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So the Cheltenham Festival, the highlight for the National Hunt Calendar, starts on Wednesday morning at 12:30am AEDT. I have taken a quick spin through a very busy card to give you my top tips for the first day.
Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
I’m going to predict a Willie Mullins masterclass all day today. The top Irish trainer (who Aussie punters would recognise as the trainer of Simenon, fourth in the 2013 Melbourne Cup) could have a rout on his hands and this will kick it off.
I’m going for a Mullins quinella but not in the format expected. A big field with 18 runners, but I think Wicklow Brave has the best chance with Vautour a close second. I’m also entertaining the place prospects of Wilde Blue Yonder, who has a great chance at a big price if the jockey can get it together.
Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase (Grade 1)
Nine still in the running and this is Trifolium’s to lose (expect a huge week for the new Gigginstown jockey Bryan Cooper) with Champagne Fever most likely to chase him home.
Baylis & Harding Affordable Luxury Handicap Chase (Grade 3)
A field of 23 and this one could go anywhere. I like the unexposed Green Flag at a big price, and also like Wrong Turn for Tony Martin. He was a faller last time out but has taken to the big fences. Having said that I think this is going to the home side. I can see a first win of the week for Mr Henderson and Hadrian’s Approach.
Stan James Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1)
This is the big one for me and the reason I will be glued to the set. I know the market is against Hurricane Fly repeating his win from last year but the heart says stick with him. The little guy might look a little like a donkey but has the biggest heart. 19 Grade 1s already in the bag and in a week of real Roy of the Rovers stuff in the Irish camp, I’m rooting for him all the way.
I think Jezki will have a big race, and could pull out a surprise under Barry Geraghty, but the biggest threat for me is My Tent or Yours and that man, AP McCoy. My top three is Hurricane Fly from Jezki and My Tent or Yours.
Olbg Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 2)
This could just be Willie Mullins’ biggest day. I expect all the headlines to be focusing on him. Can anyone see past the majestic Quevega, going for her sixth win in this race? Again for me its a Mullins quinella because I really like Glens Melody, who was a standout at last year’s Punchestown Festival. I think she will chase the great mare home.
Terry Biddlecombe National Hunt Chase (Amateur Riders’ Novices’ Chase)
Big field again (15) in the Amateurs. Foxrock in this for me. It’s a big step up in distance but the horse looks to have it in him. Also like Merlin’s Wish at a big price for the place.
Rewards4Racing Novices’ Handicap Chase (Listed)
20 runners in this final race of the opening day. Fancy this to be the double on the day for Cooper and am going for Art of Logistics to take this. Buywise at a big price to take a place.
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