Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle Preview - Cheltenham Festival

Published on: 15/03/2017

Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle Preview - Cheltenham Festival

March 15, 2016 14:50pm - Cheltenham

Cheltenham Festival

Distance: 2m 5f 26y

Grade: 3

Runners: 26

Winner: £54,102

Going: Good to Soft

At first glance, Modus looks the pick of this 26-strong field with many other ante-post contenders being switched to other races. The Paul Nicholls-trained horse ticks all the boxes and could bag the trainer his second win in the race in the last three years.

He began the season well with places at Ascot and Cheltenham but disappointed over shorter distance at Ascot in December. A step up to this distance at Kempton last time out paid dividends, as he romped home leaving Templeross in his wake. As a result, he will be carrying top weight in this race and will be available at a double-figure price.

Tombstone, was expected to be a supplementary entry for the Champion Hurdle but was switched to this race at the last minute. Subsequently, he was immediately installed as favourite.

He was fourth in the Supreme Novices` last year and has run well this season, beating Jezki at Gowran Park last time out. This will be his first hurdles run over the extra furlongs so there is that unknown factor to consider. However, fans will point to his 19f flat win at Naas as proof of his ability at a longer distance.

Betting odds and tips

Back Tombstone for the win but take Modus each-way for some extra value.

You can back Tombstone to win at 4/1 and Modus each-way at 14/1 with Bet365.

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

Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle winners - Last three years:

2014: Whisper (6) - Nico de Boinville (Nicky Henderson)

2015: Aux Ptits Soins (6) - Sam Twiston-Davies (Paul Nicholls)

2016: Diamond King (8) - Davy Russell (Gordon Elliott)

By Neil Morris

Published on: 15/03/2017

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (15/03/2017 08:33:18) but are subject to change.