Triumph Hurdle:
I’ve changed my mind several times on this race but I keep coming back to MASTER OF ARTS, who looks an each-way bet to nothing with bet365 at 11/2, who offer four places.
County Hurdle:
This used to be the getting-out stakes but is now the second race on the card. Not that it makes finding the winner any easier! Imperial Cup winner Dave’s Dream must go well but he’s a skinny 5/1, so I’ll plump for the well-handicapped SUNNYHILLBOY at a tasty 12/1 with Victor Chandler – only 15/2 with bet365, what do they know?!
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle:
I fancy a shock in this race as I have my doubts about the front two in the market, Pride Of Dulcote (iffy jumper) and Cape Tribulation (would prefer a flatter track). ON RAGLAN ROAD (14/1 Ladbrokes) cost his owner a packet and he’s won him peanuts so far, but this stamina test could be just what he needs to show his true ability.
Gold Cup:
Could this be another Paul Nicholls 1-2-3 like last year? If so, in which order? Twist my arm and I’ll nominate Neptune Collonges as his best hope this time, but I’ve always been an EXOTIC DANCER fan and I’m not going to desert him now. Coral go 10/1 and that’ll do for me each way.
Foxhunter Chase:
I’ve backed Juveigneur ante post at 8/1 (now a best-priced 5/1 with Blue Square). I think he’ll take all the beating, although he’s not getting any younger (like us all!) and he might be vulnerable to a younger horse on the upgrade. Step forward TURTHEN (33/1 William Hill), who has won three point-to-points this season and could be reaching his peak at the age of nine.
Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle:
Clearly, Pipe junior will be keen to win the race named in the honour of his dad but the bookmakers aren’t stupid and his plethora of runners look under-priced. Therefore, I’ll take a chance on HANGOVER (16/1 Stan James), who could be appropriately named!
Grand Annual:
Paul Nicholls was sweet on the chances of my Jewson tip Chapoturgeon and he won at 8/1 - hope you were on! If anything, he’s even sweeter on POQUELIN here so let’s take the hint and lump on at 6/1 with Skybet.