Racing Post Arkle Trophy Preview

Published on: 14/03/2016

Racing Post Arkle Trophy Preview

March 15, 2016 14:10pm - Cheltenham

Cheltenham Festival

Perhaps a more viable banker than Min in the opening race, is Douvan in the Arkle Trophy. The odds-on favourite may not offer much value but has proven quality having won last years` Supreme Novice Hurdle under Ruby Walsh.

He seems to jump and travel with ease, and looks head and shoulders above the rest of the field. But of course, the Festival can throw up surprises, so who else should we be looking at in the Arkle challenge?

Nicky Henderson has perhaps the best prospect to mount a challenge in the form of Vaniteux, but he has yet to show the kind of form that will be needed to topple the favourite.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding Sizing John could be worth an each-way shout at a price of around 9/1. The six-year-old came in third behind Douvan in last year`s Supreme Novice at a starting price of 25/1 and has finished in the top two in his four subsequent races.

Betting odds and tips

With Douvan coming in at odds on, there is better value to be had elsewhere.

Back Sizing John in the Each-Way market at 9/1 with Bet365.

Remember, Bet365 are offering guaranteed best odds on all Cheltenham races and a 100% deposit bonus up to £200 for new accounts.

Arkle Trophy winners - Last three years:

2013: Simonsig - Barry Geraghty (Nicky Henderson)

2014: Western Warhorse - Tom Scudamore (David Pipe)

2015: Un de Sceaux - Ruby Walsh (Willie Mullins)

By Neil Morris

Published on: 14/03/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (14/03/2016 11:17:00) but are subject to change.