Oscar Whiskey (5/1) is a classy mover but will struggle up the hill if the other jockeys stretch him.
Reve De Sivola (5/1) will get the trip just fine but 5/1 is no gift at this stage of the game.
Quevega (7/1) is all class but seems set again for the mares' race she's made her own.
Monksland (8/1) was off the bridle a long way out before landing the Leopardstown Christmas Hurdle and may lose touch coming down the hill.
Tidal Bay (8/1) could be bound for the Gold Cup, though Ruby seems keen to go for this and Nicholls has just about turned this old monkey 'round.
Bog Warrior (10/1) lost the plot over fences after looking a potential star - is now unbeaten in three spins since reverting to hurdles.
Peddlers Cross (12/1) lost all momentum last year and hasn't jumped an obstacle this season.
Solwhit (16/1) has a touch of class, but there's nothing in the book to suggest he'll be getting 3 miles.
Rite of Pasage (16/1) won't be running in this, surely?
Oscar Dara (20/1) would be twice the price if trained by anyone else.
Smad Place (20/1) has been dreadful all year after running well last season - better ground may help.
Grands Crus (20/1) could conceivably go for this now that the wheels have properly fallen off his fencing campaign.
Verdict: Quevega could only be entertained at Victor Chandler (who are Non-Runner Free-Bet) but a decent bet at 5/1 has the look of shadow boxing about it. At 7/1 NRFB Tidal Bay is slightly more appealing but at the more attractive price of 10/1 BOG WARRIOR just about gets the vote. He hasn't been extended since reverting to hurdles, but let's not get carried away - he'll probably need it soft and his ranging stride may not be seen to best effect on a track like Cheltenham. But at the prices, he's the pick.
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| Bog Warrior - another chaser back over timber |
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