King Kauto

Kauto Star was brilliant on Boxing Day in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park, easily outjumping Long Run, who I felt had to show tremendous improvement from Haydock to win. However, for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, much as I would like to see King Kauto win, I don’t think he will be allowed to dictate the pace so comfortably as he did at Kempton and Long Run will probably outstay him up the Cheltenham hill. The biggest danger to Long Run could be Grands Crus, who is very smooth and quick over fences, likes Cheltenham and represents value at 10/1 if David Pipe decides to run him. It will be argued that Grands Crus lacks experience over fences and he shouldn’t run as a 7 year old, given that the Pipe’s young, precocious, inexperienced Gloria Victis was fatally injured when running as a 6 year old in the big race a few years ago. I didn’t support Gloria Victus running in the Gold Cup but the extra year for Grands Crus should make the difference. The Wine Tipster’s ante post bets for The Cheltenham Gold Cup 16th March:Grands Crus 10/1 each way.Kauto Star 4/1 win A small sentimental wager because we all want him to win.Make sure you are there.