2010 CHELTENHAM THURSDAY TIPS FOR THE RYANAIR CHASE
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It was quite a day on Wednesday at the Cheltenham Festival and all eyes are quickly turning towards Thursdays action where we'll see the running of the 2010 World Hurdle and the 2010 Ryanair Chase. We've also got a few listed races to open the day as well as the Grade 3 Byrne Group Plate and the Kim Muir for amateur riders.
There is plenty of talent on display for the 2:40 Ryanair Chase a first class chase for 5 year-olds over a 2m5f distance. Despite Tranquil Sea and Poquelin dominating the betting with the shortest odds (7/2 and 4/1), the most highly-rated horse in the race is Voy Por Ustedes who usually competes at a slightly higher level than this one. Voy Por is a gold-cup contender who would probably have a more accomplished career if it wasn't for the likes of Denman and Kauto Star. He's really well-priced for this one at a massive 16/1 and though he hasn't had the greatest year, the step down in competition could make the difference for him.
Nicky Henderson's Jack the Giant is a mysterious horse that hasn't run since November of 2008. He's at 33/1 and, if you're looking for a true spoiler, this could be your bet. Planet of Sound is talented but has come up short a few times lately. You'll find him around 14/1. Willie Mullins Scotsirish is an interesting selection with a quality rating, but I'm up in the air about how he handles the competition here I don't think he's going to win this one but could be worth an each-way at 28/1.
Barbers Shop, the Queen's horse, is similar to Voy Por Ustedes as he's taking a step down in class here. He's been an inconsistent sort and I think his price is just a bit too small at 6/1. I'd rather back Jonjo O'Neill and AP McCoy with Albertas Run, who trades at a juicy 16/1. He beat Planet of Sound in his season opener, but was bested by Deep Purple in early December. He finished a respectable sixth in Kauto Star's legendary performance in the King George. I think he's a threat and at the price he's carrying, will likely see plenty of action.
Paul Nicholls' Poquelin brings solid form into this one and is justifiable at 7/2, but not particularly enticing. We've seen that form only means so much at Cheltenham this year, so you'll be baking a bit on the Nicholls/Walsh factor here. I like him though and is a surety for a top 3 finish.
Deep Purple is quite possibly overlaid here at 28/1 as he was pulled up in the King George last time out, but took his two previous races over the talented Tartak and Tamarinbleu. That's a solid price for a horse with victories under his belt and he could be set to rediscover his form here. If he gets the right trip, he's dangerous.
I like Voy Por Ustedes in this one and will be backing him outright. I think Deep Purple is worth a bet and a forecast with these two would be massive.