The anticipation surrounding the Cheltenham Festival Trials Day is palpable as expert analysts weigh in on the key races. With significant question marks over various horses, the panelists provide their insights on the likely outcomes.
Sir Gino vs. The New Lion: A Close Contest
David Ord believes Sir Gino will come out on top, although he expressed concerns about the soft ground conditions. The forecast indicates more rain, which could hinder Sir Gino’s speed. Despite this, Ord sees his performance at Kempton as a positive sign.
Nic Doggett shared similar sentiments, suggesting Sir Gino might not need to race due to his impressive showing at Kempton. He pointed out that The New Lion needs to prove himself following a difficult outing in the Fighting Fifth.
John Ingles added that Timeform ratings show a tight race, with Sir Gino slightly favored. He noted that while Sir Gino performs well on soft ground, The New Lion’s stamina might play a crucial role.
Expectations for Grey Dawning
When discussing Grey Dawning, all three panelists agreed that a strong performance is essential. David Ord emphasized that no other horse seems likely to pose a significant threat to Grey Dawning, although he expressed doubts about the race serving as a proper Cheltenham Gold Cup trial.
- Grey Dawning needs to demonstrate consistent jumping skills.
- Ord noted the uncertain forms of competitors like L’Homme Presse and Flooring Porter.
- Ingles mentioned that Grey Dawning should improve from his previous races to secure a top position.
Impose Toi: The Leading Stayer
Impose Toi is expected to shine in the upcoming Cleeve race. David Ord is confident in his ability to outperform Strong Leader, citing his recent improvement. Nic Doggett echoed this, noting that Impose Toi has been progressing impressively, particularly in his recent win at Ascot.
John Ingles indicated that Impose Toi’s consistent performance and suitability for the course put him in a strong position against his competitors.
Other Notable Contenders
- Taurus Bay impressed with a recent victory at Aintree and is considered a strong contender.
- Kdeux Saint Fray is identified as a promising horse after a solid performance at Aintree.
- Act of Innocence showed potential on his debut and is expected to perform well in the novice hurdle.
The buildup to Cheltenham continues to evolve, with various horses vying for attention. As the Festival Trials Day approaches, the expert insights provide essential guidance for enthusiasts and bettors alike.
