The 2.35 Royal & Sun Alliance chase sees a worthy short priced favourite in Our Vic. I wouldn’t put anyone off backing him but Calling Brave is an interesting alternative who is a most genuine sort and I will be sticking with him. The Irish have the useful Pizarro and Lord Sam will have his supporters.
The main race today is the Queen Mother Champion Chase and I strongly fancy Moscow Flyer to retain his title. Azertyuiop will give him most to do. It should be an exciting race. If anything were to happen to the big two then Flagship Uberalles could be the one to benefit.
The Coral cup sees last year’s Champion hurdle third Rhinestone Cowboy top the weights but I’m sticking with the improving Monkerhostin who won really well last time. Mughas and Dromlease Express are others with chances.
The NH Chase at 4.35 gives possibly the best bet of the day in Rosslea. He is trained by Henrietta Knight and promises to stay this extreme distance. The stable are very keen on his chance.
The Mildmay of Flete at 5.10 is probably the most open race of the day. There are many with chances and I may go with the grey Turgeonev who has been in good form this year. Simply Gifted and Kelami share favouritism at the moment while Fondmort, La Landiere and Farmer jack could all run well.
The final race is the bumper at 5.45. Normally we would start and finish with Willie Mullins representatives but this year the talking horse appears to be Martinstown also trained in Ireland. I’m happy to leave it to him.
SELECTIONS
2.0 Inglis Drever
2.35 Calling Brave
3.20 Moscow Flyer
4.0 Monkerhostin
4.35 Rosslea
5.10 Turgeonev
5.35 Martinstown