AS THE FESTIVAL draws to a close, most racing enthusiasts will be looking for a fairytale end to the week with victory for Kauto Star.
Paul Nicholls’ charge is probabaly the most popular horse in training, and his two wins over Long Run this term drew an incredible response from the public. As much as it saddens me to say, a third Gold Cup seems unlikely for the 12-year-old.
Horses aged 10 or older have a terrible record in the race, and while Kauto is an exceptional horse this latest record breaking attempt should prove a bridge too far and he may give way to younger legs.
Last year’s winner Long Run may well reverse recent form given his trainer’s form, and the extra stamina test should suit him better than Kauto. His price of 2/1 is probably a little short though, and value may lie elsewhere.
Given that horses like Carruthers and Midnight Chase love to bowl out in front, this could prove to be a very fast-run Gold Cup. Consequently this could turn into a huge test of stamina, and play into the hands of a strong finisher. Synchronised fits this description perfectly. The manner in which he made up ground and acclelerated past good horses at Leopardstwon at Christmas put to bed any doubts that he’s just a dour, staying handicapper, and he apperas to be a genuine Grade One horse.
If his jockey McCoy can get him jumping fluently and in a good rhythm then nothing will be going better in the final few furlongs. He may have the ability to even out-stay Long Run.
Johnjo O’ Neill has had his runners in great form all week; horses like Get Me Out of Here, Alberta’s Run and Sunnyhillboy all performed out of their skin and there’s no reason to believe that Synchronised won’t turn up in the same shape.
Ted Spread is over priced in the County Hurdle, meanwhile. He was backed last week as if defeat was out of the question in the Imperial Cup, but he clearly hated the tacky ground. Once his chance was gone he was given an easy time and he hopefully hasd suffered no ill-effects for that run. Given his ability on the flat he is very well-handicapped, and if his last run is forgiven he is a big price given that the gorund should be in his favour today.
Selections:
- Synchronised 1 pt win @ 10/1
- Ted Spreadt 1 pt win @ 16/1
