It’s hard to back up Cheltenham
Looking at previous trends, it is hard to complete both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Punchestown Gold Cup. The last horse to achieve that feat was Sizing John in 2017 for Jessica Harrington, so it’s been a while.
Of course, Galopin Des Champs is the most likely winner, and he is one of the best staying chasers we’ve seen this millennium, but he’s not great value at the current prices. Though his win in the Cheltenham Gold Cup results was impressive, I do think he’s had some tough races this season, and that’s bound to have left its mark.
Punchestown is a home game for Fastorslow
When it comes to last year’s winner, Fastorslow, he has since proven that his win in this race was no fluke. He managed to beat Galopin Des Champs in the John Durkan Chase back in November, albeit over a shorter trip. However, his campaign has been lighter this season, and it’s hard to tell how he would have finished in the Cheltenham Gold Cup results after he unseated JJ Slevin halfway through the race. The eight-year-old gelding certainly enjoys Punchestown, and he looks to have a good chance of defending his crown.
It’s great to see Lucinda Russell sending Corach Rambler across the Irish Sea. Unfortunately, he didn’t get very far in the Grand National after unseating Derek Fox at the first fence. On the other hand, his third-place finish in the Cheltenham Gold Cup results puts him right in contention. We know he peaks in the spring, and he commands a lot of respect.
Hewick is overpriced
The one I like in the market is Hewick each-way. We obviously know a lot about him, and he’s been a great horse for Shark Hanlon. The last time we saw him, he finished down the field over hurdles at Aintree a couple of weeks ago, but I think he may have needed that run, and coming back over fences should suit him better. The son of Virtual will wear first-time blinkers, which might help him concentrate, and the good ground should play in his favor. For me, he looks a little overpriced, and I can see him making the frame.
Capodanno loves Punchestown
Elsewhere, the only one that catches my eye is Capodanno. He might have had a tough race in the Grand National, but he has an excellent record at the Punchestown Festival, winning on two occasions, and he commands respect at a big price.
Whatever you’re backing, I hope you enjoy the race, and please remember to gamble responsibly!
Cheltenham Gold Cup 2024 Runners to Watch on Cheltenham Gold Cup Day
The Cheltenham Gold Cup Day is always the highlight of the racing calendar, and the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2024 runners are shaping up to provide another thrilling contest. Galopin Des Champs will undoubtedly enter the day as the favourite, but with a packed field of quality staying chasers, surprises could be in store.
Corach Rambler, Fastorslow, and Hewick are all poised to make their mark, with each horse bringing unique strengths to the table. The unpredictability of racing adds to the allure of Cheltenham Gold Cup Day, making it a must-watch for fans and punters alike. Will one of the seasoned veterans rise to the occasion, or will a new champion emerge? Only time will tell as these elite runners vie for glory.
