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Cheltenham Preview Nights

bowles10

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bowles10

bowles10

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights

I will be going to this one at Plumpton again http://plumptonracecourse.co.uk/tickets/preview-evening/ Will also try and go to the London racing club one this year, had something on last time when it was on http://cheltenham.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/thursday-march-3-cheltenham-preview/814063/
might be up for the london one Joe, if you fancy meeting up, will let you know :ok
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mowgli77

mowgli77

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights http://www.uncharteredwaters.co.uk/unchartered_events.html Festival Preview night on 1st March at Haydock Racecourse. Host: Matt Chapman Panel: Mick Fitzgerald, Richard Johnson, Paddy Brennan, Niall Hannity and a Timeform representative Also a live link to Nicky Henderson at Seven Barrows yard. Further details in the link above. Tuesday 8th March - Various Preview Nights: http://cheltenham.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/tuesday-march-8-cheltenham-preview/814058/ Fontwell, Carlisle, County Wicklow, Bridlington, Pudsey, County Cork, Leopardstown I'll be trying to get to the Pudsey one that night, £10 entry. :ok

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Tedthewolf

Tedthewolf

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights Monday 7th March Europa Hotel, Belfast Panel includes Matt Chapman, Gordon Elliott, Andrew McNamara, Richard Hoiles, Paddy Wilmott, Brian Graham and Ronan Graham. Tickets €10 to include free €5 bet, available from all Sean Graham Bookmakers shops and at the door. For further enquiries, contact Brian Graham on +44 (0) 28 90 325 032.

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GeeJay48

GeeJay48

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW on Monday 12th March 7pm which promises to be a great night limited tickets available now £20 which includes a little food. our panelists are Richard Hoiles (Racing UK) Andy Gibson (Attheraces) Gary Wiltshire (The Belly on the Telly) & our very own Carl Llewellyn hopefully giving us a number of Winning Festival Tips. Tuesday 13th, Wednesday 14th, Thursday 15th & Gold Cup Day on Friday 16th. We start every day with Breakfast & The Racing Post from 08:30 All Races will be shown live on the big screens throughout the day with food served all day too. Live Music every evening and our Exclusive Festival Menu from 6pm. We also show all the racing highlights throughout the night & on the Big screen in our cosy Marquee. Most Importantly "The Hollow Bottom Bus " takes you home safely to wherever you need to be at the end of your evening. Come & enjoy the Craic...........March 2012......Celebrity Preview Night is on Monday 12th March, tickets now available. The HOLLOW BOTTOM, GUITING POWER , Nr CHELTENHAM. Tel. 01451 850392

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beaker1

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM PREVIEW 2012 EXETER The Panel consisted of Paul Nicholls David Pipe Philip Hobbs Paul Binfield representing sponsors Paddy Power Nick Williams Andrew King (Racing Post) Paul Jones (Cheltenham Trends) Zoey Bird, Compère DAY 1 1.30 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2m 1/2f This is clearly a very open race and there was no clear selection from the panel Philip Hobbs stated Colour Sergeant was fine after his recent fall, and should go very well Paul Nicholls says Prospect Wells is very classy at home, and goes there with a decent chance, allowing for poor effort last time Paul Jones thinks Simonsig will run Neptune, but if running in the Supreme would win Steps to Freedom has the best form, whilst Midnight Game is improving Andrew King thought Darlan had a good chance Paul Binfield thought Galileo’s Choice was the best of the Irish 2.05 Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy Steeple Chase 2m Paul Binfield said it was quite possible Sprinter Sacre could go off at odds on Paul Nicholls thought Sprinter Sacre was by no means certain to stay as he has done all his top class form on flat tracks Philip Hobbs says Menorah jumps well at home, but does make the odd mistake, which he will need to avoid on the day Doesn’t think anything can beat Sprinter Sacre Paul Jones says Sprinter Sacre is the one to beat, reminded us the best “hurdler” often wins the Arkle, and that would be Peddlers Cross David Pipe thought Sprinter Sacre had too much pace for the rest Andrew King wanted to oppose Sprinter Sacre big time, doesn’t think Cheltenham will suit, similar to the Supreme last year 2.40 William Hill Trophy Handicap Steeple Chase 3m 1/2f Not a lot on this race David Pipe said The Package should run well in this race, although the Grand National was his main aim Massini’s Maguire may also take his chance 3.20 Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy 2m 1/2f Paul Binfield thought Zarkandar had a decent chance of beating Hurricane Fly Paul Nicholls thought he had a chance and would be better than he was at Newbury Also said Zarkandar was on anti-biotics and would finish the course next couple days, but seemed OK Also thought Rock on Ruby was way overpriced on form with Binocular Brampour will run and may have EW squeak, Celestial Halo will take his chance Andrew King thought Binocular was the EW bet, impressed with last win 4.00 Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Steeple Chase 3m 7f Nothing on this race discussed in detail Paul Jones asked Philip Hobbs about Balthazar King, and I thought he got quite a positive response to his chances 14-1 EW not the worse bet in this race 4.40 David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle Race 2m 4f Nobody can see Quevega being beaten However Nick Williams was very keen on Swinford Flame‘s chance Each Way 5.15 Centenary Novice handicap Chase 2m 4.5f Again not a lot discussed although Criqtonic mentioned as having a decent chance DAY 2 1.30 National Hunt Steeple Chase Challenge Cup 4m Nothing mentioned 2.05 Neptune Investment Novices’ Hurdle 2m 5f Philip Hobbs said Fingal Bay was 50/50 after injuring a hamstring Paul Jones thought Boston Bob had the soundest chance, indeed had the best novice hurdle form at the meeting Also didn’t think Simonsig would win this if running Andrew King thought it was between Fingal bay and Boston Bob Paul Nicholls said he had been told this would be Boston Bob‘s target 2.40 RSA Steeple Chase 3m 1/2f David Pipe said Grand Crus was in great form at home, probably wouldn’t decide on the race, until the 5 day decs. Andrew king thought Bobs Worth would go well, but Grand Crus would win if running Paul Nicholls said Join Together has won twice at the course, and would stay on as well as anything in the race Paul Jones respected Invictus and Bobs Worth who is 3/3 at Cheltenham Indeed thought Bobs Worth EW at 5-1 was one of the best bets at the meeting 3.20 Sportingbet Queen Mother Champion Steeple Chase 2m Paul Binfield thought Big Zeb was the better bet at the prices Philip Hobbs says Wishfull Thinking has breathing problems, not sure they are resolved still he is not quite right. Paul Jones thinks Sizing Europe is the best chaser in training anything above Evens is a decent bet Andrew King thought Wishfull Thinking at his best would be interesting 4.00 Coral Cup (Handicap Hurdle) 2m 5f Lots of horses but no information specific to the Coral Cup, most horses are multiple entries 4.40 Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle 2m 1/2f Hinterland will run in this race and hopefully go well 5.15 Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Open NH Flat Race) 2m 1/2f Paul Binfield thinks Sword of Honour is a decent EW bet Philip Hobbs thought Village Vic would run very well Andrew King likes New Years Eve and Population Paul Jones said that the top BHA rated horse on the flat do run well in this race, and Moscow Mannon would be the horse backed on the day Nick Williams said Horatio Hornblower was nice horse and would run, if the going had “soft” in it DAY 3 1.30 Jewson Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase 2m 5f Paul Nicholls said Cristal Bonus was running on Saturday and should go well, and then would run in this race, as long as going was soft enough Nick Williams thought For Non Stop had a good chance but no more than that Paul Jones thought he had never seen Ruby Walsh look happier than the last time he got off Cristal Bonus who jumps for fun, also likes Sir Des Champs, winner would come form one of these two Andrew king thought For Non Stop could go off favourite and was the most likely winner 2.05 Pertemps Final Handicap Hurdle) 3m David Pipe expected Buena Vista to run well again, he had been concerned from two races ago, when he seemed to lose form, but last run was pretty good Buena Vista still has a chance on official rating Paul Nicholls was keen on Sonofvic, 20-1 seems a decent price 2.40 Ryanair Chase 2m 5f Paul Binfield said Noble Prince is the selection here, last race, ground was too soft Massive chance this time David pipe thought Great Endeavour had a really good chance which would improve on better going Andrew King thought it was between Somersby and Great Endeavour Paul Jones thought Somersby was very good EW bet, but not sure he wouldn’t go for the Queen Mother Chase. Great Endeavour and Medermit needed to find around 7lbs 3.20 Ladbrokes World Hurdle 3m Paul Nicholls said Big Buck’s was Ok, no cough Indeed he said the older horses all seem Ok, it’s just the younger ones who have shown some signs Big Buck’s has come on from last run He did think Oscar Whisky would be his toughest challenger yet David Pipe said Big Buck’s was certainty and that Dynaste was playing for one of the places Paul Jones wished they would run Thousand Stars in this race rather than Champion Hurdle 4.00 Byrne Group Plate Handicap Steeple Chase 2m 5f Paul Nicholls said Crack Away Jack would run here, seemed quite keen on a decent run as well I thought David Pipe said Salut Flo was entered in just about every race; there was some money for this one yesterday in this race 4.40 Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Steeple Chase 3m 1 1/2f No discussion on this race 5.15 St Patricks Day Derby (Charity race) No discussion on this race {Editor’s note – I should bloody well think not!! } DAY 4 1.30 JCB Triumph Hurdle 2m 1f Minsk is the favourite for this race, not run all season – unbelievable. Philip Hobbs said Sadlers Risk runs this Saturday, very happy with him Nick Williams said Urbain De Sivola would run if ground was on the soft side Paul Nicholls said Pearl Swan has the best form so far of his horses, but also said Dildar runs this Saturday, against Sadlers Risk I got the impression he has very high hopes for Dildar Andrew king liked Grumeti and Pearl Swan Paul Jones thought Minsk could go off as low at 2-1, as his flat form is far in excess of anything else Paul Binfield likes Darroun Paul Nicholls did say he wouldn’t be surprised if Minsk never ran either this weekend or at Cheltenham! 2.05 Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle 2m 1f Philip Hobbs said Snap Tie is in good form, he reported this last year but the horse never got in, hasn’t run for two years, so you’d want a very big price, not sure 33-1 is big enough to tempt me 2.40 Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle 3m Paul Nicholls very keen on Rocky Creek As mentioned earlier he believes Boston Bob will go to the Neptune Andrew King thought Rocky Creek would go off 7-2 if Boston Bob was NR, so 10-1 at the moment was excellent Paul Jones was not taken by Brindisi Breeze last run, not up to the standard to win this race 3.20 totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase 3m 2 1/2f Much of this was taken up discussing the merits of Long Run‘s last run, and whether Grand Crus would run Paul Jones thought the front two were vulnerable, and that Weird Al was the best bet at 20-1 Andrew king thought What a Friend EW, although Paul Nicholls dismissed this saying 3rd was his best chance if everyone turned up Paul Nicholls said Kauto Star was in top form at home, as good as he has seen him Wasn’t sure Long Run had trained on, and that meant there was not a lot between them Philip Hobbs was asked about Captain Chris, he said he has always jumped right, so that was not an issue as such, however he was not at his best IF HE RAN it would be Ryanair or Gold Cup, however then said he wouldn’t really want more than 3 miles, so I give him next to no chance of running in the Gold Cup, and I got the impression he was by no means certain to run at the Festival 4.00 Christie’s Foxhunter Steeple Chase 3m 2 1/2f No discussion, although couple of tips at the end 4.40 Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle 2m 4 1/2f As usual; David Pipe gets questioned on this race, however he said it is very difficult to even get a horse in this race, he tried with Grand Crus a couple years ago, but couldn’t as he had an OR of only 124 A few mentioned and maybe the most likely is Salut Flo if this 5.15 Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Steeple Chase 2m 1/2f No discussion on this race Charity Bets Andrew King Rocky Creek Albert Bartlett Paul Jones On The fringe Foxhunters Zoey Bird Scotsirish Cross Country Nick Williams Swincombe Flame EW David Nicholson Mares Paul Nicholls Chapoturgeon Foxhunters David Pipe Alfie Spinner National Hunt Chase Paul Binfield Salsify Foxhunters Philip Hobbs Sadlers Risk Triumph PS-i have also put this preview on racecaller under my user name bitchy so it aint copied and pasted from someone else

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beaker1

beaker1

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW at WARWICK RACECOURSE Friday, February 24th The panel was chaired by Chris Pitt who rattled through the races in double quick time to finish before racing commenced and featured up-and-coming trainer Charlie Longsdon (CL) who has a few horses with chances for the Festival (actually ‘arrived’ probably a better term for him now), Andrew Tinkler (AT) who rides for Nicky Henderson and gave the low down of many of their chief hopes, Kevan Minter (KM) (aka The Colonel to some) who gave betting updates and Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author, Paul Jones. SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE CL: We will run Vulcanite and Hazy Tom. My horses are not right at the moment so you can both of their last runs. I was disappointed with Vulcanite at Newbury as he is 7lbs-14lbs better than that. He wants a strong pace and leading last time was hardly ideal. The owner wanted to take him to a valuable staying prize in Dubai instead but thankfully David Redvers has managed to change his mind which is good for me as he runs here. I hope you will see a far improved performance off a strong pace. I think we will reverse Kempton form with Tetlami. Hazy Tom wasn’t right at Ascot so forget that. Dickie Johnson thinks a fast-run 2m will really suit him when he is right so we have taken him out of the Neptune. AT: Simonsig schooled very slicky this morning and has the pace to run in either the Supreme or Neptune. They go very, very quick in the Supreme so I would like to see him run here as it would really suit him. He is a real two-miler that would see it out very well. I schooled Darlan today and he went very well and showed no ill effects of his bad fall. Tetlami is by Daylami and has the traits of many offspring of his sire in that he only shows you half his hand as he does what you ask and no more. He has ten times more ability that he has shown. KM: I always find this a hard race to predict. I know some shrewd judges are on Steps To Freedom at 14s but it worries me that he will not have run since November. ARKLE TROPHY CL: Barry Geraghty rode Moscow Flyer and he seems to think that Sprinter Sacre is in a different league to him so I can’t go against him. Flat tracks may suit him better and he has not done it yet at Cheltenham like four of his rivals but, even so. Peddlers Cross to chase him home. AT: Sptrinter Sacre needs very little introduction now. I made the running on French Opera at Newbury at what I thought was championship pace and he just breezed by me at half-way like I wasn’t even there. He has to work on his own at home as nothing can live with him and we don’t want to break the hearts of horses like Oscar Whisky by working with him. The intention was sit him in behind at Newbury so he can learn but that only lasted about five fences as he just took off past them without even trying. He was a shell of a horse last year which is why he didn’t get up the hill but came back to us looking unrecognisable after the summer and has grown up now. KM: The stats are against Sprinter Sacre as favourites have a poor Arkle record but I still see it as a match between him and Peddlers Cross. CHAMPION HURDLE CL: Hurricane Fly is outstanding and I expect him to win. I hear Zarkandar didn’t come out of his Newbury win brilliantly. AT: Binocular looked great at Wincanton and I will be really surprised if he is not in the first three. I preferred him to Grandouet as our main hope even before Grandouet had his setback. KM: I could win on Hurricane Fly. The Evens keeps getting wiped out every time someone offers it on the exchanges. NH CHASE CL: The plan is to run Universal Soldier. He has only had one run for us and, to be fair, although he won easily it was a mickey mouse race as Chartreux didn’t get very far. He pulled a muscle on his last start for his previous trainer and is best fresh. He is as slow as a hearse and needs all of 4m so this race should suit him and there is a good chance that Jamie Codd will ride and he has won this race twice before. I would like it to be on the easy side of good ground for him. Strongbows Legend is entered but this might come a year too soon for him, we’ll consider it as he won’t get another chance. AT: We don’t really have anything for this. Loose Performer maybe but he is not a horse to back at the Festival. Teaforthree I like but just concentrate on the best amateur riders. KM: A hard race to play in. Teaforthree and Fists Of Fury have been the horses for money recently. NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE CL: We’ve got Cross Of Honour for this. He’s rated 126. If he was 130 he would have gone for the Coral Cup which would have been ideal but I doubt he would get in off 126. We need to a 140+ horse for this. Dawn Commander will run either here or the Albert Bartlett. AT: This is Simonsig’s other option but I would personally like to see him in the Supreme as think he is a real two-miler. KM: Even if Fingal Bay does run I would be worried about the form of the Hobbs yard. Boston Bob will start favourite if he runs here or the Albert Bartlett. RSA CHASE CL: I really can’t see past Grands Crus, he has too much class for these. AT: I’ve not had much to do with Bobs Worth until five days before Ascot when I was asked to school him beforehand. He has no wow factor about him and I would be a bit surprised if he can beat Grands Crus. It can often take a run to get over a wind operation as they think it might hurt them the next time they race. I think that might have happened at Ascot as he looked quite laboured but then when he realised it wasn’t going to hurt he ran on. KM: Grands Crus is one of my bankers of the meeting. He has high-class hurdles form and travels really easily. Invictus would be my idea of the main danger. QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE CL: Sizing Europe should retain his crown. There is not much more to say really, he bolts up over 2m and doesn’t stay 3m. If healthy, he’ll win. AT: Finian’s Rainbow schooled well this morning. I can’t see him beating Sizing Europe though. Whoever wins this year won’t win it again next year though as Sprinter Sacre will. JEWSON NOVICES’ CHASE AT: I schooled Solix this week. He jumped the first three beautiful but was bit flat at the fourth, or French as we like to call it at the yard. He has a good chance and he is better than his form says he is. RYANAIR CHASE CL: I don’t think you can rule out Albertas Run again and Jonjo knows what it takes. I’d love to this horse win it for a third time. If it comes up soft though I would switch to Rubi Light. AT: Riverside Theatre was very much tuned up for Ascot. He gets himself fit so there is not much to work on. He could be better on a flat track. I quite like the chances of Medermit to reverse form as Choc almost fell off during the race which we gave him stick for and he wasn’t beaten far and 2m5f suits him really well. If you offered me the ride between Riverside Theatre and Medermit, I would pick Medermit. KM: The message was very strong for Riverside Theatre at Ascot and the money was right. For me he is an outstanding each-way bet. WORLD HURDLE CL: Big Buck’s, what more can I add? AT: Ruby says Big Buck’s is the biggest cert in racing. Oscar Whisky will be second or third. If there were a Ryanair Hurdle though he would win that. As for the Aintree Hurdle as some say he won’t stay as Thousand Stars nearly caught him that day, I thought Barry nicked the race at Aintree rather than committed too soon him. I thought it was a brilliant ride. KM: Big Buck’s is an awesome machine but why take 4/9 now when he will trade at around Evens in-running at some point? TRIUMPH HURDLE CL: West Brit won the Scottish Triumph Hurdle for us. Ideally we wanted to go for the Fred Winter but we have run out of time to give him his third qualifying run. Shame as I saw him as an ideal Fred Winter type. He had a wind op before he won at Musselburgh and will improve again. Could be third, fourth or fifth but probably not good enough to win. AT: Lyvius runs at Newbury next week. I schooled him this week and I adore this horse. He’s not a definite runner in the Triumph though. GOLD CUP CL: It’s hard to win a Gold Cup in successive years. Even Kauto Star has not done that and I can see a similar situation with Long Run as it takes a lot out of a horse to win the Gold Cup and he could be suffering a little this year as a result. I can see Long Run not winning this year but regaining his crown next season. Kauto Star to win for me. AT: Opinion is divided in the yard between Long Run and Burton Port and I know a lot of the lads have 33/1 Burton Port e/w before his Newbury run. He will love the trip and the hill. Long Run was too chilled out in earplugs so he won’t have them in the Gold Cup. He’s older and wiser now. KM: This is a big race for the main fancies in the betting of late. I was deeply impressed with Long Run giving weight away at Newbury where he did nothing wrong.

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Cosmetic Bob

Cosmetic Bob

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights Im going to London Racing Club preview evening on thursday, been to this one a few times. two years ago Dave Nevison was drunk & when he went to the toilet he laughed he's head off was comedy lol! The woman who runs the evening & the london racing club is Kate Austin was my former school teacher!

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beaker1

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW at Bangor-On-Dee Racecourse Thursday, March 1st After the success of the inaugural preview evening hosted by Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse last year, there was a good turnout again for its second airing with local trainer Donald McCain (DM) the star attraction on the panel which was chaired by Darren Owen. Commentator and broadcaster Stewart Machin (SM) and John Morris (JM), author of Jumping Prospects were also panellists as was Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide author Paul Jones. As the night primarily covered the Grade 1 races and Paul’s views on those were given after the Exeter preview, there is no need to repeat those but we will report on all his views again next week at the Knaresborough Preview where they run through all 27 races. SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE DM: Agent Archie is possibly more of an Aintree type but if I didn’t have Cinders And Ashes I would be very happy for him to represent me in this race on his own as he has shown enough to warrant running. His owners want to run. Some have questioned Cinders And Ashes’ form but that is the trainer’s fault and not the horse’s. He can only go where I have sent him. I am expecting massive improvement for decent ground, he is twice the specimen of last year, a different horse altogether. Darlan has a huge chance if he has recovered from that bad fall. I’ll be amazed if he has as it looked horrible but they say so and there is no reason to doubt them. SM: The heavy fall for Darlan would still concern me even if he has schooled well since. I spoke to Barry Geraghty for RacingUK and no definitive decision has been made yet on where Simonsig runs. Cinders And Ashes keeps winning despite desperate ground. He is my selection. JM: Galileo’s Choice is a class act from the Flat and there isn’t much jumping from the top of the hill so I seriously respect his chance. Tetlami is the each-way bet, he has a big chance on ratings. ARKLE TROPHY DM: We are getting there with Peddlers Cross but he is not 100% yet. Plan A remains the Arkle until something tells us otherwise. The Jewson is a back-up plan at the moment. We have a couple of schools planned soon. He’ll be coming out of the Queen Mother, I don’t know I put him in it. I was shell shocked when Sprinter Sacre beat him. He clattered the first and was clearly not right for the rest of the race. I was interviewed by Nick Luck afterwards and wanted to sound like a good sport and then got calls from my friends and my wife telling me I was talking sh*t basically. They said he clearly wasn’t right and when I got home and watched it I saw what they meant and he subdued for a few days afterwards. It’s been going the right way since but it’s not perfect. With Sprinter Sacre I would say there is a massive difference between Doncaster and Kempton to Cheltenham but he might be the second coming. SM: What’s value? Not Sprinter Sacre at 5/4 and Cue Card is a bit flaky. If Cue Card sets the gallop the Tizzards say he will then Al Ferof will love it and he strikes me as the best value. JM: Sprinter Sacre jumped a bus every time on his chase debut at Doncaster but shortened up when he needed to on his next start. Not really a great race to have a bet in but I hope Peddlers Cross comes out on top. CHAMPION HURDLE DM: Overturn is in great nick. He galloped here yesterday and the lady who I watched him work with never swears but she did on this occasion. He’s bouncing. He beat Binocular easily in the Fighting Fifth and I thought the Wincanton race he won last time wasn’t up to much. He was a bit flat when second to Grandouet and then we just got greedy running him at Kempton where he never jumped a hurdle. Hurricane Fly beat my best horse last year but nothing is unbeatable. SM: Why won’t Hurricane Fly not win? There is no Peddlers Cross this year. He is far more relaxed according to Mullins and Walsh so why shouldn’t he win? Zarkandar is short enough. Rock On Ruby could be each-way value. You have to think how many think they can beat Hurricane Fly and how many will be ridden to obtain the best possible placing behind him. Rock On Ruby could fit the latter. JM: Oscars Well cost me a fortune with his last flight mistake in the Neptune last year and I would nominate him and Oscars Well as the each-way value. Binocular proved himself again at Wincanton and if he is spot on I would respect him. NEPTUNE INVESTMENTS MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE DM: I’d run Simonsig in this, I don’t think he has the gears for a Supreme. I’d also run Boston Bob here for the fact that I would like to run my best staying novice in this race rather than the Albert Bartlett. SM: Monksland is a big player on decent ground and had his form franked earlier today by Lyreen Legend. Noel Meade has won this race before and he promises to be even better when getting decent ground which he has yet to encounter in Ireland. Sous Les Cieux is half-interesting up in trip. JM: I rate Boston Bob very highly but we don’t know where he runs yet. Monksland is my each-way fancy, he is improving all the time and will love the likely better ground. RSA CHASE DM: I’d always keep a novice to novice races in cases like this so I would run Grands Crus here. If everything goes smoothly then he should win. I see Join Together is officially rated higher though. SM: I didn’t think Grands Crus jumped that great at Cheltenham if I am honest and he got in a bit tight to a few so I don’t fancy taking 6/4. I’m struggling to see why Invictus is twice the price of Bobs Worth. I’m worried Bobs Worth could get taken out of his comfort zone and he is not the biggest either. Invictus for me. JM: I have a good feeling for First Lieutenant. We know he comes up the hill having won here last time and I don’t think he has been fully wound up in his races so far on ground that wouldn’t have been suiting him. QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE DM: I’m a bit luke warm about this race to be honest. I see no reason why Big Zeb should turn last year’s form around with Sizing Europe and there doesn’t appear to be much else. SM: I interviewed Geraghty for RacingUK and of all his big rides his body language was the most negative for Finian’s Rainbow and he commented that he had not come up to expectations this season. No reason why Big Zeb should reverse with Sizing Europe. I can see Kauto Stone running well. He didn’t settle last time and was only beaten 7 lengths by Sizing Europe on his previous run so he is of interest in a without Sizing Europe market. JM: Finian’s Rainbow is a bit of value for me as is Wishfull Thinking as Big Zeb is getting a bit long in the tooth. Sizing Europe was never going to be a three-miler. He is a good two-mile chaser but I am not sure he is a brilliant two-mile chaser. RYANAIR CHASE DM: No strong view. Somersby has finally won a big one and he could easily now win another. SM: I think Somersby is a horse that needs things to drop right for him. Albertas Run is too old and I don’t think Cheltenham suits Riverside Theatre and I am also sceptical about whether his Ascot win was as good as many think. On good ground I think Noble Prince is exceptional and he has not had his ground all season so he is the one for me. JM: I like Roth Dubh each-way who was staying on when third in the Arkle. 25/1 is too big. Jonjo’s are flying so I respect Albertas Run but I am not convinced racing left-handed suits Riverside Theatre. WORLD HURDLE DM: I wasn’t convinced Big Buck’s was as great as everyone was saying until I was down by the last at Aintree last season and I am now one of his biggest fans. It was a monstrous performance that day. He will probably win but I do think that Oscar Whisky will give him the fright of his life and think he is the best horse he will have faced. SM: The best way to beat Big Buck’s might be to sit a length off him and then kick as soon as he hits a flat spot. There is some interest to be had in the without Big Buck’s market. I fancy they could ride Dynaste differently this time and hold onto him this time. I am not sure Oscar Whisky is in the right race. JM: Will Oscar Whisky stay 3m? I can’t see past Big Buck’s. Ruby is aware of that the flat spot is coming and is ready for it. It’s great for racing if he can win it again. Mikael D’Haguenet each-way for me. TRIUMPH HURDLE DM: Hollow Tree is a fantastic little horse that has already won a Grade 1. His early season form shouldn’t be knocked and the race in which he was third to Grumeti giving him weight but not Pearl Swan is the best piece of 4yo hurdle form this season. I would look no further than that form. He would have been closer too had Jason not lost his whip. SM: I quite like Sadler’s Risk and didn’t think he was knocked about behind Baby Mix. I really can’t have Baby Mix. There is something quirky about him and he got a great ride at Kempton. The stiffer track will also suit Sadler’s Risk and I think he will reverse form. JM: Darroun could be well backed and is the each-way selection. His Leopardstown win is working out well. I do like ex Aga Khan horses. Grumeti looks best of the British and reminds me of Katchit given his toughness. ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE DM: I’ve been taking on Brindisi Breeze with no luck this season. All I would say is that ground at Haydock was really bad so beware the form. I had two heavy ground horses run that day and even they couldn’t handle it. Speaking with Gordon Elliott last week he told me that Mount Benbulben was his best chance at Cheltenham. SM: Brindisi Breeze has only run on soft so that would worry me and I don’t think he would be left alone up front at Cheltenham either. I like Rocky Creek as there is plenty more to come and he looks a stout stayer. JM: Boston Bob if the obvious one if he runs here but Lovcen is expected to run well and is each-way value at 20/1. He won a Wincanton handicap very well last time. GOLD CUP DM: Weird Al is very well. In fact, when I got him out for a Grand National media day I thought he looked too well. At Haydock when we were third, Kauto Star was fit to run for his life and we were only 2 lengths behind Long Run but I don’t know how much he needed it. Timmy Murphy was adamant afterwards he was not quite the same horse that won the Charlie Hall and down the back straight said he would have gladly taken third there and then. The ground was not as he would have liked that day but he goes best fresh and it came too soon after Wetherby. The owners want one good crack at the Gold Cup so we decided soon after to go straight to the Gold Cup fresh. If he gets there in form he will run a big race and it is starting to look like he might get his ground. I think Burton Port should have beaten Long Run at Newbury and he is a belting good little horse. SM: We’re in the dark regards Kauto Star following his schooling fall but even if he makes it then it has to be a worry he will be at his best. Long Run is too short and strikes me as vulnerable. I’m not sure which way Burton Port will go after his Newbury return following 16 months off. What A Friend is interesting each-way given his running style. JM: I’m interested in Synchronised who annihilated a good field on ground thought to be dead against him in Ireland. He is a fragile sort though and has had problems since. If he runs, a forgotten horse could be Time For Rupert but the Kauto Star news has thrown me a bit and I really need a rethink. Burton Port each-way at this stage. SHOULDER RACES DM: Charminster will run in the novice handicap chase. He got the fright of his life when running here last time after the likes of Sedgefield and Musselburgh but that has sharpened him up. Bourne goes for the Martin Pipe and the right horses were placed behind him at Ascot last time. Kie runs in the Fred Winter but I’m not sure that Lexi’s Boy will get in now the handicapper has dropped him 5lbs on collateral form which would be annoying. It looks like Tara Royal will have 10st 3lbs in the Grand Annual which is ideal. Richard Harding will ride Cloudy Lane in the Foxhunters’ and he has a right good chance. NAPS DM: Cloudy Lane (Foxhunters’) SM: Noble Prince (Ryanair) JM: Boston Bon (selected novice hurdle)

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights Might do a write up on the London Racing Club one but in essence Paul Smith and Declan Rix liked Tetlami but Charlie (assistant to Henderson) said Darlan has more class and would likely go past Tetlami. Lee Mottershead really like Prospect Wells EW to bounce back. (this is from memory, didn't make notes) Everyone agreed Sprinter Sacrecould be class but worth taking on at the prices. Charlie said he is all class and he can't see him losing. George Primarolo said worse bets than Peddlers NRNB for the Champ Hurdle at 25/1. No real opinion on the Fes Chase - Paul Smith reminded everyone Quan needs to come in the top 4 to qualify for then National. As for Champ Hurdle - Charlie said Binoc is in great form at home, Wincanton was a bit of an afterthought but was very impressive and come out well. Paul Smith thought Zarkandar was a great EW bet, Declan thought Thousand Stars was a good EW bet if going for the race X Country - Nothing Mares - Obvious although when asked about Kells Belle Charlie said she is a good EW bet Which ever race Triolo D'Arlene goes for Charlie said he is well in and will run a huge race, similar to Paul Smith with Up The Beat whose form he really likes and he thinks he will win big races. Everyone also though Boston Bob would win which ever race he went for - Declan though Aupcharlie was a huge EW price for NRNB. Soux Les Cieux got a mention, as did Monksland. Charlie likes Simonsig, he said no decision about the race has been made but likely Neptune, classy horse but Boston Bob to beat. In the RSA Invictus was a popular choice. Declan liked Bobs Worth as EW steal at 5/1. They said Grand Crus by no mean a cert if he lines up In the QMCC all liked Sizing, Phil Smith said for him he is the most solid out of all the champs and the rest have a lot to find on ratings. Declan said at 5/1 Big Zeb, again, was an EW bet to nothing. Finians in good form but not sure he is up to Sizing. Kauto Stone got a few mentions for EW NRNB Coral Cup - Declan liked Dare Me as one of his best bets Fred Winter - Nothing Bumper - Declan said regular rider of Moscow Mannion says he is one of the best horses in the yard he sits on. Lee liked Royal Gurdsman, Phil NYE. Charlie said My Tent Or Yours wins on Saturday! Jewson - depends on line up. Peddlers big chance if goes and Cristal Bonus was impressive. Champion Court a good EW with his form. Charlie said Solix likely to go to a handicap until Phil Smith reminded him he is not entered into one. Pertemps - Nothing really but Smith said would be amazing feat for Pipes if Buena Vista won again, would be highest mark Ryanair - Charlie said come out fo race really well. His record fresh was discussed and only won once in 5 second time in season. Declan said laid for a place. Lee really liked Rubi Light. George said he expected Nobel Prince to be spot on for this race and to go close. World Hurdle - I was surprised at how down beat Charlie was on Oscar Whiskey and him staying the trip. Declan liked Mourad EW Triumph - A few still liked Saddlers Risk - him and Balder Success the picks Gold Cup - Charlie confident with Long Run, Burton Port also got a chance if fit but although he is well they are never sure with him. Most said think Grand Crus should stick to the Novice route. Not the same without Kauto Probably missed stuff and got a few things wrong but that is the general gist!

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bowles10

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights THanks Joe I will down at Newbury on Weds fr the annual West Berkshire preview i find amazing we discuss in detail the big grade 1's and not much comment on some of the handicaps, i know thats because the entries are fluid at the moment, but some horses are laid out as we know and there are a few gambles out there developing which are not coming through the previews at all. Its a pity the bookie on the panel doesnt give a heads up on some of the gambles? Nothing in the previews yet to excite me about the chances of some of the non favourites as we know not all the favs will win.

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights Posted this on my blog last night, hope it's of some use to someone. Coral Cheltenham Preview Night; Loose Cannon Club, London; Tuesday 6thMarch Tonight was my first “preview night” of any kind and it was an enjoyable night that’s for sure, for this “invite only” occasion. A panel of four were the main players in discussion. These were Nick Luck (NL), Channel 4 Racing and RacingUK presenter; Simon Clare (SC), Head of PR at Coral; Mark “The Couch” Winstanley (MH), from the Racing Post and Paddy Brennan (PB), who arrived late after returning from riding at Exeter. All 27 races were discussed, albeit some briefly and I’ll go through them in chronological order, as the panel also did bar the exception of the Gold Cup, which was left until last.

Tuesday

Supreme Novices Hurdle The Supreme Novices Hurdleopened the discussion, with MW vehemently opposed to Galileo’s Choice, mainly due to the poor record of Dermot Weld at the Festival alongside that he believed that Weld was merely using Cheltenham as a “schooling session for Galway”. MW advised giving this race a miss altogether. SC commented on the shortening price of Darlan, possibly due to owner JP McManus claiming it was his NAP of the Festival. SC also put in good mentions for Tetlami from the same Nicky Henderson yard, along with Galileo’s Choice, which provided the first of many short and lively debates with MW regarding Dermot Weld. At a bigger price, NL suggested the Charlie Longsdon trained Vulcanite as a nice each-way wager, his belief being that his run last time at Newbury was disappointing due to incorrect jockey tactics. PB supported NL’s views regarding Vulcanite, and was very complimentary regarding work he’d done on the horse at home, using the word “unbelievable”. Arkle Trophy The Arkle contains the highly touted Sprinter Sacre and all four of the panel agreed that he’s going to be very difficult to beat. SC suggested that on-course layers will be very tempted to get stuck in to this favourite and evens on-course might not be a complete fantasy, a view corroborated by his colleague in the audience, James Knight. MW sternly rubbished suggestions that Sprinter Sacre would fail to get up the Cheltenham hill, and quickly went on to say that Ruby Walsh for top jockey was his NAP of the festival, along with Blackstairmountain in the w/o favourite market in the Arkle not being a bad shout. Both NL and PB also agreed that barring accidents Sprinter Sacre could be very difficult to beat. JLT Handicap Chase MW threw up a few horses in this race, including The Package who has been off for a long while but has been well-supported. Penny Max too as a NRNB play, especially if the ground comes up soft [was pulled out at Ascot as ground said too fast a couple of weeks ago]. MW also put in a good word for Tullamore Dew, who was just touched off at that Ascot meeting and he wouldn’t put anyone off backing Quantitativeeasing, NL stating that he needed to get in the first 4 to get a place for the National. NL further added a good mention of Lie Forrit, a favourite of a colleague of his and he believed he was a similar kind of horse to that of Chief Dan George, and Lie Forrit would prove to be well-handicapped over fences. SC provided a trend that winners tended to be rated 143 or less, and thus he thought Tullamore Dew might go well. SC also had reservations regarding current favourite Hold On Julio, as Wayne Hutchinson had concerns regarding the horse’s jumping. Champion Hurdle This was another race where the race seemingly revolves around one horse, that being in this instance Hurricane Fly. In this case, the panel wasn’t unanimous in their support for the Willie Mullins trained horse. NL suggested Binocular as being a “great each-way price” at 5/1 and a “danger to all” if his form of his win in this race two years ago. SC was less impressed with Binocular, stating him as “unexciting” and suggesting that a possible betting plan of action would be to wait for the day regarding backing Hurricane Fly, as it is likely that the bookmakers may try to get after him on-course. PB thought Hurricane Fly would win barring accidents, whilst MW was similarly impressed, especially after his last win at Leopardstown. Other bets suggested in this race was that by SC of Oscars Well and a place bet on Overturn, whilst MW also liked the chance of Rock on Ruby in the w/o favourite market, alongside a tricast including Hurricane Fly, Rock on Ruby and Thousand Stars. Cross Country Chase This race was mentioned only very briefly, with PB quickly quashing any suggestion he’d want to ride in this race. SC mentioned that Richard Johson believed that Balthazar King was his best chance at the Festival in this race. My feelings of that horse would be that he’d need fairly quick ground to play a part in the finish, which with the current forecast isn’t that likely. David Nicholson Mares Hurdle Another race where the market revolves around one horse, that being Quevega. PB will likely ride Terre Du Vent but claimed Quevega to be a certainty. SC suggested the only horse that could beat Quevega would be Unaccompanied (bringing about another short debate regarding the Cheltenham Festival record of Dermot Weld) but the market vibes were suggesting she wouldn’t line up. MW put up Kentford Grey Lady, a progressive horse who he claimed was given a poor ride by Jack Doyle last time, as a place bet, but that Quevega would win. Centerary SC and MW both mentioned the gamble on Triolo D’Arlene, who allegedly was tipped by Nicky Henderson himself as his NAP of the Festival, and there were reports of said horse working like a 150 rated animal. SC also found the Irish trained Slieveardagh interesting, whilst MW also threw the Tony Martin trained Nearest The Pin into the mix, who he’d received a positive report for. NL liked Shot From The Hip, whom he felt was well-handicapped on his form over timber and at 10/1, had slipped under the radar. PB suggested Ackertac, who had finished behind Triolo D’Arlene at Ascot earlier this year, as having been “set-up” for this contest by his old boss Nigel Twiston-Davies.

Wednesday

NH Chase MW suggested Allee Garde as being one of his best bets of the festival, feeling it should be a much shorter price than it currently is. SC commented on the market support for Harry the Viking, along with the low-profile campaign over fences of Oscar Dan Dan also being of interest. SC also liked Teaforthree as he would stay the trip solidly. NL felt that Alfie Spinner was Nick Williams’ best chance of a winner at the Festival and that he should go well upped in trip. Neptune Investments Hurdle MW was of the view that Boston Bob would win any race he goes for, but market signals were suggesting that BB was going to go elsewhere, and that the 5/2 on Simonsig at the time was a fantastic NRNB investment. It was also stated Irish P2P rider Derek O’Connor at another Cheltenham Preview night, had suggested that Simonsig was “banker material” having his experience with the horse in the past, NL adding that he’s bred for the trip and it will likely turn out to be his best distance and that the race itself would be fairly thin if Boston Bob didn’t show. RSA Chase Will Grand Crus turn up here or in the Gold Cup? SC suggested the market vibes were pointing to the latter. If lining up in this race though, it’s probable that the bookmakers will again want to take on the favourite anyway and SC stated Bobs Worth as having an obvious chance, fitting the stats nicely. He also added that the huge gamble in Sire Des Champs meant there was very little value in the price currently. MW disagreed entirely, stating Sir Des Champs to be an “aeroplane” and having an excellent chance, shown especially by how far he’d come from the rear last time out, later going on to give it as his charity bet. MW felt that Grand Crus should be given a crack at the Gold Cup. Queen Mother Champion Chase MW brought up the poor record of older horses in this contest, leading him to have sided with Finian’s Rainbow as an each-way wager, although apart from the age stat, he found it difficult to knock the chances of Sizing Europe. NL was keener on the chances of Finian’s Rainbow than MW, while also questioning why Henrietta Knight doesn’t give a chance to Somersby in this race. SC agreed, saying he’d run Somersby as it was a pretty poor race in truth, especially with the likes of Big Zeb towards the front of the market, who he felt was regressing badly from top level competition. He felt though that Evens or better about Sizing Europe was worth a bet. MW also added a possible match bet in this contest, that Finians Rainbow would beat Big Zeb. Coral Cup SC quoted a stat that no horse higher than 147 had won the event, which would rule out some of the big players in the market. He however, gave no specific advice about what to back, suggesting you should follow the money on the day of the race. MW would have liked Our Father if lining up, but he goes elsewhere and he gave a small mention to Third Intention after an impressive success in the Spirit Hurdle. Fred Winter PB claimed he’d have no ride in this contest, and stated that Vendor would be difficult to beat in any case. Vendor was the topic of much the discussion on this race, with reports of the Alan King horse working well alongside much higher rated animals in Balder Succes. Wayne Hutchinson claimed he couldn’t be beaten off a mark of 129, but SC hasten to add that the Fred Winter often has many well-handicapped animals involved that could go off at big prices. MW believed that Vendor could be a difficult ride and that might find him out at Cheltenham, even comparing him to the frustrating Olofi. MW put up Fire Fighter as an alternative to Vendor, especially as Alan King had an excellent trio of runners in this race last year and you shouldn’t be put off by any second-fiddle jockey bookings, although he was concerned with said horse’s jumping last time out. MW also suggested Musawama from Gordon Elliott’s yard, who’d appreciate the likely ground being out of Azamour and he won’t have been seen to the best of his ability running on softer surfaces. Champion Bumper SC said the market was wide open, but had heard reports that Fickle Fortune was “very special”, a comment also corroborated by MW. MW thought market principle Moscow Mannon wasn’t a very likely winner, putting up a suggestion in the John Ferguson trained New Years Eve as the best of the English horses. Both NL and PB liked Royal Guardsman after his Ascot win, and the former suggested he thinks this race will go to a British trained runner. A couple of audience members (including Twitter member “kingofbumpers”) suggested Cool George as their fancy, although PB thought that he wouldn’t be running.

Thursday

Jewson Chase Peddlers Cross was confirmed for this race only a couple of days ago and all four of the panel weren’t too keen on his chances, PB being concerned with his jumping and his movement when last seen at Kempton, while SC was also worried with “why” they had decided the switch so late, did they just believe that Sprinter Sacre couldn’t be beaten? Coral’s were likely going to lay top price about Peddlers, with both PB and SC, liking the chances of Champion Court. MW liked Cristal Bonus, although he was unsure to how strong the Kempton race actually was, while putting good mentions in for Call the Police (ew) if the rain arrived. Taking a similar view to that of Coral, MW stated Peddlers Cross as his lay of the meeting. Pertempts Hurdle PB was adamant throughout that Sivola De Sivola had an excellent chance in this race, especially with the NRNB concession now in place as there are doubts to whether he’ll get in. From what you could see, he felt this horse had a huge shout and that this horse was a “serious talent” after an eye-catching run last time. MW thought Our Father had an excellent chance also, as he believed he’d go for this race and that Sweet My Lord also had claims. SC spoke about their being a big move for Jetson, but he obviously wasn’t too worried as he offered a special price of 10/1 on the night. Ryanair Chase PB liked Noble Prince in this race, and wasn’t really convinced by Riverside Theatre. SC thought otherwise, liking Riverside Theatre, especially with Medermit possibly going elsewhere. Great Endeavour was another where a fair case could be made, with MW not sure whether he could handle it at the top level. MW wasn’t particularly involved in this race, stating it was a hard one to call but if he had to, he’d go Noble Prince. World Hurdle Big Bucks is unbeatable according to the current odds but MW thought there was a chance he could be turned over, putting up Dynaste in opposition at 14/1, further adding that Big Bucks is getting on a bit now and sometime soon, bad luck in-running will fall his way. Dynaste was stated by MW as a decent trading proposition in-play, especially as he consistently trades much shorter. PB thought Oscar Whisky would stay the 3 mile trip, but still wouldn’t have enough to beat Big Bucks, although he was glad Oscar Whisky lined up as it added another plausible rival to the favourite. SC thought similar, suggesting Big Bucks should be 1/4, and his colleague in the audience James Knight suggesting 1/5 would be a more apt price. Byrne Group Plate PB had been reliably told that Salut Flo had worked very well on a racecourse gallop at Exeter recently, but obviously didn’t want to say who he had heard it from (it wasn’t Conor O’Farrel). MW jokingly suggested that they’d been working in the dark, possibly even “in Guernsey”. MW went on to say that he’d love Hunt Ball to win, especially as he enjoyed Anthony Knott as a character in racing, adding that he felt Crackaway Jack and Divers were possibly worthy of investment. SC also thought Divers was worth a bet, especially with AP McCoy on board. SC also said that Notus De La Tour would likely show in this contest, as one of his co-workers had a share in the horse and this was the target. Kim Muir MW thought Up The Beat was capable of running a big race, with NL thinking that Midnight Appeal was still under the radar after it’s win at Sandown. PB thought this was a weak race and Faasel was at least reliable. He also felt that Helpston was overpriced, merely due to the fact that it was Pam Sly training, rather than a big-name. SC reported the market as pretty quiet, and that he’d heard that Faasel was working well at home.

Friday

Triumph Hurdle MW thought that Grumeti was bombproof before the scare today regarding his lameness, although it’s fully expected he’ll be fine for the Festival itself. He also liked Shadow Catcher, as his jockey had gone too soon last time out and he was expecting a better run. PB rides Baby Mix, who’s been brilliant but with one big blip. He needs good ground but the impression is that he’s still a serious horse, but Grumeti still stands as the one to beat. SC thought that punters shouldn’t get too adventurous with bigger priced selections, as those at the forefront of the market have a good record. NL went against this, feeling that Hollow Tree was too big a price, his defeat last time being excused as he went off too quick last time. County Hurdle MW thought an Imperial Cup/County Hurdle double for Ted Spread wasn’t impossible and thought the current price for the County Hurdle wasn’t a bad price NRNB. He also found the money for Snap Tie interesting, especially given the amount of time he’s been off the track. NL thought Citizenship “has a stone in hand”, whilst PB “wouldn’t swap Olofi” for any horse in the race, which created a debate regarding how genuine Olofi was. PB felt he was just a bit quirky, similar to Pigeon Island and that he felt he knew the right way to ride him. SC confirmed that Coral had laid loads for Snap Tie, but didn’t seem too concerned. Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle SC said the vibes were that this would be where Boston Bob would run, and that they’d been an interesting move for Mount Benbulben. Lovecen was seen to be a “really likeable type”, but still,the market was suggesting that Boston Bob would go off a short-price. MW thought that the 9/4 was worth taking now, and that sort of price would be one of the best bets of the festival. PB further stated his fondness of Sivola De Sivola, suggesting if he didn’t get in the Pertempts then he’d go here, feeling that wherever he went, he had the ability to run to a level of around a mark of 145. Cheltenham Gold Cup SC stated that Long Run had been eased out to 7/4, especially with plenty of negative vibes about and the fact that no-one was backing. Kauto Star had “rolled” today, which was a positive. PB wasn’t keen on the chances of Kauto Star at all, feeling (as a Gold Cup winning jockey) that preparation had to go perfectly for you to have a chance of winning the contest, and after Kauto’s fall (which he’d heard had been “awful”). He felt Long Run was a certainty barring accidents, and just hopes that Kauto Star returns from the race safe. MW also couldn’t have Kauto Star at all, “if he can’t win at 11, how can he at 12?” He thought Grand Crus was the best horse in the race, although PB disagreed and thought it would come too soon in his career. A chance was also given to Weird Al due to his impressive record when fresh, but NL and PB both thought Weird Al lacked resolution in a battle, which wouldn’t stand him in good stead for the race. Further questions by the audience led to What A Friend being mentioned as a possible each-way alternative, especially now Burton Port’s value had pretty much disappeared, and the likes of Quel Espirit being “an awful price”. Foxhunters Chase Both MW and PB both agreed that ex-handicappers such as Chapoturgeon who had raced at a high level shouldn’t be allowed to run here, as it should be a race for the smaller yards to compete in. NL and SC both liked Salsify. Martin Pipe Conditional Hurdle PB had the impression that there may be up to 10 runners from David Pipe, one put forward by SC being that of Street Entertainer. MW thought that the Bourne/Smad Place form-line was a good one, and he expected both to be fighting it out near the finish. NL ended the discussion on this race by saying that none of them really had a clue. PB hoped that Sivola De Sivola wouldn’t line up in this race (he obviously can’t ride him in this one). Grand Annual SC felt Toubab had a good chance here, but MW disagreed completely, saying that he wouldn’t get up the hill. He put forward Kumbeshwar instead. NL reiterated his belief that Shot From The Hip had a chance in whatever race he showed up in, also giving a fair chance to Ferdy Murphy’s De Boitron. PB confirmed this, saying he had spoke to Ferdy Murphy and had felt that De Boitron was his best chance of the entire Festival, and especially with the likes of Divers also running during the week, was a fairly strong comment to make.

Panel Charity Bets

Simon Clare – Champion Court in the Jewson Paddy Brennan – Sivola De Sivola in Pertempts Hurdle Nick Luck – Cristal Bonus in the Jewson Mark Winstanley – Sire Des Champs in the RSA Overall, it was an enjoyable experience for someone who hadn’t been to a Festival Preview night before, and would recommend attending to anyone in the near future, especially if you have a particular strong fancy for the Festival, as it’s entirely possible that a bookmaker may give you a better price on that night. One of the biggest impressions looking to the Festival was how excited Paddy Brennan was regarding Sivola De Sivola’s chances. He looked gutted when it was even mentioned that he might not ride him if he missed the cut on his first two planned engagements and if there was one horse to take from the night, it would be that. The unanimous opposition to Peddlers Cross was also interesting, along with the repeated assertion that bookmakers are likely going to try and take on the short price favourites in Big Bucks, Hurricane Fly etc on the day. It’s an obvious point to remember that these are just the opinions of four people in the racing industry, and shouldn’t be seen as the “be all and end all”, but it provides an interesting discussion nonetheless, and I hope the above has been of use to you in some regard, or merely just an interesting read! Finally, could I thank Coral (http://www.coral.co.uk) for their invitation, along with “Best Brit Bloggers (http://www.bestbritishbloggers.co.uk) for setting me up to attend! Thanks guys.

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW courtesy of the The Shepherds Crook, Crowell Tuesday 6th March The popular panel of Gold Cup-winning jockey Andrew Thornton (AT), At The Races presenter David Duggan (DD) and fellow broadcaster Andrew Barr (AB) of Racing UK were again hosted by The Shepherd’s Crook at Crowell on Tuesday 6th March. With renowned racing commentator Mark Johnson (MJ) in his regular role as compère, a sumptuous two course meal and a packed pub, the scene was set for an evening of tips, chat and a fair bit of banter. Champion Hurdle DD: Hurricane Fly, is a desperate looking animal but has a great engine. Willie Mullins wasn’t happy with him over the winter, something wasn’t quite rite but he couldn’t put his finger on it. They were even nervous when he was going around the parade ring at Leopardstown on his reappearance as he was uncharacteristically quiet but he came alive in the race. It’s impossible to see past him, the Fly is about 5 lengths better than anything in the race. He may become the Quevega type of horse, only making a few appearances in the season around this time of year, winning before being put away. He is in great form and is certainly a banker with Binocular sure to be in the frame. AT: Very taken with Binoculars win at Wincanton the other day when looking back to his best. This year has seen the horse have the best preparation for a Cheltenham Festival ever and reports are that he is in fine form for the race. He looks likes he’s getting and better and with the sun on his back and with the prices as they are he is certainly the one to take on Hurricane Fly with. Interestingly Ruby Walsh who has rode Zarkandar in the past says that he fears Binocular the most out of the two to pose the biggest danger to the Fly. AB: Zarkandar will be too slow on the tight track of new course and would be more suited to the old course on which he won the Triumph Hurdle. Binocular travels really well and at around the same price for the two he is by far the better bet but as an outsider he would look towards Donald McCains Overturn. He should get an easy lead and be able to dictate the speed, slow them up and then kick for home and at a huge price looks a great each way prospect. All in all though Hurricane Fly should have the guns to beat Binocular, but don’t rule out Overturn running a big race. Supreme Novices AB: Probably the smart play would be to avoid the race, but JP McManus has said that Darlan is his best chance of a winner at the festival and would therefore be stupid to rule out. If I had to chose then I would go for the Willie Mullins factor and Midnight Game who would be able to sit in off the pace and utilise his good finishing speed. AT: This is the most competitive race at the festival, highlighted when you see that Prospect Wells is 25/1 who was only narrowly defeated at Cheltenham by Steps To Freedom who is 13/2. Jason Maguire has said that Cinders And Ashes is his best chance of a winner at the meeting, he looks high class with an impressive cruising speed and he is sure to keep sticking his neck out where it matters. Montbazon is another one I like, Alan King is in great form and the horse seems to be improving with every run. He beat Vulcanite last time out whose connections though he was unbeatable that day and at 10/1 he is each way value with Cinders And Ashes. I can’t be having Darlan, he had a horrendous fall at Newbury which is a massive negative. He looks a very flashy horse but when push comes to shove I think he will let you down and is probably favourite just on hype. DD: Cinders And Ashes wont win, he is a big slow yoke and has absolutely no chance. Galileo’s Choice was a very useful sort on the flat and will be partnered by one of the best Jockeys around. He is the one to go for but I do have slight doubts about his stamina and I’m concerned he may just flatten out. MJ: In agreement about Cinders And Ashes being very slow, and that Darlan is too flashy. I keep getting Montbazon wrong and have changed my opinion on him so many times but he was impressive at Plumpton and is probably the one to side with. Arkle AT: Sprinter Sacre looks one of the best horses since Moscow Flyer. In the Supreme AP could barely hold him so I don’t think there is a worry about the track for him. His jumping is brilliant and if you can get even money then that’s an absolute steal! Al Ferof is a very well balanced horse and will finish second and anyone looking at Menorah I think that Richard Johnson may have to pray to just get over the first at the speed they will be going. AB: Sprinter Sacre is a great bet, he is the best horse currently in training, he would most probably win the Champion Chase if he went for it and he looks to be one of the greats if he continues in the way he has started his career over fences. DD: Nicky Henderson does have a history of telling us that he has a machine in his yard who then goes and gets beat at the festival. Saying this though Sprinter Sacre looks a different class but you probably shouldn’t back him at the prices. Blackstairmountain has been overlooked in this race, he will be suited by the ground and although probably not good enough to win, should nick a place at a big price. MJ: Sprinter Sacre gave me the biggest wow factor this year when he looked absolutely spectacular. Cue Card and Al Ferof are both very good but i think they will be fighting for second. JLT Specialty Handicap Chase AB: Tullamore Dew is a solid each way bet, he has good festival form which is a massive plus, and he could provide Nick Gifford an emotional first festival winner. Knockara Bow would also have a good each way shout. AT: Quantativeeasing got messed about when beating Medermit last time out at Cheltenham, he needs to make the frame to qualify for the Grand National which his target at Aintree so he is very interesting. I would oppose Hold on Julio as his best form is at Sandown which is a completely different track. The Giant Bolster has a great cruising speed and if he is allowed to roll along in front then he will be tough to peg back. DD: Quantitiveeasing is well in this handicap and stands a terrific chance. Cross Country AT & DD: Both agreed that Sizing Australia will take a lot of beating on the better ground. MJ: also agreed about Sizing Australia but also mentioned that Scotsirish is probably the best horse in the race and will be no push over. The big price in the race though is Tom Georges Halley who will be partnerd by the best French Jockey who has been very successful in similar events in France and at a big price of 33/1. Champion Chase DD: Sizing Europe is a class act, along with Rubi Light he will be the best jumper at the meeting. He loves the track winning the Greatwood, an Arkle and last year’s Champion Chase. If he doesn’t win by 10 Lengths I will be mortified. AB: If Sizing Europe gets a clear run he wins. Somersby is overpriced, and Finians Rainbow is probably too slow, Wishful Thinking may be the outsider who may just come alive with the atmosphere. Neptune DD: Boston Bob who was very impressive at Navan will go for this race and he will win it, the better ground is more than likely to aid him and not hinder him. AB: Bostob Bob looks could be an RSA winner in a year’s time, but there is a slight question about the ground. Sous Les Cieux may be in with a good chance, but Simonsig does look very interesting. Barry Geraghty thought this was the race for him rather than the Supreme but I worry he may cruise before finding little. AT: The trip may not suit Simonsig, I think connections will be hoping that Boston Bob will be going for another race as he looks the most likely winner here as he will enjoy going up the hill. Both AT & MJ agreed that it was hard to see Battonier not being in the frame. RSA Chase AT: Grands Crus should run in this race as I don’t think he will get the trip of the Gold Cup and his speed should be a massive plus in this contest. I worry about Bobs Worths jumping as he seems to ponder his fences but I do like First Lieutenant who should be in the mix. Invictus is the one for me though, he travels, jumps and stays and if he is produced at the right time I can see him getting in front of Grands Crus. DD: Grands Crus is quick but certainly not a stayer. I think that Sir Des Champs is probably overrated and the one to go for would be First Lieutenant. He has been trained very like Weapons Amnesty and he fits the profile of a winner perfectly. He will try for his life and wil love the ground at Cheltenham so for me he wins. AB: I would also have my stamina doubts for Grands Crus, hes still a class horse but he will need holding up and if that doesn’t go to plan then he may be in trouble. First Lieutenant is a big danger along with the outsider Call The Police but Invictus looks a crazy price in the contest having already beaten Bobs Worth convincingly earlier in the year. MJ: I’m also against Grands Crus with Invictus, I think it’s been a long scheme from Alan King to run him in this and Choc Thornton really likes him so he is my choice in this but i think the one they will have to beat is Bobs Worth not Grands Crus. Weatherbys Champion Bumper DD: I’m not sure if Champagne Fever will run here as I don’t think he’ll like the ground, so the one I would go for here is New Years Eve who has achieved a lot in what he has done so far, and both MJ & AB agreed. AT: The Tizzard’s think very highly of Royal Guardsman, possibly as good or even better than Cue Card so he would stand a good chance. Diamond Jubilee National Hunt Chase The whole panel agreed with DD that Glens Boy at 33/1 was a stupid price and would stand a great chance in the 4m contest. AB: I also like Teaforthree in this, he has form on good ground and jumps well. Coral Cup AT: Our Father looks like he has been set up for this race so looks to have a good chance and it’s hard to see Get Me Out Of Here not being in the first three home. Fred Winter AB: If Vendor is as good as Grumeti and Balder Succes then he is very exciting indeed and would be difficult to oppose. Saying this though I do like the chances of Red Inca, who was impressive last time out and with connections thinking there is more to come he may be a great each way bet. World Hurdle DD: In my opion, Big Buck’s is faultless- Paul Nicholls could run him in any race. There’s nothing in Ireland to cause him any sleepless nights! Zaidpour is likely to head to France, while the likes of Mikael D’Hageneut just seem to be something of a square peg in a round hole. Cross Kennon is a good each-way bet; he’s already won at Cheltenham, and was just six lengths adrift of Big Buck’s last year [when taking fourth]. I wouldn’t place any faith in Mourad. AT: Big Buck’s for me too – he’s straight forward, and he beats what he has to beat; he has class and confidence. I would love to see him run in the Gold Cup! Oscar Whisky looks set for second; he’ll get the trip, he likes Cheltenham and travels well. He may try and go wide to catch out Big Buck’s – probably the only way to beat him! AB: Oscar Whisky is a very, very good horse. If he stays 3m completely, he is the biggest rival to Big Buck’s. It will be a tactical battle though; Cross Kennon may make a better pace for the race, while Dynaste just committed too soon when beaten at Ascot by Big Buck’s. I’d be surprised if Voler La Vedette ran here, though she’s in better form than last year when she ran second to Quevega. MJ: Big Buck’s for me! Ryanair Chase AT: If it was Kempton or Ascot, I’d go with Riverside Theatre, but at Cheltenham, I’d have to oppose him. He’s always been campaigned on flat tracks, and I think he’ll run flat; he’ll be having his second run in less than a month after a year off the track. If Medermit runs, he’ll be very keen. Noble Prince needs to improve from last year. If Albertas Run wins it will be one hell of a training performance; a month ago they said he had a one million to one chance of getting there, and while it looks more likely now, it’ll still be a tough ask. Somersby is better than ever before, has a lot of experience and gave a good performance at Ascot. DD: Rubi Light is best suited to soft ground, which he won’t get here. Noble Prince has had a peculiar campaign in the run-up to the Festival, and for me, Riverside Theatre is a definite no. Albertas Run is difficult to judge given his year so far. Forpadydeplasterer loves Cheltenham, and the 2m5f furlong trip is ideal – he’s in with a great chance. Kalahari King could also run into a place. AB: I’m also against Rubi Light on account of the ground, it will be too quick. Somersby needs a shorter trip, and as Andrew said, Albertas Run needs on hell of a training performance to win… but Jonjo is one hell of a trainer. For me though, it’s Great Endeavour. He’s a younger horse on the upgrade, and has great each way value. MJ: I’m going off you Andrew, as that was my ‘bet of the day’! I agree completely, Great Endeavour is a cracking bet. Somersby runs best right handed, while Rubi Light just spends too much time in the air. Albertas Run is a legitimate contender too however – he has already won three times at the Festival. Jewson Novices’ Chase AB: It makes sense for Peddlers Cross not to take on Sprinter Sacre, and he suits the 2m4f trip better. For Non Stop was a good second to Al Ferof [in the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase] before winning the Scilly Isles Chase. AT: I’d oppose Peddlers Cross; at Bangor [bright Future Novices Chase] Jason [Maguire] had to do all the work for him, and the trip is still too short. Crystal Bonus hasn’t beaten much. For Non Stop ticks all the boxes as a potential Festival winner, the one negative being that Nick Williams has yet to train a winner there. Solix could run well at a big price – he’ll jump, and he’ll travel. DD: I don’t think Peddlers Cross will run. If Sir Des Champs runs, he may find the trip too sharp. Pertemps Final AB: Buena Vista for me – I don’t think anyone will be surprised if he wins or places, though Sivola De Sivola may be real contender. The ground may stop Allthekingshorses running. An interesting one is the Warren Greatrex-trained Barwell Bridge. DD: Anything could happen in this race. Prince Erik was 2nd in 2010, and Dermot Weld has had this race in mind for a while – worth an each way shout. MJ: In my opinion, Prince Erik can’t win. When it was run on the old course, the winners tended to be those that were held up. Since it has switched to the new course, they need to stay with the pace. I’d stick with Buena Vista. Byrne Group Plate MJ: Divers for me here. AT: I agree – he won easily here last year. Cheltenham Gold Cup AB: Kauto – you’ve gotta love him! He is better over a slightly shorter trip, and if he makes it, I think Long Run will get revenge. The problem with Long Run is that he’s not as good as people want to believe after last year; he was as good as 2011 on his Newbury run. Synchronised is worth a punt at a price; he’s a classy horse, and the longer trip will suit him. AT: It’s very confusing this year! I said Long Run wouldn’t get the trip in 2011… This year Long Run has looked a bit flat, but that could be because last year Kauto Star wasn’t firing. If Kauto lines up, barring a fall, I would be on him. If he wins, it will be the best training performance of all time. I’m a fan of Midnight Chase, I think he would have gone better last year Dougie Costello on board – no disrespect to Tom [scudamore], but Dougie knows the horse very well. I think the ground will be too quick for Quel Espirit, and if Grands Crus runs I don’t think he’ll get the trip, What A Friend has a good chance of a place. DD: Wouldn’t it be great if Kauto Star won? Long Run’s style of racing seems to be a bit complacent. Midnight Chase has had his limitations exposed, and I’d be very disappointed if Quel Espirit won the Gold Cup! I think this year we could be in for a shock, and that could be The Midnight Club. He was sent off favourite for the Grand National [where he finished 6th] and could surprise us. MJ: I agree with that, The Midnight Club represents excellent each way value. A concern for Long Run is that, while Sam Waley-Cohen is very good, he hasn’t ridden in as many races this year as he had last year. Triumph Hurdle AB: Pearl Swan is the form horse, though Sadler’s Risk is another contender – Philip Hobbs thinks he wasn’t fit enough when beaten by Baby Mix. AT: Balder Succes is now four from four, he’s a good traveller, and is great value. Choc [Thornton] will probably go for Grumeti however, who looks flashy, but I’m not sure he’s tough enough. Baby Mix may bubble over on the day, and while Sadler’s Risk is visibly impressive, he hasn’t really beaten much. Pearl Swan is a bit of a dark horse for Nicholls. DD: Hisaabaat’s form ties in well with Darroun, though I also wouldn’t give up on Ut De Sivola. The home team definitely have the stronger hand here; English horses are very quick and very professional. Dodging Bullets, another contender from the Nicholls yard, is also worth noting. MJ: Baby Mix seems to spend a lot of time in the air, but his last Cheltenham run was more down to jockey/trainer error. Don’t be put off by his strange tail carriage however, he broke it as a foal! Grumeti is not a fancy. He fell, was shortened, was awarded a race, shortened, it doesn’t really add up. For me, Balder Success is the outstanding value. Foxhunter DD: On The Fringe may struggle with the trip. Salsify bolted up last time out, but Chapoturgeon may be a bit ahead of the field. AT: Monkerty Tunkerty for me – he stays well, travels well, will love the ground and the rider knows him inside out. MJ: Chapoturgeon is unlikely to stay, and I have doubts for Cloudy Lane. Barbers Shop may bypass this for the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Memorial Hunters’ Chase at Sandown – apparently the owner has some kind of family connection! Monkerty Tunkerty could be the strongest, though On The Fringe was 4th last year and has a chance, while third-placed Oscar Delta could easily fit the stats and at around 50-1 [best price around 33-1 Thurs am] is great value. Salsify is very impressive however, having won two of Ireland’s biggest Hunter Chases at Leopardstown and Punchestown. It wouldn’t surprise me to see an Irish 1, 2, 3. Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle DD: Mount Benbulben would be the pick, but Gordon Elliot’s yard isn’t really in form for one reason or another, and he might swerve the race. If Boston Bob wins his race however, the Irish form will be well franked. AT: Get stuck into Lovcen each way! Woefully overpriced at 16-1. AB: Lovcen is a big price so may be worth an each way, though Sea Of Thunder would have won at Cheltenham but for falling. Vincent O’Brien County Handicap DD: Moon Dice went well in a key piece of work at Leopardstown. Citizenship needs to be able to stand up for himself a bit more in what could be a rough affair if he’s to stand a chance. AT: Ted Spread could still be well ahead of the handicapper. AB: Snap Tie for me is bet of the day. He runs off a low weight after being dropped 15lb following a year off. He’s returning from injury, but for your years on the trot he’s won first time out, and is now rated 137 from 160 following his time off. Master Of Arts remains unexposed. MJ: If Master Of Arts wins it will be a huge punt. Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase AT: Toubab bolted up at Sandown, and jumps very well. AB: Toubab is on a handy weight, and a quick pace will play into his hands. MJ: Oiseau De Nuit seems to be returning to form. Summary An entertaining and informative night combined with a superb meal! The panel clearly weren’t afraid to take on some of the major players, or each other, as proven by the vocalised difference of opinion over Foxhunter favourite Chapoturgeon. The evening was rounded off with tips for a leading rider, banker, each way and lay of the meeting. Leading rider MJ: Choc Thornton, though if anything untoward should happen to him Wayne Hutchinson could be in with a shot, and is currently around 200-1. DD: Paul Townend AB: Ruby Walsh AT: Ruby Walsh Banker MJ: Sizing Europe (although he thinks Sprinter Sacre the most likely winner, and also the most exciting horse of the Festival) DD: Sizing Europe AB: Boston Bob AT: Big Buck’s Each way MJ: Great Endeavour DD: The Midnight Club/Glens Boy AB: Snap Tie (County) AT: Lovcen (Albert Bartlett) Lay MJ: Chapoturgeon DD: Grands Crus AB: Zarkandar AT: Grands Crus/Peddlers Cross

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beaker1

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW at THE HASELBURY MILL, Somerset Tuesday, 6th March The panel was chaired by Author Jonathan Powell (JP), who was joined by ex-jockey Mick Fitzgerald (MF), bookie Andy Smith (AS), Paul Nicholls’ Assistant Trainer Harry Fry (HF) and last year’s Triumph Hurdle winner Daryl Jacob (DJ). Rattling through the races day-by-day the well balanced panel were able to enlighten the room from various different angles, ending with all five panel members highlighting their NAP’s for each of the four days racing. Day 1 SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE DJ: I really like our runner Prospect Wells – He’s had a wind-op, and the pace of the race and the good ground will really suit and I think he is really overpriced. AS: Darlan is rated higher than Get Me Out of Here was when he was runner-up for connections in 2010 and the money’s really coming for him so I wouldn’t be surprised if they continued to gamble on him right until the off and I can see him going off at 5/2. ARKLE MF: I worked for Nicky for 15 years and I have never heard him speak about a horse like he does of Sprinter Sacre – He is the real deal and he could win without coming off the bridle. DJ: Al Ferof schooled well this morning, he is very fresh and it will be interesting to see what Sprinter Sacre finds off the bridle. Our lad isn’t the quickest but he stays well and he will be doing all his best work late on and will be flying up the hill like he did 12 months ago in the Supreme. AS: Al Ferof is the main danger to the favourite but I wouldn’t discount Menorah – He loves the track and if his schooling sessions with Yogi Breisner have worked he could well give Sprinter Sacre a race. HF: Apparently the horses at Nicky Henderson’s can’t go quick enough for Sprinter Sacre at home so Al Ferof could struggle mid-race but one thing for sure is he will be flying up the hill. CHAMPION HURDLE DJ: Hurricane Fly will be very difficult to beat if he repeats last year’s form. Zarkandar has had a wind-op and is good form after being schooled and certainly has the toe to give him a race. HF: Rock on Ruby is very well and we knew the track at Kempton wouldn’t suit him and he still nearly beat Binocular that day. Overturn well set a good solid pace which will suit, we’ve schooled him and we couldn’t be happier. MF: Out of the four short priced runners during the week Hurricane Fly is the best of them and he could run below his best and still win making him the one I want to be on. For each-way punters Thousand Stars has an excellent chance of placing. AP said Binocular was back to his best at Wincanton and he will have a chance of placing but they will all be behind Hurricane Fly. JP: Overturn is a very tough and hardy front runner and has shown better form than last year; he galloped well at Bangor and I would be very surprised if more than 3 or 4 get past him so back him each-way without the favourite. NAPS HF: Rock on Ruby & Colour Squadron each way. AS: Darlan. MF: Darlan. DJ: Prospect Wells each way at 25/1, he shouldn’t be that price. JP: Triolo D’Alene Day 2 QUEEN MOTHER AS: Sizing Europe should be 4/6 but he will have to make the most of his victory this year because Sprinter Sacre will win it for the next 3 years. If Somersby runs, which I think he should, then back him without the favourite as he is the only conceivable danger. R.S.A HF: Join Together has got guts, course form and jumps and stays which gives him a chance. I don’t think Bobs Worth jumps well enough; First Lieutenant has festival form so cannot be discounted. MF: I love repeat offenders at Cheltenham and Bobs Worth is one of those – The way races are run at the festival are like no other meeting anywhere in the country and the pace of the race and going back left handed could spring him back into life, however First Lieutenant could be the one to beat who loves a fast pace and jumps really well. DJ: I really like Invictus – I was very impressed with him at Ascot; he jumps quickly and stays, also I know Choc is sweet on him and he has a great chance. MF: I have had a bet on Join Together – He stays well and he’s a good solid jumper. NEPTUNE INVESTMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE AS: Monksland is the best of the Irish and he will be the danger to Simonsig MF: I’m surprised Simonsig looks more likely to head this race and he has a great chance with Boston Bob looking likely to head to the Albertt Bartlett – He’s a worthy favourite but he’s short enough in the betting. Monksland can’t win – His tail was swishing like a windmill last time out and his trainer (Noel Meade) has a terrible record at the festival. NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP HF: We have Harry The Viking in this and I know Paul Nicholls is very keen on him; he gallops and stays, and the trip will really suit. Will Biddick is going to ride him and he has plenty of experience and he has a big chance. NAPS HF: Harry the Viking DJ: Invictus MF: Sizing Europe JP: Allee Garde AS: Alle Garde Day 3 JEWSON NOVICES’ CHASE MF: Solix would win if there were no obstacles in his way; he is very smart but back him at your peril. The one I really like is Sir Des Champs who has been laid out for this race and he will take all the beating. AS: I’ve backed Cristal Bonus who jumped fantastic first time out and he will be much better going left-handed, although I do think Solix has a brilliant chance if he jumps. DJ: For Non Stop has a serious engine and he has improved for every run this season and he ran well behind Al Ferof; he’s always been held in high regard and he jumps and stays really well. WORLD HURDLE AS: Big Bucks will get beat one day and I am willing to lay 8/13, which you won’t get anywhere on the high street. Both Oscar Whiskey and Voler La Vedette can give him a race and So Young could also run well in a really tough field – I think he (Big Bucks) will get beat. HF: Realistically this won’t be the year he gets beat, he’s in top order. MF: I think Big Bucks will win but one day he will get beat and it could be this year. Oscar Whiskey at 6/4 without Big Bucks is what I’d rather be on. PERTEMPTS FINAL JP: David Pipe has said Our Father has an outstanding chance and the 20lb rise in the weights won’t stop him. AS: Beuna Vista is higher than his winning mark of last year but Tom Bellamy rides and taking off 10lbs with his claim the horse actually looks well in. Jetson could also play a big hand in the race after winning a qualifier at Leopardstown. RYANAIR MF: Albertas Run is another repeat offender ; he’s won the last two renewals of this race and an R.S.A chase proving he loves Cheltenham and he is the value horse in the race. HF: Poquelin has run in the race twice before, coming up short on both occasions and I don’t think this year will be any different – Albertas Run is the value. AS: I really like Medermit if he runs, as well as Noble Prince. I would lay Riverside Theatre, Albertas Run and Rubi Light. NAPS HF: Lay Peddlers Cross in the Jewson AS: Lay Big Bucks JP: Cristal Bonus MF: Sir Des Champs DJ: Noble Prince Day 4 TRIUMPH HURDLE HF: Pearl Swan is my NAP of the festival – He jumped impressively at Taunton and there is a lot more improvement to come. DJ: Dildar stays very well, he loves good ground and he’s quick and nimble over hurdles. I can’t understand why his odds are so much bigger than Pearl Swan and he’ll be improving. MF: I’ve backed Alan King to train the winner of this race and I am very happy with the chances of both Grumeti and Balder Success. Grumeti has reportedly had a foot problem but he’s had a new shoe put on and Alan doesn’t believe this will have any negative effects. He ran just 5 days after falling at Newbury when he was awarded the race in which Pearl Swan won and there will be more to come from him . GOLD CUP HF: Kauto Star showed signs of improvement this morning and Cliff is happy, which generally means everyone else is happy. It isn’t ideal preparation but one thing for sure is he will only run if the team are 110% sure he is right, so dismiss him at your peril. MF: Paul Nicholls has the toughest job in racing this week and I really hope he makes the race as it won’t be the same without him, but I can’t see him being good enough to win as a 12-y-o. It’s the weakest year we’ve seen for a long time and Long Run doesn’t seem the same horse this year, so I can see a shock result, with What A Friend a player if he’s back to his best. AS: There will be a shock this year – Long Run will get beat. I really like Weird Al who ran well behind the two market leaders at Haydock and he has a good track record. FOXHUNTERS HF: We have According To John and Chapoturgeon in the race and at home you can’t split them – I wouldn’t swap either of them and I give them both excellent chances. COUNTY HURDLE HF: Ted Spread is thrown in at the weights and he’s Paul’s best handicap chance of the week. DJ: I rode Ted Spread at Ascot when trained by Mark Tompkins and when he bumped into Grumeti – He’s improving all the time, the good ground will suit, he was rated 104 on the flat and I’m very hopeful of his chances. CONDITIONAL JOCKEY’S HURDLE MF: Eradicate loves fast run races and quick ground so with this being a race on the last day the ground often dries out which will suit him; he’s off a nice mark and David Bass gets on really well with him so he would have a great chance. NAPS DJ: Pearl Swan MF: Boston Bob AS: Boston Bob HF: According To John BEST BETS JP: Triolo D’Alene (Centenary Novices’ Chase) the yard think he’s better than the handicapper rates him. MF: Ferdy Murphy really likes Going Wrong in the same race as Triolo D’Alene and he’s absolutely adamant it’s his each way NAP of the festival

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bowles10

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Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights was supposed to go to newbury tonight for thier yearly preview but got stuck at work so wouldnt have got there in time i find the previews ok but who actually bets on what they hear at the preview? there are so many stories kept under wraps, we even had a lading trainer not even mention one of his horses which steamed home at cheltenham and when interviewed he said they really fancied it, so why not mention it. Keep that in mind

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