The feature event of today’s Cheltenham racecard comes once again at 15.20 in the World Hurdle. Scanning the field, it does look very strong all round and it is hard to really justify taking the short 8/13 on offer for favourite Big Buck’s – especially after seeing the last two odds on shots fall short.
More interesting are the 14/5 odds on Katchit to place. After a great start to his career the 7-year old has been hampered by injuries over the last couple of seasons and this may have slightly slowed him. But what he may lack in pace he makes up for in heart and if a race was won on desire then Katchit would be a massive odds on. He's won on this course before and there has been talk coming out of his stable about the horse now being back to his best - a good shout for a place.
In the first race of the day I can’t see how Seven Is My Number is so long to win at 25/1. His recent form has been very good and he has also won at both this distance and on this very course. Maybe not one to lump on, but a small bet or even a place bet is definitely worth it.
Along with the World Hurdle Cheltenham features another huge race in the Ryanair Chase at 14:40. This again looks a very strong field and it is another that is tough to pick a winner. That said I do like the regal look of Queen Elizabeth owned Barbers Shop at 11/2. The Henderson/Geraghty combination worked a treat yesterday and I think this could be another win for the pair.
In the 16:00 I’m backing Belgian horse, The Sawyer. It’s a 24-horse field and I can’t really see any stand out winner, so am just going with form. The Sawyer has had a couple of good wins this year and 20/1 looks good value in a very open race.
Billy’s nap: 11/2 Barbers Shop – 14:40 World Hurdle
Jake’s nap: 9/2 Tranquil Sea – 14:40 World Hurdle