THE NOT606 CHELTENHAM PREVIEW EVENING

The Not606 Chetenham Preview Night 2019

Panel: Sir Barney Chuckles (SBC), redcgull (RED), CaptainPops (CP), woolcombefolly007 (WF), Ron (Ron), Brough Tiger (BT), Odddog (OD)


Tuesday, 12th of March


Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle – 1:30

(RED) At the time of writing I had a couple that I would go with, Elixir De Nutz or Grand Sancy, and I’m glad they made the 6 day cut. The Nutz has done nothing wrong in winning his last 4 races, three of which were at Cheltenham. Grand Sancy is one that I think gives his all and that will always help climbing the final hill at Cheltenham. I did have one eye on Commander Of Fleet but he is to be sent elsewhere, more later on him.

Winner – Elixir De Nutz Placed – Grand Sancy

(SBC) I’ve long been in ‘Team 11th richest man in Wales’ re this heat (and I’ve got the scarf and matching bobble hat to prove it) and am not going to alter that stance now. AL DANCER and ANGELS BREATH are arguably the best horses that the old boy has owned since Oscar Whisky and I really hope he has the winner in the meetings ‘card commencer’. In fact, people, let’s hope Mr Walters wins so much prizemoney here that he leaps up to the ranking of 10th. What, what?!?

(BT) If he runs here then I will be all over Fakir D’Oudairies. I know 4 year olds don’t have a great record in the race but I don’t think this is your usual Supreme Novices Hurdle. There is no obvious standout amongst the older horses and I think the one that could be a potential superstar is Fakir D’Oudairies. He demolished a decent field last time at the track and is firmly on the upgrade. If he swerves this then my selection would be Rouge Vif each way. He seems to be improving and think he can run a big race at a bigger price.

(OD) I think the ground is against my long-time fancy, Mister Fisher, so preference is for Elixir De Nutz whose Tolworth win was all about guts. This will be a slog rather than a speed-fest and he can grind it out up the hill.

(WF) It is strange not having a Mullins/Walsh horse as favourite for this race .For me all about one horse in this race if he is declared- KLASSICAL DREAM. We have seen one or two key players either not perform or been lame (Annamix not living up to his reputation which has seen him start 2 NH seasons off a fav for the race and Qucik Grabim – who I reckon wold have really been a force to reckon with after his Royal Bond Win. However Klassical Dream after his first win for Willie beating a good horse in Vision D’Honneur a horse that Gigginstown rated highly. Then after Klassical Dreams win in the Dublin festival racing showed he was 100% genuine and loved a fight. The fact Ruby chose him too said a lot. I am praying he gets entered in to this race as the ground, the fast pace and the hill will all be right up his street and I took abit of 16/1 earlier which if he does run very hard to see him out the places at the very worst. Elixir Du Nutz you know what you are going to get with him and will run his race but you have to think all his improving is done and is vulnerable to an unexposed horse. Al dancer – will be interesting to see how he handles the atmosphere and for me travels to energetically imo to get up the hill. All of Hendersons horses wouldn’t shock me if they won, but look very average, one at a very big price and will probably be left out the back in the end is BRANDON CASTLE. Has won 3-3 over hurdles granted all at Plumpton but you can’t have not been impressed. He will go off very quickly and nothing I doubt will want to take him on for the lead so could be left in front. Bryony has learnt to settle him down a touch and bag some of that enthusiasm for later in the race (not comparing for one bit) he can go left handed and gets up a steepish hill at Plumpton so hopefully will not have a problem to get up the Cheltenham hill. And if he gets left infront he could just get away from the field but KLASSICAL DREAM for me the horse they all have to beat.

(CP) I was very impressed with Al Dancer’s Betfair Hurdle run, where he travelled like a good horse, winning the race with some authority. In his previous outing at Cheltenham, he looked very much at home and relished coming up the hill. The horse in 4th that day is very well thought of and has subsequently won at Chepstow. The likely strong pace will help him settle and the number of runners should provide cover. Stable reportedly believe he’s the fastest novice hurdler they have ever had and Dai Walters looks like he wants to win this race with running two. Do not let the poor record of previous Betfair Hurdle winners running in this race put you off.

Each way value - Klassical Dream could run well in this and should be thereabouts on the premises.


Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase – 2:10

(RED) I was always keen on Kalashnikov until he was soundly beaten by Glen Forsa recently by some 19lengths, there were only 3 runners in that race but it doesn’t bode well going down by such a distance. The more I thought about it the more I thought that the Channon horse might well be the one to go with. I might forgive AK47 for that last run as Amy Murphy said that he wasn’t 100% at Sandown, so I will have a bit of the 10/1 currently available for him. But I expect Mick Channons runner to take the honours…

Winner – Glen Forsa Placed – Kalashnikov

(BT) This race has cut up a lot and doesn’t look like a vintage Arkle. I can’t be having Lalor at the prices. Glen Forsa is improving but he just doesn’t strike me as an Arkle winner. The one I like is Hardline at a double figure price. He was a solid hurdler that has taken well to fences. His third last time out behind La Bague Au Roi looks to be the strongest form on offer and I think he can win a fairly weak looking race.

(OD) Glen Forsa all day long for me. I was very impressed by his Kingmaker victory and, although he might not be an Altior or Sprinter Sacre, for me he possesses all the attributes to win what looks a rather weak renewal. Good engine, very fluent jumping, acts on the ground and stays really well.

(WF) A very weak Arkle, can’t have Glen Forza for one minute- started the season off over a 3m handicap and although smashed Kalashinkov at Sandown he got the run of the race that day and the two tracks are vastly different. For me he’s too slow to win an Arkle. Lalor you can’t have not been impressed with at Cheltenham, smashing Defi Du Seuil and the Nicholls horse who just kept improving beating some very good animals and Lalor made him look very ordinary. Easy to forgive Lalors run at Sandown as I think it was just too quick after his Cheltenham run. A theory I once heard, says it takes 6 weeks for a horse to recover properly from a proper race and the Sandown was only 3. He has apparently been schooling very well and apart from the story of the lovely Kayley Woollacot winning the race after the history. In a weak looking Arkle based on his Cheltenham run he is rightly favourite and his form of his win at Aintree and his bumper wins prove that, that performance wasn’t a fluke. One at a bigger price is Knockanauss, I know the Moores like this horse but it does have a habit of falling and like Brandon Castle in a weak looking race if he can’t stay on his feet, he will shoot off in front and could be very hard to peg back and his second behind Master Dino at Plumpton showed he was a decent horse with a bit of luck needed he could very easily run in to the frame.


Ultima Handicap Chase – 2:50

(RED) Mister Whitaker has run 3 times at Cheltenham and with 2 wins and a 4th placed finish to speak of, has a lot going for him at the course. Last year’s win in the Novice Handicap Chase was made all the more memorable after he hunted down Rather Be to win by a head, something which I think will help him in this race. I just think he’s one of those runners who loves it round the Cheltenham course, jumps well and always gives his all, even if he hasn’t ran at this 3m distance yet, though he is related to 3m winners in his family. Of the rest Jerrysback to place

Winner – Mister Whitaker Placed – Jerrysback

(OD) It is going to take a real stayer to win this under the prevailing conditions and I would give Beware The Bear a good chance of going close off a mark just 1lb higher than when he ran 4th last year. He gets a big pull with Coo Star Sivola and is closely weighted with Vintage Clouds and Singlefarmpayment but I think he comes here in better form than those two having won really nicely last time out.

(WF) You cant not deny how bullish the Nicholls camp is on Give Me A Copper. Both Paul and Harry have both said this is one of their best chances and he will run his race. A race I do usually leave till the day but last years winner Coo Star Sivlola, obv his season has been based on this race again and is 3lbs higher than last year and at a double figure price is one to take very seriously indeed


Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy – 3:30

(RED) It’s all about the first three in the market Buveur D’air, Apples Jade & Laurina isn’t it…?? I am expecting this one to be close up until the final hurdle but with those 7lbs that BVD has to give away to the two mares just takes away his chance of the treble for me. Which then means which one of the mares do I fancy, well Apples Jade was eventually entered into the race after some ribbing and coercion from the owner and trainer but it is the Mullins runner Laurina who I think will just be too good on the day to be stopped by the girls or boys in the race. I just think she’s a beast of a horse who has yet to be really tested as she has dispatched the field away with such aplomb it just looks like she has another gear to me. Laurina by a couple of lengths to see Mullins bring up his 5th Champion Hurdle victory.

Winner – Laurina Very close 2nd – Apples Jade or BVD

(RON) I’m going to start this one in the belief that Buveur D’Air is beatable. I believe his Champion Hurdles have not been the strongest. I certainly believe he would not have got near Annie Power who won her Champion Hurdle in an incredibly fast time on gs going. So, do we have anything in the field that can stop him winning his third CH. My starting point has always been Apples Jade. Although it was declared she would not go for the CH I always felt in my own mind that she would, so I am really pleased that the owner/trainer changed their mind(s). She has a wonderful chance. However, I read recently that the trainer states she does not need to make the running. I disagree. She needs to do what Annie Power did; gallop them into submission. Guaranteed to stay, she has now shown she can win over 2 miles in a fast time, thrashing Supasundae and Melon in the process and without really having a hard race. Unless Laurina is the next super horse I think Apples Jade will outrun everything and the others will have nothing left to challenge up the hill. Laurina is the dark horse here. She has won her races easily but has yet to win in a fast time, so she has it to prove in a strongly run CH. It’s difficult to see anything else getting a look in, apart from Sharjah who is the improver in the field.

Prediction: 1. Apples Jade, 2. Buveur D’Air, 3. Sharjah

(SBC) For yonks now, on these pages, this race has been billed as The forum’s favourite trainer v. The forum’s favourite mare. Usually you will find me ensconced in Lieutenant Henderson’s trench but re this contest it has to be LAURINA for me. We’ve no idea just how good she could be but I’d be surprised if the answer wasn’t bloomin’ exceptionally good. I love the way Laurina travels through her races and think the sky really is the limit to her ability. Am a great admirer of the current champ, Buveur D’air, but just can’t see him being able to concede 7 lbs to Laurina. Similar sentiments make me believe the biggest danger may come from Apples Jade.

(BT) Probably the best race of the festival but also the trickiest puzzle to solve. Buveur D’Air, Apple’s Jade, Laurina and Sharjah can all be given major shouts and it’s probably a race I will just sit back, watch and enjoy. At the prices, if I had to make a selection it would probably be Buveur D’Air. He ran a bit below par in this last year on heavy ground but still managed to get the job done. He is one of the best jumpers of a hurdle you will ever see and on better ground I think this could make the difference. Apple’s Jade is clearly a danger to all, I just don’t think 2 miles is her optimum trip (although it’s clearly not a huge hindrance). I have slight doubts about Laurina given what she has beaten previously. She could be anything but at her price I’m willing to let go and prove it. Sharjah is clearly on the upgrade but I have doubts about the quality of the races he has been winning this year. A win for any of these four wouldn’t surprise me but I am hoping that the better/quicker hurdling of Buveur D’Air can make the difference.

(OD) I’ve had a feeling all season for Laurina, I just think she could be something very, very special. Yes, she has yet to do it on the track BUT I think it says a lot that Ruby will choose her ahead of Sharjah (who for me has done it on the track in Ireland and should run a big race here). I don’t think Buveur D’Air’s form stacks up at all and he has appeared regressive this season, making too many jumping errors. Chief danger is Apple’s Jade of course but I just worry that Cheltenham might not be her track. Laurina to win and an e/w saver on Sharjah.

WF- One of the races of the festival. And tbh any one of the 3 can win it. For me I sticking with the reigning champ BVD I’m hoping his natural 2m speed will be too much for the girls and although he was beaten at Xmas, he wouldn’t have been 100% that day as this is the day that counts and some people argue his jumping is getting worst but To me that is based on one run and his jumping will neutralise the 7lbs Mare allowance. His performance at Newcastle was electric and coming up to the last if he is anywhere within a length of the leader which I reckon will be Apples Jade he will have to much acceleration for her something she will try deal with. For me she is the second most likely winner but just the tactical speed of BVD will be too much for her. Laurina not for me, not this year anyway she hasn’t coming against anything like this field let alone the top two, so we just don’t know what she will be like and for me I couldn’t back her at her price

(CP) This could be one of the races of the festival with two very good mares taking on the current champion Buveur D’Air. I have a nagging feeling that Apples Jade might not be at her best for this as she has had quite a hard season. The current champion will be hard to beat as I think he has looked better this time round and his performance in the Fighting Fifth was very impressive. That being said I think Laurina could be very special indeed and her performance in the mares novice race last year was breathtaking winning by 18 lengths. The mares weight allowance and likely soft ground will help and I think she will just do enough to win.


OLBG Mares Hurdle – 4:10

(RED) At the time of me looking at this race we see two of the top three in the market supposedly running in the previous race which sort of leaves Benie De Dieux out on her own really. BDD is last year’s winner, and Mullins like a returning champ in this race doesn’t he with Apples Jade the previous year’s winner back in 2017 for Elliot. So with that in mind I can just see the Mullins pair being kept apart and BDD taking this with the other two protagonists taking on BVD in the Champion Hurdle. I did have an e/w fancy before the 6 day declaration, Elliott’s Missy Tata, but it seems she’s being planned for something else, so one at a bit of a price is Cap Soleil who finished just the 18 lengths (!!) behind Laurina in the Mare’s Novice Hurdle last year and although hast ran since might be able to replicate the placing again…

Winner – Benie De Dieux Placed – Cap Soleil

(WF)- Benie Des Dieux Wins it- the ground will be in her favour and again Mullins could farm this rave with her for the next year or two; Limini for me is finished!!


Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase – 4:50

(RED) Fancy Highway One O One to go well again as he did back in the Handicap Chase back here in January, finishing a close 2nd to Kildisart who’s going for the JLT later on. I’ll put Cubomania in for this but in truth he is entered in about everything possible. He’s a 25/1 shout for this but I think he will make the placings in whichever race they eventually get him to line up in. If not I also give Springtown Lake a shout as well…

Winner – Highway One O One Placed – Cubomania or Springtown Lake

(BT) A couple of horses that I like here if they turn up. Castafiore and Roaring Bull. I have been really taken by Castafiore’s last two runs when beating Jerrysback (a horse I really like) and then finishing a good second behind Bag’s Groove. I think she could be well handicapped here. Roaring Bull is a horse that I have been keeping an eye on since his promising debut win over hurdles. He turned out to be pretty disappointing over hurdles but seems to be getting his act together of late over fences. I think he is just a bit of a late developer who could come into his own over the next couple of years. He has a couple of other entries and would be a fairly strong fancy in whichever race he turns up in.

(OD) I’m quite keen on Henry de Bromhead’s A Plus Tard whose best performance to date came on soft when defeating Du De Genievres at Naas. No match for Winter Escape (disappointing since in the Flogas but I think he possibly wasn’t right that day) after that on good ground but the 3rd placed that day, Jetz has franked the form in great style. One of the lesser exposed contenders here and entitled to improve again on softer ground.

(CP) I really like Riders on the Storm in this race for Tom Taafe who is his only runner over the four days and appears to have been laid out for it.


National Hunt Challenge Cup Amateur Riders’ Novices’ Chase – 5:30

(RED) Not got a Scooby doo other than it’s going to be hard to go against OK Corral or Ballyward, as they are the class runners so I’m going to take them on with Blow By Blow just solely on back of he’s won at the festival before and he’s 33/1…!!

Probable 1-2 – Ok Corral & Ballyward Placed – Blow By Blow

(WF) Very interesting fact the last 3 winners have all been rated 150 or over. Ok Corral would have been more effective in the RSA as he travels to well to stay 4m in my opinion, altho he is likeliest winner, he will need a lot of luck his way and Derek will need to get him to settle better than at Warwck and this has been the plan I reckon all year but 5/2 currently he is to short. Discorama a horse I backed earlier in the season at 12/1. He stays all day, proven Cheltenham form with is second behind Blow By Blow in the boys race last year and his last run he definitely would have beaten Ballyward and because he is not in an attractive stable he will still be avery backable ew price and Barry Oneil on board is a very underated amateur with the likes of Mullins, Fox and Codd taking the limelight. He can ride just as well as any of these (something usually very important in these amateur races)


Wednesday, 13th of March


Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle – 1:30

(RED) It’s all about the Champ for me, who heads the market in a good looking race, though a few behind him arnt going to let them have it his own way. One that has caught my eye recently is the Gordon Elliot trained Commander Of Fleet who won with a bit in hand over at Leopardstown recently, though he is also listed in the Spud race on Friday. At the time of writing this only Champ & City Island of the leading contenders have this as their only race, but I feel that Champ’s form and recent performances make him the leading claim. If Commander of Fleet dos go to the Bartlett I would plump for Birchdale, though he’s listed for that race as well…

Winner – Champ Placed – Commander Of Fleet, Birchdale

(BT) I have been a huge fan of Champ since his debut bumper win and I’m not going to desert him now. I love the way he has been campaigned this season as he has been brought along slowly and has clearly improved with every start. I don’t think this is the strongest Ballymore ever run and I think he will take all the beating. Even if he doesn’t win this I expect him to develop into a top class performer over the next few years.

(OD) I’ve been very impressed by City Island this season and his form looks pretty strong, having accounted for Dallas Des Pictons (who is apparently going to win the Martin Pipe in a hack canter) over Christmas. Champ and Battleoverdoyen are respected for powerful connections but I think City Island offers value and could surprise the big guns.

(WF) A very tricky race if you hear the English previews they all go on about how Champ won’t get beat and if you hear the Irish ones they all go on about City Island. Have to admit I haven’t seen much of him to give my opinion. Champ altho winning the Challow well although the statistics are against in him turns of winning that race and age . But you can’t have not been impressed This race has thrown up a few shocks - Willouby court. And the one I like has a similar profile to him too BEAKSTOWN He has always been highly-thought of by Dan Skelton, and he lived up to that when improving on his previous hurdling form to win the Leamington Novices' Hurdle at Warwick last time. That race was won by Willoughby Court en-route to winning this race in 2017. Interestingly after that race they said that he would likely not be going to Cheltenham but the fact he is says a lot and he has the scope to improve a lot. And will go off a very good price and seems a safer bet to me with.


RSA Insurance Novices’ Chase – 2:10

(RED) The stats say that if you had a good run in the Albert Bartlett the previous year then that natural progression will lead you to the RSA the next, and that’s what we see here with Santini, my initial pick. But, with all the talk of will he be fit or not leading up to the race, I’ve sort of drifted away from him now. I know Sir Barney will say he’s in safe hands, and I want to believe him, as I reall y like the horse, I just think that Delta Park and Topofthegame will out do the Hendo runner with slight preference for Toppy.

Winner – Topofthegame Placed - Santini

(SBC) If someone asked me to name my strongest advice, re the whole meeting, then it would be SANTINI here. I have adored this horse for ages and long spoken about how I believe he will win the 2020 Cheltenham Gold Cup. I firmly believe that he will take a major step towards that aim with victory in this race. Santini was a convincing winner of a Grade 2 on his fencing bow, back in December, before then running with great promise to finish a close 3rd, on St Stephen’s Day, at a track that was never going to suit him. Now on a more stiff and galloping course expect Santini to return to the winner’s enclosure in style. He is the horse that I’ve been most excited about for several seasons and expect here to see why.

(BT) This is all about Delta Work and Topofthegame. At the prices I would just side with Topofthegame. His second at Exeter to Defi Du Seuil where he lost around 20 lengths at the start was nothing short of remarkable and his second to La Bague Au Roi last time out looks like the strongest piece of form on offer here. Delta Work is looking to follow in Presenting Percy’s footsteps by winning the RSA the year after winning the Pertemps Final. He brings very strong Irish form to the table and has got better as the season has gone on. I fully expect these two to fight out the finish and wouldn’t be surprised if they were both major players in next year’s Gold Cup should they both stay fit and well.

(OD) A fantastic renewal with a number of very exciting recruits lining up. Personally I just favour Topofthegame, who ran an almighty race on Boxing Day and potentially lost the race only through immaturity when striking the front. I’m sure he’ll be ridden more patiently here and can see him stalking them down the hill before going on approaching the last.

(WF) Delta Work for me looks a beast he has festival form, has been very good in his races this year. And second to Sir Erec looks very much the Irish banker of the week

(CP) Delta Work looks a tough horse and a thorough stayer so will be a difficult nut to crack but I really like Paul Nicholls’s Topofthegame. I was at Exeter to see him make up the ground on Defi Du Seuil which showed what a massive engine he has. In the end he finished not far behind the winner despite giving away 8 lengths or so at the start. He has not run since December 2018 so will be fresh for this and I am anticipating a big run.


Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle – 2:50

(RED) No strong feeling for any of them but just for the competition come the day Scarpeta @ 20/1ish

(OD) It would be tremendous to see Erik Le Rouge win this but he is up another 3lbs for his Kempton win and this is obviously a red-hot contest. I can’t see Uradel getting in so it will likely be up to Whiskey Sour and Wicklow Brave leading the Mullins challenge. Paul Nicholls has been very strong on the chances of Brio Conte during the preview evenings and he must also be respected but I just wonder if good old Wicklow Brave can turn back the clock off his lowest mark since winning this 4 years ago?

(WF) A race of mystery and a race to favour the bookies with Favourites not having a great record in the race. At this stage it doesn’t look like Uradel will get in to the race. His stablemate Whiskey Sour who in the last few days has had the money come in , is my pick went off favourite for the Galway hurdle off 1lb Lower where everything just happened a bit quick for him but it’s more his second at last years punchestown festival that catches the eye. That plus his run in the Ebor where he ran on very strongly in the end altho he was well beaten proves the trip will be no issue for him. And altho not a strong fancy he is the one at this stage with potential. Call me a Mullins fan but Wicklow brave also catches the eye. Reports are he is still impressing at home and interesting it’s a step up in trip and only 1lb higher than his Irish mark for a second to Espoir D’Allen who could really boost that form and he was going very well at the end and looked like this trip would be ideal and he has the class edge and is a very good ew price (if he jumps off)


Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase – 3:30

(RED) Winner - Say no more, it’s Altior… Placed - Un De Sceau to place for ole time’s sake…!!

(RON) Altior is the real deal. The faster they go the more easily he will win. But he can also win off a slow pace. There are no chinks in his armour. At 4/9 he is a steal. Even I can’t get this one beaten

(SBC) Surely anyone who opposes ALTIOR in this 2 mile championship event should be sectioned with immediate effect. He’s an A-list star who should collect his 4th successive win at the Cheltenham Festival with relative ease. The race should be an event to savour as should the celebrations on the victory plinth afterwards as all being well they should feature both Lieutenant Henderson, the forum’s favourite trainer, and Princess Camilla, the forum’s favourite Royal. Expect good natured high jinks and much frivolity as everyone toasts Altior’s victory.

(BT) Just sit back and enjoy watching Altior in full flight. If I was going to put up an each way alternative then it would probably be God’s Own. He is getting on a bit now but always tends to run his race and hopefully he can sneak a place at a big price.

(OD) Altior unbeatable but I’d love to see Footpad serve it up to him. Could make it an unforgettable performance.

(WF) Altior wins end of. Howver Min (who I reckon will run here) w/o altior at even money is an absolutely stonking bet - not usually one for those bets but this looks very good!!

(CP) I can’t see anything else other than Altior winning this impressively as he has looked far superior to anything else this season and is different class.


Glenfarclas Chase, Cross Country Chase – 4:10

(RED) Tiger Roll has been talked about as being almost unopposable, but unlike Altior in the previous race is only Evens where Altior is 2/5. But, hey, it’ll still take some winning as usual, it’s just not a race I go very deep in.

Winner – Tiger Roll Watch out for – Fact Of The Matter

(WF) Tiger Roll wins


Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle – 4:50

(RED) I don’t think I’ve ever picked the winner of the Fred Winter, or Boodles as it’s now called (some jewellery shop if you wanted to know by the way…!!) or even come close to getting one near the placings so it’s the usual fare from me here I would think, AVOID THESE, Nelson River & Katpoli…?!?
Nelson River has run at Cheltenham the last two times, going down to Fakir D’oudairies by a mile in January but winning by a length in December over Fanfan Du Seuil, that shouldn’t put you off as most of the recent past winners lost last time out. The other selection, Katpoli, came a close placed 3rd in the race Nelson River won, and a 4 length defeat to Quel Destin the time before. All a bit tenuos in finding a winner, but as I said earlier, I’m ****e at picking one for this…

Winner/Place – Nelson River or Katpoli

(BT) A race I always struggle with so I’ll keep it short! Prabeni is a horse I quite like who has won well the last two times. He was an OK performer on the flat but he seems to have taken to hurdling well so hopeful that he can run a decent race here at a big price.

(OD) Not a race I have ever had much success in. I think Gordon Elliot’s Authorized filly Surin would have a decent chance based on her third in the Spring Juvenile Hurdle (although a mark of 136 hardly means she’s chucked in). The French runner Naturelle would be an interesting addition to the field if taking her chance.

(WF) The first Juvenile O’Brien mops up with Band Of Outlaws still very well handicapped even off a mark of 139 he his head and shoulders above this field and if it wasn’t for Sir Erec he wold be in the Triumph.


Weatherbys Champion Bumper – 5:30

(RED) I wish I had the time and knowledge to go through the bumper runners but it always pays to listen to what Stick says… So, Stick, who’s gonna win it…?? That’s a bit too easy, not that I won’t listen to the Bumper King, but I’ll try and find one myself. The one that I did think have a chance is Master Debonair, and at around the 12/1 is a half decent price. Just simply, Twister won it three years ago with Ballyandy, so must have an eye for one plus he’s run the last 2 times out at Cheltenham, beating Thyme Hill last time out, who would be my other pick…

Winner – Probably one of Willies runners Placed – Master Debonair or Thyme Hill

(OD) Keep it simple here – I think Gordon Elliot has this covered, Envoi Allen with an e/w saver on Abacadabras.


Thursday, 14th of March


JLT Novice’s Chase, The Golden Miller – 1:30

(RED) It’s the double green of Kildisart that takes my fancy in the JLT, which I will admit was only after his win in the Handicap Chase here back in January. I get the top two in the market, Lostintranslation & Defi Du Seuil, but I’ll take my chance with the Pauling runner at a bigger price of around the 10/1 mark.

Probable winner – Lostintranslation Placed/Win - Kildisart

(SBC) Since he all but uprooted the 3rd last at Newbury, on his second outing over the big ‘uns, I’ve got the impression that connections have been operating with something akin to the hand brake on re LOSTINTRANSLATION. I’d expect that to change here and the 7YO gelding to be asked to show how good he really is. And that, people, I believe is very, very, very good. Top prospect who can win his first Grade 1 in this heat.

(BT) I spent time doing a whole write up for how I thought this was a two horse race betwee Defi Du Seuil and Lostintranslation and that my preference would be for Defi only for the news to come through that Kim Bailey is going to run Vinndication after all! He is a horse that I love so will be my selection here. The race the three of them ran last time is the key piece of form and I think Vinndication ran a bit below his best but still ran a good race to finish third. I respect the other two and think all three will turn out to be very good chasers down the line but I’m on VInndication here with Defi to follow him home.

(OD) Defi Du Seuil for me – this is his correct trip and he won really well the last day at Sandown under a very good Barry Geraghty ride. Has the festival form in the book and is a worthy favourite here.

(WF) It was Defi Du Seuils race to lose imo (like he did at Cheltenham earlier this season) but with Vinndication now entered its looks to suit him even more. With Vinndication and Lostintranslation looking to take each other as both will want to make it in to a real test. And Defi will have to wait and wait and just pounce just after the last and the fact they could have gone for the Arkle with him also says a lot too!!Barry at the ATR Preview was very very keen on him, he is the class horse in the field and am very sweet on him. On the ew shout Mengli Khan has the talent and he is the type for Cheltenham to spark him up and 16/1 could be a big price for him.


Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle – 2:10


(RED) I’ll leave the Agatha Christie plot to our very own Sir Barney, as I’ve not got a clue about ‘who’s dunnit’ it this…?!? I have a ante post bet on Keeper Hill @ 33/1, he’s now showing at around the 16/1 mark now, so I’m happy there, but it’s a real mine field to be 100% confident on any section. First Assignment looks good for a placing with his 2 wins at the course, so will be in the mix come the end, along with Flemcara, who won last time out at Exeter.

Possible winner – Keeper Hill, First Assignment Placed - Flemcara

(SBC) My regular readers were Ebullient with a capital ‘E’ when my old fave, COOLE CODY, was runner-up in Sandown’s £100,000 Heroes Handicap Hurdle, last month, and they may have further reason to celebrate in the race which is famed for having ‘more plots than an Agatha Christie novel’. Coole Cody is up just 2 lbs, to 139, for that brilliant Sandown effort and I can see a similar outcome here at huge current odds of 50/1. That Sandown run has since been boasted by the 3rd home, Flemcara, winning nicely at Exeter so it has a most solid look to it and the 8YO arrives at the Festival in splendid form. He looks a very exciting each-way prospect, methinks. Really hope he performs with great credit for the Blake barn and it is worth remembering that this horse is 1/1 at Cheltenham following a decisive win off 136 (just 3lbs lower than his weight in this race) at the ’17 ‘Open’ meeting.

(BT) A race that is always tricky to solve but that tends to be won by pretty decent performers. Sire Du Berlais holds an obvious chance but at I am happy to let him win at his current price. One I like here is Shamburu Shujaa for Philip Hobbs. He has improved massively in his last two starts at Chepstow and looks like a horse firmly on the upgrade. I will also be having a saver on Not Many Left for Jessica Harrington. He did well to win last time out at Huntingdon having been sent off at 7/2 the time before that in a strong race behind Felix Desjy and Salsaretta. I think he could have been let off lightly by the handicapper for a trainer who knows how to win at the festival.

(OD) I think I might have spotted a plot that would have even old girl Agatha Christie gasping at its sheer audacity. One-time favourite for the 2016 Champion Bumper, Aspen Colorado, never made that year’s festival. Subsequently no great shakes over hurdles, an abortive chasing career, switched back to hurdles last summer and again nothing in 2 subsequent runs for Joseph O’Brien. But then it starts to get interesting. Switched in October to Jonjo O’Neil who promptly sends him to Carlisle where he mops up two handicap hurdles over 2m4f off marks of 120 and 127. Returns to the track for their qualifier mid-December and finishes 5th off a mark of 135 (“Held up in last pair, blundered 7th, headway to join leaders on outside before 2 out, ridden and unable to quicken between last 2, no impression after op 5/1 tchd 11/2”). Pulled up after running like a drain for the trainer’s son at Uttoxeter at the end of January he needs 4 to come out to be guaranteed a run and is currently 40/1 with Hills and 33/1 generally.

(WF) As Barney says a race with more plots than a Jilly Cooper novel. Altho the fav Sire De Berlais looks like one of the best plots done in history after scraping the last qualifying spot with a very soft ride. One interesting fact novices have won the last 3 renewals of this race, however my pick not a strong one is Thermistocles owned and trained by the O’Brien’s and went off 7/2 fav in his qualifier won by Cuneo. And that form is very good with the winner coming from that race . Needed very yard of the 3m and kept on well in the end. The soft ground, fast pace and stiff finish will really bring out his stamina and seems fairly well weighted. 16/1 a definite ew bet for me


Ryanair Chase – 2:50

(RED) I think that this year’s Ryanair could be one of the best ones to watch with a case being made for most of the top 6 in the market, finding the winner will be hard. Frodon is the one that jumps out first after the Gold Cup connections earlier in the year, so must have a chance here at the better trip in reality. Monalee 7 Road To Respect are both still showing as entered in the Gold Cup at the moment so the same applies there. Both Min & Un De Seaux could go and play second fiddle to Altior in the Queen Mother. It might be a race to wait for the day and see where the money is going down but for now I’d select Frodon or Min to take it…

Winner from – Frodon or Min

(BT) Working out what is actually going to run in this race is probably more difficult than working out what is actually going to win! I would probably have to side with Monalee at the current prices. Footpad is a horse I have never warmed to and you have to be mad to be backing him at 4/1 given the season he has had. Min is a horse I respect but he doesn’t seem to be quite as good when he races on this side of the Irish Sea. Frodon would be a danger if allowed his own way up front but I just think Monalee may have the class edge.

(OD) After twice finishing behind Altior at the festival it would be great to see Min finally win his race at Cheltenham and I think the stars could be aligning for him this year. He has looked very good in his 2 victories this season and I really hope they have a crack at this with him, rather than trying to beat Altior again (let Footpad try that). I think this race is made for him. If Min doesn’t run here then I will be rooting for Frodon.

(WF) One of the best races all week. Min looks like he is going to the Champion Chase. Howver my pick will be his Stablemate Footpad. Has had a very unlucky season with things not going to plan at all. Looks like he needed the run when beaten by Saint Calvados but looked more like the old Footpad when beaten by simply ned which was a mystery to me! But a reproduction of his Arkle run last year he will be extremely hard to beat. Monalee can’t have him at all best Anible Fly over 2 1/2m by 2l the same Anible Fly who relishes a stamina trip. Road to Respect i reckon has a better chance in the gold cup in this. Un Des Sceaux is too ground depandent for me he would have a chance on the ground of soft and that reproduction of the Altior form would make him hard to beat but he is now an 11yo which does make him very unattractive. Frodon deserves to be shorter after his performances I just think he may have peaked a little to early and will Just lack that pure quality that the likes of Footpad has.

(CP) My selection is Aso. He won with some authority back in January at Cheltenham with the front two finishing some 18 lengths or so in front of the remaining runners. He has looked like a graded horse in the making to me and has made great strides. I see him running a big race at a pretty decent price. He finished third in this race last year but he has improved somewhat since then. It will be tough but I am not sure whether Footpad will produce his best and Monalee looks a difficult horse to settle. So the Venetia Williams runner is the selection for me.


Sun Racing Stayers’ Hurdle - 3:30

(RED) I’ll make no apologies for this one but I’m all over Paisley Park for this, my NAP bet of the week…!! I was taken in by the Emma Lavelle runner back at Haydock where I witnessed Paisley Park come from some 6 lengths back after jumping the last to beat Shades of Midnight on the line. Didn’t think then that I would be jumping on for the Stayers title but that performance stuck in my mind, which they tend to do when you see them in real time, and I’ve sort of stuck with him ever since. Won very cosily at Ascot next out but then very much impressed in the Cleeve Hurdle beating West Approach by 12 lengths. At the time of that victory it was all about how Penhill would fair after a near year off the course, and low and behold he has pulled out leaving Paisley Park as clear favourite for the 2019 Stayers Hurdle. I will admit that my first Ante Post bet was with Paisley Park after he snatched that late win at Haydock back in November, and I’ve has a bit more on him as well, so of course I have a big interest that he dos bring home the bacon…!!

Winner – Paisley Park Placed – Don’t care…!! (unless I lose…!!)

(BT) Paisley Park is one of my most confident selections of the whole festival. I have been so impressed by his runs this season where he has improved out of sight. He stays all day and I fully expect him to power clear up the hill and win this. The only danger is Faugheen however there have to be doubts over how much ability remains and coming here on the back of a fall is not an ideal preparation. I would be very surprised if anything else even gets close.

(OD) Has to be Paisley Park doesn’t it? He has been awesome all season and he is a worthy favourite. I can’t see Faugheen getting involved and I think the main danger will be Supersundae with the rest looking a pretty average bunch.

(WF) My lay of the festival Paisley Park just stinks Of Uknowhatimeanharry goes off a short price and just gets in the frame. For me all about Faugheen there is a little heart over head with this. Howver imo he has always been a 3m but his quality won him his champion hurdle. His runs over 3m when he has stayed on his feet he has won. And altho I said about UDS Being an 11 yo Faugheen I don’t think that will affect him, he is very lightly raced over the last few seasons due to injury but his run behind Apples Jade last time hard to say he would have won but ruby looked like he had a lot under him still and even getting to by 2l to Apples Jade is still right up there with the best form in the race!! Our stayers over here are just ****!! Although he fell, he still has the fire burning and the soft ground won’t do him any harm at all! The vibes in the yard are very strong. But boy I would love to see him win this

(CP) There is no doubt in my mind that Black Op still has a serious engine. He looked like he tired in his last run behind Paisley Park at Cheltenham. That was his first real serious run of the season having a less than ideal few spins over fences. He could get a lot closer this time round and at the prices I will side with this fellow who is highly regarded. Of course, Faugheen could be back to his best and could win, but I am not so sure and he is getting older now. I will take a chance on Black Op over Paisley Park who has looked outstanding all season.


Brown Advisory & Merribelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase – 4:10

(RED) Not a race I have gone very deep in to but I’ve gone for Janika & River Wylde, both of which are high in the betting. Janika did come second to Siruh Du Lac last time out at Cheltenham, but only to a head, and River Wylde is more because simply I have him in my tracker.

Winner/placed – Janika or River Wylde

(WF) Janika should have won his last two starts and carrying top weight won’t be a problem for him - he is a group horse in a handicap and abit riding him abit closer to the pace will make all the diffence


Dawn Run Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle – 4:50

(RED) Is it just a simple plan to pick one from Willie Mullins for this, after all he’s won the previous three running of this new race, so know’s what to look for here. The Hendo runner Epatante heads the market and is short enough at 6/4 but a couple at a price are Salsaretta or Allez Dance, obviously from the Mullins camp.

Probable winner – Epatante Placed – Salsaretta or Allez Dance

(WF) My Main fancy honeysuckle is now out so I don’t have a strong fancy but Posh Trish looks solid enough the fav is way too short for not really beating much so Posh Trish for me


Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders’ Handicap Chase – 5:30

(RED) I had Captain Chaos in for the Welsh National until he was pulled out of it, not totally sure why, can’t remember, but I have kept an eye on him since. Comes here on the back of 2 runners up to Lake View Lad, who’s down for the Ultima on Tuesday, but I think he still has some legs in him to feature again. Of the others I fancy The Young Master, Ulan Bute & No Comment…

Winner – Captain Chaos Placed – Young Maste, Ulan Bute, No Comment

(OD) Apparently Gordon Elliot has said of Measureofmydreams “He is absolutely ****ing flying. Have whatever you want on him”. Could be bullshit, could be bluster but I thought it worth mentioning.

(WF) Sky pirate is my pick looked well before falling 2 out back in November at Cheltenham carrying a very nice weight and money has been coming for him.


Friday, 15th of March


JCB Triumph Hurdle – 1:30

(RED) With the unfortunate withdrawal of Fusil Raffles through injury it’s only gone and cemented Sir Erec’s place at the top of the market, now an Evens priced runner. The only one I would play on just in case would be Tiger Tap Tap, the Mullins runner who has finished 2nd to Sir Erec twice, only by a neck at Leopardstown, and by 8lengths at the beginning of February. At round the 14/1 mark in the betting dosnt seem too bad a prize should the knighted one go down on his bended knee. I also like Adjali to be there or there abouts as well…

Probable winner – Sir Eric Placed – Tiger Tap Tap & Adjali

(SBC) I’ve maintained for a few terms that the main reason for the dearth of really top, top class hurdlers is because owners are either opting to campaign their animals on the all-weather (due to the increase in prizemoney at the top level) or sell them to race abroad (primarily Australia, the Far East or the Middle East) rather than switching them to timber. One horse who flips that recent trend though is SIR EREC. With a rating on the level of 109 this old boy had a huge profile even before he jumped a hurdle in public and the hype has been justified as he is 2/2, in the NH sphere, and looked high class in the process. This will be his biggest test but I expect Sir Erec to pass with flying colours.

(BT) If Fakir D’Oudairies goes for the triumph then he wins by half the track. If he doesn’t then Sir Erec probably wins but I wouldn’t want to be backing him at around even money. I’ll take a chance on Pic D’Orhy for Paul Nicholls. He has form from France that ties in closely with Fakir D’Oudairies. I wouldn’t take that form at face value but it’s a sign that he must be a capable performer and Harry Derham has said that they are hopeful he can develop into a decent horse. I haven’t been impressed by any other English juvenile so I would be willing to have a punt that Pic D’Orhy is ready to do himself justice.

(OD) I am a huge fan of Quel Destin and I think he has the right mix of speed, fluent jumping and raw courage that you need to win this race. Maybe not as flashy as some in the race but boy does he know how to put his head down and fight. Sir Erec may well win by half the track but makes no appeal at the prices and I will be with Quel Destin.

(WF) Sir Erec wins altho full horses don’t have a good record in this. He is head and shoulders above the rest of this field. Another Our Connor performance cold be on the cards

(CP) Likely to be a short priced favourite, Sir Erec has looked imperious in his performances this season. It does look like he is a natural over hurdles and looks the stand out selection in this. I can’t oppose him.


Randox Health County Handicap Hurdle – 2:10

(RED) No real feel for the field, still a rook load of runners left in at the time of me looking, but I would give a squeak to Cut The Mustard & We Have A Dream

Winner – Anyone’s guess Placed – Cut The Mustard & We Have A Dream

(WF) I did like Wonder Laish but is out. I am now all over Chitebello for this If the ground comes up soft- good second behind Midnight Shadow back in December be has had a wind op too since that run and has been put away for this I reckon. It could be a ‘Superb Story’ if he wins this


Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle – 2:50

(RED) Commander of Fleet is one that I have fancied for a little while now, but it’s hard to say where he is going to line up, as at the beginning of the month he was entered in about 5 races. He is still entered into the Ballymore Hurdle on Wednesday but I think he will line up here in the Bartlett. To be fair it’s another race not to get too deep into as I also like Birchdale and Dinons, but as they say, someone has to win it…

Winner – Commandeer Of Fleet Placed – Birchdale & Dinons

(BT) A race which I have a dreadful record in! I liked Relegate in this but apparently she is now not going to run. If he runs here then my selection would be Commander of Fleet. I thought he ran really well at Fairyhouse before getting outpaced late on at a 2m trip which was clearly too sharp. He came out next time and stayed on really well to beat Rhinestone. I think the step up in trip again will really suit and he looks a really nice horse that is still on the upgrade. I will also be having a small saver on Rhinestone who I think can run well at a bigger price.

(OD) No great fancy personally but I have heard some good words on the previews for Rhinestone and he is very closely matched with Commander Of Fleet on their Leopardstown run.

(WF) My reasoning in backing something in this race is Back something that has had a lot of runs, usually a second season novice does well and won’t mind a gruelling fight of a race with that in mind I do like Rhinestone who’s form isn’t far behind Commander of Fleet one is 7/1 and one is 16/1 and not always the best horse wins the race. So Rhinestone for me


Cheltenham Gold Cup – 3:40

(RED) Now, I might be in the minority here but I can’t seem to nail my colours to any of the top 3 in the market, and we could see another Lord Windermere type victory again…!! I suppose you have on take it on good authority that Presenting Percy is in rude health with only the one run and win under his belt, a 1 length win over Bapaume in a hurdle race. But that’s all his work done since his win in the RSA last year. If the weather turns for Native River I can see him going off favourite but again his form for the year hasnt said he’ll run them into the ground like last year and out do the rest of the field has it...?? Clan Des Obeaux can’t win at Cheltenham, though he hasn’t had a run here for over 15months, so that might be long enough for him to forget he’s finished 2nd on more than one occasion. So, what of the others. I can’t be having Might Bite, just looked burnt out, and maybe it’s just a bit too much for Thistlecrack, with Bristol De Mai, who won at Haydock in the Betfair, tailing off since. That leaves Kemboy or Bellshill as the potential winners, if you were to question the rest of the others. So when I read that Philip Reynolds the owner of Percy comes out with, Bellshill is our main concern I sort of thought, well I’m thinking the same as him then…!! haha...

Don’t get me wrong, we could have a 3 way epic going over the last with Percy, Clans and Native all vying for the lead, and I hope we see it. But the nagging thought at the back of my mind say's not. Anyway, at a decent price of 14/1 in places, I’m taking on Bellshill to upset the leading contenders and claim the big one come Friday the 15th. I also put a bet on a ante post for Bristol De Mai after his Haydock victory, but I don’t see me collecting off that one unfortunately…

Winner – Bellshill Placed – Presenting Percy & Native River

(SBC) Firstly can I say I have no strong opinions re this terms CGC but will jot down a few words as, for my regular readers, a preview of this heat without yours truly would be like the ‘Boat Race’ without Oxford. Watching PRESENTING PERCY stroll to victory in last terms RSA was a real ‘awesome’ moment and he immediately struck me as a future CGC that day. His preparation has been somewhat unorthodox but in the past year I still haven’t seen a performance to match his in the ’18 RSA. Think he will take all the beating in a race which I, personally, don’t think has that much depth to it.

(BT) A really tricky looking Gold Cup this year where chances can be given to most of the market. I would be against Clan Des Obeaux. I’m just not convinced that a 3m2f slog over Cheltenham is really what he wants. Native River is a horse that scares the life out of me for this. It is notoriously difficult for horses to win back to back gold cups – some great horses have tried and failed therefore I won’t be backing him but if he came and won it also really wouldn’t surprise me. I would love Thistlecrack to win but he has too much to prove for me to back him. Can’t be having Kemboy or Might Bite, Al Boum Photo doesn’t jump well enough and I don’t really think the rest have much of a chance. Presenting Percy has to be my selection. He loves it around Cheltenham and blew them away in the RSA last year. His preparation hasn’t been ideal but I just think he is by far the most solid horse in the line-up. As an each way alternative at a bigger price I fancy Elegant Escape to run a decent race. He is slow as anything but stays all day and could see him staying on past beaten horses up the hill to snatch a place.

(OD) Another very strong renewal and you can make a case for any number of them. Can’t have Presenting Percy with that prep. Does Clan Des Obeaux have the experience? Can Native River reproduce that run from 12 months ago? Can Willie Mullins finally break his duck in the race? Has the breathing op worked for Might Bite? Can Thistlecrack build on his placed efforts at Haydock and Kempton? If the ground has any “good” in the description I will probably go Clan Des Obeaux but if it comes up testing, then Native River. I won’t decide until the morning of the race.

(WF) All about one horse for me Presenting Percy it will go down as one of the best training performances when he wins but he has the talent to win this and the trainer altho he is abit of a mystery he has trained festival winners and knows what it takes. He would not be sending him here anything but 100%. His best performance came at Cheltenham in the pertemps on good ground so really the ground is not too much of an issue running on unsuitable ground the once every few seasons. That is my theory. However it looks like he may get his ground. The RSA showed he could jump, travel and speed up when necessary the prep for the race is no issue for me and his hurdle race which he wouldn’t have been near 100% shows all is ok with him. And the form of last year’s RSA is and has worked out extremely well so a form line I will follow and with that in mind my ew play will be Al Boum Photo his win lto on the clock was very good especially giving weight to the field he was. And a horse on the up too and will be Willies best chance of winning should Percy Not win. Native River can’t have even with the ground as it is forecasted, Clan Des Obeaux very impressive when Harry kicked him in the belly he quickened up like a smart horse however I’m still sceptical about the King George form and didn’t really learn much from the ascot run. For me he won’t even place!! Blacklion if he is entered could be very interesting at a huge price granted the National is his target but at a Price of 100/1 you know he will stay, jump and is effective round Cheltenham should have run in this race a couple of years ago which he would have been more 14/20/1 shot so altho he will probably be left out the back at his price he is well worth taking a small risk and could very easily run in to a place. Should a bit of luck go his way. However Presenting Percy is my main pick

(CP) Following Presenting Percy’s win in the RSA chase last season I thought straight away that’s the Cheltenham Gold Cup winner next year. Granted he has not had the best preparation but the horse is pretty special and can overcome this. Last year, Native River had just the one run over fences before going onto win and I see a similar situation here. Presenting Percy is a straightforward horse who could be brought to peak fitness at home with a few spins round the course at Galway. He is my stand out selection for this race. The ground and trip will suit and he will take all the beating.

Providing the ground is not too testing, I think Definitly Red has a good each way chance. It is tempered somewhat following his last run at Kelso where he lost out in a two runner affair but it was a nice little spin round providing some good match practice. I am hoping this has brought him on somewhat and he looked in pretty good heart earlier in the season. I think he could run a big race at a massive price.


St James’s Place Foxhunter Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase – 4:10

(RED) I will put up Hazel Hill for this one, but it’s with no great conviction as it’s another one where you can make a case for half the field come race time…

Place – Hazel Hill


Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase – 4:50

(RED) One that I put in my tracker after his 2nd placed finish to Duca De Thaix over in Fairyhouse is the Elliot horse Cubomania. Again, another one who last week was down for about 5 races, he is still showing as in the Close Brother’s Chase as I write this, but I just like the horse so will back it on the day in whichever one he turns up in. Le Prezien & Bun Doran are two others I’ll be watching in the market come tapes up on Friday.

Winner – Cubomania Placed – Le Preszien & Bun Doran

(BT) Le Prezien must have a great chance of winning this again off only 1lb higher than last year. He is a tricky horse to catch right though so I will be looking elsewhere this year. If Bouvreuil runs here then he would be of interest off the same mark as last year when he was a well fancied 10/1 shot (and my main fancy for the race). He was unlucky to be brought down early on last year and has had a light campaign this year. Horses that have previously run in this race tend to do well when attempting it again. It’s a proper cavalry charge that I think horses need to acclimatise to. I put these two horses up last year and it came off so I’ll do the same again this year with preference for Bouvreuil at a much bigger price.

(OD) Still 41 left in at time of writing so looking for something that is sure to run. We know Lieutenant Henderson always likes to target this race and who can ever forget the masterful Paul Carberry cajoling Bellvano to win this in 2012? Whatswrongwithyou looks his main chance this time and is guaranteed a run, whilst Theinval clearly thrives around Cheltenham but is 5lbs higher than when finishing 4th last year. Paul Nicholls has won 2 of the last 3 and his Magic Saint looks to have been laid out for this, having come good last time at Wincanton and in here off 149. I wouldn’t have him as a good thing though and at the current prices I would lean towards Whatwrongwithyou to bring a tear to the eye of the forum’s favourite trainer.


Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle – 5:30

(RED) By now were all shattered after taking in all of the previous races and so you sort of throw whatever you have left at this race depending how the week has gone. And I suppose it’s the same now as I take a look at the card now. So, and with no conviction, I’ll put up the Nicholls Capitaine or Henderson's Pym to close proceedings to the 2019 Cheltenham Festival

Winner – Capitaine or Pym

(SBC) Now if you are reading this in ‘live’ time and things haven’t gone well for you at the meet what do you need to get you out of this malaise – yes, that’s right regular readers, a real Barney Chuckles ‘lucky last’ live ‘un and that’s what I think exists in CARTWRIGHT. Formerly, with Sir Mark on the level (and rated in the 90’s) he is now with Gord Elliott who has won the past 2 runnings of this heat. Cartwright won 2 out of his first 4 novice hurdles before then going on to compete at Grade 1 level and then run creditably in handicap hurdles worth up to €125,000. A mark of 137, over hurdles, looks very nice and you would imagine that connections have something in hand with this figure based on Cartwright’s overall profile. Wonderful pedigree as well as the dam is a sister to Juddmonte International winner, One So Wonderful, and a half-sister to Dante and Craven victor, Alnasr Alwasheek. In a somewhat mundane affair think this High Chaparral gelding has the ‘wow’ factor about him and he looks a decent each-way investment.

(OD) Hopefully not needing to “get out” but apparently Dallas Des Pictons will take all the beating here.

(WF) Just back Gordon Elliot’s horse that is at the fore front of the market which looks to be Dallas Des Pictons.

 

Great effort chaps.
Trouble is, it still hasn't helped me in any way at all