A look at Friday’s Cheltenham picks with BetVictor’s racing ambassador Sam Boswell.
JCB Triumph Hurdle (13.30)
Solo to win 4/1
“This race could see a stunning burn up with so much speed here on, coupled with drying ground. We have Solo who shot to the front of the market after a stunning win at Kempton recently; Paul Nicholls compared him to Master Minded straight after the race and, if he was half as good as him, would be capable of landing this.”
Randox Health County Handicap Hurdle (14.10)
Mohaayad – Each Way 12/1
Amaron – Each Way 15/2
“The county is a race that has been dominated by the Skelton team in recent years and previous winner Mohaayad is my first selection for the race.”
“My alternative choice in the race will be Amaron, having his first start in a handicap, he has been campaigned at a level above perhaps where he could be competitive entering into a handicap.”
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (14.50)
Kiltealy Brigs – Each Way 66/1
“The Albert Bartlett has a record of throwing up some strange results and big priced winners. Last year it went to RSA second Minella Indo, so nothing can be discounted here. Traditionally you want a horse with plenty of experience. I am going to put one up for this which probably fits both of those trends. BetVictor ambassador Jamie Snowden runs Kiltealy Brigs and I think at 66/1 he could be overpriced.”
Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (15.30)
Clan Des Obeaux to win 7/1
“Clan Des Obeaux arrives here having destroyed the field in the King George, the big difference to his previous Gold Cup effort is he has been kept fresh for the race this year. Avoiding Ascot this year will prove a masterstroke for Nicholls and I am so confident I am putting the selection up as a win only bet.”
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (16.50)
Chosen Mate – Each Way 6/1
“Gordon Elliott as ever has had a fantastic week at the Festival and it will be his horse, Chosen Mate, that I will be cheering on here. His form in the book feels fair and a mark of 147 looks a bit of a gift for this and with Davy Russell on I expect a huge run from the 6/1.”
Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (17.30)
Five O’Clock – Each Way 11/1
“We close the entire week with a race Gordon Elliott loves to win, he has several candidates and I have a personal interest in seeing Everybreathyoutake run well, being involved with him. I must say it will be a highly competitive renewal and many have great chances. Pressed for a selection in the race I am going to opt for, the Mullins horse is open to huge improvement and arrives here off the back of a nice hurdle win at Thurles.”