Paul Ferguson has three selections from Cheltenham for us on Friday; Brelade in the 2.10; Killultagh Vic in the 3.30 and Burning Ambition in the 4.10.
Though he lacks experience Killultagh Vic (3:30) is a classy individual and is worthy of each-way support in an open looking Gold Cup this afternoon.
A former Cheltenham Festival winner, he would have won the Irish Gold Cup last time, but for a final fence fall, and the nine-year-old remains open to considerable improvement. If he can get into a nice rhythm, he can go well on ground that he will find ideal.
Earlier on the card, I’ll be having a small bet on Brelade (2:10) each-way at 50-1. Admittedly, the County Hurdle looks wide open and this horse hasn’t been in the best of form over fences earlier in the campaign, although he did chase home both Petit Mouchoir and Footpad in beginners’ chases. The reason I give him a chance, is how well he travelled in last year’s Neptune and the drop back in trip on softer ground could be suitable. His stable could hardly be in better form either and he might just outrun those huge odds.
Later on the card Burning Ambition (4:10) can land the Foxhunter for Jamie Codd. He gave the smart Gilgamboa a real race last time, having won in a canter in heavy ground at Limerick and he is the young up-and-comer in this field.
Earlier on, I would fancy Redicean to give Apple’s Jade a fright in the Triumph if the ground dried out a little overnight. If it doesn’t and the ground remains testing, Chef des Obeaux is another to note in the Albert Bartlett; he will appreciate a true stamina test more so than his classier stable-mate Santini, who is arguably the most exciting runner in the race.
Friday’s selections:
2:10 Cheltenham Festival – Brelade; 50/1 Paddy Power
3:30 Cheltenham Festival – Killultagh Vic; 9/1 bet365
4:10 Cheltenham Festival – Burning Ambition; 7/2 Ladbrokes
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