THE ANTEPOST ANGLE - CORAL GOLD CUP

John Arnold turns his attention to the upcoming Coral Gold Cup as he gives you all the facts, all the stats and pinpoints a pair of antepost bets not to ignore. History:

The Coral Gold Cup, staged at Newbury Racecourse, has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1993. Originally known as the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, the race is one of the most prestigious events in the National Hunt calendar. Over the years, the event has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous horses and trainers, with memorable performances that have become part of racing folklore. Notable winners from its early years, such as the legendary See More Business and the talented Denman, further solidified the race's reputation and significance in jump racing.

In 2009, the event was rebranded as the Coral Gold Cup, following a change in sponsorship, marking a new chapter in its history.

Trends:

Age- 11 of the last 12 winners were aged between 6 and 8.

Price- 3 of last 12 winners were fav/joint favourites, 4/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting.

Last Run- 5 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race, 9/12 winners finished third or higher in their last run.

Course Form- 5/12 winners had 1 previous run at Newbury, 4/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at the course.

Distance Form- 9/12 winners had at least 4 runs over 24 furlongs.

Rating- 10/12 winners were rated 145 or higher.

Contenders:

The yard back in top form, Dan Skelton’s team have sent out 11 winners from 21 runners, including the winner of the Grade Haldon Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Exeter. All six of his potential runners are still entered for this year’s Coral Gold Cup, meaning he could be represented by GREY DAWNING, PROTEKTORAT, RISKINTHEGROUND, HELTENHAM, DOYEN QUEST and PANIC ATTACK. Having recently reported that Caldwell Potter will be out for the season, Paul Nicholls now has two potential runners in THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE and INCH HOUSE. 

Meanwhile, Nicky Henderson is down to one entry with HYLAND, after ruling out Jingko Blue and Ginny’s Destiny. The Irish challenge is still looking strong, led by British and Irish Champion trainer Willie Mullins, who still has five horses entered including BLIZZARD OF OZ and SPANISH HARLEM. The Rebecca Curtis trained HAITI COULEUR is near the top of the betting with sponsors Coral, following his impressive victory in the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle at the track’s season opener last week. This horse is a leading contender for Aintree in April and continues an upward curve. This places Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore’s Cheltenham Festival winner, MYRETOWN high in the market and rightly so, alongside the Olly Murphy trained RESPLENDENT GREY following the latest entry stage for the Newbury showpiece.

Selections:

HAITI COULEUR (WIN)

BLIZZARD OF OZ (E/W)

written by John Arnold