Cheltenham is back! I've been waiting a long time for this as a National Hunt man myself and I will be very excitable come 1.50 this afternoon. I will be taking a view in most of the races but there are a few which I think are overpriced.
First up is HOMETOWN BOY who I was very keen on in the Silver Trophy before he got pulled out. The fact he was pulled out suggest he was ready to roll that day so I'm not too worried about fitness today. His form is strong and ties in closely with the classy McFabulous. Although clearly not as good as him, I do think he has a bit in hand all the same. I got on at 16's last night and I hope that sticks around for when this piece goes to press.
The 2 mile maiden hurdle is an interesting race. I really rate Pipesmoker but I don't think he's crying out for a slowly run 2 miles which this is more than likely to be. Same comments apply to Champagnesuperover and therefore I'm taking them on with the speedy FAVOIR. Dan Skelton infuriated favourite backers the last day but Cormier who beat him has franked the form again since. Favoir tired late on that day and should come on for the run so with that under his belt I fancy him to cause a minor upset.
I was very impressed with ONE TRUE KING at Ludlow last season and he confirmed his early promise with a nice win at Uttoxeter last time out, beating a really nice horse in second. An opening mark of 125 is, in my view, extremely lenient and with Jordan Nailor taking a further 3lbs off today, he officially runs off 122 and I think that is very workable. It's a competitive race for sure, but at 9/1 he looks a solid each way play.
Cheltenham 3.00 – Hometown Boy – 1pt e/w
Cheltenham 4.10 – Favoir – 1pt e/w
Cheltenham 5.15 – One True King – 1pt e/w
