Cup

Harry Redknapp mentioned he felt like a Champions League ultimate loser after watching his Cheltenham Gold Cup hope “run out of steam”.

Nonetheless, he refuses to surrender on one other dream, sustaining that he would “do a great” job if he received an SOS name from Tottenham Hotspur.

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The retired soccer supervisor stood arm in arm with spouse Sandra watching The Jukebox Man fade late in a dramatic function race of the pageant.

Afterwards, the 79-year-old heaped reward on Willie Mullins’s sole runner Gaelic Warrior, who ultimately left the sphere toiling in his wake to assert victory.

With Gaelic Warrior profitable by eight lengths from Jango Baie, Redknapp mentioned his son Jamie was “completely” proper to match profitable a Gold Cup with a Champions League title.

When requested whether or not watching the race was extra tense than managing Tottenham, he mentioned: “Nicely, managing Spurs wasn’t that tense once I was there. We had a great crew, so it wasn’t too unhealthy.”

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The Jukebox Man had “missed per week’s work”, Redknapp revealed afterwards. “We didn’t say something… However he merely simply ran out of steam at this time… He simply appeared to simply fall in a little bit of a gap, however general he jumped nice, run nice and he’s come again, hopefully secure and sound, which is the primary factor.”

Redknapp has been repeatedly questioned at Cheltenham about Tottenham’s predicament below interim supervisor Igor Tudor.

Tudor, 47, has overseen 4 consecutive defeats, together with three within the Premier League, in a dismal begin since he succeeded Thomas Frank on February 14.

When requested whether or not he would step in to assist, he mentioned: “It’s a giant problem. Do I would like the stress at this stage of my life? Why not I’d give it a go. I’m not too outdated. I really feel as match as a fiddle. In the event that they ask me, I feel I’d do a great job.”

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The day had been an anticipated zenith in Redknapp’s lifelong love of racing. Sandra, son Jamie and his grandchildren cheered on the eight-year-old who was properly positioned heading to dwelling. Nonetheless, the Jukebox Man was handed by eventual winner Gaelic Warrior with two fences to leap.

Elsewhere on Friday’s card, Mullins banker Dinoblue didn’t disappoint for punters within the Mares’ Chase, galloping away from Dan Skelton’s handicap specialist Panic Assault with loads in hand.

It was one other good day for the bookmakers although, with Proactif and Selma De Range falling brief within the Triumph Hurdle, gained by Apolon De Charnie with Patrick Mullins aboard at 50/1.

Wilful gained the County Hurdle forward of the well-backed Karbau, Sinnatra and Joyeuse and Albert Bartlett favorite Physician Steinberg was nowhere close to making the journey in a race gained by Johnny’s Jury at 20/1.

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A gambled landed with Barton Snow within the Hunters’ Chase – backed from 12/1 into 9/2 – and Pageant kind proved vital once more within the Martin Pipe the place Air of Entitlement was the ultimate winner of the week.

05:41pm

That’s all for the week

Most bookmakers have priced up the 2027 Gold Cup if you’re already wanting ahead to subsequent yr.

05:33pm

Air of Entitlement wins the Martin Pipe!

The winner of final yr’s Mares’ Novices’ hurdle has one other Pageant success to her identify, and one other on the board for the Henry De Bromhead, simply after the unhappy information of Envoi Allen’s loss of life. The Prestbury Cup finishes 15-13 in favour of Eire.

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Air of Entitlement all the time travelled properly on the within, didn’t produce the very best bounce on the final as Scorching Fuss got here to problem. The 2 horses collided, nevertheless it was Scorching Fuss who strayed and the margin of victory ought to be enough to keep away from the stewards getting concerned. So many had an opportunity, and there will probably be some arduous luck tales.

05:25pm

They’re off within the Martin Pipe!

It took a while to get the horses dealing with the fitting manner. However 5 minutes late, they’re off.

East India Categorical could have floor to make up after backing off following a kick.

05:21pm

One final false begin to spherical off the week

The flags have been waved and the 24 runners will return for an additional go.

05:19pm

They’re heading right down to put up for the Martin Pipe

The fortunate final at this yr’s Cheltenham Pageant. Attempt to not confuse Air of Enitlement and Act of Authority when writing you higher slips (all the time finest to simply put the quantity). There was loads of cash for Henderson’s East India Categorical. He completed seventh on this race final yr.

05:06pm

Ben Pauling on The Jukebox Man

I’m delighted he’s OK.

I even thought to the attention he was travelling and leaping properly. Ben [Jones] felt he was in a greater rhythm at Kempton. I used to be nonetheless completely completely happy.

I might quite know a motive why than surprise. Everyone knows that wasn’t his efficiency. We additionally know that will probably be very arduous to evaluate.

05:00pm

Going into the ultimate race…

Eire lead the Presbury Cup 14-13. Nicky Henderson has East India Categorical amongst three Mullins horses on the high of the betting within the Martin Pipe, so Britain’s possibilities of a tie might come right down to how he runs.

04:55pm

Our ideas for the Martin Pipe, the ultimate race of the week

Marlborough’s tip: East India ExpressDid properly at this course final yr and bounced again to kind when rallying at Windsor final time. Nonetheless appears like there may be room in his handicap mark and common conditional rider will get on properly with him

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Air of EntitlementWinner on the assembly final yr for Henry de Bromhead, dropping again to handicap provides her a giant likelihood

Charlie Brooks’ tip: Roc DinoVery constant in an open race

04:50pm

Barton Snow wins the Hunters Chase

The 9/2 shot’s jockey Henry Crow was sat very quietly the entire manner round, however he needed to ask him the query after he ploughed by way of the final fence. It was not precisely probably the most convincing run up the hill in the direction of the road, nevertheless it was sufficient to carry off the problem of Its On The Line. Walsh and McCoy cooing over the journey given by Crow.

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04:41pm

They’re off!

The penultimate race of the day is below manner.

04:40pm

They’re on the put up of the Hunters’ Chase

Newbie jockeys journey over the Gold Cup fences and journey on this race. It’s On The Line, Wonderall and Barton Snow attracting loads of assist, whereas Con’s Roc has robust kind. Panda Boy has the son of ITV betting ring reporter Brian Gleeson within the saddle.

04:35pm

Harry Redknapp reacts

“No excuses,” says Redknapp who admits Gaelic Warrior was “very spectacular” however he does reveal that coach Ben Pauling believes The Jukebox Man has a small wind downside. Which may clarify him flattening out on the three-mile mark.

04:32pm

Our ideas for the subsequent race

Marlborough’s tip: StattlerFormer Pageant winner who’s come again to kind on this sphere not too long ago. Wants to enhance his leaping but when the first-time cheekpieces sharpen him up he will probably be bang there on the end on this firm

Marcus Armytage’s tip: WrappedupinmayIf it has rained all evening the bottom might have come for him

Charlie Brooks’ tip: Panda BoyShrewd coach, gained going away final time

04:28pm

Information of a fatality

Envoi Allen, the oldest horse within the race at 12, has died after collapsing on the best way to the stables and being attended to by vets.

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Unhappy information for Henry De Bromhead and homeowners Cheveley Park in what was lengthy deliberate as a swansong run for the 10-time Grade One winner.

Richard Thompson, of Cheveley Park Stud has mentioned: “We didn’t see it however the vets okayed all of them after the race and Darragh mentioned he was pricking his ears after the race. He then went over as he was coming again onto the chute. He’d simply retired however then in a minute or two he was gone.

“He was such a stunning little horse and it wasn’t the ending we wished. He’s been an unbelievable servant and simply fantastic through the years. It’s such a tragic solution to go.”

04:25pm

Gaelic Warrior’s proprietor Wealthy Ricci talking

He turns into the primary man to personal the Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup on the similar Pageant.

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The American mentioned: “I’m a wreck! I’ve been attempting to win this race for 21 years. Magic. An incredible journey by Paul [Townend].

“We’ve reached the mountain however I really like the sport. It’s the fervour, the folks.”

Wealthy Ricci celebrates profitable the Gold Cup – PA/Adam Davy

04:23pm

Gold Cup newest post-race

Haiti Couleurs was pulled up earlier than the end, and 12-year-old Envoi Allen was taken in poor health on the stroll again to the stables.

04:15pm

Profitable jockey Paul Townend

It’s the Gold Cup. They simply get higher and higher. I’m speechless.

I used to be fortunate sufficient for this lad to be coming alongside. Patrick [Mullins] was satisfied he was the horse for the race. Laborious luck on him [in that race] however he did a whole lot of work with this horse. It’s a giant crew effort. I used to be simply lucky to be on the again of him at this time.

I received the place I wished. I didn’t ever envision going thus far forward, however I wasn’t going to sluggish him down third from the final.

Paul Townend knew he had a lot horse beneath him – Reuters/Andrew Boyers

04:09pm

Gaelic Warrior wins the Gold Cup!

The John Durkan winner and Willie Mullins-trained horse was nonetheless on the bridle when he jumped the final, he totally justifies favouritism by leaving his rivals within the mud. Jango Baie was a fairly distant second, adopted by Iknowthewayurthinkin who ran on from off the tempo. The Jukebox Man didn’t fairly keep past three miles.

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Paul Townend barely moved on Gaelic Warrior, not many horses win a Gold Cup with that diploma of consolation.

Iknowthewayurthinkin 11/1

04:06pm

Three fences to go

Jango and Gaelic Warrior have been pulled out to the skin to assault, indicators of Haiti Couleurs flattening.

04:06pm

Six fences to go

A few leaping errors from Gray Dawning, however the Jukebox Man remains to be going properly behind Haiti Couleurs who continues to gallop freely and bounce. Jango travelling properly nonetheless, Nico sat quietly.

Now Harry’s extra animated. He fancies this.

04:05pm

10 fences to go

Hearty roars as they go previous the grandstands, Gaelic Warrior and Jango Baie are travelling properly behind the main trio. When will they appear to assault and use their flip of foot?

04:04pm

12 fences to go

In the direction of the rear, L’Homme Presse struggling to maintain up with the tempo and the defending champion Inothewayurthinkin can be discovering issues powerful going.

04:03pm

15 fences to go

Haiti Couleurs leaping properly up entrance, and goes to ask if something can go him up the hill, we all know he stays.

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Jango Baie is on the tail of the main group, which options Gaelic Warrior, The Jukebox Man and Gray Dawning.

Harry immobile, anticipate for his left foot which retains twitching.

04:02pm

19 fences to go

Gaelic Warrior on the within, disputing the lead with Gray Dawning and The Jukebox Man.

Haiti Couleurs is then pushed to the entrance by Sean Bowen, which is strictly the place the Welsh Nationwide winner would wish to be.

Jango Baie in fifth, simply behind the main group.

04:01pm

They’re off within the Gold Cup!

Gaelic Warrior wanting a little bit lit up early, Townend must settle him down.

Haiti Couleurs slowly transferring in the direction of the entrance, the sphere began properly earlier than the faucet, so possibly an additional 100 yards on the journey.

Harry arm in arm with Sandra. Jamie and grandchildren behind them in parade ring. Correct household affair right here

03:59pm

Newest within the betting

Gaelic Warrior and Jango Baie the highest two out there, and each are attracting late assist.

03:56pm

They’re heading right down to put up for the Gold Cup

Haiti Couleurs’ coach Rebecca Curtis being interviewed on ITV, her horse will press on from the entrance early within the race. Jango Baie can be anticipated to be distinguished, Paul Townend will most likely attempt to settle Gaelic Warrior in the direction of the rear of the sphere. The Jukebox Man will most likely be in midfield.

03:51pm

Johnny’s Jury coach Jamie Snowden talking after the Albert Bartlett

It was a large number of a begin as soon as once more however he’s travelled and jumped nice and there’s no higher man on high than Gav [Gavin Sheehan].

He’s a really good horse and he’s completed nothing however enhance.

It’s been powerful thus far, it’s powerful to win right here, we got here right here with 5 very nice horses and so they didn’t get a glance in. It makes the nice days so particular.

03:45pm

Harry Redknapp chatting with BBC

I gained the FA Cup and folks mentioned ‘you don’t look very excited’. I’m excited inside, however I’m not one for leaping round and shouting and screaming an excessive amount of.

Clearly, I really like the racing and the Gold Cup. When Ben Pauling [trainer] mentioned to me a few years in the past, ‘this horse will run within the Gold Cup’, I believed we’re dreaming a bit right here Ben.

And he was proper, as regular. I’ve received an excellent coach, and there’s some nice horses within the race.

It truly is an open race at this time. Everybody’s wishing me good luck!

03:39pm

Elevated attendances at Cheltenham this yr

Official figures will present later that complete pageant attendance over the 4 days has elevated by 8,130 on final yr. Attendance at this time is 67,016 and 226,223 throughout the week. Final yr it was 218,093. Return of Girls Day and barely cheaper Guinness amongst tweaks this yr…

03:35pm

Our Gold Cup information

There may be nonetheless time to make use of our , full with star scores, to select a winner.

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That is who our racing writers fancy:

Marlborough’s tip: The Jukebox ManRock-solid profile for this having improved to win the King George final time. Will bounce, journey and keep the gap, and been given loads of time after his Boxing Day victory

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Jango BaieAs lengthy as he stays, seems to have a contact of sophistication

Charlie Brooks’ tip: The Jukebox ManDid properly to win the King George at Kempton, this stiffer observe will go well with him

03:34pm

Rain hammering down at Cheltenham now

03:29pm

Johnny’s Jury wins the Albert Bartlett!

A lot has been mentioned in regards to the begins this week, however Johnny’s Jury missed a step on the off, however got here by way of with an almighty run over the previous few furlongs when a few dozen had an opportunity. The Passing Spouse seemed poised to win, as did Fruit De Mer, however Johnny’s Jury the gray flew up on their outdoors.

Dr Steinberg tailed off badly, was too eager from the off and simply didn’t appear suited to the marathon journey. Ought to Mullins have despatched him to the Turners?

03:27pm

One hurdle to leap

Mondoui’boy has hit the entrance for Ben Pauling and is travelling properly, however The PassingWife is difficult.

03:26pm

4 hurdles to go

Thedeviluno removed from fluent over the previous few jumps, and Dr Steinberg is travelling properly up entrance however has needed to make all and there’s a great distance dwelling on this race. Kripticjim has improved in addition to Jalon d’Oudairies.

03:25pm

Six hurdles to go

Dr Steinberg nonetheless the front-runner because the rain falls, adopted by Swindon Village, Highway Exile and Mondoui’boy. Thedeviluno is on the rails and inside hanging distance of the chief as they begin the second circuit.

03:23pm

Eight hurdles to go

Paul Townend is on the entrance on Physician Steinberg however is now attempting to get a breath into him. Swindon Village is in second, with Highway Exile and Mondoui’boy additionally distinguished.

03:22pm

They’re off!

Swindon Village leads, adopted by Dr Steinberg who’s racing keenly early on.

03:21pm

The primary false begin of the afternoon

Barely perceptible boos. Dr Steinberg was wanting a little bit revved up, that is going to be one other race formed by who can bounce out in a distinguished place.

03:20pm

They’re on the put up for the Albert Bartlett

Dr Steinberg beat Thedeviluno at Navan earlier within the season, however there are considerations the Mullins horse will pull and run out of steam. Loads of assist for the favorite within the betting ring although. Mondoui’boy was put up by Marcus and Charlie Brooks; what a warm-up that may be for coach Ben Pauling earlier than The Jukebox Man within the Gold Cup.

03:18pm

An fascinating quote from the bookmakers

One agency are providing 66/1 on The Jukebox Man Gold Cup win/Harry Redknapp to get the Spurs job win double.

03:14pm

Darkish clouds over Cheltenham…

It appears to be like like some biblical rain may very well be on the best way, nevertheless it may be too near the Gold Cup to unduly have an effect on the going. Haiti Couleurs backers wouldn’t be disillusioned to see some additional precipitation although.

03:00pm

Our ideas for the Albert Bartlett

Marlborough’s tip: Thedeviluno (Nap)Assured stayer over this three-mile journey having gained a slog at Doncaster in January. Confirmed loads of tempo earlier in profession and ought to be suited by this check for coach Paul Nolan, who does properly on the Pageant

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Mondoui’boyImproving Ascot winner who appears to be like like he’ll discover extra enchancment for additional half-mile

Charlie Brooks’ tip: Mondoui’boyIrish will probably be arduous to beat right here, however he was good at Ascot

02:56pm

JP McManus on Dinoblue

It was a aggressive race. I feel she received a superb journey from Mark. What extra can I say? I’m simply very completely happy. It’s very thrilling proudly owning her. She’s been an excellent mare. She all the time appears to show up. Willie [Mullins] and his crew maintain her in high kind.

02:56pm

David Blaine (keep in mind him?) is there

David Blaine watches the racing with a deck of playing cards – Joe Giddens/PA

02:54pm

Profitable jockey Mark Walsh

She went early and I didn’t wish to disappoint her so right down to the third final I juts sat on her. She’s a good mare now.

Dinoblue delivered an excellent leap on the final – Adrian Dennis/Getty Photos

02:47pm

Dinoblue wins the Mares’ Chase!

The Willie Mullins mare defends her title, she was travelling much better than Panic Assault on the backside of the hill, who jumped properly however discovered no gears. Solely By Night time chased Dinoblue dwelling for second. Panic Assault’s brief bounce on the fifth final opened up a niche and possibly noticed Harry Skelton lose the tactical battle, however in fact the winner was a category above.

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02:45pm

Two fences to go

Telapathique is weakening and is a faller.

02:45pm

Three fences to go

Small mistake from Panic Assault which enabled Dinoblue to maneuver upsides it, it appears to be like like they will have a battle from the highest of the hill.

02:44pm

Seven fences to go

Panic Assault with a giant bounce to achieve a size or two on Dinoblue however all of the main contenders are travelling properly. Telapathique nonetheless the entrance runner.

02:43pm

10 fences to go

Panic Assault maybe galloping a little bit freely however she is leaping impressively, and has moved up into second, in entrance of Dinoblue. Telepathique nonetheless the chief because the race in entrance of the stands for the second circuit.

02:42pm

13 fences to go

Panic Assault is on the skin with Dinoblue on the rail. Telapathique is the early front-runner, pursued by July Flower in secon.

02:41pm

They’re off within the Mares’ Chase!

Panic Assault and Dino Blue each distinguished in a line of 4.

02:36pm

They’re off right down to put up for the Mares’ Chase

Skelton’s mare Panic Assault has been a shock improver this season on the age of 10, and is stepping up into graded firm following her successes within the PaddyPower Gold Cup (Cheltenham) after which the Coral Gold Cup (Newbury) in handicaps. Can she outjump Dinoblue within the McManus colors. July Flower is a participant for Henry De Bromhead.

02:30pm

Cheltenham free bets

02:16pm

Our ideas for the Mares’ Chase

Marlborough’s tip: Panic AttackStrong out there previous few days and understandably so. Freshened up from a Newbury double earlier within the season and receives weight from the favorite, Dinoblue

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Panic AttackHas already had a sensational season profitable some key races, she will be able to win this on the best way to the Grand Nationwide

Charlie Brooks’ tip: Dino BlueShe has a good bit in hand on official scores

02:12pm

Profitable jockey Jonjo O’Neill Jr

I actually fancied him. I can’t fault him all yr. I’d have most well-liked it if we didn’t get the rain final evening nevertheless it didn’t have an effect on him an excessive amount of.

I used to be fortunate sufficient to have two final yr [wins]. It’s so arduous to win right here while you don’t have many right here, so it’s a must to make them depend. It’s such a particular place right here.

I’ve had fairly a troubled yr on and off the observe, I’ve had a whole lot of assist off my mum and pa and brother and to repay them with a win like this implies the whole lot.

Wilful ridden by Jonjo O’Neill Jr – Andrew Boyers/Reuters

02:06pm

Wilful wins the County!

A winner for the O’Neills, and as soon as once more this Cheltenham distinguished place is rewarded however he confirmed a flip of foot when off the bridle. Sinnatra and Joyeuse ran on up the hill, however the problem got here too late. No Irish-trained horse within the first 5 dwelling.

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02:04pm

Two hurdles to go

Ooh Betty and Wilful nonetheless main the best way, however Secret Squirrel has made progress. Dozen or extra in with an opportunity.

02:03pm

4 hurdles to go

Balko d’Ange is a faller. Secret Squirrel and Joyeuse are well-placed and withing hanging distance of the leaders.

02:02pm

Six hurdles to go

Jubille Alpha, Wilful and Ooh Betty distinguished early. Karbau is being held up, and can look to choose them off.

02:01pm

They’re off within the County Hurdle!

One other begin at that first time of asking. They have the cling of it.

01:57pm

They’re heading to put up for the County Hurdle

Fingers crossed for an additional clean begin, however wouldn’t maintain my breath.

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Late cash for Murcia, and Sinnatra additionally proving common with the punters at 9/2.

01:49pm

One other Mullins favorite within the County Hurdle

Murcia and Absurde are additionally within the race, however Paul Townend has picked Karbau (4/1 favorite) to journey. That is his first dip into handicap firm, and punters sense a plan coming collectively. Talking of plans, the Skeltons normally have one in these Cheltenham handicap hurdles so there may be loads of assist for Sinnatra, and Secret Squirrel for Hughie Morrison has additionally been tipped up this week after sneaking into the sphere off a mark of 133. So the squirrel is now not fairly so secret.

01:39pm

Our ideas for the County Hurdle (2pm)

Marlborough’s tip: Jubilee AlphaMakes handicap debut off a mark of 139 right here and proven potential to be higher than that. Strongly run two miles ought to go well with her

Marcus Armytage’s tip: AbsurdeMixes it on the flat and over jumps, winner of this two years in the past, third final yr, ought to be there or thereabouts once more

Charlie Brooks’ tip: BowensonfireTough as something and really constant

01:37pm

Non-runner within the Mares’ Chase

Ben Pauling and connections have determined to drag Diva Luna.

01:34pm

Patrick Mullins on a tricky season for his dad

He was implausible. He’s not very massive however he caught me eye. I received a dream run.

I’m very happy with my father. I’ve by no means seen him doubt himself as a lot as he has this winter. He sticks to his weapons and will get it proper more often than not.

Patrick Mullins after profitable the Triumph – Adam Davy/PA

01:33pm

Willie Mullins speaks after watching Patrick journey the winner

I used to be shouting ‘go on my son! He received a really late prep so we have been simply hoping for the very best. It was really an excellent begin and he had his personal manner of racing it. I might see he was going properly the place my different ones have been in a little bit of hassle. Patrick managed to get his head by way of.

01:26pm

Apolon De Charnie wins at 50/1!

One other winner within the Triumph for Willie Mullins at a giant worth, with son Patrick aboard. So many have been in with an opportunity as they got here off the bend and it was a future dwelling from the final hurdle. Maestro Conti ran on strongly for the Skeltons, and nearly grabbed second in entrance of Manilla Examine. Maestro Conti formed like he needs additional. Selma De Range was fourth, a good restoration after an untidy begin.

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01:24pm

Two hurdles to go

Fantasy World continues to make the operating, in entrance of Tenter Le Tout and Highland Crystal is well-placed in third on the within. Travelling properly within the Robcour colors.

01:23pm

4 hurdles to go

Macho Man has been pulled up after a leaping error, and Proactif was additionally untidy over the impediment and has misplaced floor.

01:23pm

Six hurdles to go

Selma De Range was a little bit eager early, however has gained some floor on the large outdoors. Fantasy World is the early front-runner, Minella Academy is struggling to maintain place. Tenter Le Tout second, Mon Crueset third.

01:21pm

They’re off within the Triumph!

They’re away on the first time of asking, a rarity this week. Big roar from the grandstands.

01:15pm

They’re going right down to put up within the Triumph Hurdle

Twenty runners go in Friday’s opener. Narciso Has was the antepost favorite for this however misses the Pageant by way of damage. Selma De Range has crushed Narciso Has, however has drifted within the betting this morning. Sturdy assist for mare Highland Crystal for Gordon Elliott and Maestro Conti for the Skelton’s. Proactif the most-fanced Mullins contender. Look out for a giant worth or two hitting the placings.

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Selma De Range wears the colors of Wealthy Ricci, who had a winner within the race with Vauban and Lossiemouth in 2022 and 2023.

Selma De Range’s proprietor Wealthy Ricci suited and booted – Adrian Dennis/Getty Photos

01:09pm

Redknapp: The Jukebox Man suffered a setback final week

Chatting with Sky Sports activities, Redknapp mentioned: “We had a setback with him final week and we weren’t certain if we have been going to get right here, however he’s okay and he’s in good kind.”

He added: “I’m wanting ahead to it. To have a runner within the Gold Cup is nice. It’s a dream and hopefully he runs properly.

“I had a winner right here just a few years in the past with Shakem Up’arry, however that is one other step up. The Gold Cup is the race to be in. If he wins, it’ll be superb and fairly emotional.”

12:59pm

Prestbury Cup newest

For these invested within the battle between British and Irish trainers for probably the most winners at Cheltenham, the Irish raiders presently lead 11-10. All to play for at the beginning of Friday.

12:46pm

Our ideas for the Triumph (1.20pm)

Marlborough’s tip: Selma De VaryGiven a simple time on steady debut final month and certain to enhance from that Grade 1 second. Probably sort for yard who’ve an excellent file within the race

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Minella StudyUnbeaten in three begins, considered one of them at Cheltenham, for small northern yard

Charlie Brooks’ tip: ProactifHard to see why Willie Mullins’ favorite ought to be crushed by any of his different runners – had loads in hand final time

12:38pm

King Kenny is there

The 2 knights of the realm Dalglish and Ferguson can have a Cheltenham debrief; we predict they’ve kissed and made up for the reason that days of switch cloak and dagger for Roy Keane and Alan Shearer’s signatures.

Sir Kenny Dalglish arrives at Prestbury Park – Eddie Mulholland/Telegraph

12:24pm

Cheltenham free bets

12:15pm

Gold Cup runners and riders

Need a thorough information to the ultimate discipline as you go looking for a winner? Look no additional than , the place each horse is given a star ranking.

12:13pm

Jeremy Clarkson in attendance

Clarkson lives within the Cotswolds, and has arrived along with his associate Lisa Hogan.

Jeremy Clarkson is likely one of the well-known faces who has arrived – Joe Giddens/PA

11:57am

Sir Alex Ferguson has arrived

He will probably be cheering on Maestro Conti within the Triumph Hurdle, the day’s first race, and the Dan Skelton-trained horse has each likelihood having gained over course and distance on trials day.

Sir Alex Ferguson has a runner within the opener – Joe Giddens/PA

11:48am

Gold Cup non-runner

Spillane’s Tower, winner of the Cotswold Chase forward of L’Homme Presse and Gray Dawning, is one other McManus-owned horse withdrawn on account of the bottom after Truth To File yesterday.

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Coach Jimmy Mangan mentioned: “It was only a bit an excessive amount of on the nice facet in locations, particularly down the hill. He’s too precious a horse to threat. It was a tricky resolution as a result of a whole lot of work has gone into the horse however the horse all the time comes first with JP [McManus], and rightly so.”

11:40am

Harry Redknapp’s largest day in racing

He mentioned he would have a good time with a fish and chip supper, however the former Tottenham Hotspur supervisor will certainly uncork just a few bottles this night ought to The Jukebox Man prevail within the Gold Cup. Redknapp has owned many horses through the years, together with Pageant winner Shakem Up’arry, however that is the very best of them and profitable the Gold Cup could be the top. Marcus Armytage spoke to Redknapp earlier than Boxing Day’s King George, by which The Jukebox Man confirmed a lot will to win having seemed crushed on the final. You’ll be able to .

11:30am

Market mover within the Triumph

Willie Mullins has an excellent file within the juvenile race, all the time first on Friday’s card, and lots of predicted it will be a head-to-head between Closutton pair Proactif and Selma De Range, however there was a transfer for Gordon Elliott’s Highland Crystal, 7/1 into 4/1 within the Robcour colors. These homeowners had the Ryanair winner with Coronary heart Wooden yesterday. Highland Crystal is now the jolly within the opener.

Bookmakers worth up the primary at Cheltenham – Mike Egerton/PA

11:21am

Somebody is dressed because the Gold Cup

Punters arrive for Gold Cup day at a much less windy Cheltenham – PA/Mike Egerton

11:16am

Marcus Armytage’s 11 biggest Gold Cups

It’s 40 years since Daybreak Run, the mare skilled by Paddy Mullins, grew to become the one horse to win a Champion Hurdle over two miles and a Gold Cup. The place does that rank in his biggest ever Gold Cups?

Two out she had lastly received the higher of him however Forgive ‘n Overlook and Wayward Lad each swept previous her. However Wayward Lad, winner of three King Georges, didn’t fairly get dwelling and, switched by Jonjo, the mare rallied to go between the pair and rise up about 5 strides from the road and win by half a size. The group went mad and most of Eire appeared to swamp the paddock as she returned triumphant.

11:13am

Our Gold Cup ideas

Marlborough’s tip: The Jukebox ManRock-solid profile for this having improved to win the King George final time. Will bounce, journey and keep the gap, and been given loads of time after his Boxing Day victory

Marcus Armytage’s tip: Jango BaieAs lengthy as he stays, seems to have a contact of sophistication

Charlie Brooks’ tip: The Jukebox Man (Nap)Did properly to win the King George at Kempton, this stiffer observe will go well with him

11:06am

One of many highlights of yesterday

Jockey Tom Bellamy has forgiven his mom for making that tv attraction to seek out him a girlfriend.

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Tom Bellamy, 31, who gained the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle on 40-1 likelihood White Noise, mentioned at this time: “I heard what my mum had mentioned on TV just about right away and I discovered it hilarious, however she’s very embarrassed about it.”

Requested if he had acquired any gives for the reason that TV interview he laughed: “No remark.”

On whether or not he has had earlier girlfriends: “I’m not going into that both! It’s honest to say I haven’t received a gradual girlfriend for the time being, but when mum has her manner she’ll quickly discover me one. It’s very humorous.”

10:58am

Market transfer for Jango Baie in aggressive Gold Cup

Good morning and welcome to our reside protection of the fourth and ultimate day of the Cheltenham Pageant as we construct as much as the Gold Cup at 4pm.

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In a single day rain has made the going good to mushy, mushy in locations, however with a drying breeze and solely mild showers forecast at this time there can’t be any excuses. It stays good Nationwide Hunt floor.

What we might name the King George triumvirate – The Jukebox Man, Gaelic Warrior and Jango Baie – are jostling for favouritism on the high of the betting, however the cash this morning has come for Jango Baie, 7/2 from 11/2.

Final yr’s Arkle winner is stepping up in journey, however may very well be the classiest sort within the contest and Nicky Henderson’s horses have typically been operating properly. Nico De Boinville is on board, and is seeking to win his second Gold Cup having gained as a conditional jockey on novice Coneygree in 2015.

Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man completed in entrance of Jango Baie and Gaelic Warrior within the King George and is 4 from 4 over fences. He has each likelihood, however the worth is wanting a little bit skinny. Kempton isn’t all the time the very best gauge for the Gold Cup, however many imagine the stiffer observe will go well with him; The Jukebox Man was crushed by a whisker by Stellar Story over three miles within the Albert Bartlett two years in the past, suggesting he ought to come up the hill.

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Gaelic Warrior beat Truth To File within the John Durkan at Punchestown this season, earlier than the positions have been reversed within the Irish Gold Cup. Like Jango Baie, Gaelic Warrior is an Arkle winner so he has a flip of foot. The query mark may be whether or not the Irish Gold Cup run has left him with sufficient within the tank, given the heavy floor at Leopardstown.

A contender who has taken a special route is Welsh and Irish Nationwide winner Haiti Couleurs, skilled in Wales by Rebecca Curtis. The nine-year-old may very well be within the mould of Gold Cup winner Native River; an out-and-out stayer who will look to make all from the entrance and make this a check of stamina. Entrance-running has been a fruitful technique this week, however one or two of those may need a contact extra velocity.

Final yr’s winner Inothewayurthinkin has had terrible preparation, operating three stinkers in Eire. Nonetheless, following stories of extra constructive work at Fairyhouse, he was backed in from 18/1 to as brief 6/1 just a few weeks in the past. The defending champion has softened out there since then, and it will require a hell of a revival and coaching efficiency by Gavin Cromwell to maintain his crown.

Earlier than the primary occasion, we now have Pageant highlights such because the Triumph Hurdle, the County Hurdle and the Albert Bartlett, which have a current historical past of manufacturing winners and positioned horses at fancy costs.