Are you ready for the most exciting horse race of the year? The Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023 is almost upon us, and the anticipation is palpable.
On the 17th of March (which just so happens to be St Patrick's Day) we'll get to raise a glass of Guinness to some of the finest jumpers in the world as they test their mettle over three miles and two furlongs.
Here's a closer look at the top three Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023 contenders; which of them, if any, is most likely to take home jump racing's Blue Riband prize?
Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023: The Contenders
These three horses are the ones everyone's talking about going into next Friday's big race...
Galopin des Champs
Let's start with the clear Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023 favourite, with odds as short as 5/4 on many betting sites. This seven-year-old gelding, trained by Willie Mullins, has barely been beaten in his career, with the only major concern being a heavy fall in last year's Turners Novices’ Chase. However, he has since gone on to win the Irish Gold Cup, which bodes well for his chances at this year's Cheltenham Festival. His trainer believes he can go the distance, and a number of leading pundits agree — including Cheltenham legend Ruby Walsh. Galopin des Champs has risen to the challenge on every occasion so far, and we expect him to be one of the first to cross the finish line.
A Plus Tard
The French-bred thoroughbred won the Gold Cup last year by an incredible 15 lengths under the guidance of Rachael Blackmore. However, he isn't the favourite this time around, largely because he was pulled up at Haydock last November, and subsequently withdrawn from the Savills Chase at Leopardstown. However, at nine years old, he is still in his prime, and if trainer Henry de Bromhead has him fit and ready, the 11/2 shot will still be a contender.
Bravemansgame
The King George winner put in a performance that was nothing short of spectacular in Kempton Park's Christmas showpiece. This eight-year-old gelding is being aimed squarely at the Gold Cup, and his trainer, Paul Nicholls, feels like the race will suit him. Bravemansgame likes to run fresh, and his class is undeniable. The only question mark is the ground, as his trainer is careful to race him only on ground that suits. That’s why he’s priced at 13/2 with most bookmakers.
Who will win Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023 — the verdict
So, who will win the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023? It's a tough call, but we have to go with the favourite, Galopin des Champs. He has the pedigree, the form, and the stamina to see him through. However, A Plus Tard and Bravemansgame will be well-backed and anything could happen on the day.
If you're a fan of jump racing, then the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2023 is an event you won't want to miss.
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