Cheltenham‘s three-day Open meeting in November is certainly worth looking forward to, despite ground concerns. The main event is Saturday’s Paddy Power Gold Cup and it’s one of the best handicaps of the season. We’ve had a good look at the race and picked out two ante-post selections; one with a major chance and the other an interesting outsider. Why not check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Ginny’s Destiny progressed at a rapid rate last term and emerged from handicaps to become a legitimate Grade 1 novice chaser. Trainer Paul Nicholls issued a very positive bulletin in his recent stable tour and he should be primed and ready for this test.
His profile is ideal and it’s almost identical to last year’s winner Stage Star, who also represents this yard. This likable sort jumps and travels well, which makes this race the perfect target.
A handicap mark of 155 shouldn’t be beyond him, on the evidence of his performances last term, and it would be dangerous to rule out further improvement. Nicholls’ eight-year-old is favourite for a reason and he can win here before progressing into open graded races.
Editeur Du Gite is at the other end of the scale and the experienced 10-year-old is much more exposed. Gary & Josh Moore’s gelding is very talented on his day and class can carry him through here.
It’s not unusual for horses to want further as they get older and this three-time course winner is worth chancing at a big price here. The handicapper has given him a chance and a mark of 154 is generous, provided he improves significantly for his seasonal debut.
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