The Cheltenham Showcase
Countdown To Cheltenham
Alright, folks, Cheltenham’s just around the corner, and I’ve been chewing over the big races. Here’s my take on what’s what for the Festival. Let’s crack on.
Supreme Novice Hurdle
Kopek Des Bordes is the one everyone’s talking about, and for good reason. He’s trained by Willie Mullins, who knows how to get them ready for this, and that Grade 1 win last time out was seriously impressive. He’s got all the boxes ticked – form, class, the lot – so he’ll be favorite, and I can’t see much getting past him. That said, keep an eye on William Munny for Barry O’Connell. He caught the eye last time too, and I reckon he’s a solid each-way shout. Plus, it’d be a cracking story if he places – the Supreme’s named after Michael O’Sullivan now, and those colours could do it again. Nice touch, that.
Champion Hurdle
Constitution Hill. I mean, what else is there to say? He’s a machine, and it’s hard to see anything touching him. That said, Bright Days Ahead getting 7lb is a big pull, and they’re talking about sticking a pacemaker in to set a proper gallop, like they did in Ireland. She’s no mug, but even with that, I’m sticking with Constitution Hill. He just looks unbeatable when he’s on song.
Stayers Hurdle
Teahupoo hasn’t been out loads the last couple of seasons, but when he has, he’s shown he’s got the goods. The Stayers’ isn’t always the deepest division, and I reckon he’s the one to beat. That said, Nicky Henderson’s Lucky Place has been on an upward curve all year. Nicky’s horses always seem to find an extra gear in the spring – if they’re fit and firing, they’re dangerous. I’d have Lucky Place down as a cracking each-way bet here.
Cheltenham Gold Cup
Galopin Des Champs is the standout. He’s probably the best chaser we’ve seen since Kauto Star – big call, I know, but he’s that good. Two Gold Cups already, versatile as anything – he can lead, he can sit handy, whatever the pace. Ground won’t faze him either. Hard to oppose him, full stop. That said, if this weather holds and we get decent ground – maybe even good – I reckon Hewick’s got a real shout. He’s a big price, but he’s tough, and he could sneak into the frame if it all falls right.
Champion Chase
Jonbon’s the one for me here. He’s rock solid, loves Cheltenham, and he’s got the form to back it up. Word on Harry Turf this morning is La Francais might dodge this for the Ryanair, which could open the door for something like Solness. He got a soft lead at the Dublin Racing Festival with Danny Mullins, and if he gets that again, he’s a bigger price worth a look. Energumene's still top class, no doubt, but he might just be a bit vulnerable to younger legs now. Jonbon or Solness – they’re my two.