We have two runners in the 2m1f JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1). Haut En Couleurs (Paul) is a nice horse from France having his first run for us. He gallops and jumps well and has been pleasing us at home. He has a definite each-way shout here. Tax For Max (Daryl Jacob) lacks experience and we will be pleased if finishes mid-division in this competitive field.
We run five in the 2m1f McCoy Contractors County Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3). Ganapathi (Paul) has a nice handicap mark but is relatively inexperienced for a race like this. He will handle the ground and has his chance if everything goes right. Ciel De Neige (Jonjo O’Neill) comes here in good shape and his previous course form is an advantage. First-time cheek pieces could also help. Buildmeupbuttercup (Danny) travels well around this track but the uphill finish just catches her out. This drying ground is just what she needs. Captain Kangaroo (Brian Hayes) has taken a while to get the knack of jumping but has plenty of experience. He could be well handicapped and on pedigree he should appreciate this ground. Getaway Gorgeous (Bryan Cooper) has been finding it tough in handicaps but the ground here will be a huge help.
We have two in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) over 3 miles. Stattler (Paul) would ideally prefer more cut in the ground but has great chance over this trip. N’golo (Danny) has a good profile for this race and will love this ground and trip.
We have two runners in the 3m2½f WellChild Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade 1). Al Boum Photo (Paul) is going for a hat-trick in this race and he is in great form for the defence of his title. We’re very happy with him. Kemboy (Danny) will love the ground and has a chance in what should be a fast run race.
Billaway (Paul) goes for the 3m2½f St. James’s Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase. He was second in this race last year and that experience will stand to him today. The ground will be fine for him and we are hoping he will give owner John Turner a big day out.
We run four in the 2m4½f Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase. Colreevy (Paul) has to give weight away to more experienced rivals and this ground won’t really suit. Elimay (Mark Walsh) has a major chance. She was second to Allaho at Thurles and that form got a huge boost here yesterday. She will like the trip and ground. Salsaretta (Brian Hayes) has the ability to be involved but this ground won’t suit her at all. Cabaret Queen (Rachael Blackmore) will love the underfoot conditions but the trip is a little short for her. She has a good chance of getting some place money.
We have two runners in the 2m4½f Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle. Galopin Des Champs (Sean O’Keeffe) and Gentleman de Mee (Simon Torrens) will both appreciate this ground and trip. They have good riders on board and we are confident they are going to run two big races.
