raced so he may lack the experience needed for a race like this.

RH I know Donald McCain has been aiming Ice Tea at the National Hunt Chase all season so don’t be surprised to see him run a big race. He goes for the Scottish National afterwards.

PJ I really, really like Mr Strachan who has gone under the radar somewhat for the Jewson. His form is terrific when you back through it and he didn’t stay 3m last time. My Immortal would be my fancy for the Kim Muir now it appears my original fancy Hordago won’t get in but Parson’s Legacy has placed for the last two years and looks each-way value to me. The price has gone about Robin Du Bois but I respect him even though he is a five-year-old for the Pertemps Final. Don’t Push It is too short for the Racing Post Plate and it wouldn’t surprise me to see Crozan return to form if this is the plan having had a wind operation especially as he was leading 4 out when falling in last season’s Ryanair and the yard have won two of the last three runnings.

JB Don’t Push It will take plenty of beating in the Racing Post Plate.

GB Wild Cane Ridge will be Lenny Lungo’s only runner at the Festival and he tackles the Pertemps Final which he won with Freetown and then he’ll be aimed at the Scottish National.



TRIUMPH HURDLE

TD Franchoek keeps on improving but I thought it was interesting Nicky Henderson said he would improve a lot from his run at Kempton. Franchoek would be the pick though.

RH This is no longer a lottery and Franchoek has track form, the best form and jumps very well.

PJ Franchoek will outstay Binocular who scraped home at Kempton and was only a 10f horse on the Flat and the last ten winners were 12f+ horses on the level. Celestial Halo and Ashkazar are more of a threat but I am firmly in the Franchoek camp though it too me a while to really warm to him.

JB A full house I’m afraid as I also think Franchoek will win. In fact I thought he was perfect for this after I saw him win at Goodwood in the summer. The great thing about him is his jumping which is super fast. Ashkazar is the danger if he goes here.



ALBERT BARTLETT SPA HURDLE

TD Nicky Richards runs Middleton Dene and I think this our best chance of the week. He ran really well when a close-up fourth in the Sidney Banks on his first run since October when he blew up but was still only beaten 2l giving weight away to two of the three ahead of us. We are sure he will improve for the step up to 3m, he won at the course earlier in the season and he works the place down at home. We have trained him for this since October.

RH Tazbar would have won but they are bypassing the race. I think he is a potential Gold Cup horse for the future. No view.

PJ I am against the front two in the betting, Gone To Lunch and Carruthers, as I think the former was flattered in the Cleeve Hurdle as can be the case when novices take on Grade 1 horses like Lounaos last year and it will be so hard for the latter to make all over 3m on the New Course. Two bigger priced horses I am looking at are Nenuphar Collonges and Siegemaster.

JB Middleton Dene is terrific each-way value at around 25/1.


GOLD CUP

TD If you ran Denman in the Tingle Creek, how far would he beat? Kauto Star is the best horse I’ve ever ridden against and although he was brilliant in the King George, he will be even better at Cheltenham as he was lugging left and jumping slightly left at Kempton. He’ll cruise round in second gear and pick Denman off. Denman could ideally do with a lead for the first circuit before kicking on.

RH There is still a doubt concerning Kauto Star’s stamina as they went no pace in last season’s Gold Cup and Thomas is sure to test his stamina this time around on Denman. I think he might just outstay him.

PJ Kauto Star has acceleration and Denman doesn’t and that will be difference between them when Ruby pushes the button. Neptune Collonges to finish third in a betting without the front two book appeals as he is only seven and still improving, providing they don’t try and win it from the front, if that is the case, then Knowhere to run through beaten horses to grab third. Kicking King hasn’t got a prayer.

JB Halcon Genelardais is the each-way value with his Welsh National second off top weight working out well and I felt he would have won with a cleaner jump at the last fence at Chepstow.


FRIDAY SHOULDER RACES
TD Premier Dane was third last year in the County at a big price and could run well again.

RH No View.

PJ The ground may be too quick for Agus A Vic in the Foxhunters’ so my two against the favourite would be Man From Highworth and Bon Accord who are two up-and-coming pointer/hunters and it usually pays to stay with those in this race. My Petra appeals most for the Grand Annual now Kranji is out. I’msingingtheblues interests me for the County after his peculiar front running ride last time for a hold-up horse and the stable have a good record in this race as do novices. Theatre Girl and Gaspara have been my two against the field for the mares race for a good while now.

JB I know Ferdy Murphy has had this race in mind for a long time for Folk Tune, it is just a matter of whether he gets in the race. Theatre Girl is my idea of the winner of the Mares Only race.

[blowfish]

In a change to the original schedule, we are reporting back from the preview evening at the Shepherd’s Crook pub in Crowell near Kingston Blount point-to-point course rather than Prestbury the night before the Festival though I will still be in attendance for the Prestbury event as there is just not enough time to provide a full copy with me being at the Festival the next morning for other functions.

Now, this was a proper old-style preview evening like when they first came onto the scene in a cosy room in a pub with a clued-up audience no one more than 30 feet from the stage that has better known as the ‘Steve The Fish’ preview for many years. The panel was made up of Andrew Thornton (AT), the Racing Post Weekender’s Andrew Barr (AB) whose ‘Mark Your Card’ column has been in existence for many years and ATR presenter, commentator and point-to-point expert Mark Johnson (MJ) chaired the evening giving his own views. Disappointingly, after being advertised as a panellist for this event for a good fortnight David Duggan gibbed out at late notice preferring a black-tie affair in London for corporate types (my idea of hell) which meant yours truly was drafted in when I turned up having just driven six hours from Carlisle. However, as I gave my views the previous day reporting back from the Carlisle evening I will not bore you with those again. We racing journalists are known to change our mind regularly but not in 24 hours!


SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT Pigeon Island will be fresh as he has had 17 days off! That is probably his longest ever rest but the way he won at Kempton just made me think that may have been his Cheltenham. Cork All Star has not had his preferred good ground for his last three starts when beaten each time but I think we’ll see a different horse if he gets his ground here. He is unbeaten at the track in two starts and looks the each-way horse of the race.

AB They can’t explain why Khyber Kim flopped at Newbury but the stable seem really keen on him. I’ve been keen on Sentry Duty for a long time but Nicholls feels he left Celestial Halo short before Sentry Duty so maybe that form is not as strong as I first thought. I would be with British horses over the Irish as they are classy Flat types whereas the leading Irish horses are ex bumper horses.

MJ No strong opinion but I do think Deep Purple could sneak into a place and has the necessary quickening ability if good enough.


ARKLE TROPHY

AT I just don’t think Tidal Bay and Ruby Walsh got on together at Doncaster. Riding all these Nicholls horses, Ruby is used to sitting quietly but had to force the issue somewhat here and they just didn’t gel together so I think Denis O’Regan coming back to ride him will be a plus. I would worry about the trip though as just one of his seven wins has been over two miles and would love to see him in the SunAlliance. Noland jumped very slickly at Sandown and if he wins then My Petra has a great chance off 10st 3lbs in the Grand Annual. I think Noland’s price has more to do with his yard than his form. I like Kruguyrova who was a classy hurdler and having the inside rail will really suit her unlike at Newbury when she was beaten where it falls away. At 20/1 she is great each-way value.

AB Regards Tidal Bay, I think we need to see a few more of Howard Johnson’s horses run before we can make a judgement about the form of the yard which, to be frank, I don’t think is as bad as people are making out anyway. I just think his jumping is too much of a risk. I’m not sure Clopf will stay so will go for Noland as he sets the standard and is much better than he showed at Sandown as he had to recover from a bug after his first run so there is plenty of improvement to come.

MJ I really like Kruguyrova at a big price. She is a stats horse being a five-year-old French-bred and although 5yos no longer get an allowance, she does receive a 7lbs mares’ allowance.


CHAMPION HURDLE

AT There are a lot of very negative vibes about Sublimity. Connections say they are happy but 5/1 looks very short to me given the bad vibes. Sizing Europe also looks very short at 2/1 for such a flamboyant jumper and I am a little sceptical he is as good as everyone seems to think so prefer Osana who may get another easy lead like Hardy Eustace did twice in this race. Katchit is becoming a forgotten horse and makes each-way appeal but I don’t think Harchibald is as good as he was. Osana to beat Katchit.

AB I can’t see Katchit being good enough on his Fighting Fifth and Bula defeats but he is a good guide to the form and should be in the first four. Osana did get the run of the race last time and I can’t see his rivals being so generous this time. The two best pieces of form are Sizing Europe in the AIG and Harchibald in the Fighting Fifth so make it between the pair and prefer the favourite though he is not much value.

MJ I chaired a panel last night that included Nick Gifford and he is no more hopeful that Straw Bear can run into a place.



TUESDAY SHOULDER RACES

AT They will run Miko De Beauchene in either the William Hill Chase, Pertemps Final or Midlands National and I hope it is the latter as he thrives on stamina but isn’t slow either. My feeling is they will bypass Cheltenham. In the Fred Winter, I have schooled Metaphoric and he was very careful which is a worry but he does appear to be learning judging on his last run and may have got in lightly.

AB I bumped into David Pipe the same day An Accordion won at Doncaster and suggested he won with pounds in hand and wanted to include him in my ‘Mark Your Card’ copy for the Weekender but he I asked that I didn’t as he felt the same way! He went on to say it has taken a long time for the penny to drop but he came good in a big way last time. I make him banker of the meeting for the William Hill Trophy.

MJ For the Fred Winter I fancy Crack Away Jack. Sometimes when you call a race as I did for his last win at Sandown you know it’s a good race as you quicken up your voice to match the speed of the horses and the jump he put in at the last was spectacular indicating there is so much more to come.


BALLYMORE PROPERTIES NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT The better Group Captain goes the better he is and I make him my Festival banker. The way he quickened up at Exeter last time was fantastic over a trip short of ideal. He is professional and tough and has got better with every hurdles start but may prefer a bit more cut in the ground than he would like.

AB We roughly know where Aigle D’Or is and I am not sure he is quite good enough so I also prefer Group Captain who looks better with each start and the form of his latest win at Exeter has been franked twice.

MJ Group Captain is also my Festival banker and Alan King put him up as his best bet of the meeting of his string last week as well.


ROYAL & SUNALLIANCE CHASE

AT Oscar Park looked to have learned a lot jumping-wise at Fontwell last time and that’s a great track to teach a novice as they go left and right and up and down, in fact, Star De Mohaison won there before he won the SunAlliance. He is overpriced. I think Joe Lively is also overpriced and will leave his Reynoldstown running behind as he is a stone better going left-handed so how he won the Feltham I’ll never know. I suggest you split stakes and back Oscar Park and Joe Lively.

AB Albertas Run can’t jump any better than he did at Ascot when Ruby rode him so I have to say it is a negative that A P will be riding. Air Force One is not the superstar many hoped on his Reynoldstown second so I fancy Oscar Park who would be half his price if trained by one of the top trainers. He has winning form at the Festival though his jumping is a slight concern.

MJ Albertas Run was visually impressive at Ascot so I take him to carry on his progression.


CHAMPION CHASE

AT Given the choice I would ride Master Minded as he is improving form-wise and physically at such a rate of knots. The way Nicholls talks about him and the look in his eye suggests to me he thinks he is the better of the pair. I think Twist Magic is a flat track horse. Yes, he won at Sandown but it is basically flat along the back straight and, remember, he fell on an undulating track in last year’s Arkle. I don’t think stamina beat him at Ascot, I think he was just wrong as Ruby was changing his hands coming out of the back straight on him which is too far out for stamina to have been an issue. I know Nicholls says he will decide who rides who but if Ruby really wanted to ride Twist Magic then he would ride Twist Magic.

AB When I was punditing for Racing UK, Nicholls told me off camera that Master Minded is doing exactly what Azertyuiop was doing and will be as good if not better in time. I think he will start favourite on the day, probably even under 2/1 so he looks value to me now. Twist Magic is brilliant on his day but he may have had a problem at Ascot and the feeling I get is that Master Minded is their number one.

MJ Mansony could plug on a place through beaten horses but this is more of a race to enjoy than get stuck into.


WEDNESDAY SHOULDER RACES

AT Zaarito looked very professional when scoring under a double penalty last time and would be my pick for the Bumper. As for the Coral Cup, if Tony Martin says that Leg Spinner has not slept or eaten for a week, then lump on.

AB I saw Apt Approach (Bumper) gallop after racing at Leopardstown on Sunday and he is a most striking individual but he did look very keen as well which would concern me a little.

MJ No views.


RYANAIR CHASE

AT The Listener runs here rather than the Gold Cup. I actually think the track is more of a worry than the ground though I admit the ground is also a concern. I know he has won big races around Leopardstown but he has been given such easy leads over there and that is not going to happen here plus he loves flat tracks. When I rode him in novice races he jumped to his right. His best races as a novice were on right-handed tracks and he was very impressive at Punchestown this season which is right-handed so I think the track will be against him. Our Vic would be my fancy. He was second in the King George and 3m at Kempton is basically the equivalent to 2m5f at Cheltenham. If he runs as well as when second in this race to Taranis last year I think he will win as last year’s winner is a very good horse.

AB Our Vic was taken off his feet a bit before running on to be second last year but he does not have a Grade 1 penalty to worry about this year. I fancy Tamarinbleu if he runs here.

MJ I am big L’Antartique fan for this. This is developing into a serious stats race already and I feel you want to come out of one of the big 2m5f Cheltenham handicaps like he has. The fact Graham Lee is not on board is a worry and I rate Turko a big danger.



WORLD HURDLE

AT I would like to see Hardy Eustace ridden as if there are no worries about the trip but do have a slight worry he may not get up the hill. Lough Derg is huge at 20/1. He beat My Way De Solzen last time but is twice his odds. My feeling is that Robert Thornton will ride My Way De Solzen over Blazing Bailey out of loyalty as he has won two races at the Festival for him so is a big occasion player. We also pretty much know where Blazing Bailey stands on form which is a few pounds below what is needed. Inglis Drever would be odds-on if there were no worries about the form of the yard but knowing Howard Johnson he has probably had him in isolation for the last six weeks anyway. Inglis Drever has overcome poor bouts of stable form before.

AB Inglis Drever for me. Much the best horse and I don’t actually think the yard are going that badly.

MJ I just wonder if at the age of nine Inglis Drever is as good as ever. I think we forget just how good Francois Doumen is at preparing a horse for a big race and Kasbah Bliss has been trained specifically for this race. I think he could easily win this year and do a Baracouda and follow up 12 months later


THURSDAY SHOULDER RACES

AT Gwanako is interesting for the Racing Post Plate as I think he is capable of running far better than he did at Kempton last time when I finished behind him.

AB Don’t Push It is the buzz horse for the Racing Post Plate but Crozan is interesting if he runs here following a wind operation. Ambobo has been well tipped up recently for the Jewson and looks a bit of a plot horse to me having had just the three chase starts.

MJ Ambobo won’t get round, he’ll perform a triple salchow as he has been taking out the middle bar in his races in Ireland. I quite like King Louis for the Jewson at a big price for the Rowe yard that supplied the third last year. He won well with a serious weight last time.



TRIUMPH HURDLE

AB Franchoek is a real stayer but must have juice in the ground to show his best and his defeat here in December was on good ground. I know Robert Thornton thinks that. If it is good to soft then fine but if it is good ground then Celestial Halo can outspeed him and it wasn’t a bad run behind older horses last time.

AT Franchoek was not that good on the Flat but he is so gritty over hurdles and was awesome last time.

MJ If it is on the soft side Franchoek will outstay everything. However, the New Course seems to drain faster than the Old Course so I fancy Ashkazar who is streets ahead of these on Flat ability if it comes up good ground. He has a high cruising speed and will take a hell of a lot of beating on decent ground. I just hope he doesn’t run in the Imperial Cup


ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE

AT I am a Carruthers fan. He stays forever and although he beat nothing at Bangor last time his jumping was quick and accurate. If he was with more fashionable connections he would be favourite.

AB Lodge Lane shares his quirks with many offspring sire by Norwich and tried to run out when leading last season’s Bumper field into the home straight. Carruthers is a relentless galloper but Nenuphar Collonges did not jump well last time and goes well at Cheltenham so he is one to consider. I also like the look of Uncle Junior who looks a real staying type.

MJ I hope Gone To Lunch can prove me right 12 months late for tipping him up to win last season’s Foxhunters’ where he fell 4 out when just getting into the race.


GOLD CUP

AT I’ve always been a Denman fan and he is not just a relentless galloper, he can quicken. In the Lexus they crawled for 2m4f and then sprinted for 4f which is why they finished tired. Horses finish more tired this way than going an even pace so he was more impressive than appears to the eye. He is unbeaten over fences and maybe should be unbeaten in his career if they made more use of him when eventually second in the Ballymore Properties. It could all come down to a late mistake and if one of them were to make a mistake I don’t think it would be Denman. Knowhere would be the one to finish third as he loves Cheltenham and I think he can improve for the step up in trip.

AB Denman’s Hennessy form is solid rather than spectacular and it has taken a while to start working out of sorts. I think we have to take wide-margins wins in soft ground with a pinch of salt. I hope I don’t put a damper on it but most of these duels fail to materialise so let’s hope this one works out. Gun to the head, it has to be Kauto Star.

MJ It has always been in the back of my mind that Kauto Star is a French-bred chaser so he may not stay a truly-run extended 3m2f as they crawled last year. If he wins I think it will be a romp but if Denman wins it will be a scrap where he eventually outstays Kauto Star.


FOXHUNTERS’

AT No views.

AB I own a horse in Alan Hill’s stable just down the road and rode out against Bon Accord a couple of days ago and he is on track. He did have some muck on his lungs a few weeks back but that has cleared up. (Steve The Fish then interjected that the owner entered the pub last week and said they have drained some puss out of one of his hooves). He easily beat the one I rode two days ago so he looked fine to me.

MJ I don’t fancy the Irish and have this between Man From Highworth and Bon Accord. Man From Highworth was awesome winning the Coronation Cup and is a half brother to Cavalero so I don’t know where doubts about his stamina are coming from. If he is 100% sound I just prefer Bon Accord. I have only got a feeling as good as I have about his chance for this race once before and that was when I called a race won by Castle Mane who went on to win this. He wouldn’t be as good as Castle Mane however. Agus A Vic is a short runner, Thisthatandtother is a ponce, Southwestern is thick and makes too many mistakes Drombeag won a bad race last year and Lou Du Moulin goes best fresh but has had quick runs to qualify. Tribal Venture can prove best of the professional outfits.


FRIDAY SHOULDER RACES

AT Fitzy is fasting so he can ride My Petra off 10st 3lbs for his boss in the race run in memory of the trainer’s father.
AB I will just reiterate what I said about Crozan earlier and if this is the plan of the Racing Post Plate he is interesting now he has had a wind operation.
MJ In the mares race I fancy Labelthou in the unlikely scenario of soft ground but Theatre Girl on anything quicker.

Thankfully there is no 6 hour drive today and I reporting back from my local preview night at Towcester for tomorrow which should be billed the XXX-rated preview looking at the panel. I don’t think this one will be for the feint-hearted!

[blowfish]

MC, Tony O’Hehir (TH)
Damien McElroy (McElroy)
Tom Taaffe (TT)
Dessie Hughes (DH)
Tony Mullins (TM)
David McGurrin (McGurrin)
Nina Carberry (NC)
Jim McGrath (JM)
Noel O’Brien (NO)

TH: Before we start I think Tom has something to say…
TT: We worked Kicking King this morning and he didn’t sparkle. There’s nothing wrong with him as such he just didn’t fire and so we’ll be missing Cheltenham. Hopefully he’ll be back for Punchestown.

The audience was then showed DVD’s of all leading contenders with comments from the panel following.

SUPREME NOVICES'

NO: The Irish are below standard, they keep beating each other, but there’s no real stars in the UK either. Muirhead was impressive last time out but I don’t think Cork All Star jumps well enough. Captain Cee Bee has plenty of scope to improve and Sentry Duty was impressive when beating Celestial Halo but on form it’s Muirhead for me.

JM: I’ve been taken by both Muirhead and Captain Cee Bee. Rippling Ring has adapted quickly to life in the UK and I think he’ll go clsoe, he’s the best of the British.

TH: Nina, what of Muirhead?

NC: He worked well this morning but I’d be worried about him travelling. He’s a very small framed horses and I’m not sure how well he’ll handle the journey over. He has plenty of ability and is in good form.

McElroy: I think the ground is key as both Captain Cee Bee and Cork All Star will appreciate a quick surface while I’m not sure Sentry Duty and Rippling Ring will handle the Cheltenham hill. Pigeon Island keeps winning, even when people say he can’t, so him and Deep Purple would be my two e/w. From a win perspective its Captain Cee Bee but I’ll wait till the ground has been confirmed.

McGurrin: On better round and with a proper pace to chase, Cork All Star is not out of it and he will finish in front of Muirhead. Deep Purple is the best of the British.

TT: I agree that the ground is key as normally after watering it rides dead. I like Rippling Ring and I know Ruby (Walsh) likes him too. Captain Cee Bee needs to sharpen up his jumping. Deep Purple e/w for the British.

DH: I think the Irish are fair novices this year and Captain Cee Bee looks a hell of a horse, he’d be my idea of the winner although it was disappointing he didn’t run at Leopardstown recently and that does worry me. Tranquil Sea for Edward O’Grady would be hard to keep out the first three.

TM: I haven’t got a firm view and nothing stands out but I know Willie (Mullins) likes Fiveforthree and he’s interesting but it’s a tough ask for him after just one hurdle run. If the Irish o prove god enough then Cork All Star could be the one.

ARKLE

TH: Tony, what about Clopf for the Irish?

TM: Clopf isn’t good enough to win and we (the Irish) have nothing for this. Scotsirish can’t jump and Noland is the banker of the meeting as he has nothing to beat.

JM: I’m surprised that Tidal Bay runs here but Leslingtaylor is very underrated and he’s going the right way which makes him the value. Noland is the class horse and if he stands up he wins.

DH: It looks like Noland. Mahogany Blaze has an e/w chance, along with Thyne Again and I’d sooner have him over Clopf for the Irish.

McGurrin: Tidal Bay is the best horse in the race but stable form is a worry. I can’t have Noland.

NO: I’d go for Noland but Tidal Bay is the most interesting. I do like Clopf for us Irish while 2m is Thyne Again’s tip. French Accordion is the forgotten horse.

NC: You can’t get away from Noland as he’s class and then race will be run to suit. I don’t like Tidal Bay.

McElroy: It’s been two years since Noland was at Cheltenham and that worries me. Mahogany Blaze isn’t good enough and I don’t think Ruby got on with Tidal Bay up at Doncaster. Back with Derrick O’Regan in the saddle he’d be the e/w choice.


CHAMPION HURDLE

TH: Dessie, impressed by Sizing Europe?

DH: He’s the one to beat although Hardy Eustace wasn’t on his game at Leopardstown so Sizing Europe looked more impressive than he was. I favour Harchibald and I’m not convinced by Sublimity, I think it was a below par race last year that he won.

JM: Sublimity has all the class and is reportedly flying at the minute. Sizing Europe has been impressive but on form Osana won’t be far away. It’s difficult to split the first three. Punjabi is the e/w value.

McGurrin: Sublimity is drifting which worries me but if in the same form as last year then he wins. Ebaziyan is the value along with De Valira, who was in front of Sizing Europe three times last year. He apparently worked very well at The Curragh the other day and he’s been backed from 33s into 20/1.

NC: Harchibald is A1 and he’s programme is all on track. He’s in better form than when short headed by Hardy Eustace in the race. Sublimity worked well the other day but if Osana gets an easy lead he could be tough to peg back.

McElroy: The Irish will win it as Osana will set it up for the rest, he could start now and still wouldn’t win. De Valira has beat Sizing Europe three times and yet look at the prices. The problem with Sizing is that his Leopardstown win looked too good to be true and so I’ll stick with Sublimity.

TH: Michael O’Brien said Sizing Europe will not finish in front of De Valira when I spoke to him.

NO: It’s a very open race as I’d question the form of that Leopardstown race that Sizing Europe won. Harchibald is the most interesting in the field while Afsoun is a massive price e/w.

TT: I’m a Sizing Europe fan. You’ll need to see this out as Osana will make it a proper test. I think the trip is a worry for Harchibald as he has so much speed and class.

TM: Harchibald will lie down when he sees the hill, he’s a ‘hill detector’ and he won’t go up it. On form, Sizing Europe is the one.


For the latest prices click here

BALLYMORE PROPERTIES HURDLE

TH: Alan King is a big fan of Group Captain Jim?

JM: He’s very appealing and for a decent flat horse he’s taken well to hurdles. He’s respected. Aigle D’Or looked good when winning at Cheltenham and Forpadydeplaster makes up the obvious three.

TM: Forpadydeplasterer is very good but he’s a big horse and 11/2 is too short. I respect Alan King’s comments about Group Captain and Venalmar would be an e/w option.

McElroy: Forpadydeplasterer’s price could collapse if the Irish have a winner or two on Tuesday but maybe he’s a bit too slow. Group Captain and Aigle D’Or are serious horses and Alan King’s runner looks the business. This could be a cracking race. Venalmar is the e/w value.

DH: I’m a Forpadydeplasterer fan and he’s the Irish’s best chance. Group Captain is classy and hard to beat, Venalmar e/w for me too.

NC: Trafford Lad is not with out a chance as the quick ground will suit.

TT: This is a very good race. Group Captain has a huge chance an I know Ruby likes Breedsbreeze. If the Irish run well in the Supreme Novices then Forpadydeplasterer will have a chance here. Venalamr is the e/w selection.

McGurrin: Group Captain looked good at Exeter , especially as he drifted in the betting. He’ll have too much pace for Aigle D’Or.



CHAMPION CHASE

NO: Mansony is not good enough for the Irish. Voy Por is very good at Cheltenham but Master Minded has looked very special. Twist Magic is interesting on his Tingle Creek win but Master Minded looks solid, although too short.

TT: An English win by the looks of it. I’m with Master Minded as I’m not sure Twist Magic will get up the hill. Voy Por has a chance if back to his best.

DH: Master Minded hard to beat.

McElroy: Not a Twist Magic fan, not solid enough. Master Minded is a good horse in the making but will that be now? Voy Por is the one.

TM: Master Minded could be the new 2m Champ. His Newbury win was unbelievable and he’s a serious horse.

NC: Master Minded looks good but I’m worried that Alan King nominated Group Captain and not Voy Por as his best bet for the meeting. Tamarinbleu is the e/w value.

McGurrin: Choc Thornton is adamant Voy Por will reverse form with Master Minded and he does look about 10lb better at Cheltenham . Tamarinbleu could pose a few problems for all of them if getting his own way in front.

JM: I’m still a big fan of Voy Por. He’s a fantastic professional and I expect another big run from him. This looks set to be a great race.


ROYAL&SUNALLIANCE CHASE

TH: I like Silverburn Jim…?

JM: He has a good e/w chance but there doesn’t look to be too much depth to the race. Albertas Run and Air Force One look the main two and I fancy Air Force to turn to the tables on Albertas Run.

NO: Ornais has an enormous rating and on that basis his price, 14/1, looks good. Pomme Tiepy is the best of the Irish and is improving, but she’ll need to win this.

NC: This may be too tough for Pomme Tiepy although you can’t knock her.

TM: Albertas Run looks ok in an open race. For a five year old mare this will be too much for Pomme Tiepy.

McGurrin: They’ll be no issue on stamina for Silverburn and I can’t have Air Force One. It’s a tough ask for Pomme Tiepy and not normally a face for favourites.

TT: Wide open and difficult to pick one.

McElroy: Tricky. A brutal race. The top three are tough and hardy but Ruby wont he race for Albertas Run at Ascot with a fantastic ride. Oscar Park the e/w choice.

DH: I was impressed with Albertas Run at Ascot but he received a great ride from Ruby. I wouldn’t be surprise to see Air Froce reverse form in an English 1-2-3.


CHAMPION BUMPER

TH: Is Zaarito up to it?

McElroy: He keeps confirming his ability and he’s tough but no value now. Cousin Vinny is the one I like most and Cockleshell Road the e/w value.

TM: Apt Aproach is the best of Willie’s runners but he’s a lazy worker. 5/2 that Willie wins the race is a good bet but Zaarito looks class. His Naas win was quality and he’s the one.

NC: Cockleshell Road has a good chance. He won well at Navan and the hill will suit him at Cheltenham. You can’t get away from Zaarito though. Temperament is a worry from Apt Approach has he sweated up badly before his last race but the form is solid. Cousin Vinny and Explanation for Dermot Weld are two look at as well.

NO: Zaariot has far and away the best form. Timisvar is a big price.

TT: I’m a big Zaarito fan. All ground comes alike to him and he’ll be tough to beat.

DH: Zaarito looks outstanding but behind him it’s between Willie (Mullins) and Noel (Meade) so go with what ever Ruby and Paul (Carberry) choose to ride.

McGurrin: Lilywhitedancer is a big loser for us while Apt Approach worked well the other day. Zaarito has the experience and Corskeagh Royale was impressive last time out.

JM: Zaarito. Everything has been said about him. Keki Buku for Phillip Hobbs is interesting e/w.


WORLD HURDLE

TH: Can Inglis Drever be opposed?

JM: Stable form is depressing and a big worry. I can see him drifting on the day. My Way De Solzen ahs lost his way this year and I’m not sure what’s wrong with him. Hardy Eustace has class and is in form. He’s won three times at the Festival and looks the one to beat.

DH: Hardy is in great form and I’m really looking forward to this. He’ll be very happy over the trip and I’ve no concerns on that front. If Inglis isn’t 100% then we’re the ones to beat.

McElroy: I have no problem with Inglis but as he’ll probably drift I’ll wait and a few quid on him on the day. Blazing Bailey will be thereabouts but Hardy Eustace and Kasbah Bliss could fight it out.

TM: Inglis Drever is not a 5/4 shot, although the stable did have a winner today. Dessie’s comments about Hardy makes 11/1 look massive, he’s a hell of a horse.

McGurrin: It all centres around Inglis but none of us know for sure. Hardy is respected on Cheltenham form but The Market Man interests me. I’d be worried about the ‘bounce’ factor but he has a clear form chance.

TH: What about Aitmatov Nina?

NC: He worked well this morning but he’s maybe more of an Aintree horse. Hardy Eustace for me.

NO: Inglis is the best stayer in recent years but Hardy Eustace’s involvement makes it very competitive. Blazing Bailey should finish in the money.

TT: Inglis will win all day long if 100%. If Hardy stays the trip then he’ the value

TRIUMPH HURDLE

TH: JP (McManus) has a couple of the market leaders Jim…?

JM: Binocluar may switch to the Supreme Novices and he’d have a big chance if he did. Franchoek is a quick hurdler and is in great form which make shim my selection. Celestial Halo will be running on for a place.

TM: Franchoek looks a good thing, he ticks all he boxes.

McElroy: Franchoek looks too good to be true. He’s another Katchit but a silly price now. I was doing a preview night in Wexford and Ivan Walsh from Celtic bookmakers was 5/2 on him but said he’d go 7/2 for the rest of the night. Some bloke stepped forward with eight grand in cash and took it! Silverhand is interesting.

TH: Silverhand Nina?

NC: He’s a decent horse and all set for the Triumph. He’ll definitely be in the first three at odds of 25/1.

McGurrin: Ashkazar is interesting but probably more likely for the Fred Winter. Celestial Halo ahs solid Group 1 flat form and was baked for this even after his defeat at Doncaster.

NO: The Irish are much of a muchness. Course and distance winners do well here so Franchoek to beat Celestial Halo for me. Personal Column at 25/1 is interesting.

DH: Plenty of Group 3, or better, flat horses makes this a tough race to solve. Celestial Halo may be, if close enough coming down the hill.


GOLD CUP

TH: This looks a match?

NO: For sure. Kauto Star has too much class. Mossbank e/w if turning up here, or Knowhere for a place.

TH: Fistfullofdollars set to be supplemented Nina?

NC: Yeah, he could run into some money but hasn’t got the ability to worry for big two. I’ll stick with Kauto.

McGurrin: Kauto for me. Denman will set it up for him as Kauto looks a better horse this year, I can’t see Denman troubling him. I’ll go 7/4 Denman for he rest of the night if anyone wants it.

McElroy: Denman on soft ground but Kauto under nay other circumstances. He has all the gears and Ruby won’t be asleep to the Denman tactics. Knowhere or Halcon Genelardis e/w.

DH: It’s possible for Denman. Last year’s Gold Cup wasn’t great and Ruby rode him perfectly and everything just fell into place for them. A proper pace from Denman and I wouldn’t be surprised if he won.

TT: Kauto has had a lighter campaign this year and looks better this time around. I can’t get away from him.

TM: No doubt a two horse race and they should open a market on if the 3rd horse will jump the last before the other two have crossed the line! It’s set to be an unbelievable race. Kauto is the one for me. Sit back and enjoy.

JM: Denman was impressive last year and his Hennessey win was top draw. Kauto is in the driving seat on the forecast ground but any rain and Denman has a chance

NAPS/CHARITY BETS

TM: Noland (Arkle) & Hardy Eustace e/w (World Hurdle)

McGurrin: Silverburn (RSA Chase) & Cockleshell Road (Bumper)

McElroy: L’Antartique (Ryanair) & Davy Russell e/w (Top Jockey)

NO: Franchoek (Triumph) & River Liane (Fred Winter)

NC: Jered ( County Hurdle ) & Silverhand (Triumph)

DH: Master Minded (Queen Mother) & Venalmar (Ballymore Hurdle)

TT: Zaarito (Bumper) & Finger on The Pulse (Jewson)

JM: Carruthers (Spa Hurdle) & Punjabi (Champion Hurdle)

[blowfish]

Thanks MATHARE,
Just managed to squeeze them all in,please enjoy and read carefully