PUNTERS WILL PILE MONEY ON THESE HOT PICKS

APPLE’S SHAKIRA, MIGHT BITE, BURNING AMBITION

to Gordon Elliott’s yard from the flat and looked good on his debut in graded company at Leopardstown over Christmas. He came second to Mr Adjudicator last time out but I am expecting him to improve again. In the County Hurdle, there was plenty of ante-post interest for former Triumph Hurdle winner Ivanovich Gorbatov. He was one of the big gambles at the festival last year, before coming sixth. He was only beaten by three lengths though and we fancy him for another big festival run. The Gold Cup is the pinnacle of the week, the biggest betting race over four days. It looks a very strong contest and a case can be made for many. However, we are keen to take on ante-post favourite Might Bite. The King George form isn’t that great and I’m not convinced that he is 100 per cent at home on the course. I also think it’s unlikely he will get an easy lead. Native River is now joint favourite. He was very impressive in the Denman Chase and is a proper stayer. We know he will handle the conditions. He came third last year and if he runs the same sort of race as he did then, he will be a player.