Bank on Ruby

This time last year after two decent wins, Ghizao was favourite for the Arkle chase. At the time, I felt he did not have the class to win at that level, but noted that he would be more at home in a Handicap over further. Today, he has the opportunity to test that theory in the Spinal Research The Atlantic 4 Gold Cup at Cheltenham (2.30). In a very open race he is likely to go off at an attractive price, particularly considering he is under Paul Nicholl's tutelage and has Ruby on board. The Paddy Power is usually the key piece of form and while Great Endeavour should go well, his gallant effort in the Hennessy may have taken the edge off, whilst the placed horses were a long way behind.

The other main contest on a interesting card is the International Hurdle (aka Bula), which sees Menorah reverting to hurdles, he should be too good for the others and is very much of interest at 4/1 (Ladbrokes).


On a busy day, Oscar Whisky looks the proverbial good thing, while others worth monitoring include Hinterland, Mossley, Ranjaan, and on this side of the Irish Sea at Navan; Tennis Cap, Mart Lane and Bishop's Walk.

best of luck.....