Cobden looking forward to Sonnet challenge
Paddy Power Gold Cup favourite on course for Cheltenham.
Ante-post favourite Saint Sonnet is among 17 five-day confirmations in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham on Saturday. The five-year-old joined the Paul Nicholls stable from France last season and has had runs to date for the Ditcheat trainer. After getting off the mark first time when long odds-on at Catterick, Saint Sonnet was thrown in at the deep end in the Marsh Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.He shaped promisingly when seventh to Samcro after stumbling at the final fence. Saint Sonnet was ridden by Harry Cobden on both occasions, and the title-chasing jockey is looking forward to continuing the partnership. “I wouldn’t ride another one over him,” he told Sky Sports Racing. “That (Cheltenham) was a great run. Obviously, he’s had a much better preparation this year. “Fingers crossed he’ll run a tidy race.” One of his main market rivals is Harry Whittington’s Simply The Betts, winner of the Brown Advisory & Merribelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase at the Festival. Happy Diva, runner-up that day and winner of this race 12 months ago, is also in the mix. Brelan D’As was beaten a neck by Happy Diva in the 2019 renewal and gives Nicholls a decent second string. The weights are headed by the Venetia Williams-trained Aso, while other hopefuls include Mister Fisher, Al Dancer, Slate House and Spiritofthegames.
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Ramatuelle ruled out of Breeders’ Cup Mile bid
French ace scratched from Del Mar contest following veterinary advice.
-
Horse Racing
Yahagi has every faith Forever Young is ready for Classic battle
‘Perfect preparation’ for Kentucky Derby third heading into City Of Troy clash.
-
Exciting times as Brighterdaysahead starts off at Down Royal
‘One step at a time’ for Grade One-winning mare, who was expected to go chasing this season.
-
Joseph O’Brien expecting Classic show from ‘right type’ Troy
But Kieren Fallon sounding note of caution ahead of Del Mar blockbuster.
-
Grand Sefton not on the agenda for Minella Drama
Donald McCain happy to wait for other targets with Old Roan winner.
-
Eydon back on familiar ground at Newmarket this weekend
High-class five-year-old was fourth in the 2000 Guineas two years ago.
-
Charlie Appleby launching dual assault on Juvenile Turf
Aomori City and Al Qudra chasing Breeders’ Cup gold at Del Mar.
-
Wathnan juveniles all set for Breeders’ Cup battle
And Mick Appleby hunting race repeat, this time with Big Mojo.
-
‘It will be great if he could win’ – Bin Suroor rooting for City Of Troy
Godolphin trainer knows what it is like to come close to Breeders’ Cup Classic glory.
-
Hobson ‘can’t wait’ to unleash Fugitif at Cheltenham
Paddy Power Gold Cup again the aim for Prestbury Park fan.