2m5f (Old) Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (Class 1) (4yo+)
There’s a lot of crap in this race and it’s easy to rule out more than half the field. I have to back FIL DOR despite top weight for the simple reason he’s an in-form Graded horse in a handicap with Cheltenham form, and the 5lb claim Ben Harvey takes off is invaluable for a young horse, sticking him in off a net mark of 146. He’s totally unexposed at this trip, shaping like a stayer throughout his 4yo season, and at around 14/1 I just can’t see him out the frame. You could make a case for HMS Seahorse but he only gets 3lb from the selection and is nowhere near the same class in my opinion – Fil Dor smashed him at Punchestown last year so it’s a stretch to see that form reversed at the weights. With such generous place terms he’s a confident each-way bet to nothing. For exactly the same connections I have to back SA FUREUR as well. Davy Russell didn’t have a ride in the 22 runner Boodles on Tuesday despite Gordon Elliott running three, so it’s curious he’s taking a ride in the 26 runner Coral Cup. I’m suggesting that’s a pointer this horse has a chance and the form book says he’s on a four timer after just four starts over hurdles. He’s 16/1 and only seems to do just enough in his races without ever having been asked for maximum pressure yet. The best should still be to come and I’m very happy to chance him at 16/1. Good Risk At All and Icare Allen complete the shortlist.
1pt each-way Fil Dor 12/1, 14:50 Cheltenham, Wednesday (1-8, 1/5 Sky Bet)
1pt each-way Sa Fureur 16/1, 14:50 Cheltenham, Wednesday (1-7, 1/5 various)