Cheltenham Gold Cup Ante-Post Outlook

As it should be, the Cheltenham Gold Cup is already shaping up to be the real highlight of the 2012 Cheltenham Festival.

The ante-post betting market is crammed full of world class staying chasers who look set to contribute towards a monumental renewal of the most prestigious steeplechase in the sport.

Considering how he demolished the 2011 field, the 11/4 best price available about Nicky Henderson’s Long Run is fantastic value to retain his Gold Cup crown.

The six year-old was eased somewhat following his recent defeat to veteran Kauto Star in the betfair Chase at Haydock however it was no surprise to see him needing the run as he did last year.

Should Long Run justify favouritism in the King George VI Chase as he is expected to do, his odds for the Cheltenham showpiece are likely to be slashed.

Kauto Star is currently second best at 12/1 to regain his status as the best chaser around but it is a tough ask as Paul Nicholls’s hero will be twelve years of age when the festival comes around.

Many horse racing enthusiasts believe that Arkle winners have the correct profile to challenge for the Gold Cup as they develop a fine mix of speed and stamina.

Phillip Hobbs’s Captain Chris could well take the step up to three miles and two furlongs for the race, albeit if he performs well in the King George over a flat three miles at Kempton.

His ante-post odds of 16/1 look incredibly juicy but he is probably best watched and waited with for the time being.

Dual Champion Chaser Master Minded is also in line to make the leap up in trip and he is perhaps the most fascinating name within the ante-post market at 16/1.

Seldom do Champion Chasers evolve into decent Gold Cup horses but the eight year-old has a cracking chance and plenty of time still on his side.

David Pipe’s exciting novice chaser Grands Crus is also receiving quotes of around 16/1 for the big one however he is likely to stay in novice company until the start of next season.

One horse of significant interest is Medermit and trainer Alan King is still undecided as to what route to take with the seven year-old grey. A runner-up in both the Supreme Novice Hurdle and Arkle Chase, Medermit stays up the Cheltenham hill incredibly well and there is a feeling that he can develop into a festival winner over a longer distance.

He ran a blinder to finish second off a stiff mark in the December Gold Cup over two miles and five furlongs and he wouldn’t be the first horse in history to jump up from that race into Gold Cup company.

Although an ante-post bet is not yet advised on the Haldon Gold Cup winner, Medermit may still be readily available at around 33/1 should he be aimed at the race and that would definitely be worth snapping up as he looks nailed on to stay the trip.

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07/01/2012     © Frixo 2024