Cheers Reebs.
I just think 40/1 is insulting to a horse who won the Haldon Gold Cup back in November, beating Cue Card and Balder Success. Also won a Grade 1 Novice at Punchy last year and if you look at those runs, it appears he prefers the ground on the firmer side of good as the going was "Good to soft, good in places" which is what tomorrow's ground will be.
Also should be noted that he has a very good record after returning from a break of over 8 weeks - UR (hampered and unseated when travelling well - followed up 3 weeks later) 1, 1. Furthermore, the two races he contested after the HGC this season were run on much slower going. Coupled with them coming in quick succession, I just think the yard probably got a little greedy after his reappearance.
After the HGC this one was being talked up as Champion Chase candidate. I know I have probably made plenty of excuses for him and been biased when assessing the form in order to shape my argument, but have a look for yourself and let me know what you think.
I agree that UDS has been mightily impressive but this is a race where favourites have a poor record - only 4 of the last 23 have prevailed. I have to also note that only 1 front runner has been successful since 1980. The horse does seem a little special and might well buck those trends but 4/7 is no sort of price.
Winner of the Grade 1 Novice at Punchy and Grade 1 HGC against its seniors, with a similar gap between races and similar going, for me, the stars are aligning and 40/1 on GOD'S OWN is an eway bet to nothing for me
