Our star columnist takes us through his star-studded team for the opening day's action at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival.
Cheltenham Festival - Tuesday
Batman Girac - 16:50
The fact Paul Townend has elected not to take a ride on any of our three in this might be an interpretation of what chance he feels they have but it will be interesting to see how they go. Daryl rides this fellow, and he has a hood on too. It could improve him. He had a very disappointing run going right-handed at Fairyhouse on his first start for us but was better in Leopardstown going left-handed. He has an each-way chance.
Miss Manzor - 16:50
Karia Des Blaises - 16:50
Both of these mares disappointed at Leopardstown over Christmas and then we changed tactics and went to Fairyhouse where they were first-and-second in a lower-class race. Whether that form is good enough for this contest we won’t find out until the day, but we’ll watch with interest. They are potential improvers, but the fact Paul has decided to sit this one out might be the best indication.
Embassy Gardens - 17:30
He is the epitome of a real old-style chaser, he loves to gallop and jump. Every time he sees a fence you can see him weighing it up from so far out. I just thought he was made for this race when I saw his early-season performances and I think he deserves to be as prominent in the market as he is.
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