An insightful analysis has delved into Gordon Elliott's formidable Cheltenham team, unveiling some intriguing dark horses with significant potential.
Fil D’Or - Ryanair Chase, 2.50 Thursday
A significant acquisition to the robust Robcour stable, the six-year-old Fil D’Or emerges as a compelling contender for the Ryanair Chase. Following a turbulent novice chasing season, this Caldwell horse has shown notable improvement this year. Demonstrating promise in battles against top two-milers Dinoblue and El Fabiolo, his experience in competitive graded races over shorter distances will undoubtedly bolster his jumping capabilities. As he steps up in trip, Fil D’Or presents a strong case in what promises to be a fiercely competitive renewal of the Ryanair Chase.
Betterdaysahead - Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle, 5.30 Friday
A seasoned participant in this particular race, Betterdaysahead carries the hopes of Gordon Elliott in this year's edition. Having received a well-deserved mark of 140 from the BHA handicapper, this six-year-old has shown steady progress since his days as a proficient bumper horse. Noteworthy performances, including a commendable outing against Slade Steel in a G2 event at Navan, highlight his credentials. With room for improvement over longer distances, Betterdaysahead could well surpass expectations in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle.
The Yellow Clay, Champion Bumper, 5.30 Wednesday
Dubbed by Gordon Elliott as a hidden gem for the upcoming festival, The Yellow Clay has piqued keen interest following an impressive showing at the Dublin Racing Festival. Despite encountering obstacles during the race, this offspring of Yeats displayed resilience and finished strongly. Given Elliott's past successes in bumper races, The Yellow Clay's potential cannot be underestimated. While stablemate Jalon d’Oudairies may attract more attention in the betting markets, The Festival could witness Jack Kennedy steering Bective Stud's promising five-year-old to glory.
Sa Fureur - Grand Annual, 4.50 Wednesday or TrustATrader Plate Handicap Chase, 4.10 Wednesday
Amidst the buzz surrounding Quilixios for the Arkle, Sa Fureur emerges as a contender to watch in the festival handicaps. With a closely matched form to Naas, this seven-year-old holds strong entries for both the TrustATrader Plate Handicap Chase and the Grand Annual. Bolstered by a commendable BHA rating of 145 after just three chase starts, Sa Fureur's standout performance at Naas, finishing narrowly behind the 2021 Triumph Hurdle winner, underscores his potential. With only a limited number of starts under his belt, the scope for improvement is immense.
Firefox - Supreme Novice Novice Hurdle, 1.30 Tuesday
While the limelight shines on Mullins' contenders in the Supreme Novice Novice Hurdle, Firefox quietly asserts his presence in the field. A notable victory over star novice Ballyburn on his hurdling debut at Fairyhouse preceded a less impressive showing in Grade One company at Naas. Despite setbacks on that occasion, a return to peak form could see Firefox become a dark horse worth watching closely amidst the high-profile competitors.