Paul Ferguson has a gander at the cross country meet at Cheltenham; Scotsirish in the 14.20 appeals Compare odds.
Cheltenham’s cross country contests aren’t for everyone and they aren’t usually my first port of call when studying a card at the course, but Scotsirish (2:20) looked a natural when winning over the banks course at Punchestown last month and can follow up on his debut on this track.
Patrick Mullins has opted to ride the 10-year-old over stable-mate Uncle Junior, who he rode to defeat course specialist Garde Champetre at the last meeting, and the ground won’t be a problem as he has won on good ground or quicker three times.
The one doubt is the trip, but they tend to go slow in these contests and you need a horse with a finishing kick to put these races to bed. Having won five times over 2m or 2m1f he certainly has the requisite pace and, at 11/4 with Coral and Ladbrokes on Thursday evening, his stamina is worth taking a chance on.
Friday’s selection:
2:20 Cheltenham Scotsirish (11/4 Coral / Ladbrokes)
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