Thursday, December 11, 2008

Cheltenham - quick notes for Friday

In the opener I wouldn't want to take too short a price about Ballyfitz. Sir Alex Ferguson owns a share in What A Friend - I wonder if he'll be at the course.

Following Dix Villez's controversial three length defeat of Garde Champetre over course and distance last time out, the layout for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase (1.20) has been modified. Garde Champetre aims for compensation here and is likely to be in the shake-up.

Simon looked as though he'd come on for the run on his seasonal debut here four weeks ago and should go well in the 1.55. The Sporting Life's early tissue prices him at 12/1 which represents reasonable each-way value. Having been found lame in his box on the morning of the Hennessy, Character Building comes to this a fresh horse and is bound to be popular.

Gloucester runs in the 3.05 and is one I like who appeared a little unfortunate last time out. Priced up at 33/1, he was brought down two out while making stealthy headway from the rear in the race won by Sunnyhillboy at the track last month - of course, the odds are likely to be considerably shorter tomorrow...

In the finale I'd consider a speculative each-way wager at a price on What A Buzz. His chance will improve with soft / testing ground and the McCain stable are currently in decent form.

Finally you have to take your hat off to Ruby Walsh who returns to the saddle tomorrow after having his spleen removed following a fall from Pride Of Dulcote four weeks ago, and Cheltenham are taking every precaution to ensure the meeting can beat the frost.

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