Big Buck's - seeking 16th consecutive win© Photo Healy Racing
The going at Cheltenham today is officially good to soft, good in places with between 5 & 8mm of water been placed on the course.
On Channel 4's The Morning Line, much of the talk has centred around Big Buck's's prospects in the World Hurdle.
The pundits were in agreement that Paul Nicholls' gelding will not be suited by the prospect of a lack of pace, with Ted Walsh saying “Big Buck's could be vulnerable if it is a steady pace. Oscar Whiskey will travel and jump well and 'come at' Big Buck's once. Big Buck's looks difficult to beat though.”
John Francome stated “if Big Buck's is 1% off his best, he may get beaten”, while Jim McGrath said “Oscas Whiskey is a fascinating opponent but Big Buck's has got loads of class.”
From the track, trainer Willie Mullins said “my runners are up and down all week- it's a tough work over here. Sir Des Champs is a very good horse and whatever happens this year I want to bring him back for the longer race next year.”
Special guest actor James Nesbit, proud owner of Ryanair Chase contender Riverside Theatre, reported “trainer Nicky Henderson says he looks great. When he was asked questions at Ascot he answered them, is in very good shape and we know he is strong and fast. I'm not tipping my own horse so I'm putting my charity bets of Crystal Bonus and Divers.”
Nesbitt did slip up slightly when asked whether or not he will buy another horse after Riverside Theatre, saying “I'm a poor actor – no! I'm actually an actor who is poor!”
