Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase - Cheltenham Festival
Published on: 16/03/2017
Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase - Cheltenham Festival
March 16, 2016 16:10pm - Cheltenham
Cheltenham Festival
Distance: 2m 4f 166y
Grade: 3
Runners: 24
Winner: £59,798
Going: Good (Soft in places)
Bouvreuil has finished as runner-up in his two previous festival appearances and has continued his good form on the track this season despite failing to win. His liking for the course is a big plus, as is the fact that he has been targeted for particular chase. Last year, Paul Nicholls brought him home in second place in the Close Brothers Novices Handicap Chase. He was leading going to the last but was just out-paced by Ballyalton on the climb. It was impressive run and one that will certainly put him on the shortlist.
Thomas Crapper is another horse who his happy on this track, having also finished as a Festival runner-up on two occasions. What`s more, he also has two course wins to his name and seems to be coming back into form at the right time, winning the Greatwood Gold Cup at Newbury just two weeks ago. The going should suit him and he should set off at around the 9/1 mark.
Another name to consider is Diamond King. The nine-year-old won at the Festival last year but has been in patchy form over the jumps since. However, he has had a bit of a break and that might have done him some good.
Betting odds and tips
With a big field and some decent prices, the each-way market looks with exploring here.
Bouvreuil can be backed at a best price of 14/1, while Thomas Crapper can be backed at a best price of 9/1 - both with Bet365.
Remember, Bet365 are offering guaranteed best odds on all Cheltenham races and a 100% deposit bonus up to £200 for new accounts.
Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase winners - Last three years:
2014: Ballynagour (8) - Tom Scudamore (David Pipe)
2015: Darna (9) - David Bass (Kim Baily)
2016: Empire of Dirt (9) - Colm Murphy (Bryan Cooper)
By Neil Morris
Published on: 16/03/2017
Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (16/03/2017 10:01:18) but are subject to change.
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