Horse Racing

The Cheltenham Gold Cup Gang – 19 Contenders Going For Gold

19 runners have been submitted as entries to the much anticipated Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup. This legendary race, prized at £475,000, is shaping up to be a serious cliff hanger.

Firstly, there is the rivalry of Denman and Kauto Star, who both previously won the Cheltenham Gold Cup. While they are still being handled as co-favourites, Denman’s recent debacle at the Newbury Aon Chase has spurred doubts in punters. However, after winning the Gold Cup in 2008 – defeating 2007 winner Kauto Star – and being beaten by Kauto Star in 2009, it would seem like 2010 could be Denman’s year for revenge.

Other favourites, hailed as dark horses for the competition are Imperial Commander and French-trained Mon Mome. Although Imperial Commander has been outrun by rival Kauto Star in the past, the gelding’s potential and fighting spirit keep him in the running as a serious contender. Mon Mome, on the other hand, became an instant sensation on the scene when he took the lead and win at Aintree’s John Smith’s Grand National in 2009, with odds stacked 100/1 against him. However, no matter how much favouritism goes around, it is always wise to expect the unexpected. Especially with an extraordinary line-up like this.