We can’t talk about the big races if we leave out the biggest race of the week, the Gold Cup. Al Boum Photo is looking to be the first horse since Best Mate in 2004 to retain the Gold Cup and is a 7/2 joint-favourite to do. He’s only had the run so far this season, following the same route as last season, however, has new competition on his hand.
Last years RSA form has been well advertised this season and two of the front three meet again here. Delta Work has enjoyed a fantastic season so far, winning the Lexus and Irish Gold Cup, and is 11/2 with Sky Bet to follow up here. He must reverse form with Santini, who won at Cheltenham in January and is also a 7/2 shot with Sky Bet.
Dual King George winner Clan Dex Obeaux returns for another shot however must prove he can stay up the Cheltenham hill. Paul Nicholls’ horse is 15/2 for Gold Cup glory to add to his King George success. It was in the King George that Lostintranslation was pulled up and he may be the somewhat forgotten horse in the field. Colin Tizzard’s horse hammered RSA winner TopoftheGame at Aintree last season and slipped down in the betting, with now 6/1 with Sky Bet.
Kemboy is yet to win this season and has also drifted, to 8/1 with Presenting Percy also drifting in the Sky Bet market, available at 11/1. It’s set up for a fantastic contest.