Pearls of wisdom from the bloodstock team
The Racing Post bloodstock squad have provided some Cheltenham selections which look beyond the obvious . . .
They include an alternative to Kopek Des Bordes in the Supreme, a JP McManus-owned outsider in the Turners and several handicappers to keep on side.
Read the bloodstock team’s fancies here
Bright outlook for Elliott
Gordon Elliott spent a few minutes talking to Nick Luck a little earlier and whereas Brighterdaysahead failed to fire at last year’s festival, you get the sense she’s right where he wants her this time.
The trainer said: “We know Constitution Hill is a superstar and State Man is the reigning champion but our mare is in very good form and we couldn’t be happier with her.”
On his wider team for the festival, Elliott added: “I think we’re probably stronger in the graded races this year than we have been for the last couple of years. I’m looking forward to Romeo Coolio tomorrow.”
New jockey for Mondo Man
It appears Mondo Man will have a new jockey in the JCB Triumph Hurdle on Friday.
The talented Flat performer has been tricky to settle in his races over hurdles and it looks like former champion Brian Hughes is set to take over from Caoilin Quinn.
Mondo Man, who finished fourth in the Kind Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot last summer, has been beaten on both his starts over hurdles since joining Gary and Josh Moore.
He finished a promising second to Lulamba at Ascot before failing to justify odds-on favouritism when only third in the Adonis after pulling hard in the early stages. He is a general 33-1 shot.
Speaking to Sky Racing, Gary said: “He galloped very well this morning and the plan at the moment is to run. He’s settling beautifully at home.”
Postcast best bets
Our Postcast team have each revealed their top five bets for the Cheltenham Festival.
Interestingly, two of our panelists have picked out a JP McManus-owned handicapper as their best bet at the meeting – watch below to find out who!
The final verdict: does Constitution Hill win by ten lengths or can you take him on?
We asked eight top judges what’s going to happen with three simple questions – Does he win? If so, by how far? Can you take him on at the price? Take a look at the verdict here.
