Cheltenham Eve

We are nearly there with just over 24 hours to go until the big roar and the start of the 2010 Cheltenham Festival. Preparations, despite plenty of time allocated have not gone without disruption (would have "scoped badly" if tested) but at this stage, we are ready as we will ever be, albeit a tad over previewed.

Current thoughts have Nicholls' trio looking hard to beat! Master Minded at 5/6 almost looks a good price. Big Bucks appears rock solid and Kauto Star with the ground in his favour should make history but not without having to fend off strong challenges from his rivals (further anon later in the week).

The week's other hotpot, Dunguib finally faces his moment of truth! Will he hurdle proficiently to add to his already impressive armoury? Scooting up the hill in last year's Bumper, he looked like the next big thing and I expect that Philip Fenton will have him primed for a repeat performance!! The other budding stars in the novice sphere will have to prove their mettle in more competitive races but expect Quel Esprit, Alaivan and Enterprise Park to prevail and have included all 4 in a pre-meeting yankee.

The Champion Hurdle is perhaps the most open of the senior championship races and at this stage, still undecided due to Solwhit's bout of flu. It's still a bit early to make a call on the handicaps and have gone for Diamond Harry, Master Minded, Tranquil Sea, Big Bucks and Cooldine for a sporting Canadian.

Curiously when asked for my best 2 bets of the week, I have ended up with runners in the novice chases; Sizing Europe in the Arkle and Diamond Harry in the RSA (a shower or two on Tuesday night would be most welcome).

What makes this week so fascinating is the disparity of opinions but I would recommend bearing in mind, a few pertinent factors; a) the going, b) festival form, c) trainer form.

In conclusion the plan for the week is to watch Day 1 in the front room and then travel to the Cotswolds in good company, for the remainder, culminating is what is my favourite day of the year, Gold Cup Day. I will endeavour to blog from our billet and impart any wisdom or knowledge gleaned.

happy punting and enjoy.....