Bobs Worth is likely to start as favourite amongst bookies for the Cheltenham Gold Cup next month during the four-day festival. Nicky Henderson’s chaser won the blue riband event in the sport for the first time 12 months ago when staying up the hill better than any of his rivals to finish ahead of Sir Des Champ and former winner Long Run. In five starts at Prestbury Park, Bobs Worth is yet to taste defeat as his bids for another Festival success in 2014.
The season didn’t get off well for the nine-year old as he was well beaten in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on his opening run of the campaign. He came home sixth of the eight runners in the Lancashire Grade One contest won by Cue Card. However, connections were delighted with the way he returned in the Lexus Chase in Ireland as he put himself back on track for the Gold Cup.
Henderson opted for Leopardstown rather than some races in the UK as he felt the testing track suited his horse. The gamble paid off as he got on top in the closing stages to justify favouritism.
Silviniaco Conti is currently second best for the feature of the four-day meeting. He is fresh from a victory in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. Paul Nicholls’ runner will be hoping to go better than 2013 when he fell at the third last fence. He was travelling strongly up until that point though.
The eight-year old also lined up at Haydock to begin his season. He won the race in 2012 when beating Long Run but was unable to defending his crown as he had to settle for third behind Cue Card and Dynaste.
