Cheltenham Countdown Continues

As the festival approaches, time to look at the Champion Hurdle and Queen Mother Champion Chase.

The Champion Hurdles lacks clarity this time with reigning champion Punjabi showing little so far, despite winning handily on Saturday. It looks as if Barry Geraghty will opt for him in preference to Zaynar but neither look like winners.

Irish pair Solwhit and Go Native head the market with the former putting a string of Grade 1 victories together. He looks the most obvious candidate having showed the necessary resolve. Go Native has been knocked on that score but it would be prudent to remember that he did win a good Supreme last season battling on gamely after hitting front too soon. That form gives the improving Medermit a solid chance also, while it would be unwise to ignore Khyber Kim and Celestial Halo. At this stage, a difficult race to call but it would be nice to see Paul Carberry land one of the marquee races (assuming he gets there in one piece!).

On the other hand, Master Minded will win the Champion Chase and complete an historic 3 in a row. He demonstrated that he has recovered from injury at Newbury and surely he has to be the cornerstone of any betting strategy. Anyone in doubt, should refer to his devastating performance in the 2008 running!!

good luck and more anon...