As Day Four approaches Ruby Walsh gives his thoughts and selections on some of todays racing including the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Credit Racing TV
JCB Triumph Hurdle: “It’s disappointing for the race that there is no Narciso Has, who looked a cracking juvenile, but hopefully he won’t be out for too long, and I think Proactif is an able deputy. Macho Man may get closer to him than at Fairyhouse, but I think that if anything finishes in front of Proactif they will win it.”
Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase: “Panic Attack has been a revelation but Dinoblue – ‘Mrs Reliable’ – is a year younger and I think she’s pretty solid. Her jumping cost her when beaten at Navan in November but she’s been pretty much foot-perfect since. It’ll be hard for Spindleberry to get over the Irish Gold Cup, and Diva Luna could be more of a contender.”
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle: “I’m not totally sold on Doctor Steinberg as I didn’t think the Lacy Hurdle he won last time was a good race. Thedeviluno was very good at Doncaster where Sean O’Keeffe gave him a great ride, while Espresso Milan has a squeak as does Doctor Du Mesnil who should really like going up in trip.”
Boodles Gold Cup: “This looks like it is going to be a cracking race for the public to watch above all. We’ve no idea at this stage who will go off favourite, and I know the vibes have been strong for last year’s winner Inothewayurthinkin, but you couldn’t back him with what you’ve seen with your own eyes this season.
The jockeys on the strong stayers like Haiti Couleurs will surely want to make this a real test for the speed horses like The Jukebox Man, Jango Baie and Gaelic Warrior. I’d want a bigger price than he is at the moment to get involved with Gaelic Warrior, but I do think he will stay.”
