The wait for the 2011 Cheltenham Gold Cup is over and horse racing fanatics look like they could be in for a treat as the old guard look to continue their domination in a race that looks set to live up to its billing.
Imperial Commander (2010), Kauto Star (2007 and 2009) and Denman (2008) have had a strong grip on the race over the last four years but they could be about to give way to a new group of chasers and
Paddy Power are offering all customers their money back your horse finishes second to reigning champion Imperial Commander.
Long Run looks the most talented of their rivals and the King George winner would be a confident choice if there weren’t so many doubts surrounding his ability to act at Cheltenham, while Kempes is afforded maximum respect after his Grade One victory last time out.
It is Pandorama that makes the most appeal, but backers will be hoping for rain not seen since the days of Noah on Friday morning and trainer Noel Meade will be keeping a watchful eye on the weather. The trainer has confirmed that his stable star will be a non runner if the ground doesn’t soften up before post time, but there is some rain forecast and there will be plenty of people hoping that the showers do come.
Tough, reliable and incredibly progressive, Pandorama has been reportedly working the house down back at home and there could be a huge gamble on the horse if the weather goes his way on Friday morning.
The money certainly arrived last time out when he powered to an impressive success in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown and he looks exactly the type to win a Gold Cup.
Hugely talented and equally brave, he was classy over hurdles and aside from his non-existent effort in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury this season; he has always looked an absolute superstar in the making.
There would be no more popular winner than the legendary Kauto Star and the roof would come down for stablemate Denman, but both are another year older and if any of the previous winners are going to be heading back to the winner’s enclosure, it will surely be Imperial Commander.
What A Friend could run a massive race on better ground and Paul Nicholls’ star would be a tentative each-way selection if Pandorama is withdrawn from the feature event.
Nick Wilby’s selection – Pandorama 12/1 (
Ladbrokes)
