Bet On The Cheltenham Gold Cup 2013

Bobs Worth is the 3-1 favourite with Bet365 for the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2013 after 24 horses were left in at the latest declaration stage. Trainer Nicky Henderson enjoyed a record seven winners at last year’s Cheltenham festival and he will also be represented by 2011 winner Long Run in the meeting’s feature event.

Nigel Twiston-Davies has reported his 2010 Gold Cup winner Imperial Commander to be in great shape following his excellent run in the Argento Chase. He nearly overcame a long layoff but was just run out of it by the improving Cape Tribulation in a thrilling finish. Both horses seem to act on any ground and look lively outsiders. Champion trainer Paul Nicholls may no longer have Kauto Star or Denman but he is increasingly keen on the chances of Silviniaco Conti. The 5-1 chance remains undefeated this season after victories at Wetherby, Haydock and Newbury. He has also left in Grand National entry What A Friend but Tidal Bay is out of Cheltenham and Aintree after suffering a recent injury.

JP McManus has completed the purchase of David Bridgwater’s Wyck Hill, although Aintree may prove to be his chosen destination. Bridgwater is confident that last year’s runner-up The Giant Bolster will put up another bold show this season. Wyck Hill’s Ascot victim, Katenko, has gone from strength to strength and his price has tumbled from 50-1 to 25-1 in recent weeks.

The best of the Irish looks to be the Willie Mullins-trained Sir Des Champs after his victory in the Hennessy. The trainer has also left in Grand National favourite Prince De Beauchene, although his participation at the festival must be in doubt. First Lieutenant is entitled to respect on his fine run in the Hennessy and narrow defeat in the Lexus Chase. He runs in the same colours as Sir Des Champs and no decision has yet been made as to whether they will run both. Philip Hobbs relies on Captain Chris, second at Ascot to Cue Card after a bad mistake two from home. He had previously forced Long Run to pull out all the stops in the King George at Kempton but his stamina has to be taken on trust.

All of the leading contenders have finished their final preparations and there are unlikely to be any major movers in the Gold Cup betting between now and March 15th. Bobs Worth looked a strong favourite after winning at Newbury in November but has not raced since. Silviniaco Conti has been impressive in his trial races well but is still to race over fences at Cheltenham. Sir Des Champs also looks a worthy contender and Long Run will have his supporters. First Lieutenant, Imperial Commander and Cape Tribulation all have each-way claims in one of the most open looking Gold Cup’s of recent years.