It’s never too early to start thinking about the Cheltenham Festival and the markets for the four ‘championship races’ are starting to take shape. March is a long way away but there’s value to be found in the ante-post markets. Liam Bramall has picked out some ante-post fancies at huge prices for the big four and these include a 100/1 shot in the Gold Cup. Take a look at our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Irish Point is more effective over longer trips than this but connections don’t seem keen to run him and Teahupoo in the same race. Gordon Elliott’s grey ran a screamer to finish second in the 2024 Champion Hurdle and is set to return after a season out through injury. If he runs in the Stayers’ Hurdle, he probably wins, but he has the ability to run a big race over the shorter trip if necessary.
Irish Point e/w @ 40/1 with Unibet
King George winner Banbridge proved himself to be a non-stayer over the Gold Cup trip and beating Fact To File in the Ryanair would be a tough task. The Champion Chase market could be more open this year and it’s easy to see him running well. He won a Grade 1 over an extended two miles at the Punchestown Festival in 2024 and would surely be in with a shout.
Banbridge e/w @ 33/1 with bet365
Jeriko Du Reponet is probably pretty frustrating for connections but this option looks perfect for him. His return to fences at Kempton earlier this week was rather disappointing and perhaps he should stick to hurdles. Second in the Pertemps Final last season, his stamina is confirmed and he could develop into a smart graded hurdler.
Jeriko Du Reponet e/w @ 66/1 with Paddy Power
Myretown absolutely bolted up in the Ultima at the Festival last season and that was just his fifth start over fences. There should be loads more to come with that in mind and he looks like a graded chaser in the making. This price will be long gone if he manages to win the Coral Gold Cup on Saturday and the eight-year-old has every chance this weekend.
Myretown e/w @ 100/1 with Betfred
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