The Gold Cup Scene - As it is
It's the pinnacle of National Hunt Racing, it's the crescendo of the season, the goal of every trainer and jockey, it's the Cheltenham Gold Cup. However, this year there is unhappiness in the air with some ill-informed men suggesting this year's field is sub-standard, a view I don't subscribe to, lets not forget Lord Windermere did win this race a couple of years ago. This being said I do think there is substance to the argument that the favourite is not as big a certainty as some people think. For me, Thistlecrack still has it all to prove including his stamina, the underfoot conditions and his biggest frailty; his jumping. Colin Tizzard is blessed enough as it is to have a horse like Thistlecrack in his care but for good measure he is also the curator of two of his biggest threats, Native River and gallant veteran Cue Card. One would have to like Native River's attitude, an aggressive front runner and dour stayer and therefore holds good credentials for a race of this nature. Personally, I feel the Irish challenge is being overlooked with challengers such as twice Gold Cup placed Djakadam and steady improving second season chasers in Outlander and Sizing John. All of which have potential, and by no means guarantee, but potential to run big races and therefore must be considered as each-way candidates. Many still think it's Thistlecrack's to lose and there is truth to this point of view and if he goes and wins the race well I will give the horse all the respect he deserves, but for me, Thistlecrack can potentially be overlooked.