Bobs Worth New Gold Cup Favourite

The class horses came to the fore in the Hennessy Gold Cup on Saturday with Bobs Worth prevailing by 3.25 lengths from top-weight Tidal Bay. Nicky Henderson’s 7-year-old was cut to 5/1 (Boylesports), from 8/1, for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Tidal Bay was another mover in the market and is a best price 20/1 (Stan James) having been 100/1. If the ground came up soft at the Festival he would have a good each-way chance.

Big Buck’s sauntered to victory in the Long Distance Hurdle and is 5/6 (Sportingbet) to win his fifth World Hurdle. His price contraction had more to do with Voler La Vedette’s defeat at Fairyhouse on Sunday, as credible rivals are few and far between. 

Arguably the most exciting performance of the weekend came from Arvika Ligeonniere, winner of the Grade 1 Drinmore Novice Chase by 11 lengths. Highlighted as one of our ‘Ten To Follow’, Willie Mullins has the option in going up or down in trip with this talented seven-year-old.

With his future still undecided the bookmakers cut him to 8/1 (Bet365) for the Arkle and 14/1 (Paddy Power) for the RSA Chase.  The ideal distance might be the intermediate but less prestigious Jewson Novices’ Chase for which he is 12/1 (Bet365) third favourite.

The Fighting Fifth was weakened by absenteeism but Countrywide Flame impressed the bookmakers with a facile victory. John Quinn’s stable star is a best price 12/1 (Betfred), from 33/1, for the Champion Hurdle.